Private Sunrise / Sunset Workshop

Join Chris Crosby for a 3-hour private photography session during sunrise or sunset in the Greater Los Angeles Area. Learn to master challenging lighting conditions with expert guidance on exposure, composition, long exposure, blending techniques, and filter use.

Getting Started: Booking and Scheduling

You can schedule your session directly on the website. Choose your preferred session length, and the system will confirm availability. Whether you purchase before scheduling or after, Chris will reach out to coordinate the best location based on your skill level, goals, weather, tides, and seasonal factors for an optimal experience.

Transportation

Meet at a designated location. Transportation to, from, and during the workshop is not provided unless arranged in advance.

Locations

Locations are selected collaboratively to match your interests and skill level, considering weather, light conditions, tides, and seasonal factors. Chris has over 37 years exploring Southern California and will recommend the best spots within one hour of Los Angeles. Custom sessions outside this area are available upon request.

Please inform Chris of any mobility or physical limitations when booking to ensure accessible location choices.

Curriculum

Beginner to Intermediate

Chris emphasizes strong fundamentals as the foundation for all skill levels. Topics include:

• Shooting in Manual Mode and mastering the Exposure Triangle (aperture, ISO, shutter speed)

• Metering and exposure for optimal results

• Simplified composition techniques

• Navigating camera settings and menus

• Using ND filters, polarizers, and graduated filters effectively

• Tips for smoother workflows and shooting experiences

Advanced

For more experienced photographers, advanced topics cover:

• Exposure bracketing and blending

• Focus stacking for depth and sharpness

• Creative blending techniques

• Tracking weather, light, tides, and surf conditions

• Advanced composition for depth and interest

Main Themes

Common focus areas across all skill levels include:

• Exposure balancing

• Long exposure techniques

• Capturing water motion

• Shooting changing light conditions

• Effective use of natural light

• Composing for emotional connection and subject clarity

Workshop Outcomes

The goal is to deepen your understanding of your camera, filters, and light manipulation to capture richer and more compelling images. With practice, you'll build both skill and confidence.

Weather Policy

Workshops proceed rain or shine, except in heavy rain, which will result in rescheduling. Flexibility exists depending on Chris’s schedule.

Extended Experiences

Explore customized, immersive photography sessions in Southern California or beyond, tailored to your interests and locations.

Post-Processing Instruction

Up to 3 hours of private post-processing guidance is included, delivered online after the session. Instruction covers Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop workflows customized to your skill level, including:

• RAW file optimization

• Clean editing principles

• Stacking for tonal recovery and depth

• Luminosity masks and blending methods

• Image finishing techniques

What’s Not Included

• Transportation

• Food, water, or lodging

What to Bring

• DSLR or mirrorless camera with a variety of lenses (wide angle and telephoto recommended)

• Tripod

• Filters (ND, polarizer, graduated) if available (Chris can supply his own to gain experience)

• Remote shutter release or cable

• Extra memory cards and batteries

• Appropriate clothing and footwear

• Food and water

If you need gear advice, Chris can assist.