Photo workshop: Monochrome mountain landscapes

For alpine black-and-white photography, we visit regions with rocky and glaciated mountains, such as those found primarily in Valais, the Bernese Oberland, and the Upper Engadine. During the three-day photography workshop, you will learn:

• Selecting subjects and subjects that promise impressive results as monochrome photographs
• Understanding the right environmental conditions, such as light and shadow, for strong contrasts
• Using your camera with the ideal settings so you can get the most out of your black-and-white photography
• Finding a successful image composition
• Photographing different angles and image sections with the most suitable lens
• Safety and behavior in the alpine environment.

Schedule of the photo workshop

On the first day, the focus is primarily on the ascent to our destination region. We deliberately take our time so that we have enough energy despite our heavy backpacks and can acclimatize optimally. Nevertheless, the day is not spent idly: during breaks, we incorporate short theory sessions and use the opportunities for practical exercises to learn and deepen our photographic know-how.

If possible, we will choose a route for the ascent that offers us exciting motifs for monochrome mountain photography. Once we arrive at the hut, we can leave some of our luggage there and spend the rest of the trip with lighter equipment. The program includes excursions to impressive vantage points with spectacular views of the high alpine mountain world – ideal conditions for taking advantage of many opportunities for expressive black-and-white shots. To do this, we sometimes set off very early or capture the special evening atmosphere to achieve the best contrasts and unique images.

We will spend the evenings at the hut enjoying relaxed theory sessions on image editing for monochrome photographs – an essential step that plays a particularly important role in black-and-white photography and has a decisive influence on the character of the images.

We choose the region depending on the weather conditions during the workshop period. You will receive further information in good time beforehand. Typical regions for our photography workshop are the southern valleys of Valais (Saas or Mattertal, Val d'Anniviers, Val d'Hérens), the Bernese Oberland, or the Engadin.

We spend the night in a SAC mountain hut located high up in the mountains, sleeping in a dormitory. The accommodation is simple and functional, and half board with dinner and breakfast is included in the price.

A multi-course dinner and a hearty breakfast await you at the hut. You should bring any other food you require with you.

Camera equipment

• SLR camera, system camera, or bridge camera with basic knowledge of how to use it
• Wide-angle lens, standard lens and telephoto lens
• Tripod
• Optional polarizing filter and/or ND filter set

Clothes and shoes

• Functional clothing for hiking
• Thermal jacket or down jacket
• Rain jacket (and rain pants, depending on the overall weather conditions)
• Hiking boots with good tread
• Backpack with space for your personal gear and camera
• hiking poles

Please keep in mind that even in summer, weather conditions in the mountains can change quickly. You should therefore be equally prepared for sun and clouds, storms and rain.

Food on the go

• Dinner and breakfast are included in the overnight stay.
• At the hut, you have the option of getting a picnic for the second day.
• You are responsible for any other meals.

Misc

• Sun glasses
• Sunscreen
• Headlamp with spare batteries/battery charger
• Cash (usually preferred at huts)

Accomodation

• Sleeping bag
• Dry change of clothes for the hut
• Earplugs, if necessary
• Toiletries

You will receive a detailed packing list in good time before the course begins.

Your own arrival and departure

Any costs for cable cars

Individual drinks and meals during the day

Personal expenses

Cancellation insurance

Insurance is the responsibility of the participants (accident, health, and liability insurance). We recommend REGA membership and cancellation insurance.