RMNP Spring Fling in Moab: May 7, 2011

This year's RMNP Spring Fling in Moab is on Saturday, May 7, 2011. Last year it was super informal. This year I'd like to make it a more organized affair, including a middle of the day digital darkroom workshop or portfolio review or something fun, educational and constructive. We'll do a sunrise and sunset shoot at different locations around Moab, too. If we can fit it in, maybe we'll do a BBQ or early dinner before the sunset shoot.

What would y'all like to see offered at the Spring Fling? Let's hear some great ideas!

Damn it! I'll be in New Orleans that weekend. Why do I miss all the fun??

Finally, a date that works for me. It's on my calendar. Looking forward to actually meeting some of you guys.

You do realize that's Mother's Day that Sunday, right? My mom lives back east so it's not a big deal and so far there is nothing else on my calendar so I will try to make it.

I'm in!! Digital Darkroom stuff sounds right on for me!! Just the whole start to finish on Landscape Photography works for me. Thanks for throwing it together.

and FUN!!

That's my week to work, so can't make it.

Bret,

The Moab Photo Symposium is the following weekend. How about fitting something in around/during the 14th or 15th? I'm only 3.5 hours away, but coming down two weekends in a row might be more than I'm up for.

Thanks,
Mark.

If I am in town that week I will be there.

RichieV

I'll call my son and see if he can reschedule his wedding that day. I'm sure he won't mind, since it would be for a good cause!

On my calendar - will try to make it!

I was really hoping to make this get together! Moab has been at the top of my list for a revisit. I unfortunately joined the masses in the unemployment line a few months ago after working at a company for 9 years. Will have to see if I can swing it as it gets closer. Thanks for organizing this Bret. It sounds like it would be a lot of fun!

Sorry to hear this date won't work for a few of you. Unfortunately, it's the only free weekend I've got between now and July. So, we can change the date but someone else will have to take the lead. Any takers?

I think I will plan to attend. I have not been to Moab since taking up photography, so the timing is good for me!

You can count JR and I in! I'm glad to have Moab on my calendar again this year! We weren't sure it was going to happen!

Sounds like a great time and I'll pencil it in. Lots going on for me this year but I do need to get back to the desert for a while.

I'm gonna try to make it. I'm also planning to go to Palouse later the same month so hopefully I will have enough funds for both and my wife will let me do 2 trips in one month!

Since I will be attending the Symposium, I will be there too. It'll be my first time at a RMNP get-together. I do hope that some of you can give me suggestions of places to go so I can 'pass the time' until Thursday.

I wish I could make it, but I'll be in Fort Worth for an exhibit opening.

Bret,

I'm not local, but if there's a strong interest, I could take lead on putting something together the same weekend as the symposium. I don't want to co-opt something, though. I'm even tempted to come down two weekends in a row...

Perhaps we could put something else together during the symposium? I've visited the area a bunch of times and know some of the restaurants in town.

It's on my calendar. I hope to be able to make it this time.
I'll enjoy celebrating my birthday in Moab.

I'll be there....thanks a lot for organizing this, Bret!

I'm in, was hoping to get out there this year anyways!

As it is, I'll be there in early August...but I'm not ruling a May trip out yet...

My vehicle situation has stabilized so the pencil has been written over in ink. I'm in. Looking forward to seeing some of Mr. Edge's super secret locations and a road trip in my new vehicle. Whooooooooo Hoooooooo!

Looks like we've got plenty of interest for this event. So, I'm planning to lead a short session mid-day on post-processing using the Nik Software plug-ins. Anyone else interested in hosting some kind of digital darkroom workshop?

Bill: I don't know how many super secret locations we'll visit but we'll definitely have fun!

ill try to make it--unless there is a big tornado outbreaak in KS that day....

Count me in!
Hope the wife (mom) agrees!

I'd like to make this but it's looking somewhat unlikely that I can make it May 7.

Im in the process of planning my semiannual trip to the West and this would be a geat opportunity......I would like to see John Murmaw's processing tips...especially with T. Kuyper's masks.
Joe Rogers

I'm going to see if I can't talk some of my sponsors into providing some shwag for this event. Free stuff is cool.

Free is good. Post processing instruction is good too but I'd also be interested in some night sky photography. I was reviewing some of the night shots on the board and saw some amazing stuff that I'm dying to try. Anyone out there who is a self proclaimed night sky shooter besides Grant? I, for one, would benefit from a crash course.

I have not been to Moab either to shoot and am looking forward to the opportunity. As of now I am in. I appreciate you putting this together, not an easy task. Will someone be blocking a bunch of rooms at a hotel that we can bunk together to safe $$$.

