2023 Grand Teton Winter Wildlife & Landscape Photo Workshop
With Matt Suess December 3 - 8, 2023
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Join me this winter as we chase amazing light photographing both the wildlife and the mountain landscape. We will have an incredible experience together all while improving your photography skills.
December 3 - 8, 2023
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
"It was an awesome week that flew by!!!
Even when the weather and animals were not cooperating the group dynamics still made it a magical time in a beautiful setting.
Matt worked so hard to provide us all with a memorable learning and photographic experience.
Thank you Matt for a much needed get away."
GINNY W.
2021 WINTER Grand Teton Photo Workshop Student
The Basics:
I am an authorized CUA permit holder of the National Park Service and conduct my workshops based on the permit’s guidelines.
The Tetons in the winter = dramatic light, more chances for wildlife, and less tourists...
...What's not to like?
Join me for 6 amazing days exploring and photographing the snow covered Teton Range this winter.
Be a part of a small group of photographers I am putting together to photograph one of my favorite National Parks during the winter.
I've been photographing the Tetons since 2012 and have been leading on average 3 workshops a year there since 2015. So suffice it to say that I have an intimate knowledge of the landscape and animals that make their home in the Tetons.
I'll be able to put us in the right spot at the right time to photograph this spectacular scenery with my years of experience in the Park.
Join me this winter during my winter wildlife & landscape photo workshop where we will be spending all day out in the field photographing this majestic area.
This time of year presents us with abundant wildlife with them out from the high country and not hidden from dense summer foliage as they forage for food.
Elk will be migrating from the Park to the National Elk Refuge, home to an average of 7,500 elk each winter. Bighorn sheep winter there as well and we'll be photographing them too.
Moose should still have their huge antlers as they roam the southern part of the park.
Bison, coyotes, trumpeter swans, river otters, and foxes are all possibilities for us in addition to other wildlife.
Each full day of the workshop we will start by photographing the predawn light with backdrops featuring the snow capped Tetons, old wood barns, the famous Snake River, and the Teton Valley. We will stay out photographing throughout the entire day to maximize our photography potential.
All throughout the day we will be photographing wildlife, the landscape, and other scenic possibilities. If the clouds are right, we will experiment with solid neutral density filters and long exposures.
And I'll be sure to put us in the perfect spot for our sunset shoot that evening.
GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK, WYOMING
🏔️ A Great Time of Year for Landscapes & Wildlife 🦌
Grand Teton National Park is one of the most beautiful and majestic landscapes in the world, with the Teton Range rising more than 7,000 feet above the valley. Located in northwestern Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park has some of the more dramatic scenery in the Rocky Mountains. It is sure to be an inspiration for any photographer looking to create beautiful images.
This workshop is scheduled for early winter in December, when the Park features dramatic snow capped mountains, wildlife, and less tourists.
In addition to the beauty of the Park, the town of Jackson will also be decorated for the Holiday Season and we will spend an early evening one night photographing around town.
"Matt is the best instructor I've had for any creative activity, but especially photography. He is patient in explaining things, and really helps you focus on the areas that YOU want to develop rather than focusing on what he thinks you need improvement on.
He also is the only instructor I've had in creative endeavors that is so supportive of you owning your unique style - I've always been one to do things my way, and most instructors struggle with students who don't "do as you're told," but Matt teaches to help you learn rather than trying to get you to do things his way.
Matt also is great about making sure that each person gets heard and gets time for their questions to be answered, which requires facilitation of the discussions in such a way that people aren't talked over but also that people don't feel like they are being shut down...this is not an easy thing to do. Plus, he has a great sense of humor, which is always appreciated!
The Milky Way Workshop felt more about learning some techniques, setting up the shot, then waiting to see if it worked. This was more thinking on your feet and instantly applying things and adjusting (which was likely part of my challenge...my brain wasn't ready).
I would recommend both trips, and have so loved showing people the magic that was captured both times. And it's fun to be able to brag about the great teacher we had each time."
Emily L.
2018 June Tetons Milky Way and 2019 Spring Grand Teton Photo Workshop Student
WHAT YOU WILL LEARN
- How to Achieve Perfect Exposures By Understanding the Histogram
- Finding the Best Composition & Framing
- How to Find and Photograph Wildlife
- How to Choose the Correct Focal Length Lens for the Situation
- How to Choose the Correct ISO, F-Stop, Shutter Speed and White Balance
- Photographing Stitched Panoramas
- Working a Scene to Create Numerous Photos & Compositions from One Location
- Long Exposures up to 10 Minutes in the Daylight for Creative Cloud Effects with Solid ND Filters
- Techniques for Reducing Noise
- Using Split-Neutral Density Filters to Control Exposures
- Proper Camera Settings for Landscape Photos
- Finding Things to Photograph Even in the Middle of the Day
- How to Work a Scene from Multiple Angles & Focal Lengths
- How to Photograph the Obvious, and Especially the Not So Obvious
- And Much, Much More!!
