Many thanks to all of you who have responded, wanting me to offer our Rocky Mountain Photography Workshops one more year. I have been hosting these workshops for a decade and had intended 2023 to be my final year. After much reflection and working around family plans, etc. I have decided to honor your requests and add one more year, but with a twist!
NEW IN 2024: We will do these as new 6 day photography adventures (as opposed to the 4 day workshops I have led in the past), so there would be more days of fun adventures in the park, more memorable experiences, and at a little slower pace.
Join us for our (truly) final year and be a part of this special 2024 adventure!
MORE INFO: Scroll on down this web page for more info about the workshops!
** Price includes all workshop photography activities, 2 pre-trip meetings, 6 days of adventures, materials, course notes, etc. plus pizza dinner on first evening and our burger cookout by Fall River. Transportation, lodging, and all other meals are extra.
MORE ABOUT THE WORKSHOPS
I have many years of experience in photographing my favorite place on earth, Rocky Mountain National Park, and it has been such a joy to lead workshops there for the past decade.
Our workshops have been so much fun with numerous participants coming back and doing them again 2, 3, even 4 times.
Participants are saying: "outstanding workshop" - "most organized photography workshop I have ever attended" - "truly wonderful experience" - "best workshop I have ever attended" - "a workshop you can't afford to miss!" - "amazing experience" - "5 star experience from beginning to end!" - more...
The workshop includes:
Over 50 hours of photographic adventures and learning
2 Pre-trip meetings (usually online, depending on where people are coming from) to help you prepare for the trip
For Summer Group: June 5th and 6th, 2024 7pm-9pm
For Fall Group:
August 7th and 8th, 2024 7pm-9pm
Optional Additional Help - with two special added pre-trip learning opportunities on camera techniques and/or Lightroom Classic CC photo image editing/ enhancement techniques if you need the extra help/preparation
Complimentary pizza for our evening meeting on the night before workshop adventures begin
Complimentary burger cookout (with all the fixin's) on Fall River
You'll go as a photographer, but you'll return with a lot of great photographs, cherished memories of our many adventures, and a new set of photographer friends
We limit our groups to be small
Usually with a limit of 6 or 7 photographers
We will carpool for all of our adventures into the park. This arrangement has worked out very well for the past decade.
COMMON QUESTIONS:
What is the difference between Summer and Fall in Rocky Mountain National Park?
Summer (July)
Temperatures usually in the low 50's to upper 70's (colder in the higher elevations)
More large wildlife (like elk) in the higher elevations for mountain scenics in the background
Typically more water flow in the rivers and waterfalls from mountain snow melt (great for photography)
Wildflowers throughout the park
Sometimes patches of snow may remain in some parts of the park and mountains
Sunrise is earlier so we have more time to go into the park and explore before the vacationers wake up and enter the park (this is surprisingly valuable)
Excellent wildlife, landscape, lake, waterfall, sunrise, nature photography opportunities
Most of our activities are in the morning hours with afternoon down time and opportunities to review your photos and get help from Kevin
Fall (September)
Temperatures in the 40's to 70's (colder in the higher elevations)
Wildlife such as elk have moved down into the lower elevation meadows during their mating season called "the rut." You'll get lots of wildlife photography opportunities with herds of elk
Water flow in the waterfalls and rivers might be less as snow melt has subsided
The wildflowers are mostly gone; the grass fields have all turned golden brown
The aspen all begin "turning" stunning colors of yellow/gold/orange
We go out a little later in the morning than the summer group because sunrise happens later
We often also go out again in the mid/late afternoon to photograph the wildlife for a couple of days
Excellent wildlife, landscape, lake, waterfall, sunrise, nature photography opportunities
There is always a possibility we might get an early snow blanketing the park in white (which is quite beautiful, and the roads are easily drivable)
Which is better??? Summer or Fall?
BOTH are great experiences! Which is my favorite? Both! It's just amazing how much the park changes in just 8 weeks between our Summer and Fall Groups! We have even had some folks sign up for BOTH summer and fall!
Our "Home Base" and lodging will be at Castle Mountain Lodge, conveniently located just 2 miles from the entrance to the national park, right on the banks of Fall River. They offer a variety of pricing/lodging options from motel style rooms to cabins of various sizes with full kitchens. Once you register for the class, I will follow up with info about how to book your lodging.
