Welcome to Greg Disch Photography

Wonderful images of this great United States, our natural world, scenic locations, our public lands, outdoor recreation, and other subjects fill these pages. Please take your time and enjoy your visit. I am truely interested in your comments about my work and my site.

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I have over 20,000 images in my online galleries which are available for prints or licensing taken all across the United States.

Greg Disch is a freelance photographer located in Arkansas. Greg specializes in nature, scenic, wildlife, and other outdoor subjects in Arkansas and other areas of the country.  Most of the images on this site are available for sale as prints, personal use, or rights managed stock photos.

Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group.

All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention you need.  Most classes and workshops are limited to a maximum of 5 participants and will be held with a minimum of only 2.

If you are looking for a great opportunity to get personal individual instruction I do private workshops and classes at a location of your choice, whether doing a location photo shoot, coming to your home or business, traveling across the country on a road trip, or at my classroom.  This is a great way to learn digital workflow and be sure that your computer equipment is properly configured for optimum performance.

Recent Posts
July 11, 2025Abandoned Longhorn Ammunition Plant The Longhorn Army Ammunition Plant, located near Karnack, Texas, was a large-scale producer of munitions during World War II and the Cold War. It primarily manufactured TNT, rocket motors, and pyrotechnic items. The plant operated from 1942 to 1997 and was later designated a Superfund site due to contamination. Today, much of the property is part of the Caddo Lake National Wildlife Refuge.  Historical Significance: The plant played a crucial role in supplying the US military with explosives during WWII and the Cold War.  Production: It was a major producer of TNT, especially during WWII, and also manufactured rocket motors and pyrotechnics.  Environmental Concerns: The plant’s operations led to contamination, prompting its designation as a Superfund site and subsequent cleanup efforts.  Redevelopment: The site is being remediated, with portions now managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service as part of the Caddo Lake National Wildlife Refuge.  Current Status: The Army continues to conduct cleanup activities at the site, with a focus on soil and groundwater.  Community Involvement: A Restoration Advisory Board (RAB) is involved in the cleanup process, meeting regularly to discuss progress and address community concerns.    In 1941, as the United States prepared for eventual entry into World War II, the U.S. Army Ordnance Department approached Monsanto Chemical Company of St. Louis about operating a local plant for production of explosives. Initially called Longhorn Ordnance Works, the plant produced over 400 million pounds of trinitrotolulene (TNT) on standby status. During the Korean War (1950-53), the need for munitions rose again, and the Universal Match Corporation, also of St. Louis, managed the site, producing propellant fuel. In 1956, Thiokol Chemical Corporation began manufacturing solid fuel rocket motors here. This highly guarded and classified site grew in a series of five expansions. In 1964, its name changed to The Longhorn Army Ammunition Plant and employment rose to a high of nearly 3,000 personnel. The numbers declined with the end of the Vietnam War and the easing of tensions with the Soviet Union, and employment dropped to less than 1,000 by 1975. In 1987, The United States and the Soviet Union signed the Treaty of Intermediate Nuclear Forces, beginning the elimination of an entire class of missiles. In 1988, the first destruction on American soil of U.S. Pershing I and II rocket motors occurred at the site. Observed by Soviet and U.S. officials, the demolition project continued until 1991. In July 1997, the Army liquidated or demolished all facilities at Longhorn Army Ammunition Plant and discontinued use. There are still some remaining ruins of concrete structures throughout the refuge. Longhorn Army Ammunition Plant is located adjacent to the Caddo Lake State Park and Wildlife Management Area and contains one of the highest quality old-growth bottomland hardwood forests in the southeastern United States. The wetlands area along the shore of Caddo Lake is listed as a Ramsar “Wetland of International Significance” and is one of only 17 such designated sites in the United States. In 1998, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) expressed an interest in receiving a no-cost transfer of the lands to establish the Caddo Lake National Wildlife Refuge.   Where it is: The abandoned Longhorn Ammunition Plant is located in the Caddo Lake National Wildlife Refuge in Karnack Texas on the shore of Caddo Lake. Driving Directions Caddo Lake National Wildlife Refuge is located northeast of Marshall, Texas Harrison County. From Dallas (2 and 1/2 hours): take I-20 east to Marshall, Texas, and get on Hwy. 59 North. Go through Marshall to HWY. 43 North; take 43 North. In fifteen minutes or so, you will come up on 449 spur. Take a right on 449 (also a post office sign on Hwy. 43). Follow this for about a mile, and you will come to the intersection of 449 and Hwy. 134. Look for the Karnack Post Office on the right corner and the Karnack Community Center on the opposite left corner. Go straight through the intersection, over the train tracks and you will enter the refuge. From Shreveport (1/2 to 3/4 hour): Take I-20 West to Waskom, Texas. At David Beard’s Catfish Restaurant, take Hwy. 134 North out of Waskom. Follow Hwy. 134 into Karnack. In Karnack, you will come to the intersection of Hwy. 134 and Spur 449 (T.J. Taylor Avenue). Take a right past the post office and cross the train tracks, and you will enter the refuge. Maps: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, click and drag the to move the map, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view.   Cost: There is no cost to enter the Caddo Lake National Wildlife Refuge.  Some areas of the refuge are closed and off limits to the public.  There are areas to explore that are not closed, signs clearly indicated what areas you are not allowed to enter. Links: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/caddo-lake GPS: 32.667593434621374, -94.16723249082943   Hours: Headquarters Hours Monday – Friday  7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. All federal holidays Closed Land, Roads, Auto Trail and Trails Hours Daily Dawn – Dusk Facilities: Restrooms are available inside the refuge headquarters, inside the visitor contact station, in the comfort station across from the headquarters parking lot and at the Starr Ranch site. Location Contact Information: Caddo Lake National Wildlife Refuge (903) 679-9143 15600 Highway 134   Karnack, TX75661 Photography Information: Many of the structures are hidden in the trees and you have to look close to find them, some areas are off limits and closed to the public.  For most areas a wide to normal lens will work well and light will be low so a tripod or high ISO will be needed. Abandoned Longhorn Ammunition Plant Photo Gallery Click Here for full page gallery     More Photographic Destinations in Texas Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click on a pushpin for more information about the Photographic Destination, then click on the title to go to the location page. Click Here for Photographic Destinations by State All the information in this post was believed to be accurate at the time it was published.  Please be sure to double check with the location before relying on this information as everything changes over time, especially hours, prices, and whether the location is still open.   Great Places for Great Photos   Let me help you to find a great location for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser-known destinations, as well as the famous "Icon Locations" for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information, consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to ensure a quality guide to great locations for photography. If you know of great places that are not posted, please send me the details, I may just decide that is a place I need to go!     Greg Disch is a freelance photographer located in Arkansas. Greg specializes in nature, scenic, wildlife, and other outdoor subjects in Arkansas and other areas of the country.  Most of the images on this site are available for sale as prints, personal use, or rights managed stock photos. Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group. All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention, you need.  Most classes and workshops are limited to a maximum of six participants and will be held with a minimum of only two. If you are looking for a wonderful opportunity to get personal individual instruction, I do private workshops and classes at a location of your choice, whether doing a location photo shoot, coming to your home or business, traveling across the country on a road trip, or at my classroom.  This is a fantastic way to learn digital workflow and be sure that your computer equipment is properly configured for optimum performance. [...]
June 20, 2025Kansas Sunflower June 2025 Free Wallpaper The sunflower is the state flower of Kansas. It is an annual flower that can be grown for the flowers or harvested for seeds used for oil or culinary purposes. The composite flowers have both ray (the showy “petals”) or disk flowers (that mature into seeds). The rays may be bright yellow, gold, orange, rust or maroon.   Image is 1920 x 1080 pixels Free Wallpaper Image I will be offering one of my images as a free desktop wallpaper for your computer each month. I hope you enjoy the images as much as I enjoyed the opportunity to travel our great country and. take them. How to Set Your Wallpaper or Background Picture The downloaded file will be a compressed ZIP file, which will need to be decompressed before you can use it. Windows 10 To unzip the file in Windows 10 Open File Explorer and find the zipped folder. To unzip the entire folder, right-click (or press and hold) it, select Extract All, and then follow the instructions. To unzip a single file or folder, double-click the zipped folder to open it. Then, drag or copy the item from the zipped folder to a new location. To change your background image in Windows 10 Select the Start    button, then select Settings  > Personalization  to choose a picture worthy of gracing your desktop background, and to change the accent color for Start, the taskbar, and other items. The preview window gives you a sneak peek of your changes as you make them. In Background, select a picture or solid color, or create a slideshow of pictures. Mac To unzip the contents, follow these steps: Click the Unzip button. From the drop down menu, choose to unzip your files to this Mac, iCloud Drive, Dropbox or Google Drive. A “Finder style” window will open. … Choose to unzip the Entire Zip file or Selected Items. … Another option is to click the New Folder button. Here’s how you can change your Desktop picture on a Mac From the Desktop, choose Apple→System Preferences. The System Preferences window appears. … Click the Desktop & Screen Saver icon. The Desktop & Screen Saver Preferences pane appears. Click a folder in the column on the left and then click a picture in the area on the right. Previous Free Wallpaper Images All the information in this post was believed to be accurate at the time it was published.  