Tim

Hey Tim: I'm not blocking rooms but someone might want to take the lead on that if enough people are interested.

I was just pricing out some hotels online since I know this time of year they can start filling up with various events going on in the area. We're thinking of staying at the Motel 6 since it's cheap ($90/ night) and easy to get in/out of the parking lot (a consideration when a string of jeeps as far as the eye can see is rumbling through main street!). The last time we stayed there it was pretty rough, but I figure we only really need a bed and a shower for 2 nights so it'll do. Also, they have the normal 24hr cancellation policy. Most other hotels were running around $120-$160/night with nonrefundable, advance pay deals. During that time in May, winter storms that shut down the passes is still possible, so I want that flexability. My two cents...

Good call Anne. It's not like anyone needs a hospitality suite or anything. Not sure how busy it will be since it's after the Easter Jeep Safari and a few weeks before Memorial Day but I suspect Bret could speak more accurately to that.

I know, I know, I know it's still 10 weeks away but I'm getting stoked. Anyone out there started thinking about a location list? I've got a few in mind but what about the rest of ya'll?

Not sure I can make it as I'm scheduled to do workshops at the Moab Photo Symposium the following weekend. On the other hand, 10 days in the Moab area wouldn't be all bad either.

I'm going to have to get a lot closer to the date to be able to tell if I can make it. It will be tough as it is 1 week before my youngest daughter graduates from college in Arkansas.

It's on my calendar! Unless something unforeseen comes up, I plan to be there. Looking forward to it.

Hey Rod: I vote that you spend 10 days in Moab. That'd give us some time to eat gourmet olives, sip wine from a box and tell tall tales (some of which might be true).

I can't make it but have a suggestion for those going. Last time my wife, dogs, friends and mother-in-law went we rented a place from VRBO.com. It was relatively inexpensive, we all stayed together, it had a kitchen/laundry etc. Just a thought.

Booked a motel for Fri-Mon, today....look forward to meeting everyone....sounds like it's going to be a great time.
Joe Rogers

Hey Brett- Thanks for organizing this event. Rod Chandler and i will be there!! I get to celebrate my birthday in Moab again!!

You might check out ww.vbro.com for condos to stay in. My brother and I found a great place with three bedwooms, two baths for $99 a night on a trip to Moab. Slept 6. Wish I could come Bret. Been missing Utah since my brother and I visited. Someday........

Hey Dottie: I wish you could make it, too! It would be great to see you. You and your brother are always welcome. I've found some new locations I'd love to show you guys.

The condo's Dottie referenced are very nice. They're only about 10 minutes south of town, well appointed, super clean and they've even got a 2 car attached garage.

I've booked a hotel room because I need the points for a trip in September but Bret, Bert, and Dottie are right. The condos at vrbo.com look really nice and the prices for most of them seem fair if you have a buddy or two to split the expenses.

I'll definitely do some night shooting if conditions permit. I know the basics and would be happy to share what I know. Looking forward to it!

hope to make it! May have to hitch a ride but I will see what I can do.

And Scott, you know more than the basics of night shooting!

Very good chance I can make it to this event! I will probably make a 3-4 day event out of it. Might reach out to a few to see if they want to do any shooting in the area around that time.

Well, I've avoided this thread like the plague, knowing I couldn't pull it off this year. However, after doing taxes, things are looking up! So, there's an ever so slight chance I might be able to do this! Still trying to figure it all out, but here's hoping!

Is anyone planning on camping at all, or is everyone in hotels this trip? I'm anxious to break in my new truck for the camping I guess!

Keeping my fingers crossed!

Brent, I will definitely be truck camping. Hope you can make it.

My Hotel is my Outback.

Geez...I thought we were all crashing at Bret's place! Oh well, I'm doing the hotel thing. Any of you guys wanna rent a shower?

I might be able to make it. Will be truck camping if I do.

I'm really itching to get back to canyon country so I might also be able to make it this year too. Will probably be staying in Hotel Jeep (which would actually beat staying at the Days Inn). Motel 6 is luxurious compared to those conditions.

Would love to meet up with others for a few days of shooting around Moab perhaps even San Rafael Swell, Cedar Mesa or Capitol Reef areas; the options are many. Hope to see lots of you there!

Any of you guys wanna rent a shower?

You surely jest, Bill !
I think the record for this group stands at ~ 5 weeks without a shower.

I got an email from Tex's Riverways today. The Mineral Bottom road has been officially reopened. Repaired in record time at half the estimated cost. So, if any of you are thinking about the White Rim Trail, the loop is now an option.

