with Lorelle and Brent VanFossen

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Programs and Workshops

Herons pass sticks to each other as they build their nest in Florida, photo by Brent VanFossenBrent and Lorelle VanFossen are traveling nature photographers and writers who present educational photography programs to a variety of organizations. Having spent several years traveling full-time across North America, they are currently living in Israel. Their work has been featured in a variety of publications including national and local media: Outdoor and Nature Photography Magazine, Trailer Life, Arriving Magazine, Shutterbug, The Mountaineer Magazine, Doll Magazine, Women in Business Magazine, The Everett News Tribune, The Herald, and other magazines and newspapers.

Here are the questions frequently asked about a VanFossen Production:


How can I bring a VanFossen Production to our group?

Currently, Brent and Lorelle are living and working in Israel. If you have a club or association nearby, they would be very willing to discuss bringing a program to your group. If your group is willing to cover transportation costs, the VanFossens will travel anywhere to share their joy of nature photography and travel.

What will I learn?

Fellow photographer, Deborah Kirsner, pauses during a busy field trip for ice cream with the group.Brent and Lorelle’s programs include basic as well as advanced photography tips on composition, lighting and equipment. Expect to walk away not only having had a good time and lots of laughs, but knowing a lot more about photography and nature, with a better understanding of how your camera works, how it sees, and how to use all of the different photographic tools available. In their customized programs, expect to learn about the magic of travel, art, and nature, and more. The VanFossens enjoy helping people open their minds to new ideas and concepts.

Do I need to bring my camera to the class?

Unless you have specific questions about how your camera works, don’t bring it to the class. Brent and Lorelle have extensive experience working with a variety of cameras (even point-and-shoots) and are very willing to answer any questions you may have. They strongly recommend you read your camera manual before coming to the class. If the class includes a field trip, you will need to bring your camera then.

Do I have to have an expensive, complicated camera?

Deborah Kirsner photographs flowers on a tripod, photo by Lorelle VanFossen

No. The programs are designed for anyone interested in photography, no matter their experience or technical level. While they recommend that you use an SLR (Single Lens Reflex) camera with interchangeable lenses, Lorelle and Brent offer tips that help anyone improve the quality of her or his images, including those with point-and-shoots.

What kind of film should I use?

The VanFossen’s recommend slide film during the programs. With slide film, there is no intermediate printing step that can introduce “corrections” to your exposures. The slide IS your film, for better or worse. The best learning experience comes from unmanipulated film to you can see exactly what you did right or wrong.

What do I need to bring on the field trip? (If applicable)

Brent photographs in the middle of a herd of big horn sheep, photo by Lorelle VanFossenBring a camera, 3-5 rolls of film, a tripod, camera bag with lenses and accessories, a kneeling pad, plastic bags to “waterproof” your equipment if necessary, lunch and snacks, water, and appropriate foot and body gear. If appropriate, bring sunglasses, sun lotion, bug spray/lotion, maps, and camping gear.

Do you teach about digital cameras?

Nature and travel photography techniques are the same whether you are using a traditional camera system or digital. What is different is that you can see the end results in the field ith a digital camera, and many digital cameras feature a lot of complicated switches and controls. We do include information on digital cameras and techniques in our classes.

How do I find out more about a VanFossen Production?

For more specific questions or information, you can contact the VanFossens by posting a note below or through email at lorelle@cameraontheroad.com.

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