Are Our Adventures Physically Demanding? We don't hike any of the more difficult trails in RMNP. This is not a hiking-intensive workshop, but we do some hiking. But remember, we will be at higher elevations with thinner air. Typically the most we might hike on any one day is 3 miles round trip (425 ft. elevation gain), but it might vary with the group's needs. If you are not in good physical condition, we recommend you start doing some daily walking (which is good for you anyway). If you have any serious health concerns, you might want to check with your doctor first. Or contact Kevin for more info, if you have any questions.
Cancellation Policies:
Since these are designed to be a small group experience, any cancellation impacts our plans. As we get closer to the dates of the workshops, an unexpected cancellation becomes more difficult to fill because others who were wanting to attend may have now already made other plans. Also, we have less lodging options available if we make changes to plans closer to the workshop date. Therefore, as the workshop start dates get closer, we need to know for sure who is attending, and cancellation fees increase as time progresses.
Summer: For cancellations made prior 3/1/2024, a Cancellation Fee of $199 will be charged. For cancellations made 3/1/2024 - 5/1/2024, a $449 Cancellation Fee will be charged. For cancellations made 5/1/2024 - 6/1/2024, a $749 Cancellation Fee will be charged. Cancellations made after 6/1/2024 will forfeit the full amount paid.
Fall: For cancellations made prior 5/1/2024, a Cancellation Fee of $199 will be charged. For cancellations made 5/1/2024 - 7/1/2024, a $449 Cancellation Fee will be charged. For cancellations made 7/1/2024 - 8/1/2024, a $749 Cancellation Fee will be charged. Cancellations made after 8/1/2024 will forfeit the full amount paid.
Optional Add-ons for These Workshops
When registering, you can choose to include these optional add-ons:
$49 Photo Post-Processing/Editing Techniques Online Video Class
Taking the photo is only half of the process in creating great images.
This is a 2-hour online learning video where I cover useful photo editing tips and techniques for post-processing your images using Adobe Lightroom Classic CC and Adobe Photoshop CC (including the NEW AMAZING AI features that have been added).
Each year I create a totally new video using the latest version of these Adobe products.
Learn various effective methods for enhancing your images and producing the best results for all the great photographs you are going to be taking in Rocky Mountain National Park!
These tips are focused on landscape, nature, and wildlife photographs.
Includes demonstrations of other useful plugins and HDR processing techniques.
$99 Nature Photography Techniques Class May 13, 2024 6:30pm-9pm
We'll cover many helpful tips, lens considerations, camera settings for nature photography including:
landscapes
wildlife
birds
waterfalls
Great option to add if you want to be more prepared when you get to Rocky Mountain National Park to get great shots!
For anyone who cannot attend the meeting in person at our studio in Austin, TX, no worries! We will also make it available online via Zoom!
"A 5 star experience from beginning to end..."
Participant Comments:
"The workshop was absolutely amazing. I know without your expertise I wouldn't have experienced the amazing views and photo opportunities you offered. Thank you again! It was magnificent."
"Since this was my last Rocky Mountain workshop with Kevin (so sad you’re retiring from this location), I was hoping it would be the best … and Kevin didn’t disappoint! Of course, his attention to detail and planning was top notch like all his other RMNP workshops, but this time the weather, the vistas and the wildlife were the best ever. He always knows exactly when and where to go to get the most iconic shots. This was my 4th RMNP workshop over the last couple of years. I can honestly say would highly recommend ANY workshop Kevin is in charge of. My plans include the Bird Photography workshop in the fall in Uvalde, TX and I know it will be the highlight of my fall photo adventures for a new and exciting venue!"
"This was my 4th destination workshop with Kevin, and they just keep getting better and better! The amount of pre-planning and organization that is put into these workshops never ceases to amaze me. Every day was meticulously planned to coincide with the best of the weather conditions. On this trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, the photos I was able to get of various wildlife was the best part. We were taken to the most optimal spots to view wildlife and at the most optimal time of day. Kevin’s success at the end of each day was that everyone had a great time, took fantastic pictures, and vowed to return!"