With a small class size of just 6 students there will be plenty of time to work with me on a one-on-one basis.
Learn How to Use Camera Filters
Using Camera Filters to Control Exposure & For Creative Effects Can Dramatically Improve Your Photos
I was using at least one camera filter for pretty much every photo you see here on this page. From a circular polarizer to enhance color & reduce glare/reflection, to a split neutral density filter to help balance exposures, to solid neutral density filters to allow me to shoot long exposures of the clouds - I used them all.
Prior to our workshop we can arrange a private Zoom call to go over your specific filter needs to make sure you have the right setup for this workshop.
Even better, I am an Official NiSi Reseller and you can safely & securely order whatever filters you need direct from me!
I even have an exclusive discount just for my workshop students 😊.
I shoot exclusively with NiSi Filters due to their lack of color casts and quality of products. Of course you are free to use and bring whichever filters you already have even if they are not NiSi Filters.
Who Is This Workshop For?
This workshop is designed for any skill level, yet a DSLR/Mirrorless or equivalent camera with interchangeable lenses AND a sturdy tripod are required, as well as a basic working knowledge of your camera.
Most students who take my workshops are beginners to advanced amateurs and even pros. My workshops are filled with hands-on instruction & demonstrations. I encourage & help find and develop each students unique personal style of photography.
Physical Difficulty:
EASY to MODERATE
Each workshop student needs to be in decent physical condition. Expect hikes on level ground up to 1 mile.
Unique Features of This Workshop
- Very Small Class Size: Only 6 Students! Some teaching photo workshops allow as many as 12 students. This one is limited to just 6 which means more one-on-one time with me and less distractions from a large group.
- Learn to Photograph Both Landscapes & Wildlife: We will be searching out the best possibilities for amazing landscape AND wildlife shots. Learn to photograph and compose both and dramatically improve your photography skills.
- It's All About the Light & Location: We will be going to some popular iconic locations but also many less known and less visited but stunning locations that exist in Badlands National Park.
- Bring Your Camera Filters: We will be shooting quite a bit with filters on this workshop. From CPL's to split-neutral density to solid neutral density filters. Don't worry if you've never even heard of some of them! I'll provide a list of filters to bring, and by the end of the workshop you'll be creating photos like a pro with them! I am also an Official NiSi Reseller and you can order your filters direct from me.
- Special Group Study: This workshop features 3 Unique Focus Areas: Technique, Composition, and Personal Style. With such a small group I will be able to work with you individually to help you begin to develop or to refine your own personal style, which will be accomplished through the use of various camera techniques, composition, & post processing.
🔥 BONUSES 🔥
These Bonuses are Unique to My Workshops.
You will not find another instructor providing so much extra value to move you forward with your photography!!
Bonus #1
- 1.5hr LIVE Online Group Welcome Party: Approx. 1 to 2 months prior to the start of the workshop we will all meet online for a welcome party. I'll cover where we will be going, discuss safety, show you some photos of what to expect, discuss what to bring, and will go over some basic camera settings. Bring your questions and meet your fellow attendees in this informal social gathering. ($175 Value)
Bonus #2
- 1.5hr LIVE Online Group Review and Q&A: Approx. 4-6 weeks following the workshop we will all meet online again. I know that a few weeks following a workshop, a bunch of questions come up from what was learned (and sometimes forgotten). Most other workshops, once you leave that final day, you are on your own. This isn't the case here! Use this as your opportunity to get all of those questions that come up following a workshop answered, get feedback on your photos, and connect with your fellow attendees once again. ($175 Value)
Bonus #3
- How to Post Process Your Tetons Winter Images: An online course teaching you my secrets to post processing Tetons Winter photos. ($197 Value)
Bonus #4
- What to Do With These Photos! You will get access to my mini course on organizing your photos, captioning, adding keywords, and storing your photos. ($37 Value)
Bonus #5
- Special $175 Savings on Your Next Workshop: You will receive a Special Alumni Credit that can be applied to any future field workshop that starts within 2 years of this workshop's start date. ($175 Value)
Bonus #6
- Special 15% off NiSi Filters: You will receive a Special Workshop Student Discount of 15% off your first order of NiSi Filters. ($155 Value on Average)
Bonus #7
- Special Savings on Fotopro Tripods: You will receive a Special Workshop Student Discount towards your purchase of a Fotopro Tripod. ($135 Value on Average)
Bonus #8
- Access to a Private Online Portal: You will receive access to a special private online community portal where you can get to know your fellow attendees, share photos from the workshop, get up-to-date workshop info, and watch the bonus videos. ($97 Value)
Each BONUS is specifically designed to help you with your photography journey beyond the short time we are all together in-person.
