Fall Retreat on Cape Cod with Steve Koppel

Last month, I had the great fortune to attend an amazing “Fall Retreat” workshop with Steven Koppel, owner of Expressions Gallery in Chatham, MA. Steve is a rather unique photographer, with vivid images that reflect the natural beauty of sand, water and sky in Cape Cod. Although we’ve done some shooting together, it was not until this weekend that I gained a full appreciation for his additional talent as an incredible educator.

While I know how much he enjoys shooting, he put his camera aside for the entire weekend, enabling him to maintain a greater focus on his teaching of us, his students. The 10 of us in his class, from near and far, had the benefit of both in class didactic sessions, and 4 separate field shoots during sunrise and sunset. The weather was most cooperative during our visits to Nauset Beach, Newcomb Hollow Beach, Rock Harbor and White Crest Beach.

While some of the sessions included didactic teaching, his ability to critique images from each participant was truly exceptional. The focus was on being conscious of what one was trying to create, and then “getting technical” only in the service of that artistic expression. This rather unique approach, of integrating and teaching the art with the “science” is often missing from other workshops I’ve attended, and was much appreciated.

As we enter the holiday season, I am so grateful to have friends like Steve and others who are so supportive of my development as a photographer!

Reflections at Rock Harbor

Incoming!

Serene sunrise at White Crest Beach