Bryan Hansel Photography

Participant Guide Menu

Weather, Wildlife & Safety

Two elk at a location I use on my Badlands and Black Hills Photography Workshop.

Weather and outdoor conditions can change quickly, and each workshop location has its own challenges. A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping you comfortable and safe, whether we’re shooting in the rain, walking on icy trails, dealing with bugs, or traveling through bear country. Review the information below and bring the appropriate clothing and safety gear for your workshop.

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Weather

Expected weather conditions and typical high and low temperatures are listed in the Additional Information section of each workshop description. Use them as a guide when planning your clothing and gear.

What if it rains?

What if it rains? If it rains, we go out shooting. Overcast skies, mist, and rain can create excellent photographic opportunities that you won’t get on a sunny day. See Clothing for rain gear recommendations.

A shower cap over your camera can help protect it in a pinch, but consider a dedicated camera rain cover for the most protection.

Winter Workshops: Traction Devices Required

Crampons or traction devices with metal spikes are REQUIRED for workshops in Grand Marais from November to March. Ice is common during these month, and a fall can cause serious injuries or send you sliding toward Lake Superior.

Review the required equipment in the Winter Workshops gear section of this guide.

Wildlife Safety

Be Bear Aware: Required Reading for Workshops in Bear Country

Glacier National Park and Grand Teton National Park are home to grizzly bears and black bears. Other locations we go, such as the Blue Ridge, northern Minnesota and Wisconsin, and the Smoky Mountains have black bears. We may encounter grizzly bears or black bears in these locations.

The National Park Service offers excellent advice on their Staying Safe Around Bears page.

Bear Safety Pamphlet Download

Required for Tetons and Glacier Workshops

This is a must watch for those heading to the Tetons or Glacier.

Bear Spray

When traveling in bear country, I recommend carrying bear spray in a belt or chest holster where you can reach it quickly. Check the regulations for your destination, and learn how to use it before your workshop. Bear spray won’t help if it’s buried in your pack when you need it.

You cannot bring bear spray on a commercial airplane. Some airports offer bear spray rentals.

Bugs and Things That Bite

Bugs can be bad during spring and summer, especially in June and July. Bring insect repellent, and consider a head net or bug jacket for added protection.

For night sky workshops and other sessions where we’ll spend a long time in one location, I also recommend a Thermacell mosquito repeller. It can make a difference when conditions are right, particularly when several units are used around the group. Wind can reduce its effectiveness.

Here are a few options for head nets, bug jackets, and mosquito repellers: