April 6, 2024 at DTRNA

Do you wish you could take better closeups of the beautiful blooms and interesting insects you see in the great outdoors? Join us at the DTRNA on Saturday, April 6, 2024 at 8:00 a.m. for a hands-on macro photography workshop with nature photographer Tom Astle. Whether your outdoors is the vast Mojave Desert or simply your own balcony or backyard, macro photography is a great way to discover and appreciate the small creatures that make up most of the life on our planet. 

This workshop is part of a special day at the DTRNA in celebration of the DTPC’s 50^th anniversary. More information about these events will be posted soon.

Tom has traveled the world with his camera, but our SoCal deserts are where he spends the most time, and the DTRNA is one of his favorite places. He will start with a short talk, including tips on lighting, exposure, and composition. He’ll also have a variety of equipment on hand to demonstrate some of the many options available to get great results no matter your budget. Along with photography information, Tom will share some of the fascinating natural history he’s learned about the desert’s charismatic mini-fauna.

The talk and equipment demo will be followed by time on the trails, looking for photo subjects. Tom will be available all morning to answer questions and offer advice. Plus, all participants will receive a list of photography resources for when they’re back home and online. The workshop is open to all ages and experience levels, from smartphone users to people with DSLR or mirrorless cameras (or those thinking of buying one).

In the meantime, if you’d like to see some of Tom’s photos, check out his website at: tomastlephotography.com