
Drone Photography Workshop in the New Jersey Pine Barrens
Saturday, October 17 from 6:30am to 8:30am – $100.00 – FULL
If you are interested in a second drone photography workshop get in touch with me here.
This workshop is limited to 4 people, but if there is additional interest, we can schedule more of these workshops.
Drone photography in the New Jersey Pine Barrens is pretty much illegal because they are banned in most parks and state forests. We will have the opportunity to photograph the sunrise on private land that contains an amazing creek, beaver dams and fall colors. This beautiful property is owned by the New Jersey Conservation Foundation and we have special permission to fly there.
Over 50% of the workshop fee is donated directly to the NJCF for their conservation efforts supporting the preservation and protection of New Jersey’s natural lands.
OVER $42,000 Raised for the
What to expect
After a brief introduction we will drive in a mostly undeveloped preserve to our launch location. This location is along a beautiful little creek and you will be able to fly in both directions. This workshop is limited to 4 people to minimize the number of drones flying around the area.
Who is this Workshop For?
This workshop is open to drone pilots with all levels of experience. If you want any instruction or need any help with your drone, let me know when you register and I’ll be happy to help you. There are some requirements for this workshop:
- Drone pilots must have a TRUST certificate or an FAA UAV pilot’s certificate.
- Drones over .55 pounds (250 grams) must be registered and have the registration number visible on the drone.
- All drones must be capable of transmitting remote ID
- Since we will be launching before sunrise, a strobing anti-collision light that is visible for at least 3 statute miles is required. These lights, such as the Firehouse Technology Strobe Anti-Collision Light are inexpensive.
- We will be flying in uncontrolled (Class G) airspace so no prior approvals are necessary.
If you have any questions at all about these requirements, please feel free to contact me here.
What are the New Jersey Pine Barrens?
This unique wilderness known as the Pine Barrens is anything but Barren. It is over 1 million acres in the most populated state in the United States. Come see and photograph this uniquely beautiful landscape with me. I’ve been exploring the Pine Barrens for close to 30 years and have found some pretty amazing places for photography. The forests, lakes, rivers, bogs, and even the cedar swamps offer their own beauty. These workshops are a mix of photography and instruction tailored to the workshop participants’ abilities and needs.
Camera Clubs – Ask about a customized presentation and workshop for your members. Contact me here for more information
See More New Jersey Pinelands Photography Here
Notes on these Pine Barrens workshops
- I keep these groups small so I can provide as much time as possible with each of you to help navigate the site, provide ideas, instruction and to discuss the technical and artistic side of photography.
- I always bring my camera and drone, but I’m not there to shoot, I’m there for you. If there is an unusual opportunity I may set up my camera, but primarily I have it to use for instruction.
- Nature and weather are unpredictable, especially in the Pine Barrens. Each day can bring a different experience, so understanding that it is important to keep the workshop itinerary flexible will help ensure the goal that you get great photographs while experiencing the beautiful New Jersey Pinelands.
- Since most drones are not waterproof, we will reschedule the workshop in case of rain or snow.
- You are free to cancel and get a full refund up to 30 days before the workshop. Within 30 days, if we can fill your slot, you will receive a credit for your fee that can be applied to any other workshop within the next 12 months. We will make every effort to fill your slot. If we cannot fill your slot, we cannot issue a credit.
- Once you register, I will send you more details about the workshop including a list of recommended equipment and clothing.
- The cost of the this workshop covers the instruction and access to the locations we will be photographing at. It does not include transportation, to and from the workshop, lodging, meals, etc.
Custom Tours
Let me know what you want to do and I’ll make it happen. We can mix instructional sessions or just explore the Pinelands. Contact me for more information and pricing.
FAQ’s
Do I need to be an advanced drone pilot to attend? No. These workshops are designed for photographers and drone pilots of all experience levels, from beginners to advanced. Instruction is tailored to each participant’s skill level.
What type of drone do I need? Any drone what has GPS controls and a camera. DJI and Autel drones are two popular examples. Drones .55 pounds (250 grams) and more must be registered with the registrations numbers displayed on the drone. Drones must transmit remote ID signals and have an approved anti-collision light for flying before sunrise or after sunset. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.
How physically demanding is the workshop? Not very. These workshops include rare vehicle access. Minimal walking is required, making the workshop accessible to photographers who prefer not to hike long distances with gear. I’ve had people with various conditions that limit mobility. If you have and concerns at all, please feel free to contact me. I will make every effort to accomodate you.
How many people are in each workshop? Each drone workshop is limited to 4 participants, plus myself. This small group size ensures personalized instruction and flexibility in the field. It also limits the number of drones in the air.
What will we photograph? Subjects may include: Wetlands and meadows along a winding creek along with forest scenes and more from the air and from the ground if you would like to bring your regular camera. Locations vary depending on weather, light, and seasonal conditions.
What happens if the weather is bad? Since drones are not waterproof, if rain is expected, the workshop will be rescheduled. If you cannot make the rescheduled date, you will receive a full refund or credit, whatever you prefer.
How does the conservation donation work? Over 50% of each workshop fee is donated directly to conservation efforts of the New Jersey Conservation Foundation. To date, over $40,000 has been raised to help preserve New Jersey’s natural lands.
Where do we meet? All workshops begin at designated parking areas. After a brief introduction, we will drive into the preserve.
How do I register? Registration details and availability are listed on this page. Workshops often fill quickly due to limited group size.




