Extreme Sierras

August 24-30, 2008

Pro photographers:
Marc Muench
David Muench
Andy Williams



Get your hiking boots out!

Learn photography while visiting one of the most dramatic landscapes of the Western United States, the Crest of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Stretching over 300 miles long and containing many summits over thirteen thousand feet into the sky, this "Range of Light" as named by John Muir will become our studio.

This photography trek will explore the Lake Sabrina Basin situated ten thousand feet up in the Sierra Nevada Mountains scattered with lakes, streams, wildflowers, waterfalls and photos.

Our first night will be at the Cardinal Village Resort, at 8,500 ft, the resort is nestled in an aspen grove at the edge of the tiny community of Aspendell.

After dinner, we'll have an introductory slide show. You'll not only get an idea of what's in store for you on the trip, but Marc, David and Andy will be sharing their stories and knowledge of photography.

The next morning, after breakfast we'll take off with Bishop Pack Outfitters, who will be hauling everything you will need into the back country. Just carry a day pack with your camera and sunscreen, and let them take care of the rest.

With four generations of packing experience, the family run Bishop Pack Outfitters has provided more than 60 years of excellent packing services in the breathtaking splendor of the Eastern High Sierra, operating under permit on the forest.

Our guides are experts in this area, and mighty-fine cooks as well. They'll be our mobile hotel on horseback, taking care of everything.

Our number one choice for base camp will be at the South end of Dingleberry Lake, surrounded by towering peaks reaching thirteen thousand feet into the sky. Dingleberry Lake is one of many high Sierra lakes located in the John Muir Wilderness about 20 miles south west of Bishop California. The lake sits at almost 10,500' and is rather small, but it makes a perfect base camp for exploration of the numerous surrounding lakes and peaks in the area.

Marc and David Muench have spent months of their lives hiking through the Sierras exploring numerous locations for photographic opportunities. This will be a unique chance to work with both of them in their element. Learn about photography technique while immersed in the location and don't worry about uploading digital files, because you cant!

Marc, David and Andy will demonstrate various methods for photographing waterfalls, lakes and high contrast situations.

Learn what makes a good black and white vs color image. The many natural subjects in the vicinity offer varied subjects for macro as well as panoramic images.

Weather permitting, follow Marc up a 12 thousand foot peak to photograph a panorama of the Sierra Crest.

Note: all information provided on this page is contingent upon the final permit being issued in late March.

In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.)

To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Marc, Andy and David recommend that each participant be knowledgeable about their physical condition and how they react to high altitude.

Equipment list

Also:

• Hat
  
• Sunscreen
• Water bottle
• Rain gear
• Boots
• Hiking shorts
• Bug spray
• Flashlight

Note: While Bishop Pack Outfitters is going to take very good care of us, please note that this is a camping trip. You will be sleeping in a tent in a sleeping bag while we are up in the mountains.

Itinerary

August 24
Meet for dinner and evening slide show at Cardinal Village

August 25-28
We will have four full days to:

• shoot sunrise and sunset at lakes around camp
• shoot night exposures of stars – unbelievably clear skiesJ
• Marc, David and Andy will demonstrate photographic techniques to the group
• hike to many different locations during the day
• climb/scramble up local high altitude summits
• lay in the sun by a clear mountain stream while the trout jumpJ
• critique images during the evening on photo viewers

August 29
following breakfast and possible sunrise shoot, hike out 5 miles to trailhead and head to Hotel in Bishop for SHOWERS and evening feast.

Registration and Payment

You can register and make your payments here. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.