"I loved the cooler weather and being in the mountains--the beautiful scenery and accessible wildlife! I didn't want to leave! I loved the camaraderie and kindness of our little group; it was fun to hang out with everyone. I very much appreciated your expertise always readily available. I learned a lot and especially appreciated the time you took with me to figure out my external flash and problem-solve my settings with me. I love freeze-framing those hummingbird wings! I love everything about these in-the-field experiences--the "hunt" for that great shot, like waiting for the perfect catch while fishing."
"I just returned from Kevin Gourley’s fall photography workshop in Rocky Mountain National Park. Wow! The level of preparation, expertise and personal attention Kevin put into his workshop was exceptional and truly made this experience outstanding. Kevin traveled days ahead of the workshop to ensure the best locations for fall foliage, wildlife sightings and waterfalls. He pointed out optimal stances for photographs which was very helpful for me as a novice. He even offered helpful advice after each day’s session. The two sessions prior to our adventure helped me know what to expect on a practical level and helped me better understand technical aspects of photography. I’m extremely pleased with the entire experience and would highly recommend Kevin Gourley’s workshops to anyone looking for a top-notch photography experience."
"Fantastic opportunity for improving photography skills. Kevin's detailed understanding of Rocky Mountain National Park provides a lot of wildlife viewing/photography opportunities by being at the right place at the right time. Kevin's leadership and positive attitude sets the tone for excellent communications, sharing and a fantastic time for all. This is the most organized photography workshop I have ever attended."
"This workshop has been outstanding! I'd rate this as an 11.5 on a scale of 1-10!!"
"The workshop in RMNP was a truly wonderful experience. Kevin's thorough knowledge of photography, RMNP, pre trip planning and scoping out current conditions before we arrived provided excellent photo opportunities. Kevin communicates so well that it takes all the guess work out of the trip. Kevin is knowledgeable, patient, kind and provides individual help when requested. Our small group bonded quickly and new friendships were made. I hope for the opportunity to return again for a future workshop."
"Having attended Kevin Gourley's Rocky Mountain Workshop, I can assure you that it was one of the best Wildlife Photography experiences I have ever had. Importantly, not only are the photo ops incredible, Kevin makes the entire trip seamlessly smooth from accommodations, restaurant choices and reservations, to travel to the various locations. To top off the experience, Kevin also provides excellent instruction in photography enabling even the most amateur photographer the ability to learn and to come away with excellent images that anyone would treasure for a lifetime. I cannot recommend this trip in particular or any of Kevin's workshops in general more highly." Dr. S. Hurwitz
"What did I like about the workshop? All of it. Your pre trip planning, communication, accommodations, shooting locations, your kindness, expertise, willingness answer all questions and even extra help during the down time. I loved being at RMNP with you. You and Gail made us feel like family. I also enjoyed eating together at different restaurants (all great choices) as a group. I enjoyed being in a small group so we all got to know each other and have personal attention when needed. I enjoyed never being rushed at any location and all of the beautiful scenery and animals and our very close proximity to the park entrance."
"I have taken classes in the studio and have had the opportunity to be in Rocky Mtn. National Park with Kevin. You can always count on Kevin to deliver understandable content, be attentive to your questions and needs. I highly recommend Kevin as a consummate professional and better person." - Dennis Ellis
"The Rocky Mountain Photography Workshop turned out to be the perfect opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the Rockies while learning with a small group of incredible photographers. I learned every day both from Kevin and other photographers in the small group. I cannot imagine a better opportunity than this workshop for photographers who love nature and want to hone their skills."
"Kevin guided us to a variety of great photographic places when the lighting was ideal. We were able to photograph beautiful lake and mountain sunrises, a lot of wildlife including moose and many herds of elk. Kevin knew when to be at different areas when there were the best chances to see wildlife. Thanks Kevin for a great trip."
"Kevin is an excellent workshop leader. He takes you to the best spots at the right time and gets you set up to get your best photos. Highly recommend."
"The workshop was outstanding because we had total access to Kevin and Gail's knowledge and experience in photography. We were presented with multiple shooting locations and lighting situations from which to learn. Kevin was always available to provide advice and help resolve any problems with camera settings or answer questions. The availability of daily photo reviews permitted one to make any adjustments to shooting techniques before the next day. This was the most hands-on learning experience I have had and I look forward to more with Kevin."
