Photo Tour FAQ's
Do I need expensive camera equipment?
No, I really mean that. Learning and enjoying photography has little to do with fancy gear. It's about learning to scout a good location, find a good shot, frame a good shot, and some basic lighting knowledge. Yes, there is a wealth of cool technical stuff to learn involving fancy new technology, but it's far from necessary. I started with a pocket camera full of 110 film and got some great shots. Have no good photos been taken in the 20th Century? Of course there has, yet there was no digital this and remote that. They had f-stops and shutter speeds. That's it and yet amazing photos abound. Is this photo to the left by Ansel Adams beautiful? You know it is. The word "digital" didn't even exist when this photo was taken. Just good basics.
Note that while a "fancy" camera is not necessary, in most cases you will want a camera capable of manual control of aperature, shutter speed and ISO. Additionally it's a good idea to have a tripod if you want really good shots. A tripod is not fancy, but it is necessary if you want to work in the best lighting situations (ie: usually dusk and dawn).
Do you provide camera equipment?
No, In some cases I will be providing equipment that everyone will use for special shooting situations. For the most part however, you will want to bring everything that you are going to want with you.
What if I cannot make your group tours? Can I arrange a private tour?
Yes, private tours are available anytime year round. It can be one person or your own personal group. learn more here.
Do I need to be in good shape? Will there be hiking?
Yes and No, This will depend on the particular tour and what locations we are going to photography. Just give a call for details on any location.
What is included in the tour?
This will vary depending on the tour package, but will always be detailed with any tour description. In most cases it will include all transportation and instruction plus picnic lunches. Lodging is up to you; however, I will be happy to assist you in finding a good hotel locally to stay at.
Where should I stay for lodgeing?
It is recommended that you lodge in downtown Golden since all tours start and end there. Plus it's just an amazingly quaint and photogenic town. You'll love it. Please call for suggestions. There are several very nice hotels and many bed and breakfasts all walking distance to main street Golden.
Can you pick us up at the airport?
Yes. The airport is 50 miles from Golden so taxis and shuttles can get very expensive. I will pick you up from the airport and take you and your party (up to three people) to your hotel in Golden for $75
What kinda of clothing should I wear?
Colorado weather is nuts! I've been snowed on in July and hiked in shorts during February. It is not only unpredictable but changes VERY rapidly. It is not at all uncommon to leave in the morning on warm sunny day, be rained on by noon, be hot and dry by 12:30 just to have it snow two hours later. In other words, come prepared. I recommend always bring something to keep you dry. Something to keep you warm (even in the middle of summer) and always good footwear. Do not come in your sandals (and preferably not even tennis shoes). If at all possible wear hiking boots.
