Seascapes of Lake Superior Photography Workshop
Learn Seascape Photography on the North Shore of Lake Superior
Dates: December 5 to 7, 2025
Location: Grand Marais, MN
Cost: $499
Explore the rugged and dramatic seascapes of Lake Superior’s North Shore during this photography workshop based in the charming town of Grand Marais, Minnesota. Over the course of 3 days, you will have the opportunity to capture the moody waters, basalt shorelines, and windswept seascapes that make this region of Lake Superior so visually compelling.
Led by experienced seascape photographer Bryan Hansel, you will visit a variety of classic shooting locations around Grand Marais. You’ll learn techniques for effectively composing and exposing seascape images, working with natural light and weather conditions, and making the most of the dramatic cloud patterns and ever-changing light over the lake.
This workshop offers classroom time, outdoor field time, and an image review session during the workshop dates.
Cost: $499 (A nonrefundable deposit of $250 is due at registration. The remainder is due 90 days before the workshop.)
This event is in cooperation with and under a Special Use Permit from U.S. Forest Service, Gunflint Ranger District.
What You Will Learn
This 3-day photography workshop in Grand Marais, Minnesota immerses you in the captivating seascapes of Lake Superior’s North Shore. You’ll visit iconic locations to develop your skills in composing and exposing dynamic coastal scenes.
Whether you’re a beginner or experienced photographer, you’ll have an opportunity to return home with a portfolio of stunning seascape images and new techniques for capturing the power and drama of these rugged seascape landscapes.
The workshop will include a blend of field sessions, classroom instruction, and group image review/critique. Topics covered will include:
- Seascape photography fundamentals (composition, exposure, lighting)
- Composition techniques will focus on near/far compositions with strong foregrounds leading to the big lake.
- Techniques for capturing the movement and power of waves
- Working with neutral density filters for long exposures to blur the motion of the water
- Editing and processing workflows for seascape images using Adobe Lightroom Classic
- Processing will focus on darker and moody images assuming we get the conditions.
This workshop is suitable for photographers of all skill levels who are interested in expanding their landscape and seascape photography skills.
The workshop will be based in Grand Marais, MN, providing easy access to some of the most stunning and photogenic sections of the Lake Superior shoreline.
Required Equipment
Camera Gear:
- DSLR or mirrorless camera
- Wide-angle lens (16-35 on full frame or similar)
- Sturdy tripod
- Appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear
A full suggested equipment list will be provided after registration.
Filters (for seascape photography):
This workshop focuses on seascape techniques, including the use of filters. You’ll learn to use the same types I use. While I typically use 2–3 filters, only two are required for this course:
- 100mm × 150mm 3-stop reverse ND Grad
- If you usually bracket and blend exposures or use HDR, this filter is optional.
- 100mm × 100mm 5-stop or 6-stop ND filter
- This is a solid filter.
Optional filters:
- Polarizer
- 10-stop ND filter
Your filter holder must hold the Reverse ND Grad, ND filter, and polarizer at the same time. The Haida M10 is a good choice. After registration, you’ll get access to a participant package with more details on filters. I also have loaner filter sets available on a first-come, first-served basis. Purchasing your first filters can feel overwhelming—feel free to reach out if you’d like guidance before the workshop.
Safety Gear:
If the shore is icy, crampons or traction devices are required.
Itinerary (Tentative)
Subject to change based on conditions. Specific locations will be selected according to the day’s conditions.
Sunrise: ~7:30 am
Sunset: ~4:11 pm
Friday
- 9:00 am – Classroom session begins
- 12:00 pm – Lunch break (1 hour)
- Afternoon & evening – Field photography, ending with sunset on Lake Superior
Saturday
- Early morning – Sunrise photography in the field
- After sunrise – Breakfast break
- Morning – Classroom session on editing images
- Afternoon – Field photography
Sunday
- Early morning – Sunrise photography
- After sunrise – Breakfast break
- Morning – Image review session
- Workshop ends around 11:00 am–12:00 pm
Additional Information
Workshop type: This is a Minnesota photography workshop. It has classroom time, outdoor field time, and an image review session during the workshop dates. Learn more about workshop types.
Maximum number of participants: 10
Level: This workshop is for all levels of photographers and works best for photographers using digital cameras.
Activity level: Expect up to 3 miles of hiking a day. Most of our destinations are right on Lake Superior near the parking lots. The shoreline is rocky and has uneven terrain. The rocks can be icy, so cleats or crampons are required if there is ice.
What’s included in the workshop fee: Quality small group and one-on-one instruction. Conference room for classroom time. Field sessions. My over 20 years of living in the area for figuring out the best locations for the conditions. Fun!
What’s not included in the workshop fee: Transportation to Grand Marais and photography locations. Carpooling is highly recommended. Park passes. Lodging. Meals. Travel insurance.
Lodging partner: The lodging partner is within walking distance of downtown Grand Marais. After you register, you’ll receive information about booking your room in the room block. Lodging costs are not included in the workshop fee.
Workshop Dates: December 5 to 7, 2025
Check-in date: Dec 4
Check-out date: Dec 7
Getting to Grand Marais: Grand Marais, Minnesota is 110 miles north of Duluth, Minnesota on Highway 61. Duluth boasts a small international airport. It’s 260 miles north of Minneapolis, Minnesota, which has an international airport that also acts as a regional hub. Grand Marais is 128 kilometers south of Thunder Bay, Ontario on Highway 61. Thunder Bay has a small airport. Car rentals are available at the airports.
Weather: The average temps are 19°F for lows and 32°F for highs. There may be ice on the ground. While snow is unlikely, it isn’t unusual.
Equipment list: After registration, you will receive a suggested equipment list and participant package. The package discusses equipment options, photography techniques and more. If interested, I can provide this before you register.
Registration and Cancellation Policies
Please, read the Registration and Cancellation Policies at the link. There are no exceptions to the policy.