"This workshop provided a broad depth of experiences in the RMNP because Kevin is so knowledgeable about the area and about the best way to photograph it. I really appreciated the care given to maximize each student's experience, no matter their skill level. I will definitely consider taking other trips with Kevin and Gail."
"Could not be happier with how the workshop turned out. Everyone involved was so nice and easy to get along with. Kevin was an excellent teacher - patient, explained well, relaxed and never felt rushed or that I may be holding others back. It was very rewarding and would highly recommend Kevin’s workshops!!"
"Kevin is a natural-born teacher and superbly facilitated the group while providing one-on-one attention. I learned a lot without feeling overwhelmed with technical details and had fun in the process. I highly recommend this workshop!"
"This exceeded all my expectations!"
"The natural beauty of RMNP was enhanced by Kevin's knowledge of the park and locations that were custom picked for great photographic shots. Kevin's calm, patient and knowledgeable teaching style meant that everyone, at whatever level they were at, felt comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, learning from them and then getting immeasurably better pictures as a result. The improvement in my photography from Day 1 to Day 4 was unbelievable. I came thinking the auto settings on my camera really took better pictures than I did, and I left seeing and believing that the pictures I now understood how to take were vastly superior to anything the camera could capture in auto mode. It was a 5 star experience from beginning to end."
"This is a workshop you can't afford to miss! I came to the workshop with a goal of never using Auto settings again... I achieved that and more. Kevin is such a great teacher and is able to work with photographers of all levels. He made everyone comfortable, I am from Virginia and did not know anyone in the group (as were several others) by the end of the work shop I had made a group of new friends! We were able to get so many landscape and wildlife pictures. The whole experience was amazing. I'm ready to sign up for the next workshop! Thank you Kevin" - Barb
"The Rocky Mountain Summer Photography Workshop was an amazing experience! The success of the workshop begins with the organization and preparation of the instructor. Kevin and Gail were superbly organized and prepared! It was a treat to be lead to the best spots at the optimum time of the day to photograph the spectacular beauty and wildlife in the park. They demonstrated great flexibility and adaptability in meeting the needs of the group with the ever changing clouds, weather, and wildlife. It was also an incredible learning experience having a photography professional available to coach and instruct on the best methods for creatively composing a scene, capturing stunning images, and the correct use of a wide range of photographic equipment. Not only can I wholeheartedly recommend this workshop, but I'm already scheduled for a Rocky Mountain Fall Photography Workshop with Kevin!"
"Thanks for another spectacularly successful workshop in Rocky Mountain National Park! The conditions were even more challenging than last Summer, yet everything progressed flawlessly. We were at the right place at the right time to capture some incredible images. Thanks for everything!"
Enjoy Activities with Other People Who Love Photography, Just Like You!
Here's what our participants are saying about our Rocky Mountain Photography Workshops
"I just returned from the Rocky Mountain Photography Workshop lead by Kevin Gourley. I attended the fall and also this summer session. These workshops are so well organized. Kevin, knows the park so well. He knows the best locations to find the animals in the perfect light. We did have to wake up early but it was so worth the beautiful light with no crowds. Kevin helped me so much with Lightroom and all of the post processing of my images. He definitely has a lot of patience and is so willing to help what ever you are confused about. I would highly recommend this workshop or any others ones that Kevin leads. You will learn so much and have a lot of fun doing it."
"Kevin is passionate about the Rockies and photography and his enthusiasm infectious. The workshop and variety of subjects was fantastic. We enjoyed spending time with Kevin and the other participants. Kevin's thorough pre-work and planning ensured this opportunity was a stress free learning opportunity. We cannot wait for the next class."
"Could not be happier with how the workshop turned out. Everyone involved was so nice and easy to get along with. Kevin was an excellent teacher - patient, explained well, relaxed and never felt rushed or that I may be holding others back. It was very rewarding and would highly recommend Kevin’s workshops!!"
"Word can’t express how AMAZING this past week has been. I spent the last 4 days photographing and exploring the majesty of Rocky Mountain National Park with the absolute BEST group of people and led by none other than the most incredible Kevin Gourley."
"Kevin is a natural-born teacher and superbly facilitated the group while providing one-on-one attention. I learned a lot without feeling overwhelmed with technical details and had fun in the process. I highly recommend this workshop!"
