Arches | 2006

In March 2006, Popular Photography & Imaging and its accomplished Nikon Pros, Dave Black and Tom Bol escorted trekkers through the extraordinary sights of Arches National Park. 73,000 acres of protected land provided breath-taking views of the looming red arches made of rich Entrada sandstone that give the park its name. For miles in every direction, there was silence, and dusty reds and warm yellows were highlighted by a radiant sunset in the evening.

The mentors took advantage of their exquisite surroundings to teach “light painting,” among other skills, for which the park provided the ideal classroom. Trekker Mary Ellen Luning applauded the presentations and digital review sessions that sent the whole group home with an extra edge.

Travel with our mentors and try out all of the latest equipment from Nikon! Including world class digital SLRs, Nikkor lenses and the Coolpix line of Digital Cameras.

As an alternative to these unearthly and uncommon rock formations, our trekkers photographed the nearby town of Moab—an exceptional alternative to the solitude of Arches that also served as a base camp.

Centered around the confluence of the Green and Colorado Rivers, Canyonlands National Park offered a myriad of contrasting colors, landforms, and textures, that were ideal for learning and practicing new photography skills.

Another trekker, Bill Buell complimented the entire group for their professionalism, “coupled with the twinkle in everyone’s eyes [that] created the right atmosphere for the true learning and camaraderie that occurrence,” calling his trip “an absolute ‘thumbs up’ experience.”

Testimonials

I should have had a crappy time this weekend...the weather, work, my cold, etc....but you all wouldn't let me. Your knowledge of the parks and limitless enthusiasm really helped us work around the weather.

Thanks for really pulling together an exceptional trip to Arches. Working with Dave, Tom and you was really a special time. The professionalism of the group, coupled with the twinkle in everyone’s eyes created the right atmosphere for the true learning and camaraderie that occurred. It was an absolute “thumbs up” experience and you and your organization deserve a well earned -- Thank you.

- Bill Buell

Dave, it was great meeting you. I am hoping for rain this weekend, so I can light paint a variety of objects in my apartment. It is a really cool thing that you do so well. I think you inspired a lot of light painters. We should keep tabs on how many get arrested for walking around at 3 in the morning with flashlights.

Tom, it was great to see you and work with you again. Your presentations were great, and I enjoyed your reviews....especially since you said nice things :-)....Doing reviews and cleaning cameras at 10pm is beyond the call of duty! I hope your trip 'up the river' was fun! I'll be looking for you in Canoe magazine!

See you all soon,
Thanks,
Mel