Presidents Heads Evening Photo Shoot & Light Painting Workshop

Take advantage of this unique opportunity to photograph these internationally renowned decaying Presidential sculptures while they still reside in our great state of Virginia. With full permission from the landowner, we will have a 4 hour window to photograph these magically derelict artifacts in low light. You will register on the property, sign a waiver form, then have 60 minutes of leisurely twilight shooting time before, during and after sunset - amongst only 9 other photographers. When darkness sets in, you will participate in a light painting workshop by Jimmy Powell from the Stellar Media Group, followed by 60 minutes of leisurely shooting on your own. To get the most out of the experience, we recommend the following: 

* INTERMEDIATE OR ADVANCED SKILLS IN NIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY ARE CRUCIAL. BEING ABLE TO GAIN MANUAL FOCUS IN THE DARK, TO CHANGE YOUR SETTINGS ON THE FLY, TO SHOOT IN BULB MODE AND TO OPERATE INDEPENDENTLY WITHOUT ASSISTANCE IS IMPERATIVE TO GET THE MOST OUT OF THIS EXPERIENCE. THOSE THAT REGISTER FOR THIS WORKSHOP USUALLY HAVE FULL FRAME CAMERAS, A NICE, STURDY TRIPOD AND PLENTY OF EXPERIENCE WITH NIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY. 

* Tripod - REQUIRED

* The widest angle lens you have (14mm-16mm is ideal)

* A shutter release cable or wireless shutter release trigger and a familiarity with shooting in BULB mode - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

* A working knowledge of your camera settings, particularly knowing how to change your aperture and ISO quickly between shots

Our light painting guide will provide detailed instructions on adjusting your camera settings to the different types of illuminations that he offers and will allow attendees to participate with manipulation of pixel sticks, orb tools, tubes, light painting blades, etc. as long as you wear dark clothes. 

There is a chance of muddy or wet conditions in the area in which you will be shooting. Plan accordingly with your footwear and clothes. 

You will need to bring all of your own traditional camera gear as none of that will be provided (with the exception of the light painting tools that Jimmy utilizes). 

At the landowner's request, you will also need to sign a Waiver of Liability form that was mutually accepted upon by himself and John Plashal Photo, LLC. 

Be certain of your availabilty to attend this event prior to registration in that the only situations in which full refunds will be offered are due to a cancellation due to inclement weather.

DO NOT ATTEMPT TO ACCESS THIS PROPERTY ON YOUR OWN ACCORD. THERE ARE SECURITY CAMERAS AND MOTION SENSORS EVERYWHERE. YOU MAY GET ARRESTED.

FAQs

What are my transportation/parking options for getting to and from the event?

Please arrive at Hampton Roads Materials at 8212 Croaker Road in Williamsburg, Va. in time for our 6PM orientation. Drive to the end of the long driveway and park near the trailer on the left. Someone will be there to assist you. 

What can I bring into the event?

Apart from all of your own photo gear, I would recommend a folding chair, footwear that can get ruined, plenty of batteries, lens cloths and a backup rig if you have one. Jimmy provides light painting gear for the workshop but you should have your own high lumen flashlights, etc. for when you shoot on your own.  

What is a Buddy Pass? This pass is designed for guests of the photography workshop participants. While these guests are welcome to shoot with their cell phones during twilight, they may not bring nor use handheld cameras. Three passes only have been made available.

I am traveling from afar. Is there a place to stay nearby for the night?

Williamsburg is 10 minutes away and has plenty of overnight accommodations that fit all budgets.

How can I contact the organizer with any questions?

Please contact John Plashal at "[email protected]" with any questions. 

Will I have time to shoot exclusively with just ambient light?

Yes you will. We leave about 60 minutes at the end of the evening for solo shooting with no external light sources.

What's the refund policy?

Be certain of your availability to attend prior to registering. Refunds will ONLY be issued if the shoot is cancelled due to inclement weather or poor attendance/registration. We do have a very low threshold for cancellation should precipitation or high winds be forecasted.  An e-mail will be sent out to all registered guests 48 hours prior to the event with an update on the weather. In the event of a cancellation, you will be fully refunded and will have the ability to register for a future workshop.

Host or Publisher John Plashal Photo