"Well organized trip! Opportunities to see and photograph parts of Rocky Mountain National Park that most would never see or find. Kevin knows this park like his own backyard & gives you the best opportunity to photograph most all wildlife within the park."
"The perfect place to learn by doing. With Kevin's assistance you will learn to be a better nature photographer."
"Kevin knows the park so very well and also knows the habits of its inhabitants (the 4 legged kind) and does an excellent job of trying to find great photo opportunities."
What I liked best about the workshop was...
"Kevin’s origination and flexibility to find optimal places to photograph each day plus the companionship among the participants."
"There are many bests...the location, shooting awesome locations, being in awesome locations, shooting images to my heart's content with no one rushing me, learning the best settings to use to improve my images and getting know know great people."
"Kevin's kind personality, helpfulness at every opportunity, exceptional info before the workshop began, great pre-planning and organizing on location."
"This is a workshop you can't afford to miss! I came to the workshop with a goal of never using Auto settings again... I achieved that and more. Kevin is such a great teacher and is able to work with photographers of all levels. He made everyone comfortable, I am from Virginia and did not know anyone in the group (as were several others) by the end of the work shop I had made a group of new friends! We were able to get so many landscape and wildlife pictures. The whole experience was amazing. I'm ready to sign up for the next workshop! Thank you Kevin" - Barb
"Being guided by a professional photographer that knows the area and what time the lighting is best to get the perfect shot is amazing. The early mornings are worth it once you get on location and see the beauty without the tourists."
"Kevin's Rocky Mountain workshop was a incredible opportunity to not only learn but to experience the magnificent scenery in the Rocky mountains"
"Kevin always got us in the right place at the right time... Focusing exclusively on photography for 4 days gave me a great opportunity to improve."
"Kevin does whatever it takes to help us find whatever we're looking for, including moose. Kevin also handled all of the lunch and dinner reservations which allowed us to compare notes and bond as a group."
"A wonderful combination of expert instruction and breathtaking scenery. Kevin and Gail provided an overall excellent experience. Met some amazing fellow participants as well."
"This was my first workshop and I didn't know what to expect. I'm far from an expert with my camera and photography. Kevin was patient with his instructions and generous with his time. This was an incredible workshop!"
"I am a true beginner to photography. I took Kevin's Photography 101, which I highly recommend for beginners, which explained a lot of the technical side of photography. I am a hands on/visual learner and being able to apply what I had learned in the 101 class at this workshop really helped me be able to take better/sharper pictures. Kevin is an extremely thorough and patient instructor. This workshop provided fantastic learning opportunities everyday with breathtaking views. I look forward to the next workshop."
"Kevin and Gail were wonderful! They treated everyone like good friends, and they were extremely attentive to all of the participants' needs and desires. The workshop was well organized, instructive, and fun! For anyone wanting to take their photography to the next level while exploring a beautiful part of the country, I would highly recommend this workshop."
"The Rocky Mountain Summer Photography Workshop was an amazing experience! The success of the workshop begins with the organization and preparation of the instructor. Kevin and Gail were superbly organized and prepared! It was a treat to be lead to the best spots at the optimum time of the day to photograph the spectacular beauty and wildlife in the park. They demonstrated great flexibility and adaptability in meeting the needs of the group with the ever changing clouds, weather, and wildlife. It was also an incredible learning experience having a photography professional available to coach and instruct on the best methods for creatively composing a scene, capturing stunning images, and the correct use of a wide range of photographic equipment. Not only can I wholeheartedly recommend this workshop, but I'm already scheduled for a Rocky Mountain Fall Photography Workshop with Kevin!"
"Our adventure far exceeded my expectations - and I expected a lot."
"Attending a workshop with Kevin is absolutely wonderful... so wonderful in fact that I did the same workshop twice. Kevin is very knowledgeable of the park as well as techniques to make us capture the best photos we possibly could. Kevin is very patient, kind, funny, passionate about teaching others how to take the best photos, considerate, extremely organized, etc. You won't find a kinder, patient, and talented person to not only plan an awesome itinerary for the group, but to also be a tour guide of the park and provide facts about the different sights... AND provide constant photographic tips and instructions and reminders that were extremely helpful. Thank you Kevin. The workshop is worth the expense."
"I have participated in a dozen workshops and you are the best organized leader I have ever experienced. Thanks."
