The Texas hill country is best seen through a lens at Block Creek Natural Area. Every trip we’ve made to Block Creek has been wonderful and we are glad to be returning this fall. Join ICF coach Sean Fitzgerald for this 4 day Pro-Am that promises great photography complimented by the hospitality of our hosts, Larry and Sharron Jay and their charming bed and breakfast.
Schedule:
Day 1: Nov. 6th (Wed); Plan to arrive at the ranch in time for our opening dinner at 6:00 p.m. At this meeting you will get to know your coach and fellow participants while planning the first day of photography and reviewing the Pro-Am format.
Days 2, 3 and 4: Nov 7th-9th (Thurs – Fri); You will be photographing mornings, afternoons, and evenings. There will be a mid-day break for lunch and image processing, and another break for dinner, image processing, and image submission to the ICF website for judging.
Day 5: Nov. 10th (Sun); We will photograph in the morning, but no images will be submitted for judging. We will break for a closing meeting at lunch where the contest results will be announced. The Pro-Am will close in time for everyone to depart by 2:00.
Costs:
The cost of the Pro-Am itself is $1,560.00 and pays for your coach, access to the ranch, and the tournament. This fee is paid directly to ICF. $500.00 of this fee is a charitable donation and may entitle you to a tax deduction.
Lodging and meals are paid directly to Block Creek Natural area. The rate for this event is $144.80 per person per day and includes lodging, 3 meals, water, soda and snacks. The 4 day total is $579.20 per person.
Where is Block Creek?
Block Creek Natural Area is located between Comfort and Fredericksburg, Texas in what is commonly called the “Texas Hill Country.” The closest major airport is in San Antonio Texas, approximately 55 miles south of the ranch. The exact address will be sent to you after registering.
What to bring?
Like all ICF member ranches, Block Creek Natural Area has several photo settings with blinds, water, and food designed to produce great images with a 300mm lens or equivalent. We recommend at least one camera body, a good tripod, as many lenses as you can carry, a laptop with image processing software that you are familiar with, camera batteries, and memory cards. BCNA also offers some great macro opportunities, so please include your macro gear.
What to wear?
November weather in the hill country can be unpredictable. Generally, temperatures range from the 50s to the 80s (but can be cooler or warmer) and rain is a possibility. Pack closed toe shoes and comfortable socks, and comfortable clothing that you can layer. Much of the shooting will be from blinds, but there will be some walking and some shooting outside of blinds. Plan on long sleeves and long pants and it’s always a good idea to bring sun block and bug spray.
What to expect?
Sean Fitzgerald is an accomplished professional photographer and a great teacher who will help you to become a better photographer. Block Creek Natural Area is an excellent photography ranch designed to give you the best possible access to wildlife in settings that favor great images. The Pro-Am Tournament format is fun competition that encourages learning as participants work to win the favor of our judges. Our judges include nationally known photo editors who volunteer their time to help us achieve our conservation goals. In the end, you will learn more about wildlife, your camera, image processing, and how to create great images while helping to save wildlife one image at a time. Sign up and join us today!
