Valles Caldera National Preserve. Courtesy/IStockUNM-LA News:
The University of New Mexico-Los Alamos (UNM-LA) will be offering a unique landscape photography class that allows students to explore areas of the Valles Caldera National Preserve, which are normally closed to the general public.
Southwest Landscape Photography at the Valles Caldera is offered through UNM-LA Community Education 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, April 18, at the Valles Caldera National Preserve. The cost for the class is $80.
Professional photographer Jim Caffrey, who has taught digital photography at community colleges in the area for many years, will teach the class. Caffrey lives in Jemez Springs where he has explored and photographed the hidden and unique landscapes for 35 years. Caffrey says his class is for anyone who wants to learn how to make better photographs and spend some time photographing in the field with an experienced photographer who can answer questions while demonstrating proper technique.
Students wishing to take the class should have a basic knowledge of exposure theory and be familiar with the basic operation of their cameras. Caffrey suggests students review their camera’s user manual and practice taking a few pictures before showing up for class. There are no prerequisites for the class, but anyone who has taken the Beginning Digital Photography class Caffrey teaches at UNM-LA, will find this serves as the perfect opportunity to put what they learned to use in a practical setting.
As far as equipment needs, Caffrey says any digital camera is fine and a camera with the option to change lenses, such as a DSLR or mirrorless system, is preferred. If students have a tripod, they should bring it to class. Students will come away from the class with a better understanding of what it takes to identify, and compose a successful image while working under normal conditions using design elements and composition techniques.
Southwest Landscape Photography at the Valles Caldera offers a rare opportunity to photograph some of the movie locations in the Valles Caldera as well as the old headquarters in Valle San Antonio.
The class will meet at the Valle Grande Staging Area. Students should access the preserve at mile marker 39 off N.M. 4 and proceed north on the dirt road for 1.8 miles. Students should bring a camera, tripod, lunch, water, walking shoes, and sunblock and hat.
For more information or to enroll in Southwest Landscape Photography at the Valles Caldera, contact UNM-LA Community Education, 505.662.0346, commed@unm.edu or online here.
