Embark on an unforgettable journey into the cosmos with Learn Photography Canada’s Astro Photography Workshop, set against the surreal backdrop of the Drumheller Hoodoos in Alberta. Scheduled for Saturday, August 16, 2025, this immersive experience offers both novice and seasoned photographers a unique opportunity to capture the night sky’s mesmerizing beauty.
Why the Drumheller Hoodoos?
The Drumheller Hoodoos are iconic geological formations that rise majestically from the Alberta badlands. Their otherworldly shapes provide a striking foreground for night sky photography, creating compositions that are both ethereal and dramatic. Away from the city’s light pollution, this location offers dark skies ideal for capturing stars, the Milky Way, and other celestial wonders.
Meet Your Mentor: Norm Cattoni
Guiding this stellar adventure is Norm Cattoni, affectionately known in the photography community as the #photomentor. A freelance photographer based in Airdrie, Alberta, Norm’s passion for photography spans decades, beginning with his first Kodak Instamatic 124. Over the years, he has honed his skills, particularly in nightscapes and astro photography. Norm’s dedication to sharing his knowledge makes him an invaluable coach for this workshop.
Workshop Agenda
The workshop is meticulously designed to balance theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice:
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Orientation and Setup
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- Meet at the designated location near the Hoodoos.
- Introduction to the night’s objectives and safety protocols.
- Guidance on selecting and setting up equipment.
- 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM: Understanding the Night Sky
- Discussion on celestial events visible that night.
- Tips on planning shots based on star positions and movements.
- Practical guidance on capturing stars, star trails, and the Milky Way.
- Techniques for achieving sharp focus and optimal exposure in low light.
- Exploring advanced methods such as light painting and incorporating foreground elements.
- Experimenting with different compositions to create unique images.
- 12:00 AM – 1:30 AM : Hands-On Shooting Session
- Stay as long as you like to practice the skills you’ve learned
What to Bring
To make the most of this workshop, participants are encouraged to bring:
- Camera Gear:
- DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings.
- Wide-angle lens with a large aperture (e.g., f/2.8) for optimal night sky capture.
- Sturdy tripod to ensure stability during long exposures.
- Remote shutter release or intervalometer to minimize camera shake. (not mandatory, you can use your camera’s timer as well)
- Personal Items:
- Headlamp with a red light option to preserve night vision.
- Warm clothing in layers, as temperatures can drop significantly at night.
- Comfortable footwear suitable for uneven terrain.
- Snacks and water to stay energized and hydrated.
Registration Details
Spaces for this workshop are limited to ensure personalized attention and a quality experience for all participants. Early registration is highly recommended. For more information and to secure your spot, visit Learn Photography Canada’s official website or contact their support team directly.
Final Thoughts
Capturing the night sky’s splendor requires more than just technical skills; it demands passion, patience, and the right environment. This workshop offers all that and more, providing an experience that will not only enhance your photography skills but also leave you with memories and images to cherish for a lifetime.
Don’t miss this chance to explore the universe through your lens with the guidance of a seasoned mentor and the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts. Join us under the stars at the Drumheller Hoodoos on August 16, 2025, for an astro photography adventure like no other.
TERM & CONDITIONS:Â
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Responsibility: Learn Photography Canada will provide educational enrichment during photo tours and act as an agent/tour operator for any hotel, restaurant, ground operator or other suppliers of services connected with these tours. The other providers are solely responsible and liable for providing their respective services. Learn Photography Canada and its designated tour leaders shall not be held responsible for (A) any damage to, or loss of, property or injury to, or death of, persons occasioned directly or indirectly by an act or omission of any other provider, and (B) any loss or damage due to delay, cancellation, or disruption in any manner caused by the laws, regulations, acts or failures to act, demands, orders, or interpositions of any government, or by acts of nature, strikes, fire, flood, war, terrorism, sickness, theft, or any other cause(s) beyond their control. The participant waives any claim against Learn Photography Canada and its designated tour leaders for any such loss, damage, injury, or death. Learn Photography Canada reserves the right in their sole discretion to accept, decline to accept or remove any participant on any photo workshop. Learn Photography Canada reserves the right, without penalty, to make changes in the itinerary whenever, in their judgment, conditions warrants, or if they deem it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or safety of participants. You have assumed the responsibility to select an activity appropriate to your physical abilities and interests. You are personally responsible for being in sufficiently good health to undertake the activity.
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All registrations are accepted in the order received. Early registration is strongly suggested since there are limited spaces available.
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Eligibility:Â Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entire journey.
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Included in the price: Small group instruction by your Learn Photography Canada coach during our daily photo adventures, deli lunch. Not included: Transportation to Elora, any extra food/beverage you wish to consume.
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Payment, cancellation, and refunds: To reserve a spot on any Learn Photography Canada Day Escape, payment in full is required up front. If you are unable or you choose to no longer attend a Learn Photography Canada Photography Day Escape, the following refund schedule will apply:
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Greater than or equal to 120 days prior to the beginning of the workshop: The deposit is refundable minus a $25 admin fee.
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Less than 120 days prior to the workshop: No refund. However, you will have a credit towards a future Escape for the amount you paid for that escape.
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Cancellation notification must be sent by email.
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Leaving a workshop in progress, for any reason, will not result in a refund. We reserve the right to cancel a trip because of an inadequate number of participants making the workshop economically infeasible to operate. In the event that a workshop is canceled prior to departure, you will receive a full refund of the cost of the workshop.
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Travel insurance: For your protection, travel insurance is strongly recommended.
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All major credit cards accepted at check out.