Please be sure to double check with the location before relying on this information as everything changes over time, especially hours, prices, and whether the location is still open.   Great Places for Great Photos   Let me help you to find a great location for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser-known destinations, as well as the famous "Icon Locations" for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information, consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to ensure a quality guide to great locations for photography. If you know of great places that are not posted, please send me the details, I may just decide that is a place I need to go!     Greg Disch is a freelance photographer located in Arkansas. Greg specializes in nature, scenic, wildlife, and other outdoor subjects in Arkansas and other areas of the country.  Most of the images on this site are available for sale as prints, personal use, or rights managed stock photos. Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group. All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention, you need.  Most classes and workshops are limited to a maximum of six participants and will be held with a minimum of only two. If you are looking for a wonderful opportunity to get personal individual instruction, I do private workshops and classes at a location of your choice, whether doing a location photo shoot, coming to your home or business, traveling across the country on a road trip, or at my classroom.  This is a fantastic way to learn digital workflow and be sure that your computer equipment is properly configured for optimum performance. [...]
May 27, 2025Wilderness Park Bamboo Forest   Wilderness Park is a 26-plus acre area located on Upper Kingston Road, within the city limits of Prattville Alabama. Wilderness Park/Bamboo Forest in Prattville, Alabama, is notable for its unexpected and lush bamboo forest. This unique park features towering bamboo stalks that reach heights of up to 60 feet, creating a serene and exotic atmosphere. Originally developed as a training ground for the military, the park has since become a public space where visitors can enjoy walking trails and the tranquil environment. The bamboo forest provides a stark contrast to the typical Southern landscape, making it a fascinating destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat. Floyd Smith purchased the land in 1940. He had a love for exotic plants and decided that he would take it upon himself to plant bamboo all over the 26 acres of land. Smith acquired the bamboo shoots from a Washington Import, which were shipped to him through the mail. This was the beginning step to growing the beautiful bamboo forest that you see today.  For the next 20 years, the forest would continue to grow rapidly. Bamboo is, after all, one of the fastest growing plants on the planet.  “Some bamboo has been clocked surging skyward as fast as four feet in a 24-hour period. It’s an amazingly versatile, vital and beautiful plant,” says Prattville Parks and Recreations Director Kellie Cook. The unique forest caught the attention of many people across the country. In the 1960s, the property fell into the hands of General William Butler, an Air University commander at Maxwell Airforce Base. Gen. Butler then allowed Morgan Smith, head of the USAF Survival Program, to use the property to simulate conditions in Vietnam. “The forest was so dense and was like the conditions that troops would be surrounded by in Vietnam. Troops from all across the country would come to the park to be better prepared before they were deployed to Vietnam,” said Cook. The City of Prattville bought the land in 1979 and for the next 40 years, the bamboo would continue to grow higher and higher, with some now towering up to 60 feet tall. All of the different types of bamboo surround a half mile trail that has been built by the City of Prattville. The trail provides an excellent stroll for anyone who wants to view exotic greenery that they might not ever get a chance to see elsewhere. Where it is: Wilderness Park is a 26-plus acre area located on Upper Kingston Road, within the city limits of Prattville.  The address is 800 Upper Kingston Rd Prattville, AL 36067. Maps: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, click and drag the to move the map, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view.   Cost: The is no cost to visit the Wilderness Park Bamboo Forest. Links: Websitewww.prattvilleal.gov GPS: 32°28’43.14″ N 86°28’52.302″ W   Hours: The park is open dawn to dusk every day. Facilities: There are benches for rest along the trail and informational signs about the bamboo.  There is also a picnic area at the trailhead, but there are no restrooms. Location Contact Information: 800 Upper Kingston Rd Prattville, AL 36067 Phone(334) 361-3640 Photography Information: The park offers winding trails that allow access through the park, it is too dense to walk off the trails.  A wide angle lens is good to capture the full forest effect, along with a lens to get closeup and detailed images of the bamboo.  Best time is early or late and the forest is thick enough that it is almost always in the shade.  Spring and fall are the best times to visit for the mild weather. Wilderness Park Bamboo Forest Photo Gallery Click Here for full page gallery     More Photographic Destinations in Alabama Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click on a pushpin for more information about the Photographic Destination, then click on the title to go to the location page. Click Here for Photographic Destinations by State    All the information in this post was believed to be accurate at the time it was published.  Please be sure to double check with the location before relying on this information as everything changes over time, especially hours, prices, and whether the location is still open.   Great Places for Great Photos   Let me help you to find a great location for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser-known destinations, as well as the famous "Icon Locations" for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information, consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to ensure a quality guide to great locations for photography. If you know of great places that are not posted, please send me the details, I may just decide that is a place I need to go!     Greg Disch is a freelance photographer located in Arkansas. Greg specializes in nature, scenic, wildlife, and other outdoor subjects in Arkansas and other areas of the country.  Most of the images on this site are available for sale as prints, personal use, or rights managed stock photos. Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group. All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention, you need.  Most classes and workshops are limited to a maximum of six participants and will be held with a minimum of only two. If you are looking for a wonderful opportunity to get personal individual instruction, I do private workshops and classes at a location of your choice, whether doing a location photo shoot, coming to your home or business, traveling across the country on a road trip, or at my classroom.  This is a fantastic way to learn digital workflow and be sure that your computer equipment is properly configured for optimum performance. [...]
May 26, 2025Buffalo River Fall Colors Photography Workshop October 24-26, 2025 This will be a two day in the field workshop located in the area of the Buffalo National River in North Central Arkansas. Just about all of our time will be spent photographing the endless possibilities of this unique area, with personal instruction from Greg Disch. This area is rich with photographic opportunities.  The natural and cultural resources of this national river exemplify much of the beauty and diversity which makes up the Ozark region of Arkansas. You will find a wild, free-flowing and unpolluted river that passes towering bluffs, pioneer homesteads and wilderness areas, dominated by a vast hardwood forest., The Buffalo River was designated Americas first National River over 50 years ago “for the purposes of conserving and interpreting an area containing unique scenic and scientific features, and preserving as a free-flowing stream an important segment of the Buffalo River in Arkansas for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations.”   Workshop Itinerary Dates: October 24-26, 2025 Friday: We will meet at the Ozark Cafe on the square in Jasper at 6:00 pm for dinner  and to get acquainted with everyone in the group.  We will discuss our plans for Saturday’s photo shoots. (This is optional if you plan to arrive on Saturday morning please let me know) Saturday: We will meet for breakfast at the Ozark cafe in Jasper  before  departing on our shoot Saturday morning.  plan to bring a picnic style  lunch, snacks, and drinks for during the day Saturday as we may not have anywhere  available to stop for lunch. From there we will head to Boxley Valley to photograph the Elk in the early morning, this should be during the Elk Rutting season and we should be able to get some shots of the Bull’s fighting.  Once the Elk move into the trees we will head to another location to photograph historic homesteads and the beauty of fall. We will eat our picnic lunch and move to other locations having plenty of time for photography and learning. In the evening the Elk should be returning to the fields for some more photo ops, after which we will return to Jasper for dinner and a recap of the day. Sunday: We will meet for breakfast again on Sunday morning and make our plans for the day based upon the interests of the group. We will then head back to Jasper for lunch and then on to our final locations finishing up around 4:00. Location Buffalo National River and Vicinity,  Jasper AR   Cost The workshop fee per session will $695.00 per participant.   The workshop fee includes all lectures, fieldwork and critiques of your images during our  sessions.  This is a photography workshop, not just a photo tour, my goal is provide as much personal hands on help as possible.  I will check with each participant to see how you are doing and if you need help,  if you wish for assistance let me know, if not just let me know, and you will be free to shoot on your own.  I will be more than willing to look through your viewfinder or at your LCD to check your images. Workshop Policies and Information About the Workshop Our workshops are based on digital photography, the assistance that I can provide and the immediate feedback of digital make “in the field” workshops one of the most effective teaching formats available.  Whether finding the correct exposure, looking through the viewfinder for the perfect composition, or learning how to use the equipment, you can’t beat real world experience.  