Colorado – Women’s Photography Retreat
Into the Wild West We Go
October 25th- 29th, 2024
Immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of Westcliffe, Colorado, at our exclusive photography retreat: Into the Wild West We Go. Nestled in the breathtaking Wet Mountain Valley, this retreat offers a unique opportunity to capture the essence of nature’s beauty through landscape photography. With the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains as your backdrop, every shot is bound to be a masterpiece.
But the magic doesn’t end there. As night falls, the starry skies come alive, providing a celestial canvas for astrophotography enthusiasts. With minimal light pollution, you can capture stars and even the awe-inspiring Milky Way.
In addition to capturing landscapes and stars, this retreat also focuses on lifestyle portraits of ranchers and their horses. Immerse yourself in the rustic charm of ranch life as you document the bond between these hardworking individuals and their equine companions. From candid moments to carefully crafted compositions, you’ll have the opportunity to capture the authentic spirit of ranch life and create timeless portraits.
Join us on this unforgettable photography retreat in Westcliffe, Colorado, and unlock your creativity amidst breathtaking landscapes, captivating night skies, and the timeless bond between ranchers and their horses. Expand your portfolio, refine your skills, and create lasting memories in this idyllic mountain setting.
Double Occupancy: $3295
Single Occupancy: $3595
Registration Opens To Alumni On 1/1/24 at 7 AM CST
General Registration Opens On 1/05/24 at 7 AM CST
1 spot remaining!
Check back on the 5th at 7 AM CST to book your spot – there will be a booking button then.
CALLING ALL CREATIVE SOULS
Who is this for?
This photography retreat is perfect for anyone with a love for travel, a sense of adventure, and a creative soul. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned photographer, this retreat is designed to help you improve your skills and capture stunning images in some of the world’s most beautiful locations. It’s also a great opportunity for women who are looking to connect with like-minded individuals and explore new places in a supportive and inspiring environment. So if you’re ready to take your photography to the next level and embark on an unforgettable journey, this retreat is for you!
What will I learn?
ASTROPHOTOGRAPHY
Westcliffe, an International Dark Sky Community, offers an awe-inspiring celestial experience. Prepare to be amazed by the remarkable number of stars that adorn the night sky! In addition to this visual feast, I will guide you through the usage of the PhotoPills app, enabling you to plan your nighttime photography sessions with ease. Furthermore, I will delve into the intricacies of optimal camera settings, ensuring you capture the nocturnal beauty in all its glory. Weather permitting, we will have the opportunity to shoot the captivating night sky on two consecutive evenings.
LIFESTYLE PORTRAITURE
During the workshop, we will harness the breathtaking natural light that illuminates the ranch house and barn to capture captivating ranch portraits. I will guide you on the art of storytelling through body language and the effective use of props. Additionally, we will have the opportunity to photograph the ranch hands alongside their majestic horses, creating powerful portraits. Lastly, we will delve into the world of self-portraits, exploring techniques to capture your unique essence.
ACTION PHOTOGRAPHY
Get ready for an exhilarating adventure as we delve into the world of capturing horses in action! I’ll be your trusted guide, walking you through the process of selecting the perfect camera settings to ensure your shots are nothing short of perfection. We’ll explore the intricacies of shutter speed and focus modes, empowering you to seize those breathtaking moments with precision and finesse. Get ready to freeze time and immortalize the grace and power of these magnificent creatures in your photographs. We will have two days of sunrise shoots on the ranch.
LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY
In every direction you turn your gaze in Westcliffe, you are greeted by majestic mountains that envelop the landscape. This breathtaking scenery provides the perfect backdrop for capturing stunning landscape photos. During the workshop, we will delve into the optimal camera settings for landscape photography, as well as provide valuable tips and tricks on composition. By the end, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and techniques to create awe-inspiring landscape photographs that truly showcase the beauty of Westcliffe.
PHOTO EDITING
After the retreat, I will provide you with editing videos showcasing our photography journey. Additionally, I will offer image critiques as part of the process. If you have any specific images you would like feedback on, please don’t hesitate to share them with me. Photo editing will also be our inclement weather plan.
Itinerary
Sunrises at 7:20 AM
Sunsets at 6:10 PM
Milkway is visible from 7:40 PM to 8:52 PM.
Day 1:
- Check-in late afternoon
- Capture the stunning sunset at the ranch
Day 2:
- Engage in a three-hour sunrise shoot with ranchers and horses
- Learn about PhotoPills and astrophotography settings
- Capture breathtaking sunset and astrophotography at the ranch
Day 3:
- Another three-hour sunrise shoot with ranchers and horses
- Focus on portrait/self-portraits on the ranch
- Enjoy a sunset campfire and astrophotography session
Day 4:
- Begin the day with a sunrise shoot at the ranch
- Take a scenic drive or explore downtown Westcliffe
- Learn about visual storytelling or post-processing techniques
- Capture a mesmerizing sunset at a location to be determined
Day 5:
- Bid farewell to newfound friends!
*itinerary is subject to changes
What is Included in the price?
Lodging, photography education, 3 breakfasts, two lunches, models for our shoots, and editing videos.
Complimentary canvas from our sponsor Pro Prints.
There will be a Facebook group made for the retreat where you can try to arrange sharing car rentals with other students.
How Do I Get there?
The nearest international airport is in Denver, it is a 3-hour drive from there.
Colorado Springs has an airport as well, it is a 1.5-hour drive from there.
Lodging
Lodge with a view
Students will stay at a lodge in Westcliffe. It is a 7 bedroom, 4.5 bath home. From the lodge, it is a 20-minute drive to the ranch. The instructor and assistant will be staying offsite.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions.
What is not included?
Transportation to the retreat (students will carpool during the retreat), airfare, trip insurance, other meals and beverages, and admission to any other places we may visit.
What gear do I need?
Please view my recommended gear list here: https://intothewildwego.photography/photography-gear-reccomendations/
What is your cancellation policy?
You can view all my Terms and Conditions here: https://intothewildwego.photography/terms-and-conditions/
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Beth Mancuso is an accomplished nature photographer hailing from Minnesota. She is the founder of Women’s Photography Circle and has gained recognition for her work through various prestigious platforms such as National Geographic, Huff Post, ABC News, Midwest Living, Sony, Tamron, and Outdoor Photographer, among others.
Beth’s talent and dedication have earned her accolades, including winning Sony’s female landscape photography contest and securing second place in Outdoor Photographer’s Great American Landscape contest. As an official Nat Geo Yourshot photographer, she has also been featured on the Nat Geo Channel’s TV show Assignment Inspiration.
Before focusing on landscape photography, Beth successfully ran a portrait business for a decade. She is a permit carrier for National Parks and Forests, as well as being CPR and Wilderness First Aid certified.
