This composition-focused photography workshop takes place at a stunning public garden in Bellevue that spans 53 acres. Originally deeded as a 7.5-acre collection of public gardens by homeowners Cal and Harriet Shorts in the mid-20th century, this space has grown into a diverse landscape featuring looping trails, winding woodland paths, wetlands, meadows, lush vegetation, budding trees, and colorful wildflowers alongside cultivated plantings. For photographers seeking diverse subjects and compelling visual opportunities, this location provides endless possibilities for capturing scenic natural beauty.
Your Digital Photo Academy instructor will demonstrate and guide you through various composition techniques to help you capture both intimate macro photography and broader landscape perspectives. The garden features elevated terraces offering bird's eye viewpoints and striking outdoor sculptures that add visual interest to your compositions. The grounds comprise several distinct garden sections, each presenting unique visual character: from vibrant perennial beds and rock gardens featuring native plants to carefully designed rain gardens and naturally evolved areas shaped by nature. You will discover numerous compelling subjects, including diverse plant species, flowing creeks, small lakes, a ravine, and a suspension bridge. Using the charming seating areas throughout the grounds, your instructor will demonstrate environmental portraiture techniques that place individuals within their natural surroundings to convey personality and narrative.
With aperture priority controls, you can channel the impressionist painters by selectively blurring backgrounds of greenery while maintaining sharp focus on richly saturated blossoms in a multitude of varieties. Alternatively, use a broader depth of field and explore leading lines techniques through the garden's winding paths bordered by rows of plants and flowers.
Abstract photography becomes possible by moving very close to the intricate petals of colorful flowers, filling your entire frame with delicate, complex detail. The garden includes 50 different varieties of rhododendrons and 100 different types of fuchsia. When magnified, petals create mesmerizing patterns and abstractions that draw viewers into dizzying folds, edges, and converging surfaces.
With patience, you can also capture wildlife, including birds in flight, perched birds, hovering hummingbirds, and busy insects such as bees and butterflies. Your instructor will discuss focusing techniques for small wildlife and frame placement to create balanced compositions that highlight both the flower and its visiting pollinator. This specialized skill requires patience and practice to master effectively.
Each Composition in the Field class begins with an instructional talk led by one of our experienced photographers, followed by a walking tour through a carefully selected photogenic location. Digital Photo Academy operates across 20-plus cities and offers instruction at diverse venues, including street photography locations, museums with magnificent interiors, farmers' markets, zoos, and landscape sites. Images displayed represent a mix of student work and instructor photographs from numerous venues and cities throughout the United States and Canada.
You will enjoy a three-hour session filled with learning opportunities, develop your strategic shooting skills, capture more compelling images of your surroundings, and build a foundation for improving your photography in countless future situations, whether traveling, attending celebrations, or documenting everyday life.
Cancellation Policy: If a class must be cancelled due to weather or circumstances beyond our control, we will work with you to reschedule. If you need to cancel and require a different class date, please contact us directly. A $25 transfer fee applies if you do not provide three days' notice before your scheduled class.