"I learned more from Kevin during the Rocky Mountain Workshop in 4 days than I have learned in the last 4 months. It is outstanding. The small group size facilities a great deal of one on one engagement with Kevin. And, it is Rocky Mountain National Park. What else could you want. Highly recommend it."
What I liked best about the workshop was... "Learning about my camera and all of the functionality that it has that were previously unknown to me. Kevin's highly competent approach was impressive to watch especially as he was getting "pulled" in multiple directions answering questions. RMNP was an outstanding canvass."
"The work shop was fantastic!!! Experience of a life time."
"This is the 2nd time I've participated in this workshop. That alone I think speaks to the quality/value of the workshop! Kevin (and Gail) is tremendously organized, attentive to his customers needs/desires and continuously providing instruction/feedback/reminders so each student can get the most out of their photography."
"Half of the photographers at the Rocky Mountain National Park summer 2015 workshop were repeat customers...the first sign this was going to be good. At workshop's end, all six of us were conspiring to meet up again at Kevin Gourley's Fall RMNP workshop. In between, Kevin advanced my camera knowledge 10-fold and taught me new valuable techniques for successful wildlife, water & sunrise/sunset photography. I looked at a lot of workshops, but Kevin's stood out from the pack ... You're getting an experienced tour guide in addition to a photographer teacher. Kevin knows the park backwards and forwards - where & when to arrive for a prime sunrise or landscape. You'll be photographing the moose while hundreds of hapless tourists are roadside just hoping. #3 Affordable. #4 Kevin is: A full-time professional photographer. Organized. Detail-oriented. Knowledgable. Patient. Caring. A kind (non-condescending) teacher. A Canon guy who is equally comfortable helping you with your Nikon, Minolta, what-have-you. He aptly juggles varying skill levels within the group. He won't tell you what to shoot, but will help you make the most of what You "see." #5 You're going to make some good new friends. I can't wait for the next Kevin Gourley Workshop."
"The ability to only focus on photography in one of the most beautiful places on earth with Kevin always close by to help or answer questions makes this a trip of a lifetime for a photographer."
"It really is a photographer's 'trip of a lifetime'."
"This workshop is worth every penny it cost. Kevin will take you to some amazingly beautiful locations to photograph AND help you capture amazing photographs. You'll also see incredible wildlife. The time will go by so quickly it'll leave you wanting more.... Highly recommend Kevin's workshop. He's patient, kind, compassionate, extremely knowledgeable and organized, and just overall a great guy!"
"Kevin provided an excellent workshop. I had great picture opportunties. Kevin had the logistics and timing down pat. Waterfalls, cascades, vistas, and especially wildlife."
"Kevin's Rocky Mountain workshop was a great experience. He is very knowledgeable about the park. Every day was a different experience. The days were planned out with hiking that was not to strenuous. I had a choice of doing this workshop or one in Sedona, Arizona and choose this one based testimonials from previous participants. I have also taken some of Kevin's classes so was already familiar with his excellent teaching methods."
"Anyone who loves nature photography should take this workshop."
"We had a grand time!! Kevin is so patient and extremely knowledgeable. He will take the time to answer all of your questions and repeat himself until you get the concept. Gail was a huge help with walking slowly down the mountains with me and to let me go at my own pace. Kevin has a great knowledge of RMNP. He knows all of the greatest locations to take the best photo at the right time of day. He is a great leader and photographer. Can't wait until the Beavers Bend Workshop!!! Thank you Kevin and Gail for a wonderful adventure and a great time!!"
"The Rocky Mountain National Park workshop is a hands-on learning experience in a spectacular setting. Kevin and Gail made it a great experience. The other photographers and friends in the group added to the fun time we all had."
"There are workshops and there are workshops and then there's Kevin's workshops. He never ceases to amaze me with his knowledge, willingness to share, kind soul and good humor. I can't say enough about the experience."
"I've taken both the 101 and fundamentals classes from Kevin. They were excellent and I learned a lot from them. But the opportunity to apply what I learned from those classes at the Rocky Mountain Workshop was better than I ever expected it would be. Each day in the Rockies I saw my skills and photographs improve. I was developing good habits and having fun, too! I can't think of a more beautiful place to hone my skills, a more helpful (and patient) instructor than Kevin, and a more delightful group of people to hike and take pictures with!"