Total Value In BONUSES: $1,146
ITINERARY
At this time of year sunrise is at approx. 7:40am and sunset is at approx. 4:45pm, which gives us approx. 9hrs of daylight.
We will be at our locations photographing just before sunrise and ending our day just after sunset.
During mid day when the light isn’t great we will be taking a break for a few hours to recharge batteries, download images, and rest up for the evening sessions.
However we are ultimately at the mercy of Mother Nature and I will be diligently studying weather forecasts during our time together with the numerous weather resources I always use when planning for the best light.
So our day-to-day schedule is absolutely always subject to change immensely based on the light/photography potential on any given day, thus this itinerary is intentionally planned to be extremely loose and variable during our time together.
There have been numerous times on my workshops where we ended up not taking the scheduled mid-day break to instead chase the light. And our efforts were always rewarded with amazing photographs...
So in other words, be prepared for the unexpected!
Sunday Afternoon, December 3, 2023
Be sure to arrive in Jackson before 3pm on Sunday, December 3 to allow time for hotel check-in and to get ready for our evening group dinner. Ideally it is best to arrive on Saturday, December 2 should there be any weather delays with your flight.
We will meet for a group dinner (meals not included) at 4:30pm where we will discuss our week ahead of us and go over any last minute details. Following dinner we will take a leisurely stroll around Jackson Square photographing the Holiday scene.
Monday - Thursday, December 4 - 7, 2023
Plan on meeting at approx. 7:00AM before sunrise (sunrise is at approx. 7:45AM). We will be out all day photographing landscapes & wildlife, with a possible lunch break in Jackson Hole or we will eat packed lunches out in the field.
We will end each day following our sunset shoot (sunset is at approx. 4:45pm.)
Friday Morning, December 8, 2023
Plan on meeting for sunrise at approx. 7:00AM before sunrise. We will photograph as long as the light is great up till 10am when the workshop will end.
If flying out of Jackson that day, try to plan for flights after 2:00PM to allow time for hotel checkout and car rental return.
OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER
What is Included
Photo Instruction & Guiding from Matt Suess
Bonuses of $1,146 in Value
What is Not Included
Flights to and from Jackson, WY
Lodging & Transportation during the workshop
Food, Drinks, Snacks
Park Passes
What Airport and When to Arrive
The best bet is to fly direct into Jackson, WY.
If that is not a possibility then consider flying into Salt Lake City, UT. You will have an approx. 5hr drive from Salt Lake to Jackson. However weather may be a factor in your travels from Salt Lake, so definitely consider the Jackson airport as your best option.
Be sure to arrive in Jackson before 3pm on Sunday, December 3 to allow time for hotel check-in and to get ready for our evening group dinner. Ideally it is best to arrive on Saturday, December 2 should there be any weather delays with your flight.
Where to Stay
We are not based out of any particular hotel, however it is suggested to stay at either the Rustic Inn Creekside Resort & Spa at Jackson or the Lexington at Jackson Hole Hotel & Suites both for comfort & convenience.
More information will be provided following registration.
What to Bring
A complete list of What to Bring will be provided. This list will mention required and suggested items regarding camera equipment and clothing.
Keep in mind that this workshop takes place in the winter and it will be cold, especially when we are out photographing sunrise and sunset. I'll have recommendations on some great cold weather clothing to get so you will barely notice the cold.
The average max temp this time of year is 26.5F with the average min temp at just 1.8F. The average snowfall this time of year is 39.5" with an average snow depth of 16".
Carpooling
For this workshop we will be carpooling. Let me know if you are willing to be a driver - I will need 2 drivers that can take two additional passengers.
Travel Insurance - STRONGLY RECOMMENDED
It is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED to purchase quality travel insurance.
Some companies allow for the purchase of Cancel for Any Reason Coverage that expands the list of reasons for your canceling to include things such as sudden work or family obligation and even a simple change of mind.
Register Here
2023 Tetons Winter Landscape & Wildlife Photo Workshop
TUITION FEES: $2,597
$1,250 due today, remaining $1,347 due by August 3, 2023
- December 3 - 8, 2023
- 1-on-1 & Group Coaching & Guiding from Matt Suess
- Limited to just 6 photographers
- BONUSES Valued at $1,146
- Past Clients who qualify for an Alumni Discount will have it applied to the final balance.
