The Bruce Peninsula is renowned for its unique plant diversity with 42 wild orchid species, dozens of ferns and a thousand other plant species including the Lakeside Daisy and Dwarf Lake Iris, which are endemic to the region. This workshop is timed to coincide with the peak blooming periods for many species, including thousands of Yellow Lady Slipper orchids. 

In 12 years living on the Bruce Peninsula, I've photographed wildflowers here extensively and have developed intimate knowledge of the regional ecology. I'll be taking you to the best spots, armed with up-to-date information on exactly what is blooming and where. The locations include the very same ones where I've made my best and most published wildflower photos. In addition to the flowers, be prepared for spectacular shoreline scenery in Bruce Peninsula National Park and a high diversity of birds and wildlife. Instructional emphasis will be on expert technique and practical tips for successfully photographing wildflowers. We'll practise wildflower-friendly photo techniques only, to prevent damage to flowers and their habitat.  

This tour follows a photographer's schedule, which means being out at the best spots at sunrise and sunset, when the wind is low and conditions are ideal for shooting wildflowers. Be prepared to rise early, rest mid-day and hike moderate distances. Days will end with great meals at restaurants overlooking Georgian Bay. Join quickly to ensure a spot! 

DATES

June 9-10, 2012
There will be a meet & greet, plus introductory slide show with wine & cheese on the evening of Friday, June 8. This is a chance to see  photos of the wildflowers we'll encounter over the weekend and discuss key tips for photographing them.  

LOCATION

The workshop is based out of the town of Tobermory at the tip of the Bruce Peninsula. We'll photograph at a variety of locations in the area, including some within Bruce Peninsula National Park.

GROUP SIZE

A maximum of 8 participants ensures personalized attention and provides you with the highest quality experience. Ethan will have an expert co-leader along to make the instruction even more personalized and productive. 

ACCOMMODATIONS

Participants stay in premium rooms at the  Bruce Anchor Motel, a modern motel located next to Georgian Bay and only a short walk from the picturesque downtown harbour of Tobermory. These 'luxury' units have a king-sized bed, mini-fridge and Jacuzzi to relax in after a great day of photography! Wireless high-speed internet is provided in the hotel. 

MEALS

Breakfast and lunches on Saturday (June 9) and Sunday (June 10) are included in the tour package. Dinners are paid for by participants. Breakfast is continental at the motel. Quality local restaurants offering varied selection are chosen for lunch and dinner. An endless supply of snacks and drinks will be available in the field. 

TRANSPORTATION

Transportation to and from Tobermory is the responsibility of participants. The nearest major airport is Toronto, with many car rental options. During the tour, we'll carpool short distances to the photo locations.  

PRICE & WHAT'S INCLUDED

$825 CDN per person plus 13% HST (total = $932.25) includes: 

• two days of personalized workshop instruction with Ethan and co-leader, plus slide show on Friday night 
• informal critiques and digital editing tips during the evenings
• premium hotel room (single occupancy) for the nights of Friday (June 8) and Saturday (June 9.)  
• breakfast and lunch on Saturday (June 9) and Sunday (June 10) [dinners are paid for by participants] 
• entrance fees to parks
• special workshop gift
• take-home wildflower photography tips sheet

If joining as a pair or couple willing to share a room, a discount applies for double occupancy (please inquire). Non-photographer spouses are welcome to stay in the hotel room at no additional cost and tag along for group meals (they must cover their own meal costs).

HOW TO REGISTER

• Contact by email (info@ethanmeleg.com) to check availability. 

• A non-refundable deposit of $400 CDN is required to reserve your spot (see payment information below).  

• The balance of payment ($532.25) is due before May 1. At that point, the full amount is non-refundable. 

• If your balance check is not received by May 1, we'll try to fill your spot. If able to fill it, you'll lose only your deposit.

• Payments can be made in the following ways:
   1) Mail a check payable to "Ethan Meleg" to: Ethan Meleg, 21298 Harbour Road, Wheatley, Ontario, N0P 2P0
   2) Credit Card through PayPal by clicking this button:

  

SUGGESTED CAMERA GEAR

• Camera: SLR camera (digital or film). "Point & Shoot" cameras are welcome, but they have some limitations.
• Lens: Either a macro lens (100-200mm range suggested) OR a medium telephoto (e. 70-200mm or 100-300mm range) plus extension tubes. Bring your wide-angle or standard lens for a different perspectives and nearby landscapes. 
• A sturdy tripod and head (ball-head suggested) 
• A reflector to bounce light on the flowers. Ethan uses the 5-in-1 types and will have a couple of spares to share during the workshop. If you don't have a reflector and want to save money, tinfoil is an excellent substitue. 
• Cable release.
• Lots of digital memory or film.
• Digital shooters should bring a laptop for editing and digital photo prep during the evening. Ethan will have his available to download and burn DVDs of your images, if you don't have one. 

WEATHER & CLOTHING

Weather can be variable on the Bruce Peninsula in June, so bring a range of clothing. Early mornings and evenings may be cool. Pack comfortable hiking gear, sturdy hiking boots, a water/wind proof shell (ie. Gore-Tex), rain pants and fleece. We will photograph rain or shine. Some of the best wildflower photos are taken on dreary days!

Bring a head net, bug spray and full-body clothing in case of black flies or mosquitoes. These species are highly unpredictable from year to year and day to day, there may be some, or there may be very few.

BRUCE PENINSULA WILDFLOWER INFORMATION

“A Guide to the Orchids of Bruce and Grey Counties" by the Owen Sound Field Naturalist's Club
"A Guide to the Ferns of Bruce and Grey Counties" by the Owen Sound Field Naturalist's Club
Order info at: www.osfn.ca

CONTACT TO RESERVE OR FOR MORE INFO  

info@ethanmeleg.com