Color Light Action Pattern

with Nevada Wier

June 29 – July 3, 2026

Tuition $2095.00

(includes meal plan, see below)

Model and Location Fee $260.00

Standard Deposit $400.00

Course Description

Join travel photographer extraordinaire, Nevada Wier, in a workshop to explore the basis of what makes an intriguing, visually alluring, and creative photograph. It might be the use of analogous color while photographing a festival. Or maybe compelling action in warm late afternoon light. Or a repetitive pattern with contrasting colors and intriguing shadows. Or… There are numerous possibilities if you unite at least two of CLAP (color, light, action, pattern).

With a lively blend of lectures, discussions, and assignments, you learn how to integrate these elements into your photography to make an image that elevates itself above the ordinary. Each day, we will explore one of these four tenets in depth, weaving them into your personal vision during assignments with the group and on your own.

On Monday, Nevada focuses on the importance of color and light in your images. Most photographers do not understand the importance of color and its role not only in conveying mood and emotion, but also in basic composition. Tuesday, we photograph fast-moving action in the field, not only with stop-action, but also using panning and slow shutter speeds to extract the feel of the moment. Photography means “write with light,” so on Wednesday, we explore the personality of light at all times of the day, from the harsh daylight to blue hour at the Rodeo de Santa Fe local barrel racing competition. Thursday, we delve into the power of impeccable framing in the camera for a compelling composition, as well as how repetitive patterns will strengthen the flow in your images.

Nevada’s emphasis is on elevating your creative vision and expanding your photographic technique. The historic city of Santa Fe, Nevada’s hometown, and its environs provide the ideal environment to discover the colors of Meow Wolf, the vibrance of the small town of Madrid, action at a local ranch, and the Rodeo de Santa Fe, dancing and blue hour on the historic plaza, among the various locations for this workshop. You also have the chance to visit Nevada’s studio and enjoy a casual dinner at her home in La Cienega. Join us for an unforgettable week in Santa Fe to expand your photographic toolkit and learn to find color, light, action, and pattern in the world around you.

Additional Information

WHO SHOULD ATTEND:

Advanced Amateurs

What You Should Know:

Proficient in digital workflow, custom functions and manual mode on your digital SLR or mirrorless camera, the basics of photography, and a working knowledge of Adobe Lightroom (or a similar program).

Activity Level:

To get the most from your workshop experience, participants should be in good physical (mobility, stamina) and mental health. Come prepared for the high elevation of Santa Fe, long days, and seasonal weather including high temperatures. You must be able to carry your own photographic and personal gear at all times, both on campus and on location. You are responsible for being open and honest about your physical fitness, and we reserve the right to remove you from the workshop if we find your fitness to be less than that which you have described.

Participants should be able to engage in moderate outdoor exercise for up to an hour or more at a time including off-trail walking on uneven terrain including sand, dirt, and loose rock. Location work is likely to include early morning and/or late evening shoots.

Accommodations:

Participants are responsible for making their own housing arrangements in Santa Fe. On-campus accommodations are not currently available.

Meals:

Lunch Monday through Friday, dinner before the Friday evening Image Presentations, and daily beverage service are included.

Policies:

View Payment, Refund, Withdrawal, and Transfer Policies for domestic workshops.

about

Nevada Wier

Nevada Wier is a multiple award-winning photographer specializing in documenting the remote corners and cultures of the world. She is recognized for her creative and intimate approach to people and use of color. She has been published in numerous national and international publications, including National Geographic, Geo, National Geographic Traveler, Islands, Outdoor Photographer, Outside, and Smithsonian. Her fine-art prints are featured in numerous public and private collections and she is represented by the Obscura Gallery in Santa Fe, NM. Nevada is a well-known keynote speaker, workshop, and seminar instructor. Photo District News named Nevada one of America’s best photography workshop teachers (2010). She is a Fellow of The Explorer’s Club and a member of the Women’s Geographic Society.

A popular workshop instructor, Nevada is also part of our Mentorship Program »