Save $250 with early bird pricing now through August 2, 2023 (or until sold out).
TUITION FEES: $2,847 after August 2, 2023
ALL WORKSHOP ATTENDEES MUST ALSO FILL OUT AND SIGN MY ONLINE REGISTRATION FORM HERE.
Cancellation & Refund Policy for This Workshop
We know that plans can change, unforeseen circumstances can happen and no one wants to miss out on the trip of a lifetime. To provide the best customer support possible and to keep groups small and affordable, our cancellation policy ensures we can continue to provide clients the best possible foto experience.
For this workshop the following applies:
- The initial $1,250 registration fee is non-refundable, but it is transferable to another workshop provided we are more than 120 days from the start of the workshop (a $275 administrative fee is applied to all transfers).
- The remaining $1,347 balance is due 120 days from the start of the workshop, that date being August 3, 2023.
- If you cancel within 120 days from the start of the workshop and you are able to find someone to fill your spot, you would be entitled to receive a refund (minus your initial registration fee and a $275 administrative fee). If your are unable to fill your spot, all fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. It is highly suggested to purchase good trip insurance to cover you in such an instance.
You can view my full cancellation & refund policy along with other important information here.
STILL GOT QUESTIONS? WE GOT YOU!
Frequently Asked Questions
Regarding This Tetons Winter Photo Workshop
Is there a lot of walking/hiking during this workshop?
No there isn't. My permit from Grand Teton National Park only allows us to travel 1/2 mile along any trail so that would be the longest walk. There is also little to no elevation gain on any walks we will do. Because this is a winter workshop, one must be prepared to carry their equipment through potentially snowy sagebrush fields and other locations so while the hikes may be short, they can be somewhat physical depending on how much snow/ice is out there.
Are there restrictions on participation?
My workshops do not normally entail strenuous activity unless specified. Nevertheless, participants must be able to complete moderate walks/hikes with their required photo gear, sometimes on uneven or slippery surfaces. If you have any health problems or physical limitations, please let me know prior to booking. For this workshop in particular, understand we will be out photographing in cold weather, standing and walking in snow and ice.
I am a pure beginner (or advanced) photographer. Is this workshop for me?
This workshop is open to all photography levels from beginner to pro. I have had students who didn't know what an f-stop was and I have had those who are just about ready to or are already selling their own prints. Being a small class, I am able to work with each student individually no matter their experience level to help them improve and reach their individual goals.
What is your experience photographing in Grand Teton National Park?
I have been photographing the Tetons since 2012 and began leading photo workshops there in 2015. Each year I usually lead at least 4 scheduled group workshops including a Milky Way workshop as well as spring, fall, and winter workshops. As far as I can tell, no other instructor leads more scheduled group photo workshops in the Tetons than myself.
I live just 4.5 hours away from the Tetons and often travel down there throughout the year for my own personal photos as well.
I know of numerous locations to bring my clients depending on the time of day and the lighting conditions to maximize time in the field photographing.
Will we work on our computers and learn how to process our photos?
In order to maximize shooting time in the field, we will not be spending time together on the computer during the workshop. Instead I now offer included online post processing videos specific to our workshop in addition to a live group Q&A following the workshop.
Is this primarily a landscape or wildlife workshop?
This is both a landscape and a wildlife workshop. On average half the time will be devoted to landscapes while the other half is devoted to wildlife.
Can my spouse, relative, friend, pet, etc. attend any or all of the workshop?
This workshop has a no tag-along policy. Spouses, family members, friends, etc. who are traveling with you and who haven’t registered are unable to partake in any group functions. Workshops are also not a location for pets and as such are not allowed with the exception of guide dogs. If a spouse or friend wants to attend they will need to register as a regular client.
STILL GOT QUESTIONS? WE GOT YOU!
Frequently Asked Questions
Regarding My Photo Workshops & Tours in General
What sets your workshops apart from other workshops?
I absolutely love teaching! I have over 30 years of experience making my career with my cameras and teaching & sharing my experiences along the way.
I am detail orientated and put the needs of my students first. I have extensive experience dealing with all types of situations and people and love answering all of my students' questions.
I have a unique photo background with experience creating and selling my work in such diverse fields as photojournalism, sports, portrait, wedding, editorial, and commercial photography. My specialty since 2006 has been fine art landscape photography.
I draw from all of those life experiences to provide you with whatever technical and artistic guidance you need. With my help, you will grow and expand your visual expression as well as your technical skills. In addition, I hope you have a great time in the process, immersing yourself in the total experience and sharing in my passion for photography.