Classes are kept small, it’s all about personal, individual attention. Digital offers a number of benefits for learning photography including: Immediate feedback on exposure and composition Immediate critique from the instructor an other participants Ability to do reviews and projection Automatically capturing all shooting information (Meta Data) Ability to manage work flow while still on location Group Size We keep our group size small, this provides for a high degree of personal attention and a great amount of flexibility in making the workshop the best possible experience for the participants. This workshop is limited to a maximum or 5 participants. Changes to the Itinerary In order to offer the best experience possible for the workshop participants we reserve the right to alter the itinerary when our judgment warrants it.  This could be due to unforeseen circumstances, closures, weather or other conditions beyond our control.  We may also alter due to new or unexpected photographic opportunities that may arise. Fall Color Workshop on the Buffalo National River in Arkansas. What is Included Your workshop fees include full instruction and location guiding.  Upon receipt of your deposit, you will be supplied a trip checklist to assist with your preparations. Before the workshop, all participants receive a course syllabus, detailed itinerary, technical articles, and more. What is Not Included Transportation to and from the workshop, lodging, meals, incidental expenses and items of a personal nature. My philosophy on lodging and meals is that by not including them in the workshop each participant is free to choose their own level of accommodation and choice of meals.  I have some participants stay in high end motels, while others prefer camping or RV’s.  If these items were included in the workshop fee, it would simply be increased to cover the expenses plus a margin to be sure I did not loose money. Lodging Lodging is not provided, you will need to make your own reservations, we will be meeting in Jasper AR, and be eating most meals there.  Jasper has several motels and there are cabins all around, and many camping areas. Meals Meals, drinks, and snacks are not provided, and are the responsibility of the participant.  I some cases we may need to pack a lunch for the day and at other times we will stop when and where convenient for the group.  Breakfast and dinner may be at a predetermined location or as available based upon where we are and our photography schedule. Health and Physical Considerations All participants should be in generally good health, walking and moderate climbing may be necessary in outdoor workshops and you will be responsible for carrying of your own equipment on location shoots.  If you are taking any medications be sure to bring a supply sufficient for the duration of the workshop. If you have any concern about your ability to participate in a workshop please contact us before registering. Equipment Needed To get the most from the workshop you should have a Digital Single Lens Reflex  (DSLR) or mirrorless camera, tripod and an assortment of lenses.  That being said, it is the photographer not the camera that makes the photo.  We will be photographing the Arkansas Elk in Boxley Valley and  a long lens in the 300mm or longer range is needed in most cases.  For photographing fall leaves a polarizing filter is nearly indispensable and I would recommend having one. Transportation During Workshop We do not provide Transportation on field trips, carpooling will be done among participants for these workshops.  If you do not have a car let us know and we will be sure there are  enough seats with other members during the workshop.   Non Photographer (Spouse, significant other, or friend) We welcome spouses to join you on the workshop experience however “workshop activities” are limited to registered, paid attendees.  You may have a non photographer accompany you to all activities but they must pay for the workshop.  If they wish to accompany you on the trip but not attend the workshop activities, but stay with you, finding other activities during the day,  and  meet for meals and social type events that is perfectly acceptable. Registration, Payment, and Refund Policy You can register any way you like, just so I get your information, you can use the online registration, email, postal mail, or call me on the phone (479-414-6889) either to register or just ask a question.  Registration is done on a first come basis, so register early to secure your space.   A deposit of $300 is required to reserve your space, and full payment is due 30 days prior to the workshop. Enrollment is limited in our workshops, so once you have been accepted your participation is important to us – we are counting on you to attend. If you must withdraw from a course, we must receive written notice of your cancellation, and then apply the following refund policy:   We do not make refunds on workshop fees. We do not make partial refunds for unused portions or services of a workshop for any reason whatsoever. If we are able to fill your space in the workshop, we will give full credit towards another workshop. If we are not able to fill your space, we will issue 50% credit towards a future workshop.  If there are openings, I will accept last minute registrations when possible. We can accept no responsibility for losses or additional expenses due to delays or changes in the services to be provided. We reserve the right to change our arrangements should conditions necessitate, or to cancel any aspect of the workshop due to exceptional circumstances. In the unlikely event that we need to cancel a workshop we will refund all monies paid in full. Notification of our cancellation will be made via either a telephone call or an e-mail to you at least 14 days prior to the beginning of a workshop other than in an emergency. We cannot be responsible for phone messages and e-mails not being received in a timely manner due to your service providers. We cannot be responsible for non-refundable airline tickets unused or other travel arrangements because of a workshop cancellation. All workshops have a minimum participation level which must be met, or the workshop may be canceled. Weather The more the better, at least as far as the photography goes.  Workshops will not be canceled, and no refunds will be made due to the weather, we will not be responsible for any additional costs that may be incurred by weather delays or cancellations due to weather, flight delays, or other. Participants should come to the workshop prepared for all weather conditions. This time of year, in Arkansas the weather is generally very nice during day with cooler nights, but it can also be below freezing at night. Trip Extensions We may be able to extend your trip in the area if you would like more time and personal instruction.  Please contact us for more information and rates before the workshop. Smoking We prefer that you do not smoke, however, please abide by the following guidelines.  Smoking is not allowed in or near vehicles, during instructional sessions, during group meals, or at other times when in close quarters with other workshop participants. [...]
May 20, 2025Cumberland Island May 2025 Free Wallpaper Under a canopy of Spanish moss, single lane roads cut through the wilderness, showing the truly rugged side of one of the largest undeveloped barrier islands on the Atlantic coast, Cumberland Island Georgia. The island has one of the largest maritime forests remaining in the United States.   Image is 1920 x 1080 pixels Free Wallpaper Image I will be offering one of my images as a free desktop wallpaper for your computer each month. I hope you enjoy the images as much as I enjoyed the opportunity to travel our great country and. take them. How to Set Your Wallpaper or Background Picture The downloaded file will be a compressed ZIP file, which will need to be decompressed before you can use it. Windows 10 To unzip the file in Windows 10 Open File Explorer and find the zipped folder. To unzip the entire folder, right-click (or press and hold) it, select Extract All, and then follow the instructions. To unzip a single file or folder, double-click the zipped folder to open it. Then, drag or copy the item from the zipped folder to a new location. To change your background image in Windows 10 Select the Start    button, then select Settings  > Personalization  to choose a picture worthy of gracing your desktop background, and to change the accent color for Start, the taskbar, and other items. The preview window gives you a sneak peek of your changes as you make them. In Background, select a picture or solid color, or create a slideshow of pictures. Mac To unzip the contents, follow these steps: Click the Unzip button. From the drop down menu, choose to unzip your files to this Mac, iCloud Drive, Dropbox or Google Drive. A “Finder style” window will open. … Choose to unzip the Entire Zip file or Selected Items. … Another option is to click the New Folder button. Here’s how you can change your Desktop picture on a Mac From the Desktop, choose Apple→System Preferences. The System Preferences window appears. … Click the Desktop & Screen Saver icon. The Desktop & Screen Saver Preferences pane appears. Click a folder in the column on the left and then click a picture in the area on the right. Previous Free Wallpaper Images All the information in this post was believed to be accurate at the time it was published.  Please be sure to double check with the location before relying on this information as everything changes over time, especially hours, prices, and whether the location is still open.   Great Places for Great Photos   Let me help you to find a great location for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser-known destinations, as well as the famous "Icon Locations" for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information, consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to ensure a quality guide to great locations for photography. If you know of great places that are not posted, please send me the details, I may just decide that is a place I need to go!     Greg Disch is a freelance photographer located in Arkansas. Greg specializes in nature, scenic, wildlife, and other outdoor subjects in Arkansas and other areas of the country.  Most of the images on this site are available for sale as prints, personal use, or rights managed stock photos. Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group. All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention, you need.  Most classes and workshops are limited to a maximum of six participants and will be held with a minimum of only two. If you are looking for a wonderful opportunity to get personal individual instruction, I do private workshops and classes at a location of your choice, whether doing a location photo shoot, coming to your home or business, traveling across the country on a road trip, or at my classroom.  This is a fantastic way to learn digital workflow and be sure that your computer equipment is properly configured for optimum performance. [...]