"The natural beauty of RMNP was enhanced by Kevin's knowledge of the park and locations that were custom picked for great photographic shots. Kevin's calm, patient and knowledgeable teaching style meant that everyone, at whatever level they were at, felt comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, learning from them and then getting immeasurably better pictures as a result. The improvement in my photography from Day 1 to Day 4 was unbelievable. I came thinking the auto settings on my camera really took better pictures than I did, and I left seeing and believing that the pictures I now understood how to take were vastly superior to anything the camera could capture in auto mode. It was a 5 star experience from beginning to end."
"This photographic workshop in RMNP encourages you to step outside of your normal photographic routine. In the course of four days in a magnificent setting you encounter many different photography 'problems' and with Kevin right there you have the opportunity to learn the solution from him and then apply it and practice until you get it right. You also learn from your group mates in a way that does not happen in the regular classroom. I think I grew as a photographer more in the four days in this workshop than I have done in the 5 years I have been a serious photo hobbyist."
"I have taken Kevin's Photography 101 and his Rocky Mountain National Park Workshop and both his classes have been beyond excellent. Whether you are a novice, an intermediate or advanced, Kevin knows his subject so thoroughly, and teaches it so well, that you will come away a better photographer. His calm teaching manner, sense of humor and passion about photography makes every class with him fun and informative. I've already signed up for course #3, and I can't wait for it to begin." - Linda
"I've taken a masters class and 2 on-location workshops with Kevin and believe him to be the most generous and patient photography mentor a person could have. He teaches with real expertise, authority, humor and humility always placing the participants' needs first and foremost. Your photography will take a giant leap (or three) to another level each time you work with him." - Katherine Malm
"I have taken Kevin's Photography 101 and Mastering the Fundamentals classes and participated in the Rocky Mountain National Park workshop a few weeks ago. Kevin has a true gift for teaching and his knowledge of photography is astounding. The RMNP workshop was four days that took my skills up many, many notches. I highly recommend any of Kevin's classes or workshops." - Janis Connell
What did you like best about the workshop? "Feeling safe with Kevin. Knowing he had carefully scouted all the areas and worked diligently to provide the best possible adventure/workshop."
"Kevin and Gail were wonderful host and instructors. Kevin is very knowledgeable and patient and was there to give advice and instruction. Was a wonderful experience."
What did you like best about the workshop? "The hands-on practice. The opportunity to ask Kevin questions and then see the results when I applied what I learned."
What did you like best about the workshop? "So many things--It was wonderful to have Kevin as a guide in RMNP. He really knows the areas. And of course, having him there to answer all my photo questions was invaluable. I learned so much."
"If you want to take make significant step-function improvements in your photography, this is the workshop for you. There's nothing like some serious time spent on photographing landscapes & wildlife with a fabulous instructor by your side. Worth every penny and then some!"
"Great photos ops, with non-stop guidance on how to capture the best photo. Since this experience was continual over 4 days, the reinforcement of the checklist became second nature, and therefore should stay with us in all future photography."
"Loved having time together with other photographers who never tire of continual photos ops... then have time with spouse to do as we please in the late afternoon/ evening. A great balance."
"Great trip! Kevin provided tips and suggestions to ensure you were successful in getting great shots. He offered as much or little assistance as was needed."
What did you like best about the workshop? "I loved the varied locations at the park site, varied types of shooting environments, the early starts when we had great light and NO crowds, great field instruction, collegial group, patient and knowledgeable instructor. I appreciated both Kevin's extensive photographic knowledge and ability to pass it along, as well as his local knowledge of the park, and his careful watching of the weather which is so necessary in that environment. The accommodations were convenient and comfortable and clean and the opportunities to eat together during the day and in the evening helped build the group dynamic."
"I had a fabulous time and learned a ton. My photography skills increased while I enjoyed every minute!"
"I had an incredible experience this past week and am happy to have had the opportunity to learn from an amazing instructor and obtain some great shots."
"I think the carpooling was great."
"Carpooling was great!"
"I wanted to say thank you again for an AWESOME workshop. I learned so much."
"It was a most awesome time!"
"Just came back from RMNP and this workshop. It was a fantastic trip and I highly recommend it to anyone!"
