Events

Michele Sons is a fine art landscape and nature photographer, writer, and educator based in the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia, with clients including National Geographic, The Wilderness Society, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, Smokies Life, Eastern National, and other non-profits that serve our nation’s national parks. Her work tends toward quiet, pared-down, subtle representations of her deep reverence for the natural world. Fog, mist, and soft light are intrinsic elements present in many of her images. Michele's uniquely nomadic background, advanced degrees in environmental biology and physical geography, and a 20-year corporate career in spatial analysis provide a personal perspective that informs her creative focus on connection and expression. Michele empowers creative outdoor photographers to find meaningful connections with nature and grow in their artistry. The Art of Place is Michele’s holistic education resource for landscape and nature photographers, encompassing the entirety of the art and craft of photography. Through her eBooks, private online mentoring, and private field workshops, Michele shares her unique approach to expressive image making. Learn how to connect with the natural world and express yourself confidently and creatively. Michele also teaches regularly at online and in-person conferences across the United States. The Art of Fog Join me in the fog! Together, we will explore the magic of this moody weather phenomenon. Spanning both art and science, The Art of Fog will review selected topics such as: the types of fog and the meteorological elements necessary for formation, forecasting tools, symbolism and the ways in which its emotional and visual effects on the landscape can inject mood, and a case study in applying this knowledge in the field. Inspirational images will be included throughout the presentation. After this session you will have a deeper understanding of fog, and more importantly, a greater appreciation of how you can employ it as a powerful artistic element to inject mood into your expressive photography. Adapted from my eBook The Art of Fog: A Primer for Expressive Landscape & Nature Photography in Fog.

Patrice is dedicated via his photography to capturing passion, emotion, and the athletic achievements of competitors at every level, including para-athletes. His images freeze the intensity of the moment, creating compelling portraits of athletes and highlight the behind-the-scenes contributions of volunteers, officials, and spectators. Patrice’s photography has been featured in the New York Times, the Times of London, and the French magazine Le NouvelObs. Becoming a Freelance Photographer My recent journey to becoming a freelance photographer.