May 20, 2025Adobe Lightroom Classic Fall Retreat November 3-7, 2025 Limited to 4 participants Adobe Lightroom Classic is a very powerful program for organizing and post processing your digital photography.  I feel like it is easy and fast to use, but difficult to learn the full power of the program.  Adobe has done a really good job of hiding many features and it is not intuitive to learn.  I offer a 2 day Lightroom Classic Workshop and one of the comments that get is that it is to much information to absorb and I have to agree. During this retreat we will be able to spread out the instruction over 5 days and have time to do photography between lightroom sessions.  In addition we can go into greater detail and get more actual hands on experience.  Not only is there a lot of new features in Adobe Lightroom classic, which we will cover in great detail, but there is some very exciting new features on the way. With a maximum of only 4 people during this workshop we will have a great deal of flexibility as to what is covered, and be able to help each participant with the area that they wish to have in depth instruction. I will host this at my cabin at Lake Ouachita, where participants will stay for the workshop. This will be a great learning experience where we can talk photography while cooking steaks on the grill or kicking back on the porch. The schedule for this event will be very dependent upon the interests of the participants.  During the week though we will plan to photograph locations such as Little Missouri Falls and Cossatot River Falls, star trails and the night sky, Hot Springs National Park, Talimena Scenic Drive, Garvan Woodland Gardens, Petit Jean State Park and other locations. Lodging and most meals are included in the workshop fee. This will be a 5 day long intense photography learning opportunity, including classroom work, photo shoots, and post processing with Adobe Lightroom.  This will be a very small group and a great way for obtaining one on one photography education, while having a good time and making new friends.   Lake Ouachita Lake Ouachita – Arkansas’s Largest Lake. With very little shoreline development. A Pristine Public Corps of Engineers Lake with 66,324 total acres of Land and Water surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest of more than 1.8 million acres. With over 40,000 acres of water, Lake Ouachita averages 50 feet deep. The deepest area touching 200 feet. Ouachita National Forest The Ouachita National Forest is the oldest National Forest in the southern United States. The forest encompasses 1,784,457 acres, including most of the scenic Ouachita Mountain Range. Six locations in the forest, comprising 65,000 acres, have been congressionally-designated as wilderness areas. The Talimena Scenic Drive, which is Highway 1 in Oklahoma and Highway 88 in Arkansas, is a National Scenic Byway which meanders through the forest providing amazing vistas and excellent photo opportunities. The Scenic Drive passes through old-growth oak woodlands on Winding Stair and Rich Mountains. Hot Springs National Park Hot Springs Reservation was initially created by an act of the United States Congress on April 20, 1832 to be preserved for future recreation. Established before the concept of a national park existed, it was the first time that land had been set aside by the federal government to preserve its use as an area for recreation. The hot spring water has been popularly believed for centuries to possess medicinal properties, and was a subject of legend among several Native American tribes. Following federal protection in 1832, the city developed into a successful spa town. Incorporated January 10, 1851, the city was known in the early 20th century as the home to Major League Baseball spring training, illegal gambling, speakeasies during the Prohibition era, and gangsters such as Al Capone, horse racing at Oaklawn Park, the Army and Navy Hospital, and 42nd President Bill Clinton. The area was established as a national park on March 4, 1921.  Since Hot Springs National Park is the oldest park maintained by the National Park Service, it was the first to receive its own US quarter in April 2010 as part of the America the Beautiful Quarters coin series.     Kayak Photography An option available during the workshop will be the opportunity to photograph from a kayak, which is a great way to be able to get close to birds and other wildlife. Don’t worry if you have never kayaked before, no kayaking experience is needed. I will provide all the equipment including paddles, life jackets, safety gear, and waterproof equipment cases for your camera.  Our goal is photography, we will take it slow and easy. Workshop Itinerary During this workshop the itinerary is totally flexible and determined by the interests of the participants. Workshop Policies and Information About the Workshop Our workshops are based on digital photography, the assistance that I can provide and the immediate feedback of digital make “in the field” workshops one of the most effective teaching formats available.  Whether finding the correct exposure, looking through the viewfinder for the perfect composition, or learning how to use the equipment, you can’t beat real world experience.  Classes are kept small, it’s all about personal, individual attention. Digital offers a number of benefits for learning photography including: Immediate feedback on exposure and composition Immediate critique from the instructor an other participants Ability to do reviews and projection Automatically capturing all shooting information (Meta Data) Ability to manage work flow while still on location   What to Bring Equipment Needed  • Tripod – A really good steady tripod is essential.  It is also very important to properly set up your tripod making sure all adjustment are good and tight and will not creep during the very long exposure times needed night photography. • Digital Camera – Any digital camera that you can set manually. •  A selection of lenses • Cable Release  – or other method of activating the shutter continuously without touching the camera. •A bag or way to carry your camera gear. You will need a laptop computer to use with Adobe Lightroom Classic installed.  Remember to bring all cords, chargers, memory cards, extra batteries, and camera  manuals when attending any workshop. Cost The full cost of the workshop is $1995 per individual participant or $3495 for a couple (savings of $500). Group Size We keep our group size small, this provides for a high degree of personal attention and a great amount of flexibility in making the workshop the best possible experience for the participants. This workshop is limited to a maximum of 4 participants and will be conducted with only 1 participant. Changes to the Itinerary Any night shoots will be dependent upon the weather and cloud cover, we will shoot according to the conditions we have. In order to offer the best experience possible for the workshop participants we reserve the right to alter the itinerary when our judgment warrants it.  This could be due to unforeseen circumstances, closures, weather or other conditions beyond our control.  We may also alter due to new or unexpected photographic opportunities that may arise. Transportation During Workshop Transportation will be provided during this workshop.  This helps to keep down the number of vehicles on the road and to keep parking simpler, as well as the opportunity to make friends with the other participants. What is Not Included Transportation to and from the workshop, meals at restaurants,  entrance fees to locations we may visit, incidental expenses, gratuities, and items of a personal nature. Lodging Lodging is included in the workshop. Lodging will be in my cabin near Lake Ouachita outside of Mt Ida.  A couple will share a bedroom and bed, all will have a shared bathroom and living area. Meals Meals that we prepare and eat at the cabin will be included, meals we eat out at restaurants on photo-shoots and day trips will be the responsibility of the participant.  We will take turns cooking and doing cleanup. Health and Physical Considerations All participants should be in generally good health, walking and moderate climbing may be necessary in outdoor workshops and you will be responsible for carrying of your own equipment on location shoots.  If you are taking any medications be sure to bring a supply sufficient for the duration of the workshop. If you have any concern about your ability to participate in a workshop please contact me before registering. Registration, Payment, and Refund Policy You can register any way you like, just so I get your information, you can use the online registration, the contact form, email,  postal mail, or call me on the phone (479-414-6889) either to register or just ask a question.  Registration is done on a first come basis, so register early to secure your space.   Full payment  is required to reserve your space. Enrollment is limited in our workshops, so once you have been accepted your participation is important to us – we are counting on you to attend.  All workshop require a minimum number of participants or they will be canceled If you must withdraw from a course, we must receive written notice of your cancellation, and then apply the following refund policy:   We do not make refunds on workshop fees. We do not make partial refunds for unused portions or services of a workshop for any reason whatsoever. If we are able to fill your space in the workshop (or at our option) we will give full credit towards another workshop.   Cancellation Policy In the unlikely event that we need to cancel a workshop we will refund all monies paid, in full. Notification of our cancellation will be made via either a telephone call or an e-mail to you at least 30 days prior to the beginning of a workshop other than an emergency. We cannot be responsible for phone messages and e-mails not being received in a timely matter due to your service providers. We cannot be responsible for non-refundable airline tickets unused or other travel arrangements because of a workshop cancellation. All workshops have a minimum participation level which must be met or the workshop will be canceled. Liability Waiver All participants will be required to sigh a liability waiver before beginning a workshop.  We will not be liable for injury, accident or theft resulting from participation in our workshop program. Weather The more the better, at least as far as the photography goes.  Workshops will not be canceled and no refunds will be made due to weather, we will not be responsible for any additional costs that may be incurred by weather delays or cancellations due to weather, flight delays, or other. Participants should come to the workshop prepared for all weather conditions. Trip Extensions We may be able to extend your trip in the area, if you would like more time and personal instruction.  Please contact us for more information and rates before the workshop. Smoking We prefer that you do not smoke, however if you must please abide by the following guidelines.  Smoking is not allowed in or near vehicles, during instructional sessions, during group meals, or at other times when in close quarters with other workshop participants. [...]