Yeah, you're right Bill. What was I thinking? (Note to self: stay upwind at any group outings )

After checking my schedule, I was going to do Moab this weekend anyway. I have a class for work in SLC the next week, so this works out great! I'm hoping to shoot Landscape Arch either Sat or Sun morning, but am open to options. I'll also be Jeep camping, I usually stay in Horsethief just north of Canyonlands when I'm in the area. Looking forward to it!

Hey folks,

I need to get a firm idea of how many people are going to be in attendance. Please take 30 seconds to say "yay" or "nay" by clicking the link below and responding to the single question survey.

The Shortest Survey Ever

I responded yes, but it depends on what the plans are for morning shots. I have a shot or two I'm after, but would gladly join up for any midday class,etc or any night shoots if that goes down.

Lynn: If you haven't already please be sure to respond to the survey as that's how I'm collecting numbers. Thanks!

Did the survey and am really looking forward to it! Thanks for putting htis together Bret!

If anyone is looking to share accomodations for Fri and Sat evening. Give me a shout.
Space available for two more people at $46/night.
I'll be car camping, but will put you in touch with the photographer who has reserved this cottage.

Let's plan on a night shoot Friday, May 6th, 9pm at Balanced Rock in Arches NP. Of course, that depends on clear skies. Friday looks the best for dark skies with minimal moonlight - setting crescent. Who's in?

Friday night at Balanced Rock sounds good to me. I'm in!

Scott,

I am interested. I should be to Moab by 7:30. It will be my first time there so I would like to follow or ride with someone to Balance Rock.

Tim

Tim, Balanced Rock is super easy to find - right off the main park road, major sign-age and parking lot. Its just before "The Windows" turn-off. I don't think you'll need to follow anyone, but drop me a note and we can plan a carpool.

I'll be there before 9pm Scott. Do you have plans for sunset shoot Fri?

Scott,

That sounds good!!! I will unicast an email to you.

Tim

Is there a meet time/place yet?

Have you guys developed a rough schedule? I'm trying to find a way to get there for some of the time. I'll probably have to be out of there early Saturday evening.

Bret is working on a fully-optional-attend-if-you-want-its-no-big-deal-if-you-don't schedule. I know he's open to sunrise/sunset location suggestions, so let's hear some!

I've got 2 "definites" and 1 really strong "maybe" on my list. I'm looking forward to some night shooting which has already been tentatively scheduled and I haven't been to Delicate Arch for about 10 years so that's a definite late afternoon/sunset. The "maybe" is False Kiva for another late afternoon/sunset and maybe night shot. I've never been there so I don't know if the trail is manageable in the dark. Other than those I'm open to just about anything. Oh yeah, I'm always on the lookout for some really swirly, lenticular sandstone so if anyone knows where to find some of that short of getting to the wave....

Judging from some of the responses, there may be a few folks that have not been to Moab before so maybe some of the iconic shots: Mesa Arch or DHP for sunrise...Green River overlook for sunset....

I'm planning on heading out there on Thursday, with enough time to shoot sunset somewhere Thursday evening. It would be nice to figure out what the plans are, if any for Saturday, so that those of us who are there with a bit more time can plan to hit some of the other spots.

I am planning to hit some of those iconic shots (Mesa/Delicate). I wouldn't mind going into False Kiva and DHP also. If anyone wants to meet up for any of those, let me know.

I'll try to make this as well.

I am planning to be in Moab early on Friday and will happily join a night shoot at Balanced Rock. I look forward to meeting many of you in person!

I am very excited and looking forward to the Moab gathering. The Friday night shoot at Balanced Rock sounds great. Not having done any star shooting with a digital camera, can anyone direct me to a good brush-up discussion on night photography? I have seen some wonderful examples of work done by this group. Looking forward to meeting you all.

Here's an awesome primer by TJ Avery - Static Wide-Angle Landscape + Astrophotography

I had planned on some sunset shooting in Arches anyway. So I will be at Balanced Rock afterwards.

Since this is my first time at a meeting, I would appreciate some specific info for Saturday as it becomes available.

Kinda new around here, but I recognize plenty of names. I actually don't already have a trip planned for that weekend, so I'm thinking it might be nice to meet some of you.

Here's our general strategy and itinerary for the day:

I'm shooting sunrise (0614) in the Dead Horse Point area. I've got 2 people riding with me, which leaves room for one more. If anyone else is interested in a DHP shoot we'll meet at 0515 in the parking lot of the Moab Visitor Center on the southeast corner of Center & Main St. In order to arrive at DHP w/ time to get set up we'll depart promptly at 0525. Depending on the conditions I may head over to Mesa Arch after sunrise at DHP.

