A NORTHWOODS AUTUMN:
UPPER PENINSULA of MICHIGAN
OCTOBER 3 - 7, 2027
Autumn is something special in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The transition from the long, warm days of summer to the short, cold days of winters, is a photographer’s dream. For a few weeks, the landscape transforms into a visual canvas of color. Beech, maples, white birch, conifer and aspen forests become a palette of color that surrounds the quiet of Michigan’s inland lakes, while sunrise and sunset frame the tranquility of the season along Lake Superior's incredible shoreline.
From our home base near Munising, where we’ll stay in charming, lakeside cabins, we will intimately explore the area with our cameras. At Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, beautifully colored cliffs rise out of Lake Superior like castles. We will enjoy a scenic boat cruise to photograph the cliffs from the water at sunset. Driftwood and brightly colored stones layer the beaches along the Superior’s shoreline. In the Seney National Wildlife Refuge and Hiawatha National Forest, the brightly colored trees surround small peaceful lakes and streams. Leaves float through brilliant reflections, along with Canada geese, loons and ducks. We might even spot black bear, bald eagles, osprey, coyotes and white tailed deer.
On the east side of the peninsula, we will spend time at Tahquamenon Falls, one of the most impressive in the state, and we’ll capture some of the distinguished lighthouses that share the scenic shoreline of mighty Lake Superior.
Join us in the splendor of Michigan’s northwoods to create beautiful images and warm autumn memories!
Overview
Our Workshop begins with a welcome orientation on Sunday, October 3 at 7:00 pm and concludes on Thursday, October 7 at 6:00 pm.
Each day will include field sessions led by Doug at the best times for shooting, daily lectures to improve your photographic skills, and constructive critiques of your images. Classroom sessions are tailored to each workshop and are based on participants’ interests and goals for the workshop. Additional topics are designed to enhance participants’ skills for the type of shooting the location emphasizes.
Location Highlights: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Tahquamenon Falls, Whitefish Point Light, Seney National Wildlife Refuge, Hiawatha National Forest, Thornton, Red Jack and Council Lakes, Mosquito Falls and Beach.
*Workshop limited to 10 participants
REGISTRATION
Early Bird Tuition by March 15, 2027: $2595* (represents a $100 discount!)
After March 15, 2027: $2695*
Deposit: $600 due with Registration (after the Early Bird deadline, the deposit will be $700)
Balance: $1995 due July 5, 2027
* Tuition includes ticket for scenic sunset boat cruise at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Already registered and need to make a final payment? Click Here
Workshop Details
LODGING
We will be staying in charming cabins at the Northwoods Resort on the shore of AuTrain Lake. One to three bedroom cabins range from $630 - $885 (total) + tax and one time cleaning fee (typically $60-90) per person for the entire 5-night room block from October 3 through October 8. Lodging details and booking links will be provided upon workshop registration.
TRAVEL
Participants are responsible for making their own travel arrangements to/from the workshop and during the workshop.
The nearest airports for this workshop are Marquette Sawyer International Airport (SAW/MQT) or Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB). You will find several major car rental companies have office locations at the airport. For transportation to and from field shoots, we suggest that you carpool to get to know fellow students.
Doug Johnson Photography is not responsible for cancellations due to medical or other emergencies or reimbursement of non-refundable airline tickets, or hotel rooms in the event of a workshop cancellation. Please consider the purchase of travel insurance.
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Walking up to 2 miles, paved and unpaved forest trails and sandy beaches.
To help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, participants are expected to be in good physical health. You must be able to carry your own photo gear, be prepared for variable weather (including sun and warm temperatures or cold mornings), and be able to walk in outdoor terrain that will likely involve uneven surfaces.
If you have any questions about the workshop conditions, please contact Doug before registering. While we make every effort to support participants, if we find that the activities are more demanding than your abilities allow, we may need to adjust your participation to ensure your well-being and the smooth flow of the workshop.
“The workshop rates 10 out of 5 stars. First, the locations are superlative. Second, Doug’s critiques are always insightful and educational without belittling the photographer. I heartily recommend.”
EQUIPMENT & ATTIRE
We want your experience on a Doug Johnson Photography workshop to be extraordinary and recognize that preparation is one important key to success. Specific guidelines will be sent to participants, but a general list of recommendations can be downloaded via our Gear & Packing List.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Please visit FAQs about Location Workshops.
You can review our Cancellation Policy here.
We are always happy to talk with you about our workshops and what makes a good match for your goals. If you have any questions, please feel free to call Doug at 303-829-2215 or contact us via our online form.
