Mushroom & Macro Photography Workshop – Capture the Forest Floor

Join me for an immersive, hands-on workshop that blends the art of macro photography with the fascinating science of mushroom identification! Whether you're a photographer looking to refine your technique or a nature enthusiast eager to explore the fungal world, this workshop is designed to elevate your skills and deepen your connection to the forest floor.

What You’ll Learn:

Photography Techniques

• Composition in Nature: Learn how to frame your macro subjects with intent—leading lines, depth, balance, and creative angles.

• Lighting for the Forest Floor: Master natural light, use of reflectors, and diffused flash for soft, shadow-free shots in dense forest environments.

• Focus Stacking: Dive into the technique that brings your tiny subjects fully into focus, using in-camera or post-processing methods.

• Gear Guidance: From lenses and tripods to clamps and diffusers—get advice tailored to your current equipment and budget.

Mushroom Identification Basics

• Learn how to identify common species using key features like cap shape, gill structure, habitat, and spore prints.

• Understand ethical foraging practices and how to avoid toxic lookalikes.

• Discover the ecological role fungi play in forest ecosystems, making your imagery more meaningful.Workshop Format

• Guided nature walk with live instruction and demonstrations

• Hands-on shooting with real-time feedback

• Time for Q&A and creative discussion

Weather & Preparedness

We’ll be heading out rain or shine—after all, mushrooms love the moisture! This is the Pacific Northwest, so good rain gear, waterproof footwear, and a sense of adventure are essential. Embrace the elements and discover how even misty, moody weather can make for magical photos.

About Your Instructor

Kyle Smith is a professional photographer and wilderness guide with nearly a decade of experience capturing the wild, remote, and often unseen corners of the Pacific North West. Since 2016, he’s been blending storytelling, technical precision, and a deep respect for nature to create powerful imagery.

Who This is For:

• Beginner to intermediate photographers • Nature lovers, hikers, foragers, and fungi fanatics

• Anyone curious about exploring the beauty of the small and often overlookedLimited spots available! Bring your curiosity, camera, and a sense of wonder.

Info: To maximize our chances of finding a variety of fungi, we’ll meet at a trailhead or natural area closest to the best mushroom conditions at the time of the event.
Exact meetup location will be emailed 2–3 days prior to the workshop, based on current mushroom activity.
We’ll be spending the entire workshop out in the field, walking, observing, photographing, and learning directly from the forest.

Host or Publisher Kyle Smith Foto