From 1000 to 1200 at the Moab Library (about 250 E. Center St.) all are invited to attend to show off prints, do image critiques or attend a short session w/ me on how I use Nik plug-ins to process my images. This location may change as I'm still waiting to hear if the room is available. If it does change I'll post the new location here.

At around 1:00 PM those who are interested can attend a BBQ/picnic/social gathering at Swanny City Park, located at 100 W. & 400 N. in Moab. There are charcoal grills available or you can bring a pre-made lunch. We can also do a potluck, if there's enough interest. Potluck, anyone?

For sunset (8:15 PM), I'm headed out to Klondike Bluffs in Arches NP. There may be wildflowers blooming on some of the sand dunes. It's paved most of the way with a few miles on a good, graded dirt road w/ some mildly sandy areas. Again, I've got room for one. Those interested in joining me can meet at the Moab Visitor Center at 6:00 PM. We'll leave Moab at around 6:10 PM to ensure that we have enough time to get to the trailhead and hike in before sunset. The hike is easy to moderate, depending on your fitness level, and is about 2 miles R/T. Bring a headlamp.

Any questions? Please post them here in the forum. I'll check in daily. Looking forward to meeting all of you and having some fun in the Moab sun!

I'm interested in your Saturday activities Bret, and wouldn't mind sharing a ride if you still have that seat available. I have left my plans for Saturday open to hang out with the group, so I am in for sunrise and sunset shoots both.

Thanks for all of your time and effort here, Bret. It's greatly appreciated!

For those who don't know him, Randy Langstraat (post above) is the creator of the popular 'IntrepidXJ's Adventure 'Blog', where he shares his love of the Colorado Plateau. Look forward to meeting you, Randy!

Sounds great, Bret! JR and I are in for all things Saturday. We'll meet you in the parking lot driving a black jeep liberty. We will try to meet everyone Friday night, but that's a little up in the air. Can't wait!!

I had planned on some sunset shooting in Arches anyway. So I will be at Balanced Rock afterwards.

Since this is my first time at a meeting, I would appreciate some specific info for Saturday as it becomes available.

"Since this is my first time at a meeting, I would appreciate some specific info for Saturday as it becomes available."

Corinna, I think that Bret outlined it pretty well in the above post.

Hey Bret, I think I can speak for the whole group when we say thanks for getting the ball rolling on this. We appreciate all your work. Just remember, no good deed goes unpunished!

I'm heading over on Friday morning and really looking forward to the night shoot. (Thanks, Scott, for posting the link to the tutorial) I'm good with DHP Saturday morning and I'm all over the idea of a pot luck. I have in mind to fire up the smoker and cook a pork shoulder and maybe a brisket (for those who don't dig the pig) so if someone wanted to bring some buns and some sort of side dishes we'll be good.

I'm a little conflicted about Klondike Bluffs on Saturday afternoon. I kind of wanted to hit Delicate Arch and False Kiva for late afternoon shoots but as I'm fond of saying, "If you want to hear God chuckle, tell him your plans." I'll keep an open mind and play it by ear.

Mostly I'm really looking forward to meeting some of you that I haven't run into at the winter shindigs in Denver. See ya in 2 weeks.

The shooting locales and agenda look great. If you have a seat open Bret I would like to go with you. If not, I have an Avalon that I drive, I am assuming it will be OK in this area? If not, I would like to catch a ride with someone.

Tim

I'll most likely be there along with a couple others.

I managed to snag a few freebies from a couple of my sponsors to give away at the Spring Fling. Haven't yet decided how to give away the goods but we'll come up with something fun.

Sweet! The awesome people at Nik Software gave me a couple freebies to give away, too. We'll have to hold some kind of fun contest for the free Nik plug-ins. I've also got stuff from Dust-Aid and F-Stop Gear. A big thanks to my sponsors for their generosity in supporting the Spring Fling!

Big thanks to your sponsors for chipping in, Bret. Personally, I think the Nik stuff should go to the person that brings the best pulled pork sandwiches to the bbq on Saturday.

Can't wait! Fingers crossed JR doesn't get picked for jury duty!

Many thanks to Bret for organizing this event; I look forward to de-cloaking and putting faces with names/photos. I'll be there Friday and plan to meet up for the night shoot at Balanced Rock. Still wondering about sunset on Friday; anybody have any specific plans?

Update on the mid-day post-processing tutorial: The room was only available from 12:30 to 5:00. So, we'll meet at the library at 12:30 and we'll go until we're done, most likely around 2:00. Only water is allowed inside the room. Bring your laptops.

This pushes back the BBQ/picnic until around 2:30 or 3:00. Same location, City Park.

