This wonderful island in the
Chesapeake Bay has been described as an island out of time. It lends itself
to a unique learning experience for all levels of photographer. Known as the
soft shell crab capital of the world, it is one of the last places of its
kind in the east. The unfortunate reality is that the character and
traditions of the island are beginning to change due to the decline in
fishing and crabbing opportunities and the constant search for a means to
pay the bills. Many of the local fishermen have taken other jobs off the
island to help support their families. Many of their children elect not to
return once they get onto the mainland to attend school. Life is not easy
for the islanders, but it is the life they love and struggle to maintain. So
who knows how much longer this island out of time will remain.
Photo opportunities include: the waterfront, working watermen, their gear
and vessels, a fast fading fishing community, marsh scenics, birds,
dry-dock/graveyard for working vessels, sunrises and sunsets, the beach,
abstracts…You’ll have a chance to record islanders living life as they have
for generations and note how modern times are affecting it.
Lodging will be at a B&B on the water in Tangier. A delicious Breakfast is
provided. Other meals are not included but will be taken at one of the few
local restaurants. With a little luck on our side, but not guaranteed, we’ll
visit Smith Island for a real treat – a simple but scrumptious crab cake
sandwich you won’t soon forget highlighted by the 9-10 layer Smith Island
Cake which has become the official cake of Maryland. (If you don’t like crab
there are alternatives.) According to an article written for the National
Geographic Traveler, “it is absolutely the World’s best crab cake” and it
will be served especially for our group.
We’ll depart promptly at 10:00 a.m. by Ferry from Reedsville, VA, on Friday
and headed to Tangier. You should arrive no later than 9:30 a.m. We’ll
leave Tangier on Sunday by the same Ferry at 2:00 p.m. Cost $725 includes
the boat, lodging, two breakfasts and instruction. Transportation on the
island is by golf cart and we highly recommend that you rent one. The cost
is around $100.00 for the weekend and must be reserved through me ahead of
time. It is their main mode of transportation and makes for getting around
much more fun. You can share the expense with a fellow photographer. Each
cart will carry 2 to 4 people plus gear. We’ll collect the cart fee once we
get to the island.
If you would like to register for this workshop, click here
for the Registration Page.