"Kevin I just wanted to say that this entire trip has been an amazing experience for both myself and Joe. You are such a gracious host, guide, mentor, and person in general. Everything we did was a wonderful time and although the hikes kicked my rear a bit, I wouldn't trade those experiences for anything in the world. It was fun and I'm happy that I was able to participate in everything. I can't wait to view my photos and see what I ended up with but no photo shot by me can truly give justice to the beauty all around us here at Rocky Mountain National Park. Thank you for all your patience, kindness, excellent communication with the group, planning, the burger cook out, for sharing your favorite spots with us, for your mentorship... I highly recommend anyone wanting to learn more about photography to take some of your classes and/or join you on one of your on location workshops. This was a fabulous group of people and it was a thoroughly enjoyable experience that I'll never forget. Thank you!!!"
What did you like about this workshop? "Oh man! Where do I start? Total AWESOMENESS!!! If you like being outdoors, one with nature, hiking, and getting GREAT photographic opportunities and instruction, search no more! This workshop was a great mix of learning/down-time. It had well thought out daily excursions that yielded a variety of subject matter, each requiring application of different photographic technique. Well done Kevin!"
"Thank you for a great learning experience and a fabulous week. I so enjoyed being out shooting for 10 hours a day - what a luxury! You did a great job of organizing, preparing us, and teaching us while we were there. I know I got a bunch of pictures I love, and am sure everyone else can say the same. I love, love, love Rocky Mt. National Park and being in Colorado. You are Gail were gracious hosts and made the whole experience fun and exciting."
"Thanks Kevin ... the trip has been spectacular. And as always, so organized, helpful and thoughtful."
"The weather was gorgeous, the sights were outstanding, and the activities were great. I appreciated Kevin and Gail being close by for assistance and advice. Kendall was a huge help to me and I greatly appreciated that. ... It was an awesome trip full of great memories and I can't wait to go thru all my photos."
"The workshop was fantastic!"
"This workshop was all that I had hoped and more. I was able to spend significant time trying different techniques throughout each day. The mix of wildlife, vistas, waterfalls and close subjects was perfect. Having Kevin to help think through techniques was wonderful plus I learned so much from all the others in the group as well. Great group, great weather, amazing sights and good downtime as well - exactly what I needed!"
"This workshop was so much fun and created so many wonderful memories. Thanks again!"
"What an incredible talent Kevin Gourley has for photography and I am so honored to have learned from him. I was initially intimidated by the technical aspects of photography (ISO, Aperture and Shutter Speed) and he quickly put my fears and intimidations to rest and explained the process in a manner I could understand. He was always kind, patient and encouraging. The RMNP workshop was an adventure I will never forget and the bonus is, I feel like I made many new friends as well. I definitely want to take another workshop in the future."
What did you like best about the workshop? "4 days of immersive photography experiences. So much time to experiment, practice, perfect."
What did you like best about the workshop? "Being able to spend real time at each stop, trying different techniques and learning from others."
What did you like best about the workshop? "How well thought out the daily excursions were planned in regards to location, photo subject matter and type of technique needed to be applied and exercised."
"What did you like best about the workshop? Can't name just one thing. You were a great guide and teacher, it was good to have the guidance on the spot. Loved the locations we went to, especially the hike to Dream Lake."
What did you like best about the workshop? "I was able to learn more by going out and getting to know more about my camera and hands on training we received."
What did you like best about the workshop? "Settings for waterfall shoots, sunrise and wildlife shoots."
What did you like best about the workshop? "The fact that the group was kept small and manageable and that it was an opportunity for hands on learning."
What did you like best about the workshop? "The best part of the workshop was Kevin's knowledge of the area and his low key way of helping each of us understand the techniques. Thanks!"
What did you like best about the workshop? "Just experiencing everything with other photographers along. I enjoyed the pace with which we handled the activities. Having a patient group and instructor was awesome."
What did you like best about the workshop? "The hands on learning to photograph so many things...from sunrises to waterfalls to moose! I learned so much and I'm so glad I went on this workshop! Kevin, you are a great teacher and your love for photography really shows through your patience and efforts. Thank you so much for this opportunity!"
** Kevin Gourley is authorized by the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, through a Commercial Use Authorization Permit to legally conduct workshops in Rocky Mountain National Park.