May 20, 2025December 7-12, 2025 Bosque Del Apache – White Sands Photography Workshop Join me for an extraordinary photography workshop in southern New Mexico. One of the highlights is a morning flight out or “blastoff” which is a sight and sound you must experience in person to fully appreciate. Thousands of snow geese take off all at the same time in a solid mass creating an experience of sight and sound unmatched by anything else.  This is just the icing on the cake, tens of thousands of Sandhill Cranes make this their winter home, and we will be able to get plenty of action shots. If you are new to photographing birds or wildlife this is a fantastic opportunity to learn, if you are experienced this is just a wonderful opportunity.   I have made many trips to Bosque del Apache and have the experience to help you get fantastic photos.  This workshop will give you the chance to perfect your bird in flight photography, assuming you are not too busy photographing the amazing landscape.   Bosque del Apache is the crown jewel of the National Wildlife Refuge System and the best location for bird photography in the United States. The refuge serves as a winter home for tens of thousands of snow geese and Sandhill cranes. Bosque he is located 9 miles south of Socorro New Mexico and comprises 60,000 acres along the Rio Grande River and is critical for sandhill cranes and other migratory birds providing food protection and shelter.   White Sands National Monument is one of the world’s great natural wonders. This is home to the worlds largest gypsum Dune field which comprises over 275 square miles of desert.  Winter is one of the best times to photograph this fantastic location as there are few people in the landscape appears as if your the first person to ever walk on it.  This is an area for some unique and beautiful landscape photography unlike anywhere else in the world. Topics that we will cover during the workshop include: Focus settings Birds in flight How to obtain tack sharp images Manual vs Auto Exposure Bird Behavior Composition Special techniques – blur, silhouettes, panning Workshop Itinerary Dates: December 7-12, 2025 Sunday Meet in Socorro New Mexico on Monday evening  for an informal get together to meet and to get acquainted with members of the workshop,  and plan for Monday morning predawn session and find out just how little sleep you will be getting. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday  Early morning and evening photos shoots with personal instruction. Afternoons will either be training sessions for downloading and processing with Adobe Lightroom and image critiques or may be spent doing additional photo trips in the area based upon the desires of the group. Thursday We will check out and do an early morning shoot at Bosque del Apache, then travel to Alamogordo, with a visit to Valley of Fire to photograph lava flows, and arrive at White Sands for a shoot before sunset. Friday We will do an early morning shoot at White Sands, return to Alamogordo for lunch and a final wrap up of the workshop.   Locations: Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge – Socorro, New Mexico White Sands National Monument  – Alamogordo, New Mexico   We will plan on an afternoon trip to photograph the Very Large Array (VLA). The Very Large Array Radio Telescope facility is fifty miles west of Socorro, New Mexico. The Visitor Center features an award-winning documentary narrated by Jodie Foster, plus exhibits describing radio astronomy and the VLA telescope. A self-guided walking tour features large, informative signs and takes you to the base of one of the giant dish antennas.   Cost The workshop fee will $1295.00 per participant. The workshop fee includes all lectures, fieldwork, and critiques of your images during our sessions.  This is a photography workshop, not just a photo tour, my goal is providing as much personal hands-on help as possible.  I will check with each participant to see how you are doing and if you need help, if you wish for assistance let me know, if not just let me know, and you will be free to shoot on your own. Instructions will be provided on an individual basis to learn how to capture birds in flight.   Workshop Policies and Information About the Workshop Our workshops are based on digital photography, the assistance that I can provide and the immediate feedback of digital make “in the field” workshops one of the most effective teaching formats available.  Whether finding the correct exposure, looking through the viewfinder for the perfect composition, or learning how to use the equipment, you can’t beat real world experience.  Classes are kept small, it’s all about personal, individual attention. Digital offers several benefits for learning photography including: Immediate feedback on exposure and composition Immediate critique from the instructor and other participants Ability to do reviews and projection Automatically capturing all shooting information (Meta Data) Ability to manage workflow while still on location Workshop Itinerary Changes to the Itinerary To offer the best experience possible for the workshop participants we reserve the right to alter the itinerary when our judgment warrants it.  This could be due to unforeseen circumstances, closures, weather, or other conditions beyond our control.  We may also alter due to new or unexpected photographic opportunities that may arise. What is Included Your workshop fees include personal instruction by Greg throughout the workshop including image critiques and post processing instruction using Adobe Lightroom Classic.  Transportation and entrance fees will be provided during the workshop.   What is Not Included Transportation to and from the workshop, lodging, meals, incidental expenses, gratuities, and items of a personal nature are not included. My philosophy on lodging and meals is that by not including them in the workshop each participant is free to choose their own level of accommodation and choice of meals.  I have some participants stay in high end motels, while others prefer camping or RV’s. Travel Arrangements can be made to travel to and from the workshop with Greg from Fort Smith AR.  Caution this will lead to additional photo stops along Route 66 and add additional days to make the 850-mile trip. Lodging Lodging is not included in the workshop fee.  We will spend 4 nights in Socorro New Mexico. Meals Meals, drinks, and snacks are not provided, and are the responsibility of the participant.  We will plan to eat as a group, but you are free to eat on your own if you wish. Group Size I like to keep my group size small, (about half of most other workshop instructors) this provides for a high degree of personal attention and a great amount of flexibility in making the workshop the best possible experience for the participants. This workshop is limited to a maximum of 4 participants. Health and Physical Considerations All participants should be in good health, walking and moderate climbing may be necessary in outdoor workshops, and you will be responsible for carrying your own equipment on location shoots.  At Bosque del Apache there will be little walking, most of our shooting locations are close to where we park. If you are taking any medications, be sure to bring a supply sufficient for the duration of the workshop. If you have any concern about your ability to participate in a workshop, please contact us before registering.     Equipment Needed To get the most from the workshop you should have a Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) or mirrorless camera, tripod and an assortment of lenses.  That being said, it is the photographer not the camera that creates the photo.  You will need a laptop computer to use, remember to bring all software, drivers, cords, and camera manuals when attending any workshop. A good sturdy tripod is recommended, and a minimum of 200 mm lens with 400mm or more would be preferred.  There are many opportunities for landscape and wide-angle wildlife and bird shots as well. Registration, Payment, and Refund Policy You can register any way you like, just so I get your information, you can use the online registration, the contact form, email, postal mail, or call me on the phone (479-414-6889) either to register or just ask a question.  Registration is done on a first come basis, so register early to secure your space.   A deposit of $300 is required to reserve your space, and full payment is due 30 days prior to the workshop. Enrollment is limited in our workshops, so once you have been accepted your participation is important to us – we are counting on you to attend. If you must withdraw from a course, we must receive written notice of your cancellation, and then apply the following refund policy:   We do not make refunds on workshop fees. We do not make partial refunds for unused portions or services of a workshop for any reason whatsoever. If we are able to fill your space in the workshop, we will give full credit towards another workshop. If we are not able to fill your space, we will issue 50% credit towards a future workshop.  If there are openings, I will accept last minute registrations when possible. We can accept no responsibility for losses or additional expenses due to delays or changes in the services to be provided. We reserve the right to change our arrangements should conditions necessitate, or to cancel any aspect of the workshop due to exceptional circumstances. In the unlikely event that we need to cancel a workshop we will refund all monies paid in full. Notification of our cancellation will be made via either a telephone call or an e-mail to you at least 14 days prior to the beginning of a workshop other than in an emergency. We cannot be responsible for phone messages and e-mails not being received in a timely manner due to your service providers. We cannot be responsible for non-refundable airline tickets unused or other travel arrangements because of a workshop cancellation. All workshops have a minimum participation level which must be met, or the workshop may be canceled. Non-Photographer (Spouse, significant other, or friend) We welcome companions to join you on the workshop experience however “workshop activities” are limited to registered, paid attendees.  You may have a non-photographer accompany you to all activities, but they must pay for the workshop.  If they wish to accompany you on the trip but not attend the workshop activities, but stay with you, finding other activities during the day, and meet for meals and social type events that is perfectly acceptable. Liability Waiver All participants will be required to sign a liability waiver before beginning a workshop.  As there is always an element of risk in any adventure associated with the outdoors, participants must read the liability release form carefully. Participants signed/dated release will certify that said participant is physically fit and capable of participating in outdoor photography exercises in field locations and is fully and completely aware of any associated risks created by field locations and weather. Weather The more the better, at least as far as the photography goes.  Workshops will not be canceled, and no refunds will be made due to the weather, we will not be responsible for any additional costs that may be incurred by weather delays or cancellations due to weather, flight delays, or other. Participants should come to the workshop prepared for all weather conditions. This time of year, in New Mexico can be well below freezing or very warm, be prepared for both.  Chances are it will be very cold during the predawn hours. Trip Extensions We may be able to extend your trip in the area if you would like more time and personal instruction.  Please contact us for more information and rates before the workshop. Smoking We prefer that you do not smoke, however, please abide by the following guidelines.  Smoking is not allowed in or near vehicles, during instructional sessions, during group meals, or at other times when in close quarters with other workshop participants.     [...]