We'll have plenty of time after the picnic to leave at 6:00 for sunset from the Moab Information Center.

Questions? Post 'em here or email me.

I am trying to figure out where to go on Friday evening for sunset shoot prior to meeting at balance rock for the night shoot. I was going to go to Double Arch but according to Bret's iFotoGuide it does not receive light for sunrise or sunset. I am now thinking about Windows/Turret Arch area for sunset. Any other ideas or recommendations?

Thanks,

Tim

Tim: Windows/Turret Arch at sunset are awesome. Go up toward Turret Arch, take a left and walk across slickrock before reaching Turret Arch and wander out until you find something you like. On a side note: this is the only place I've ever seen a rattlesnake in Moab.

Bret, Thanks for the reply. Sounds like that is the best spot to go. I appreciate the advance warning of rattlesnakes....do not need to encounter one of them.

Might be able to pick up a couple rattlers for the bbq on Saturday. Tastes like chicken! I'm thinking of maybe trying to find the viewpoint where Fisher Towers are reflected in the river but that may be too far up the canyon to get back for the 9pm night shoot. Sounds like the Windows area might be the place.

9pm is just a starting time. You won't miss anything if you arrive later. I wasn't planning on any kind of formal presentation - just getting folks started who've never done any night shooting, and sharing tips and tricks. I'll be there at 9pm, but I'm sure we'll hang out for at least a couple hours (it probably won't be truly dark until around 10pm).

I'll be departing Denver right after work at 3:30, so should hit Moab around 9:30. I'm really looking forward to learning about night shooting, should be fun.

I was also wondering if Bret or anyone else had some info about both Landscape Arch and Corona Arch. I know where they are but are they best for sunrise or sunset, etc. Thanks in advance, looking forward to the weekend and meeting up.

Y'all have a great time...wish I could be there.

Joshua, Landscape Arch catches morning sun. I've never been to Corona Arch (it is on my list for this trip), but Martres' Photographing the Southwest Vol. 1 says its primarily an afternoon/evening location. He does say that morning might be a possibility since you can walk through the arch and shoot from the other side. HTH.

Corona Arch can be morning or evening.....just depends which side of the arch you want to shoot :)

No jury duty! Moab here we come! See y'all Friday!

Joshua: As mentioned, Landscape is best at sunrise. Corona is best in late afternoon light. It's orientation within a fairly narrow canyon means it really doesn't get great sunrise or sunset light, but late afternoon is pretty good.

Hi All

Due to Medical issues and surgery I will not be able to come to Moab.

I'm on the mend but just not up to that big of a trip. Hope I can attend another event in the future.

Have fun all!! Hope it is an awesome event!

Due to cancellations I have an extra bed in the hotel room I've reserved. If anyone is interested in splitting expenses shoot me an e-mail. Room is at Super 8 for Friday through Monday.

Well, I'm finally packed and heading out the door. See you all tomorrow night at Balanced Rock.

Not jealous.....not jealous.....not jealous.....not jealous.....nope, not me!

Wish I could make it, but sadly not in the cards this time. Everyone be safe and have a blast!

The weather is gorgeous (but cloudless) and we're currently poolside! Hmmmm, where to eat dinner and shoot sunset??

I'll be leaving right after work tomorrow

I'll be arriving pretty late friday night and camping out, err, sleeping in my truck, so I will be at Dead Horse Point for the saturday morning shoot before 0600. Looking forward to it!

Clean underwear...check. Camera batteries charged....check. Lenses cleaned...check. Memory cards cleared....check. Just gotta pack the cooler in the morning and I'm on the road. See ya'll at Balanced Rock tomorrow night.

Looks like I'm not going to be able to make it right now but I hope you all have a great time. Looking forward to seeing LOTS of posts on the forum with the images everyone comes up with.

Nope. It's the last weekend before the AP Physics test, so my students are freaking out, and I'm stuck here trying to get them ready at the last minute, or at least trying to reassure them. Ah, the wonders of teaching at a private school.

Regardless, I hope everyone enjoys it and that the light is fantastic.

Anyone going to be there next weekend for the 3-day workshop? If so, want to meet for dinner?

Definite Maybe .

The Shiprock / Annular Eclipse shoot on Sunday afternoon is drawing me that direction.

I need to sort out my 4x4 group's Moab plans that usually fall around that same time. Heck, some may be interested in a photo weekend.

And its my birthday on Friday.

Originally I was thinking Tour of California Cycle Race / Big Bear / Mt. Baldy that weekend.

But all I have to do is head east instead of west out of Vegas.

Soft Pencil - in.