Scouting Missions
Ever wonder how workshop leaders put together their trips? Come with me on a Scouting Mission and find out!
Before I ever announce a new workshop, you can bet that many hours of research went into its planning. With today's tools, you can learn and accomplish a lot from afar. But my favorite part of the process is taking that first trip to a new destination. I'm addicted to the sense of adventure and thrill of discovery that comes with exploring new places. These initial trips have historically been solo adventures for me, but lately, I've started inviting a handful of fellow photographers to join me on my Scouting Missions.
Mt. Everest & Rongbuk Monastery, Tibet
Upcoming Scouting Missions:
Past Scouting Missions:
Only the Adventurous Need Apply
Fair warning, this is the trip where I find out if the light at the monastery is better at sunrise or sunset, if the lodgings are up to snuff, whether the planned route from point A to point B is reasonable for the allotted time. In other words, we might arrive at the exact right place at the exact wrong time. Things will not always go according to plan and sometimes we won't even have a plan. If you can't handle this level of uncertainty, Scouting Missions are not for you. Also, we cover a lot more ground and work longer hours than I would ever consider scheduling into a group tour so you have to be in reasonable physical condition to keep up with the pace. On the other hand, if you value adventure, discovery and welcome the thrill of the unknown, let's talk and maybe we can check one off the bucket list together.
Pros & Cons
The biggest advantage of scouting missions, in my opinion, is the more personal experience that the small group size (typically 2–4 participants) facilitates. You'll definitely get more one-on-one time with me than is possible with a larger group. Be advised, however, I'm there as much to make my own images as I am to help you with your photography. So if you turn to ask me a question at a critical moment and you see me 100 yards away bent over my own tripod, you've been warned. You may also have to put up with such mundane activities as meetings with logistics partners or touring hotel properties. But sometimes it can be interesting to see how the sausage is made.
I hope I've painted a clear picture of what Scouting Missions are all about. If you're still not sure if these adventure photography workshops are right for you, contact me with your questions. If you can't wait to join a scouting mission, check out the current offerings on our Workshops & Tours page. I hope to see you out there!
Cheers,
Ken Lee
