2027 Workshop Offerings

Beauty of the Bayou: Caddo Lake Autumn Swamp Workshop

Nov. 4-6, 2027 - 2 Openings

Nov. 7-9, 2027

Nov. 10-12 2027 - Sold Out

Nov. 13-15, 2027 - 2 Openings

Location: Uncertain, Texas/Caddo Lake

Cost: 3,995.00

Limited: 3 Participants per workshop

A luminous, mist-filled morning settles over the ancient cypress forests of the bayou. Soft blues and gentle earth tones merge with drifting fog, creating a dreamlike scene where time seems suspended. The towering trees, their roots anchored deep in still water, stand like living relics—guardians of a world shaped by quiet cycles of light, moisture, and memory. This piece brings a sense of serenity and mystery to any space, offering a glimpse into the sacred stillness of the southern swamps.

Workshop Overview

Step into one of the most mysterious and visually rich landscapes in the American South—Caddo Lake—for a fully immersive autumn photography experience in the heart of the bayou.

This 3-day intensive workshop is built around private boat access aboard my custom skiff, allowing us to move quietly and efficiently through the maze of cypress trees, Spanish moss, and mirror-like reflections that define this extraordinary ecosystem.

With nearly a decade of experience photographing and guiding in these swamps, I’ll take you far beyond the obvious—into hidden corners, subtle compositions, and fleeting moments of light that most visitors never see.

These workshops consistently sell out well in advance for a reason—this is not just a tour, it’s a deep photographic experience in one of the most unique environments in North America.

The Experience

This workshop is about slowing down, observing, and crafting images in a landscape that rewards patience and vision.

You’ll experience:

  • Glassy reflections and still water compositions
  • Ancient bald cypress trees draped in Spanish moss
  • Autumn color subtly woven into a moody swamp environment
  • Fog-filled mornings and ethereal light
  • Abstracts, minimalism, and fine art opportunities

Our private boat gives us unmatched flexibility—positioning precisely for compositions, adjusting angles, and accessing remote sections of the lake that elevate your imagery far beyond typical viewpoints.

What Makes This Workshop Unique

  • Private boat access on my custom “Crafty” skiff
  • Small group size for maximum shooting time and flexibility
  • Nearly 10 years of guiding and photographing Caddo Lake
  • Access to remote, less-photographed locations
  • A highly refined workflow for swamp photography
  • Workshops that consistently sell out early

What You’ll Learn

This is a hands-on, immersive workshop focused on both technical skill and creative development.

  • Composing in complex, chaotic environments
  • Using reflections to simplify and strengthen compositions
  • Working with fog, low contrast light, and mood
  • Lens selection for storytelling (wide vs telephoto compression)
  • Creating fine art and abstract imagery in nature
  • Mastering exposure in reflective water environments
  • Post-processing techniques tailored to swamp imagery

Workshop Highlights

  • Sunrise and morning boat sessions in prime conditions
  • Evening golden light sessions on the water
  • Midday classroom sessions and image critiques
  • Access to a private house and boat launch for comfort and efficiency
  • Emphasis on portfolio-level image creation
  • Optional one-on-one editing sessions (add-on)

Sample Schedule

(Exact timing and locations will vary based on weather and conditions)

Day 1 – Arrival & First Session

  • Meet at private house/launch location (afternoon)
  • Intro session and workflow discussion
  • Evening boat shoot

Day 2 – Full Immersion Day

  • Sunrise boat session (prime fog/light conditions)
  • Midday break + classroom instruction/editing
  • Afternoon critique session
  • Sunset/evening boat session

Day 3 – Final Morning & Wrap-Up

  • Sunrise boat session
  • Return, wrap-up discussion, and departure

Travel & Logistics

Getting There

  • Nearest major airport: Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (~2.5–3 hour drive)
  • Alternate airport: Shreveport Regional Airport (~1 hour drive)

A rental car is required.

Workshop Base

The workshop is based out of Uncertain, Texas, with access to a private house and boat launch used for:

  • Meeting point
  • Classroom sessions
  • Image reviews and editing

Lodging Options

Participants have two primary options:

Option 1 – Stay in Uncertain (Recommended)

  • Airbnb rentals near the lake
  • Closest and most convenient for early morning departures

Option 2 – Stay in Marshall, Texas

  • ~20–25 minute drive
  • More hotel and dining options

Detailed lodging recommendations will be provided after registration.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to get in/out of a small boat
  • Light mobility for positioning and balance
  • Comfortable working in early morning conditions

Weather & Conditions

Expect:

  • Cool mornings and mild afternoons
  • Frequent fog (ideal for photography)
  • Calm water conditions for reflections
  • Occasional changing weather that enhances mood

What’s Included

  • All instruction and guiding
  • Private boat access for all field sessions
  • Classroom sessions and critiques
  • Use of private house and launch location

What’s Not Included

  • Flights and transportation
  • Lodging
  • Meals
  • Travel insurance (strongly recommended)

Why Caddo Lake?

Caddo Lake is unlike anywhere else in the United States—an otherworldly landscape of cypress trees, still waters, and atmospheric light. It’s a place where simplicity and complexity coexist, offering endless opportunities for both grand scenes and intimate artistic expression.

With the right guidance and access, it becomes one of the most rewarding and creatively inspiring environments you can photograph.

Reserve Your Spot

With extremely limited space and a history of selling out well in advance, early registration is strongly encouraged.

n one fleeting moment, golden sunlight pierced the morning fog and ignited the bayou in warm, glowing hues. Spanish moss shimmered under the sudden burst of fire-like light, illuminating the cypress trunks rising from still water. This rare combination of color, atmosphere, and motion captures the magic of dawn in the swamp—where the landscape briefly comes alive with luminous energy before returning to quiet shadow. A striking, dynamic piece for collectors seeking dramatic yet elegant southern landscapes.
In the muted grays of a fog-shrouded bayou, a burst of crimson foliage rises like a flame between the ancient cypress trunks. Drapes of Spanish moss form a soft curtain around the vibrant color, creating a striking contrast between life and quiet decay. This image embodies the delicate balance of the swamp—mysterious, alive, and endlessly surprising. A compelling fine-art piece for collectors who love subtle drama and beautifully layered compositions.
The Cathedral
A deep blue fog settles across the still water as the cypress stand quietly in soft early light. Hints of autumn color drift through the scene, muted and delicate, while perfect reflections fade gently into mist. This portrait of the bayou at dawn captures the essence of silence—calm, contemplative, and timeless. A serene and elegant fine-art print ideal for collectors who appreciate subtlety and mood.
Madonna
n one fleeting moment, golden sunlight pierced the morning fog and ignited the bayou in warm, glowing hues. Spanish moss shimmered under the sudden burst of fire-like light, illuminating the cypress trunks rising from still water. This rare combination of color, atmosphere, and motion captures the magic of dawn in the swamp—where the landscape briefly comes alive with luminous energy before returning to quiet shadow. A striking, dynamic piece for collectors seeking dramatic yet elegant southern landscapes.