May 20, 2025Colorado Gold Photography Workshop September 22-27, 2025   This is going to be a 6 day 5 night,  small group workshop with only 5 participants maximum. We will be photographing primarily in the area of Ouray and Ridgeway Colorado where there is some of the best fall color. We will photograph the spectacular fall with Aspen trees turning brilliant yellow and gold against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. If you have never experienced the blanket of gold as the Aspens change color this is an experience you do not want to miss.  We will photograph  Ghost Towns, old gold mining sites, and historic mountain towns. Cost of the workshop  will be $1595 per participant.   Not included will be meals, lodging, miscellaneous expenses, travel expense, or gratuities.  Most of the transportation during the workshop will be by carpooling in my 4wd Ford Expedition. If you have a high clearance 4wd you may also drive it.  We will be driving off the major highways and taking some rough 4wd roads. About the Workshop Our workshops are based on digital photography, the assistance that I can provide and the immediate feedback of digital make “in the field” workshops one of the most effective teaching formats available.  Whether finding the correct exposure, looking through the viewfinder for the perfect composition, or learning how to use the equipment, you can’t beat real world experience.  Classes are kept small, it’s all about personal, individual attention. Digital offers a number of benefits for learning photography including: Immediate feedback on exposure and composition Immediate critique from the instructor an other participants Ability to do reviews and projection Automatically capturing all shooting information (Meta Data) Ability to manage work flow while still on location Workshop Itinerary Changes to the Itinerary In order to offer the best experience possible for the workshop participants we reserve the right to alter the itinerary when our judgment warrants it.  This could be due to unforeseen circumstances, closures, weather or other conditions beyond our control.  We may also alter due to new or unexpected photographic opportunities that may arise.   Silverton is a former silver mining camp, most or all of which is now included in a federally designated National Historic Landmark District, the Silverton Historic District. The town population reached its nadir at 531 at U.S. Census 2000. It has grown since then.Silverton is linked to Durango by the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a National Historic Landmark. Animas Forks is located on a system of roads known as the Alpine Loop. The loop is a 65-mile (105 km) system of unpaved roads which connects the small mountain towns of Lake City, Ouray, and Silverton. The BLM is now the sole owner of the Townsite, and provides interpretive brochures and maps at an adjacent parking area. Entry into the buildings is unrestricted. The nine standing buildings within the Townsite have been stabilized and restored, repairing floors, walls, windows, and doors, to secure the envelope of each building.   Red Mountain Mining District Located off Hwy 550 near the crest of Red Mountain Pass—this is the site of the National Bell Mine. During its booming years, there were as many as 10,000 inhabitants living in Red Mountain Town. In all of its glory, it had over 100 businesses, a post office, jail, schools, newspapers, saloons and gambling halls. Winters were extremely rough and only the most rugged individuals stayed. Several fires between 1892 and 1937 nearly leveled the town. However, regardless how difficult the environment, over thirty million dollars in gold, silver, lead, zinc and copper has been taken out of this area. You can overlook this town site from Hwy 550 at the Idarado Mine turnoff or park your car at the Red Mountain Pass area and hike into the town site. Ironton (aka Copper Glen) was built on flatter ground than surrounding towns. Settled in 1893, within three weeks three hundred buildings were being built. It was a staging area for supplies coming from Ouray. Ironton was a major transportation junction between Red Mountain Town and Ouray in addition to having some of its own mines. Ironton had a peak population of over 1000 and had two trains arriving daily from Silverton. There were many chain stores from the nearby cities of Ouray and Silverton. The town lived into the first part of the 20th century but slowly faded as mining operations declined. The final resident of the town, Milton Larson, died in the mid-1960s. The town site is still occasionally visited by tourists.   The Dallas Divide is one of the premier locations to photograph fall colors in Colorado. There are wonderful views from the viewpoint on CO-62. County Road 9 (West Dallas County Road) road goes through Double RL ranch, a 17,000-acre ranch owned by a famous fashion designer  Ralph Lauren (note that land on both sides of the road is private). After that you can make your way through aspen groves, with great views of the north side of the Sneffels Range, including Mount Sneffels, Dallas Peak, Mears Peak, and more. The road turns into a single lane, doubletrack trail where a high clearance vehicle is highly recommended. There are a couple of places to park where some people continue on foot or mountain bike. Half a mile farther you can access the Dallas Trail, and another half a mile later the road crosses the creek; here you’ll find a wonderful view of the Sneffels Range over hillsides covered with golden aspen.   Last Dollar Road Bumpy, colorful, vast and adventurous, this hidden dirt road in historic ranching country gives stunning rewards for those willing the take the time to get around the bend. As Last Dollar Road winds through a low valley surrounded by jagged peaks and deep-blue skies, each bend delivers jaw-dropping scenery. At one turn you’ll find yourself in a cathedral of sun-bathed aspens; at another, a flat vista with views of a quilt-like terrain of furry pines and aspens; turn again, and you’re in a wide-open grassy field, where pristine nature is the only thing between you and the San Juan Mountains. Telluride A former silver mining camp on the San Miguel River in the western San Juan Mountains. The first gold mining claim was made in the mountains above Telluride in 1875 and early settlement of what is now Telluride followed. The town itself was founded in 1878 as “Columbia”, but due to confusion with a California town of the same name, was renamed Telluride in 1887, for the gold telluride minerals found in other parts of Colorado. These telluride minerals were never found near Telluride, but the area’s mines for some years provided zinc, lead, copper, silver, and other gold ores. Telluride sits in a box canyon. Steep forested mountains and cliffs surround it, with Bridal Veil Falls situated at the canyon’s head. Numerous weathered ruins of old mining operations dot the hillsides. A free gondola connects the town with its companion town, Mountain Village, Colorado, at the base of the ski area. Telluride and the surrounding area have featured prominently in popular culture, and it is the subject of several popular songs. It is especially known for its ski resort and slopes during the winter, as well as an extensive festival schedule during the summer. The Telluride Historic District, which includes a significant portion of the town, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is also one of Colorado’s 20 National Historic Landmarks. The town population was 2,325 in the 2010 United States Census. Alta Ghost Town On a forest service road that climbs high above Telluride is a collection of crumbling buildings that were once the great mining town of Alta Lakes. Constructed around the turn of the 20th century and active until the 1930s, the Gold King Mine at Alta Lakes, elevation 11,000 feet, was the first mine in the world to receive AC power. This high-altitude, scenic ghost town is accessible by four-wheel drive and still retains many of the original structures.     Workshop Policies and Information Cost The workshop fee per session will $1595.00 per participant. What is Included Your workshop fees include full instruction and location guiding.   What is Not Included Transportation to and from the workshop, lodging, meals, incidental expenses, gratuities, and items of a personal nature are not included. My philosophy on lodging and meals is that by not including them in the workshop each participant is free to choose their own level of accommodation and choice of meals.  I have some participants stay in high end motels, while others prefer camping or RV’s. Lodging Lodging is not included in the workshop fee. We will be spending 5 nights in the Ouray Colorado area and you will need to arrange your own acclamations.  I plan to be staying at the Ridgeway State Park in Ridgeway Colorado. Meals Meals, drinks, and snacks are not provided, and are the responsibility of the participant.  We will generally plan to eat as a group, but you are free to eat on your own if you wish. Group Size We keep our group size small, this provides for a high degree of personal attention and a great amount of flexibility in making the workshop the best possible experience for the participants. This workshop is limited to a maximum or 5 participants. Health and Physical Considerations All participants should be in generally good health, walking and moderate climbing may be necessary in outdoor workshops and you will be responsible for carrying of your own equipment on location shoots.  If you are taking any medications be sure to bring a supply sufficient for the duration of the workshop. If you have any concern about your ability to participate in a workshop please contact us before registering. Equipment Needed To get the most from the workshop you should have a Digital Single Lens Reflex  (DSLR) or mirrorless camera, tripod and an assortment of lenses.  That being said, it is the photographer not the camera that makes the photo.  You will need a laptop computer to use, remember to bring all software, drivers, cords, and camera manuals when attending any workshop. A good sturdy tripod is an essential piece of equipment for doing night and landscape photography along with a cable release or timer to keep the shutter open.   For photographing star trails and the milky way a very wide angle lens is recommended.  We have a great variety of subjects and shooting situations so a good selection of lenses is suggested.  Be sure to bring a camera backpack or bag to carry and protect your equipment. Registration, Payment, and Refund Policy You can register any way you like, just so I get your information, you can use the online registration, the contact form, email,  postal mail, or call me on the phone (479-414-6889) either to register or just ask a question.  