“It was here in Big Sur that I first learned to say ‘amen.’”
WELCOME SPRING ALONG CALIFORNIA’S MOST ICONIC COASTLINE
As we celebrate the first day of spring, join me for a photography experience that captures the renewal and vitality of the season along California’s most breathtaking coastline. The arrival of spring marks the perfect moment to explore Big Sur and Carmel, where towering cliffs meet the vast expanse of the Pacific, and the shifting light invites you to rediscover the beauty of the natural world.
This area holds a special place in my heart—I was born and raised here, and even after all my travels, it remains one of my favorite places in the world. There's something truly timeless about this landscape that continually draws me back, and I look forward to sharing it with you as we explore its endless beauty together.
CAPTURE THE ESSENCE OF BIG SUR
This workshop is designed for photographers who want to explore the dramatic beauty of the Pacific Coast while refining their skills in a supportive, inspiring environment. Here's what makes this experience truly special:
Capture the stunning cliffs, beaches, and forests of Big Sur and Carmel, mastering techniques that convey the power and serenity of the landscape.
Stay at Asilomar Conference Grounds, a comfortable and relaxed retreat where the beauty of nature is just steps from your door.
With a small group size of only 3-5 participants, you’ll receive personalized guidance throughout the workshop, ensuring you grow both technically and artistically.
Discover new approaches to long exposure photography, composition, and creative expression while shooting some of California’s most iconic locations.
ASILOMAR - REFUGE BY THE SEA
We’ll be staying at Asilomar in Pacific Grove, a tranquil retreat nestled among Monterey’s coastal pines and dunes, just steps away from the ocean. The peaceful setting offers comfortable accommodations, making it the perfect place to unwind after days spent capturing the stunning coastal landscapes.
In the evenings, gather with fellow participants in the great room, where you can enjoy a game of billiards or relax by the outdoor fire pits. These moments offer a chance to share stories, exchange ideas, and reflect on the day's work in a laid-back, creative environment.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
This immersive workshop is designed to push your creative boundaries and enhance your technical skills while exploring some of the most breathtaking locations on the West Coast. Whether you’re refining your abilities or seeking new ways to express your artistic vision, here’s what you can expect to gain:
Master composition and exposure techniques to capture the drama and beauty of Big Sur’s cliffs, coastlines, and forests.
Hands-on guidance in the field with a focus on long exposure photography, using filters and natural light to create atmospheric images that evoke the mood of the landscape.
Personalized instruction and feedback, with 1:1 critique sessions to help you grow as a photographer.
Advanced techniques for image developing in the digital darkroom, enhancing the emotional depth and clarity of your images.
By the end of this workshop, you’ll leave not only with stunning images but also with a deeper understanding of how to create compelling and meaningful photographs.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Scott Reither has earned a critical reputation for his long-exposure landscape scenes, earning him over 75 international photography awards. Scott is also a leading educator in the fine art photography field, having conducted over 300 workshops. The workshops draw upon his extensive technical knowledge, editing and developing experience, and insightful awareness about what it takes to achieve exceptional images and define a meaningful creative identity as a photographer.
TESTIMONIAL EXCERPTS
“ I highly recommend Scott no matter where you are on your photographic path. I imagine everyone could benefit from his knowledge and especially his approach.”
“ My workshop with Scott really opened up the world of fine art photography for me. I learned so much and continue to build upon what he taught me.”
“I honestly believe my photography skills grew 100x after my workshop with Scott. His passion, experience, and knowledge of photography are extremely valuable. The workshop is very well organized to produce the highest and best use of the time. He fits a lot in but makes sure to take the time where it’s needed most. His stories are lesson’s in themselves and his work speaks for itself. I highly recommend investing in a workshop as you won’t be disappointed. I walked away with some amazing images, but more importantly, the skills to replicate similar high-quality images moving forward through future travels. I’m very much looking forward to connecting again with Scott through future workshops and mentorship opportunities!”
“Scott is every bit as inspirational and engaging as his photographs. His passion and generosity left me feeling very privileged to have spent time shooting with him. Scott was exceptionally invested in making sure I got the most out of the session. Not only in understanding my skill level and what I wanted from the workshop, but in what I wanted out of my photography generally. He asked questions that I have to admit I had never asked myself and that helped me to realize why my photography up to now has generally been so ‘unfocused’... I left the workshop buzzing. Scott helped me refine my technical skills and taught me new techniques. But most significantly, he encouraged me to ‘feel’ as much as ‘think’ about my photographs which is something that has already had quite a profound affect on me. I came away with a greater confidence in my photography and some great images, but most importantly a renewed excitement, passion and focus for why I go out shooting in the first place.”
SCHEDULE
This workshop is designed to immerse you in the beauty of Big Sur and Carmel, with plenty of time dedicated to capturing the region’s stunning landscapes under the best possible light. While we’ll focus on sunrise and sunset shootsat key locations along the coast, we’ll also balance in-the-field shooting with opportunities for rest, review, and reflection.
