First workshop - a little nervous

[Julial1345]

I'm going to my first photography workshop ever next month and I'm so excited I can hardly sit still. But then, I'm also so nervous my insides are doing back flips. I need help! What do I take? You don't need more than pencil and paper to sit and listen to someone talk, do you? Or, duh, it's a photography workshop, why wouldn't you take your camera? I don't want to stand out as the obvious new kid on the block. What if workshop people are snobs (unlike the great people at DPS)? Will they look down on me for not owning any L lenses, etc.? Please advise!!

[StillFocus]

It's always been my experience that people are slightly less snobby to your face. Also, I'd take something to take notes with, and I'd take my camera just for the sheer fact that I always take my camera everywhere.

[Bluenoser]

I'd contact whoever is running the workshop and ask them. It seems odd that they don't have a listing/recommendation of what to bring.

It's a photography Workshop - if you show up without a camera, you're more likely to get the "new kid on the block" look.

It's a workshop, go and have fun, enjoy yourself. Don't be self concious, don't worry about what others think. Are you going because you want everyone to think you're a pro who knows what they're doing, or are you going to learn about photography and have fun?

[Jim Poor]

There should be a "packing list" of sorts. In fact, I'd be concerned if there isn't.

Depending on your mode of transportation, take as much as you can. Better to have and not need than the other way around.

Who is putting on the workshop?

[LeeR]

You haven't told us exactly what workshop you are attending or how long it will last. Many workshops are not much more than long slide shows where photos are shown and there is some discussion as to how they were done. Others are a bit more hands on. They will often give you an afternoon to go out and try the techniques discussed in the morning and have you show your work that evening. Either way, you don't want to be the odd one out. I'm inclined to agree with bluenoser on this; contact the sponsor and see what they are expecting from you.

[ncrandles]

Hello. I am new to photography as well. I also am starting a new photography program in May. Yes this is a intimadating. In my experiance prepare your self before hand, make notes of your own reasearch and bring with you. Bring your camera and probably your camera manual in case he asks that everyone in the workshop reviews their manual.

If other people are snobs-no need to worry, your there for your own reasons.....to gain more experiance...just do that.

Have a great time.

Im excited for you

[jerome.oneil]

I say take your equipment. You may have questions afterward and the presenter may take questions. I bet those who attend that don't bring their equipment will see you with yours and think, I should have brought mine.

Have fun with it.

[Photostudent]

Originally Posted by jerome.oneil

I say take your equipment.

I agree, and add a pen and paper to the list. You may be able to get the instructor to answer any questions you have on your equipment.

[Julial1345]

It's the "Jamie Hayes Event" on May 10 sponsored by Midwest Photo Exchange in Ohio.

Originally Posted by LeeR

You haven't told us exactly what workshop you are attending or how long it will last. Many workshops are not much more than long slide shows where photos are shown and there is some discussion as to how they were done. Others are a bit more hands on.

I guess based on the fact that this is the least expensive seminar I've seen advertised (and thus why I get to go) I shouldn't expect a lot of hands on participation. I just reread the description and found, "This program is packed full of images and how he created them using lighting diagrams and before and after views." I guess that answers that question.

Originally Posted by ncrandles

Bring your camera and probably your camera manual in case he asks that everyone in the workshop reviews their manual.

I wouldn't have even thought to specifically take my manual. Good thing I keep it tucked in my camera bag.