Grand Canyon of the East

 Immersive Landscape Photography Workshop

August 20–22, 2025 | Letchworth State Park

Photo by Keith Walters

Spend three days exploring Letchworth State Park, one of the most beautiful places in New York, while learning how to take amazing photos.

This workshop is perfect for anyone who loves photography, whether you're a beginner or have experience.

Receive hands-on lessons from professional photographers Keith Walters and Sarah McGinnis, who will teach you how to get the most out of your camera, take stunning pictures, and edit them like a pro.

Shoot at the park’s best locations, from waterfalls to scenic overlooks, and learn to edit your photos in Lightroom and Photoshop.

Enjoy a special guided hike with a park naturalist, who will help you see nature through a conservation lens.

Snacks and water provided each day, and you’ll enjoy three group dinners at great local restaurants.

Photo by Sarah McGinnis

Meet your instructors

Keith Walters

is a professional photographer from Geneseo, NY. He served as the campus photographer for SUNY Geneseo for 11 years before jumping full-time into his own photography and videography business.

He loves capturing landscapes, events, and moments that tell a story. 

Keith and his wife also co-own The Gallery in the Valley in Geneseo, NY, a local hub for creatives to gather and celebrate art.

Website

Sarah McGinnis

is a professional photographer and owner of Captivated Studios. She’s based in Perry, NY but loves to travel and explore new places. Sarah takes portraits, wedding photos, and landscapes, helping people capture important moments in their lives.

She also helps businesses by creating photos and videos for their social media. Whether she’s photographing a waterfall or working in her studio, she loves making people feel comfortable in front of the camera.

Website

What you can expect…

Beautiful Landscapes & Waterfalls

Master composition, lighting, and long exposure techniques in the Grand Canyon of the East.

Sunrise & Sunset Workshops

Capture golden hour magic over rolling hills, dramatic gorges, and historic landmarks.

Hands-On Learning & Live Demos

Experiment with motion blur, reflections, and unique perspectives to elevate your portfolio.

Editing & Printing Masterclass

Learn how to edit your images for a professional look and print your photos to take home.

Astrophotography Workshop

Capture beautiful night vistas in one of the darkest skies in Western NY. (Weather dependent)

Food and Hospitality

Two meals per day plus snacks & water to keep you fueled. A special sit-down dinner on Day 2 at the historic Big Tree Inn,

Photo by Keith Walters

 Sample Itinerary

    • 10:00 AM – Welcome & Introductions @ Captivated Studios

    • 11:00 AM – Mastering Landscape Photography (Classroom)

    • 12:30 PM – Lunch (Provided)

    • 1:30 PM – Photo session @ Letchworth (Middle Falls, Upper Falls, Inspiration Point)

    • 4:00 PM – Break

    • 6:00 PM – Tap Talk with Joanna Walters @ Silver Lake Brewery

    • 7:30 PM – Dinner & Networking

    • 9:00 PM – Optional Night Photography (weather permitting)

    • 6:00 AM – Sunrise shoot @ Archery Field Area

    • 10:00 AM – Nature Walk with Conrad

    • 12:00 PM – Lunch (Provided)

    • 1:30 PM – Editing Workshop @ The Gallery in the Valley

    • 4:00 PM – Break

    • 5:30 PM – Dinner @ The Big Tree Inn

    • 7:15 PM – Sunset Session @ Nations Road

    • 9:00 PM – Optional Night Photography

    • 5:30 AM – Sunrise shoot (Balloon launch possible – location TBD)

    • 7:00 AM – Catered Breakfast @ Studio

    • 8:00 AM – Print Workshop: attendees print one of their favorite photos

    • 11:00 AM – Closing & Farewell

Recommended Gear List

    • Camera Body (DSLR or Mirrorless)

    • Wide-angle lens (16–35mm or similar)

    • Standard zoom (24–70mm)

    • Telephoto lens (70–200mm)

    • Prime lens (35mm, 50mm or 85mm)

    • Sturdy Tripod

    • Memory Cards (extras)

    • Extra Batteries & Charger

    • ND Filters

    • Polarizing Filter

    • Remote Shutter Release

    • Lens Cloth & Blower

    • Headlamp or Flashlight

    • Laptop with Adobe Lightroom & Photoshop *Must have software installed prior to workshop

    • External Hard Drive or SD Card Reader

    • Notebook & Pen

    • Rain cover

    • Layers/gloves

    • Waterproof hiking shoes

Photo by Sarah McGinnis

Reserve your spot today

Cost: $2800

  • Price includes two instructors, classroom space, one take-home print from your trip, one takeaway meal per day (i.e. bagged lunch or breakfast bagels), and one dinner per day.

  • Attendees are responsible for their own transportation and lodging accommodations.

  • Only ten seats are available to maintain a high level of individual support.

  • See below for the refund and cancellation policy.

Refund and cancellation policy

A $500 non-refundable deposit is due at the time of booking to hold your spot.

  • Full payment is due 60 days ahead of the workshop start date.

  • Cancellations made 60 days in advance will receive a full refund of any amount paid over the deposit.

  • Cancellations made less than 60 days before the start of the workshop will receive no refund.

If a canceled spot can be filled before the start date, a full refund will be issued, including the deposit.

Where should I stay?

No matter where you choose to stay, driving will be necessary. All attendees are required to have their own transportation, though carpooling is encouraged once we all meet up. Letchworth State Park stretches over 17 miles, and our planned shoot locations are spread throughout the park.

Sarah’s studio and classroom are in Perry, NY—likely the closest and most central spot in relation to the park. Keith’s gallery and classroom are in Geneseo, NY, about 20 minutes from Perry, with the added convenience of nearby amenities like Wegmans and Walmart.

We’ll be spending time in both Perry and Geneseo during the workshop.

Photo by Keith Walters

Questions?

Drop us a line!

Photo by Sarah McGinnis