Registration is done on a first come basis, so register early to secure your space.   A deposit of $500 is required to reserve your space, and full payment is due 30 days prior to the workshop. Enrollment is limited in our workshops, so once you have been accepted your participation is important to us – we are counting on you to attend. If you must withdraw from a course, we must receive written notice of your cancellation, and then apply the following refund policy:   We do not make refunds on workshop fees. We do not make partial refunds for unused portions or services of a workshop for any reason whatsoever. If we are able to fill your space in the workshop we will give full credit towards another workshop. If we are not able to fill your space we will issue 50% credit towards a future workshop.  If there are openings I will accept last minute registrations when possible. We can accept no responsibility for losses or additional expenses due to delay or changes in the services to be provided. We reserve the right to change our arrangements should conditions necessitate, or to cancel any aspect of the workshop due to exceptional circumstances. In the unlikely event that we need to cancel a workshop we will refund all monies paid, in full. Notification of our cancellation will be made via either a telephone call or an e-mail to you at least 14 days prior to the beginning of a workshop other than an emergency. We cannot be responsible for phone messages and e-mails not being received in a timely matter due to your service providers. We cannot be responsible for non-refundable airline tickets unused or other travel arrangements because of a workshop cancellation. All workshops have a minimum participation level which must be met or the workshop may be canceled. Non Photographer (Spouse, significant other, or friend) We welcome spouses to join you on the workshop experience however “workshop activities” are limited to registered, paid attendees.  You may have a non photographer accompany you to all activities but they must pay for the workshop.  If they wish to accompany you on the trip but not attend the workshop activities, but stay with you, finding other activities during the day,  and  meet for meals and social type events that is perfectly acceptable. Liability Waiver All participants will be required to sigh a liability waiver before beginning a workshop.  As there is always an element of risk in any adventure associated with the outdoors, participants must read the liability release form carefully. Participant’s signed/dated release will certify that said participant is physically fit and capable of participating in outdoor photography exercises in field locations, and is fully and completely aware of any associated risks created by field locations and weather. A liability release is also required for the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Weather The more the better, at least as far as the photography goes.  Workshops will not be canceled and no refunds will be made due to weather, we will not be responsible for any additional costs that may be incurred by weather delays or cancellations due to weather, flight delays, or other. Participants should come to the workshop prepared for all weather conditions. This time of year in Colorado it could be 80 degrees and sunny one day and 30 degrees and snowing the next. Trip Extensions We may be able to extend your trip in the area, if you would like more time and personal instruction.  Please contact us for more information and rates before the workshop. Smoking We prefer that you do not smoke, however if you must please abide by the following guidelines.  Smoking is not allowed in or near vehicles, during instructional sessions, during group meals, or at other times when in close quarters with other workshop participants.     [...]
May 3, 2025Historic Washington State Park Historic Washington offers insight into a nineteenth century community and a glimpse at the people and events of the Territorial, Antebellum, Civil War, and Reconstruction eras in Arkansas’s history. The museum village includes historic, public, and private buildings as well as many of Washington’s nineteenth century landscape features – streets bordered with catalpa, magnolia, and other ornamental trees which have shaded the community for 150 years. The historic structures and grounds give a fascinating view of Washington and a taste of the peace and beauty of southwest Arkansas. Established in 1824, the town of Washington was a convenient stop for travelers on the rugged Southwest Trail leading to Texas. It soon became the economic, political, and cultural center for a large rural population in Hempstead County, Arkansas. The area’s wealth came from cotton and other agricultural products including corn, livestock, and fruit. The townspeople added valuable skills in a number of professions. By 1860, Washington and vicinity had sixteen doctors, fifteen carpenters, nine teachers, nine blacksmiths, three carriage makers, seventeen lawyers, fifteen merchants, six printers, and three hotel keepers. During the Civil War, Washington boomed while serving as the state’s Confederate Capital after Little Rock was taken by the Union Army in 1863. When the Cairo and Fulton Railroad bypassed the town in 1874, Washington’s heyday was ending. The following year, fire destroyed 41/2 blocks of the business district. Another fire in 1883 engulfed 24 more businesses, yet the town refused to die. The Washington preservation movement began in 1929 when the Arkansas Legislature approved $5,000 for restoring Arkansas’s Confederate Capitol – the first state funds for historic preservation in Arkansas. In 1958, citizens of Washington formed the Pioneer Washington Restoration Foundation to preserve the town’s other historic structures. Old Washington Historic State Park was established in 1973. Washington was the Confederate Capital of Arkansas from 1863-1865. Established in 1973, the state park interprets Washington from 1824-1889. The 1874 Courthouse serves as the park visitor center. Visitors can also see the 1836 Courthouse, Blacksmith Shop, Weapons Museum, several residences and other historic structures on self-guided tours. Buildings open for touring vary each day. Lunch featuring delicious, Southern country fare is served daily in the circa 1832 Williams’ Tavern Restaurant. Built by the Pioneer Washington Restoration Foundation in 1960, the blacksmith shop is an interpretative center with two working forges. Washington’s most famous blacksmith, James Black, is credited with forging one of the original Bowie knives for James “Jim” Bowie in the early 1830s. Where it is: The park is located in beautiful Washington, AR. To reach the park, from Hope: take exit 30 off I-30, and take U.S. Highway 278 West for 8 miles. From Nashville: take U.S. Highway 278 East for 18 miles. From Fulton: take Arkansas Highway 195 for 14 miles. See Appendix A for a map showing the location of the park. Maps: Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, click and drag the to move the map, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Cost: There is no fee to visit Historic Washington State Park (all Arkansas State Parks have free admission).  There are fees for tours and events. GPS: 33°46’26.868″ N 93°41’1.344″ W Magnolia Tree, planted in 1839, and one of the largest in the south. Hours: Visitor Center: Open daily 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Administrative Office: Open Monday-Friday  8 a.m.-5 p.m. Williams Tavern Restaurant: Tues. – Sun.   11 a.m.-3 p.m. (closed Mondays) NOTE:  With advance notice, restaurant hours will be extended for special event weekends and for special group activities Paid Interpretive Guided Tours Daily at 9:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 2:00 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. This former bank houses a large weapons exhibit including matchlocks, flintlocks, muskets, rifles, shotguns, revolvers, and Bowie knives. The majority of the items were collected by the late B.W. Edwards, a building contractor in Hope, Arkansas. Edwards donated his lifetime collection of over 600 weapons so that others could enjoy them on exhibit. Facilities: The park offer full facilities including options for lodging, a restaurant, restrooms and a gift shop. This building was originally located 10 miles away just off the Southwest Trail in the community of Marlbrook. Built in 1832, it was owned by John Williams and, during the 19th century, served as a local tavern for travelers. In the 1980s, the building was moved to Washington. It continues that tradition of welcoming travelers serving as the restaurant at Historic Washington State Park. Location Contact Information: Old Washington Historic State Park P.O. Box 98 Washington, Arkansas 71862 Phone: (870) 983-2684 Fax: (870) 983-2736 Email: oldwashington@arkansas.com Web: www.oldwashingtonstatepark.com Historic Washington State Park Photo Gallery Click Here for full page gallery     More Photographic Destinations in Arkansas Interactive Google Map Use the map  + – controls to zoom in and out, use the Map drop-down to change to “Map”, “Satellite”, “Hybrid”, or “Terrain” views.  Drag the little man icon from the upper left corner to a map location for street level view. Click on a pushpin for more information about the Photographic Destination, then click on the title to go to the location page. Click Here for Photographic Destinations by State    All the information in this post was believed to be accurate at the time it was published.  Please be sure to double check with the location before relying on this information as everything changes over time, especially hours, prices, and whether the location is still open.   Great Places for Great Photos   Let me help you to find a great location for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser-known destinations, as well as the famous "Icon Locations" for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information, consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to ensure a quality guide to great locations for photography. If you know of great places that are not posted, please send me the details, I may just decide that is a place I need to go!     Greg Disch is a freelance photographer located in Arkansas. Greg specializes in nature, scenic, wildlife, and other outdoor subjects in Arkansas and other areas of the country.  Most of the images on this site are available for sale as prints, personal use, or rights managed stock photos. Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group. All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention, you need.  Most classes and workshops are limited to a maximum of six participants and will be held with a minimum of only two. If you are looking for a wonderful opportunity to get personal individual instruction, I do private workshops and classes at a location of your choice, whether doing a location photo shoot, coming to your home or business, traveling across the country on a road trip, or at my classroom.  This is a fantastic way to learn digital workflow and be sure that your computer equipment is properly configured for optimum performance. [...]