Why should I attend one of your workshops?
I will teach you how to create inspiring and amazing fine art quality photographs. You will learn how to see more creatively and how to translate that vision into a final image that has emotional impact.
I make it easy to learn techniques and concepts that you will take with you every time you walk out the door with your camera. I have extensive experience shooting and selling my fine art photography as well as teaching the concepts of photography. I am a hands-on learner myself and teach using a hands-on approach that will give you the best opportunity to retain information and further your photography skills long after the workshop has concluded.
Lastly I love teaching small groups. Most of my workshops feature small sizes with up to 10 students on average. This allows for extremely low teacher to student ratios and provides valuable one-on-one opportunities to work with me during the workshop.
Can my spouse, relative, friend, pet, etc. attend any or all of the workshop?
Unless specifically mentioned otherwise, I have a no tag-along policy. Spouses, family members, friends, etc. who are traveling with you and who haven’t registered are unable to partake in any group functions. Workshops are also not a location for pets and as such are not allowed with the exception of guide dogs. If a spouse or friend wants to attend they will need to register as a regular client.
Do you photograph during field workshops?
Yes I do on occasion and only when the light is amazing or when I need to photograph certain subjects for later classroom use. When I do photograph along with my students, the goal is to inspire them to learn to see an image the way I do. It can be extremely valuable watching me work a scene. Rest assured however that I am far more concerned that my students get the shot and ALWAYS put their needs first.
What level of photography experience do I have to have in order to attend one of your workshops?
It depends upon the workshop, so please check with the specific workshop you are interested. I especially love teaching beginner and intermediate photographers.
Do you provide travel insurance for your workshop participants?
I do NOT provide travel insurance as part of my workshop fees, but definitely recommend it. I highly recommend trip insurance that also includes travel health insurance. Travelex Insurance Services is a BBB Accredited business with an A+ rating (although note I have no personal experience with this company). The cost for travel insurance is typically 4-7% of the total trip cost, depending upon age and other variable factors.
What’s included in my tuition? Rooms, transportation, meals?
Tuition includes all lectures, fieldwork, guiding, classroom instruction and critiques of your digital files during our classroom sessions. Travel costs, lodging, entrance fees, and meals are not included in the cost of admission unless otherwise specified.
What should I bring with me to one of your workshops?
You will receive a workshop welcome kit before the start that will contain detailed information regarding the proper gear to bring with you.
What happens in bad weather?
I love weather of all sorts! Great photos can be found under some seemingly dreary skies. Many times we will be out in stormy weather, provided it’s not putting you or your equipment at risk. Great pictures can happen during fog, snow, rain and mist. If conditions are too extreme, we will find a location to wait out the weather. During this time, we can work on our images on our laptops while I assist you and give demonstrations.
Do you provide transportation?
I do not supply transportation for my workshops unless otherwise specified. I encourage participants to carpool once the program has begun, to minimize our impact on the environment and to facilitate parking. Please come expecting to share your car with others or to jump in and share someone else’s.
What is your cancellation policy?
You can read my cancellation policy as well as any other terms & policies here.
Visit Matt's Sponsors, Partners & Friends
OM SYSTEM / Olympus Cameras & Lenses
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Matt Suess
Fine Art Photographer and OM SYSTEM, NiSi, & Fotopro Ambassador
Photography has always been a huge part of my life starting at the age of 12 when I had my own black & white chemical darkroom. That early interest launched a full-time professional photography career that began in 1990 and continues today.
For the first 17 years of my career I was a photojournalist based in New England. I am a digital photography pioneer and began teaching digital photography to photojournalists in the late 90’s, helping bring digital cameras to two different newspapers. I was awarded the 2003 New England Press Associations Photographer of the Year award for my work at the Cape Cod Times. During my time as a photojournalist, I also photographed weddings & portraits, as well as corporate & commercial assignments.
In 2006 I decided to leave all of that behind and move West, where I am now a fine art landscape & nature photographer, educator, and publisher. In addition, I also accept select luxury resort & architectural photography assignments.
I teach numerous field & classroom workshops throughout the year as well as online courses and I provide occasional free online webinars. You may have already seen my videos for software companies such as Skylum and ON1. My passion for sharing and teaching what I have learned during my long career is evident in my down-to-earth and encouraging approach with my clients.
I am sponsored by Olympus / OM SYSTEM as an OM SYSTEM Ambassador. One does not need to shoot with Olympus / OM SYSTEM gear though to take my workshops.
I live in Bozeman, Montana with my fiancee and fine art painter Whitney Hall and our two blue heeler cattle dogs.
You can find me online on Instagram and YouTube at @mattsuessphoto
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