March 19, 2025
3:00 PM: Our journey begins with an introduction and our first sunset shoot along the coastline, followed by a welcoming group dinner to set the tone for the days ahead.
March 20-22, 2025
Each day will feature early morning and late afternoon photography sessions at iconic locations like Point Lobos, Bixby Creek Bridge, 17 Mile Drive, and Pfeiffer Beach. We’ll also venture further down the coast, where the rugged beauty of Big Sur reveals its most dramatic scenery.
Some days may be spent entirely in the field, exploring remote stretches of coastline, while other days will allow for midday breaks, with time to relax, review images, or participate in 1:1 critique and development sessions with Scott.
March 23, 2025
We’ll close with a sunrise shoot and a final group breakfast, reflecting on the experience and the images we’ve captured.
10:00 AM: Workshop concludes.
This schedule is designed to adapt to the conditions, giving us the flexibility to make the most of the incredible light and landscapes Big Sur has to offer, while also ensuring a balance of in-field shooting and time for rest.
FITNESS LEVEL
Moderate.
This workshop will involve walking in coastal environments, including beaches and uneven terrain. While there are no strenuous hikes planned, participants should be comfortable carrying their camera gear and navigating natural landscapes.
WEATHER & LIGHT
Temps: 61°F high | 48°F low
Sunrise/Sunset: 7:12 AM | 7:19 PM
In late March, Carmel and Big Sur offer mild temperatures with cool mornings and evenings, making for comfortable shooting conditions. The light in this region is soft and diffused at sunrise, ideal for long-exposure photography, while sunset brings dramatic golden hour opportunities along the rugged coastline.
With balanced daylight hours, you'll have ample time for both sunrise and sunset shoots, allowing you to capture a range of light and moods throughout the day.
cost: $4200
A 50% deposit of $2100 is required to secure your spot, with the other half payable on or before Feb. 10, 2025.
At the bottom of the page, you can fill out the questionnaire.
Book your spot now.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Accommodations for 4 nights at Asilomar by the Sea, a peaceful retreat nestled among the coastal pines and dunes of Pacific Grove.
In-the-field instruction across iconic Big Sur and Carmel locations, with a small group size of only 3-5 participants, ensuring personalized guidance and feedback.
One group sit-down meal per day, offering the opportunity to relax and connect with fellow participants.
1:1 private sessions during the workshop, focusing on image development, critique, or personalized instruction.
Transportation, gas, and park fees throughout the workshop, allowing easy access to all shooting locations.
A curated snack, drink, and gift bag for each participant.
Learn techniques such as long-exposure photography, creative composition, and how to capture the unique beauty of coastal landscapes.
Exclusive access to additional in-depth guides and articles during and after the workshop, supporting your continued growth as a photographer.
WHAT’S not INCLUDED
Airfare or transportation to and from Asilomar.
Additional meals beyond the daily sit-down group meal.
Personal expenses, such as any spa services or activities not related to the workshop.
Travel insurance, which is recommended for medical emergencies or unexpected cancellations.
Camera gear insurance.
Any extra hotel nights outside of the workshop dates, if participants choose to extend their stay.
OTHER
The Carmel/Big Sur photo workshop requires at least 3 participants to operate. In the event that fewer than 3 participants sign up, the workshop will be canceled, and all payments will be refunded in full. You will be notified by February 10, 2025, if the workshop is confirmed to ensure ample time for planning.
If you plan to book your flight before this date, I recommend purchasing flight insurance to ensure you can receive a refund in the unlikely event that the workshop is canceled.
While I do not provide travel insurance as part of the workshop fees, I highly recommend purchasing your own, primarily for medical emergencies or unexpected cancellations. I suggest World Nomads for comprehensive travel insurance. Additionally, I recommend ensuring your camera gear is fully covered. I use and recommend Rand Insurance through a membership with NANPA.
By attending this workshop, you acknowledge that participation involves inherent risks associated with outdoor photography and travel. You agree that I am not responsible for any injuries, accidents, theft, or damages that may occur during the workshop.
Please read the TERMS & CONDITIONS regarding cancellations, refunds, and further liability information.
SECURE YOUR SPOT - LIMITED AVAILABILITY
To book your spot, please complete the questionnaire below and click "SUBMIT."
Once submitted, you can proceed to make your payment below.
Be sure to click SUBMIT after filling out the questionnaire.
To secure your spot in the workshop, a 50% deposit is required, with the remaining balance due by February 10th, 2025. If you book after February 10th, the total amount is payable in full at the time of booking.
Once I receive your payment, your spot will be confirmed, and we’ll be all set. As the workshop date approaches, I’ll connect with you to finalize details, including pickup times and other logistics. You’ll also receive a pre-workshop brief to help you prepare for our time together.
During and after the workshop, I will share additional resources, including in-depth articles and guides, to further support your photographic journey.
Thank you for your interest. I look forward to meeting you and working together during this unforgettable Big Sur photography experience.