Workshops and Classes

Complete photography workshop information, including schedules, and individual outlines are found within the Workshops section.

Greg offers both classroom instruction and in the field hands on photographic workshops. Classroom sessions are normally held in Fort Smith Arkansas, but arrangements can be made to bring a class to your group.

All classes and workshops have small class sizes designed to provide an optimum student to instructor ratio, where you can get the personal attention you need.

My workshops and classes are designed around the students needs, with a hands on approach.I provide a photography workshop, not just a photo tour, my goal is provide you with as much personal hands on assistance as possible. I will check with each participant to see how you are doing and if you need help, if you wish for assistance let me know, if not just let me know, and you will be free to shoot on your own. I am more than willing to look through your viewfinder or at your LCD to check your images and offer constructive critique.

Photographic Destinations

I will be posting an ongoing project I call “Photographic Destinations”.

Great Places for Great Photos

Let me help you to find a great location  for your next photography adventure.  I will list many lesser known destinations, as well as the famous “Icon Locations” for photography.  I will provide photos (Lots of Photos), location information,  consisting of what there is to photograph as well as other information about the destination.  I will give costs, maps, directions, contact information, and other essential information for a successful photo trip.  I will only post for locations that I have personally photographed to insure a quality guide to great locations for photography.

If you know of great places that are not posted, please send me the details, I may just decide that is a place I need to go!

Abandoned Longhorn Ammunition Plant Wilderness Park Bamboo Forest Historic Washington State Park Glade Creek Grist Mill Canadian River Wagon Bridge Yeso Ghost Town Dunkirk Lighthouse Toadstool Geological Park Muleshoe Bend Bluebonnets Galleta Meadows Sculptures Sabine Pass Lighthouse Red Covered Bridge Fort Clinch State Park Mushroom Rock State Park Clayton Lake Dinosaur Trackways Ha Ha Tonka State Park Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site West Quoddy Head Lighthouse Beavertail Lighthouse Thurmond Historic District Knox Covered Bridge Niagara Falls State Park Ryus Kansas Abandoned Carbon Black Plant Michigan City Breakwater lighthouse Organ Pipe Cactus - Bates Well Ranch Algoma Pierhead Lighthouse Holy City of the Wichitas St. Augustine Lighthouse Fairbank Ghost Town Cana Island Lighthouse Sherwood Point Lighthouse Eagle Harbor Lighthouse Cockspur Island Lighthouse St. Marks Lighthouse Crooked River Lighthouse Kymulga Mill and Covered Bridge Salvation Mountain Loren Pratts Little Chapel Bay Covered Bridge State Road Covered Bridge Pass Christian Harbor St George Island Lighthouse Cape San Blas Lighthouse Round Island Lighthouse Anclote Key Lighthouse Sanibel Island Lighthouse Chapel On The Dunes Padre Island National Seashore Bombay Beach Castle Dome City Ghost Town Tumacacori National Historical Park Aransas National Wildlife Refuge Port Isabel Lighthouse Ruby Ghost Town Saguaro National Park Erie Street Lowell Arizona Pea Ridge National Military Park Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument Carlsbad Caverns National Park City of Rocks Pumpkin Patch Anza Borrego Desert Shakespeare Ghost Town Centennial Land Run Monument Texola Ghost Town Mount Rushmore National Memorial Simpson Springs Pony Express Station Randall Covered Bridge Meteor Crater Elmer Long's Bottle Tree Ranch Sand Island Lighthouse Fire Wave - Valley of Fire State Park Great Sand Dunes National Park Nubble Lighthouse Big Sable Point Lighthouse Soulsby Service Station Rt 66 Groveton Covered Bridge Valle Grande - Valles Caldera National Preserve Pecos National Historical Park Bowman Lake Glacier National Park Thermopolis Hot Springs State Park Craters of the Moon National Monument Raspberry Island Lighthouse Rainbow Bridge National Monument Alta Ghost Town Glenrio Ghost Town Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Spencer Ghost Town Ute Ulay Mine and Henson Town Site Horseshoe Bend Platte River Sandhill Cranes Kidder Covered Bridge Motif No. 1 Rockport Harbor Fort Donelson National Battlefield St. Simons Island Lighthouse Vicksburg National Military Park Fort Frederica Caddo Lake Abandoned Eagle Lake and West Branch Railroad Moonshiners Cave Old Car City Reagan Mill Great Smoky Mountains National Park Jolly Mill Clingmans Dome Great Smoky Mountain National Park Fort Matanzas National Monument Cable Mill Great Smoky Mountains National Park Mingus Mill Great Smoky Mountain National Park The Rock Garden Ruby Falls Mammoth Cave Cumberland Falls Rock City Castillo de San Marcos National Monument Castle Rock Badlands Old Oxford Mill Elk Falls Waterfall and Living Ghost Town Pinkerton Hot Springs Bandelier National Monument Talimena Scenic Drive Glory Hole Waterfall Cumberland Island National Seashore Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge Fort Larned National Historic Site American Windmill Museum VLA - Very Large Array Radio Telescope Rockbridge Mill Tallgrass Prairie Preserve Bob's Gasoline Alley Gay Parita Sinclair - Paris Springs Junction Cypress Tree Tunnel Point Reyes National Seashore Point Cabrillo Lighthouse SS Point Reyes Shipwreck Point Arena Lighthouse Umpqua River Lighthouse Mary D Hume Shipwreck Coquille River Lighthouse Cape Blanco Lighthouse Yaquina Head Lighthouse and Outstanding Natural Area Heceta Head Lighthouse Maxwell Point Tunnel Oceanside Beach Devils Punchbowl Cape Meares Lighthouse Oysterville Haystack Rock Cannon Beach Grays Harbor Lighthouse Tybee Island Lighthouse Turner's Mill Topaz Mill Hodgson Water Mill Madame Sherri's Castle Crystal Mill Judge Roy Bean Visitor Center Paydown Mill Mariscal Mine Big Bend National Park Stonehenge II Terlingua Ghost Town Fort Davis National Historic Site Fort Leaton State Historic Site Wildseed Farms Bollinger Mill State Historic Site Canyon de Chelly National Monument Dillard Mill State Historic Site Star's Mill Boxley Mill Klepzig MIll Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark Fort Morgan Pensacola Lighthouse Montauk Mill Fort Scott National Historic Site Falling Spring Mill Alley Spring Mill Atchafalaya Swamp Oak Alley Plantation Chimney Rock National Monument Animas Forks Ghost Town Ironton Ghost Town Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 New Orleans Watson Lake Fort Pickens Gulf Islands National Seashore Teter Rock Flint Hills Kansas Drinkwater & Schriver Mill Cedar Point Kansas Rodney Mississippi - Ghost Town Lake Martin Louisiana Swamp Shoshone Falls Red Mountain Mining District Zabriskie Point - Death Valley Marquette Harbor Lighthouse Dells Mill Tallgrass Prairie Preserve Bridges of Madison County Lost Lake Valley of the Gods Monument Valley Goosenecks State Park The Palouse Fort Worth Stockyards Little Missouri Falls Missouri State Penitentiary Fiery Furnace Arches National Park Mormon Row Historic District - Grand Teton National Park Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument Hoh Rain Forest - Olympic National Park Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Red Oak II Missoura Garvan Woodland Gardens Blanchard Springs Caverns and Recreation Area Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness New Mexico Garnet Ghost Town Montana National Bison Range Montana 1880 Town - Murdo South Dakota Windsor Ruins - Port Gibson Mississippi War Eagle Mill and Bridge Parker-Hickman Farmstead Buffalo National River Driftwood Beach Jekyll Island Georgia The Old Mill Steel Creek - Buffalo National River Arkansas Cave Point Park - Door County Wisconsin Monument Rocks Kansas Petit Jean State Park, Arkansas Rhyolite Nevada, Ghost Town Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway Depot White Sands National Park - New Mexico Natural Falls Waterfall - Oklahoma Fort Smith National Historic Site Shattuck Windmill Museum - Oklahoma Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ - Groom Texas Fort Union National Monument - New Mexico Cimarron National Grassland - Kansas El Malpais National Monument - Sandstone Bluffs San Antonio Missions National Historic Park Picher Oklahoma - Birth of a Ghost Town Haw Creek Waterfall and Campground Natural Dam Arkansas Waterfall Cadillac Ranch - Amarillo TX Chloride Arizona -Ghost Town and More! Lost Valley - Eden Falls - Buffalo National River High Bank Twin Falls - Arkansas Cherokee Prairie Natural Area - Arkansas Antelope Canyon - Page Arizona Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge Devil's Den State Park Arkansas Sam's Throne Arkansas Alum Cove Natural Bridge Arkansas Tarpon Springs Florida

Stock Photo Galleries

Search from thousands of images in my online galleries   I am excited to be able to offer my images available for browsing or purchase.

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Home July 4, 2010