Workshop Overview

A 1-1/2 day Spring nature and landscape photography workshop led by pro photographer and outdoor guide Steve J. Giardini. The workshop will explore the beautiful Columbia River Gorge area east of Portland, Oregon between Corbett and Hood River, Oregon. Our goal is to capture stunning images of waterfalls and wildflowers. The itinerary will include visits to; the Women’s Forum Overlook, Vista House / Crown Point, Tom McCall Preserve / Rowena Crest, and Latourell, Wahkeena, and Wahclella waterfalls.

All levels are welcome. This is an interactive workshop. Expect instruction and coaching to match your knowledge and skill level. Expect to be challenged without being intimidated.

Maximum Group Size: Five (5)

Workshop Cost: $400 per person

The workshop fee covers professional photographer instruction and coaching. It does not cover transportation, meals, lodging, or other related expenses. We suggest lodging in Hood River, Oregon, or Cascade Locks, Oregon. Participants must drive their own vehicle. Ride-sharing is encouraged but not required.

Workshop Dates & Times

April 29, 2023 - sunrise to noon, reconvene before sunset, middle of the day on your own

April 30, 2023 - sunrise to mid-morning

Specific meeting locations and times will be provided a week before the workshop.

Experience Level: All skill levels are welcome! 

Participants are expected to have a working knowledge and understanding of basic camera controls. Contact us if you have questions.

Workshop Itinerary - Note: The itinerary may be modified depending on weather conditions.

DAY 1 - April 29, 2023, Saturday

Times Location

5:30 am Sunrise at the Portland Women’s Forum near Corbett, Oregon just west of the Vista House. Beautiful views of Crown Point and the Vista House with a Columbia River Gorge backdrop!

7:30-8:30 Next we will explore the Vista House & Crown Point area.

9-11:30 Then will make stops at Latourell and Wahkeena waterfalls.

Noon Break for lunch. We recommend you bring your lunch. This will allow you to stay on the Old Highway and explore a few other waterfalls on your own. Other recommended Falls. We reconvene at 4:00 pm for a wildflower outing plus sunset. Sunset occurs at 8:00 pm.

4-9:00 pm Sunset at Rowena Crest Overlook east of Mosier, Oregon. This location sits high above the Columbia River. Expect wildflowers and wide vistas of the Columbia Gorge! An excellent sunset spot.

Day 2 - April 30, 2023, Sunday

Times Location

5:30 am We will meet at the Wahclella Waterfall Trailhead east of Cascade Locks. This is a beautiful quintessential Oregon 2.4-mile out-and-back hike with a beautiful two-tier 350-foot waterfall in a dead-end canyon. The hike is mostly flat and considered ‘easy’ by most standards.

Physical Requirements: Most locations will require short walks some with uneven paths. On the second day a 2.4-mile, mostly flat trail hike is required.

Required Camera Equipment: Participants must have a digital camera with interchangeable lens capability and a tripod. If you have a camera but it does not meet these requirements, please feel free to contact us to discuss options.

Other Suggested Gear: Bring clothing for every possible weather condition. This should include light gloves, hiking-style boots, sunglasses, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, 20 oz water & snacks.

Please read:

Cancellation & Refund Policy

If you must cancel please notify us 5 days in advance. Call (480-204-3109) or send an email. Thank you.

Photo Workshop Indemnity Waiver

All participants must sign a standard indemnity waiver. A waiver form with be sent to you following registration. You may send us a photo of the signed form via email before the workshop or present it at the workshop. Thank you.

General Statement of Advice

If you traveling to the workshop from a distant location, we strongly recommend that you obtain travel/cancellation insurance. 

Camera equipment insurance is always encouraged.