Abandoned Odd Fellows Hall and Sunset Workshop in Carlisle – Saturday, June 22, 2024

Description

Date: Saturday, June 22, 2024
Time: 7:15p-9:45p
Cost: $110
Max Participants: 8

I am very excited to share with you my hometown of Carlisle, PA as well as one of the most interesting abandoned places I’ve explored in Pennsylvania: The Carlisle Odd Fellows Hall.

The workshop will start in the Odd Fellows Hall in downtown Carlisle and we will spend approximately an hour inside this space taking photos of this unique abandoned hall and the small side rooms in this space, including some incredible stained glass windows and murals.

This space isn’t overly large, but there are both large scenes and small details to photograph here, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy this space as much as I have.

Access to this space is strictly controlled and it is rarely open to the public. I believe that this is also the first time a group of photographers has been allowed to come in and spend time exploring and photographing the hall in a workshop setting.

Please note that access to the Odd Fellows Hall is via a rather steep two-story staircase. There are handrails and the stairs and in good condition, but you will need to climb these to reach the hall. Sadly, the stairs are the only way to the top, so this portion of the workshop is NOT handicapped accessible.

After photographing the Odd Fellows Hall, we will move to street level to photograph the very beautiful and historic downtown area of Carlisle at sunset and after dark. There are a lot of great shots to be had here, and it’s been one of my personal favorite places to photograph over the last few years.

During this portion of the workshop, we’ll talk about the proper settings for both sunset and after-dark photography, different techniques that you can use to get properly exposed images, and how to photograph light trails.

For both portions of the workshop, I will be available to help as much or as little as you’d like, though there will be some group instruction related to shooting light trails and nighttime photos. You will get the most out of the workshop if you at least have a basic idea of how to work your camera.

For equipment, I’d recommend having a DSLR or mirrorless camera to get the most out of the event and instruction. Since all cameras are a bit different, I’d recommend bringing your manual in case we need to figure out how to change a setting on your camera.

I also HIGHLY recommend a tripod as not having one will greatly limit your potential shots, though we can work around it if you don’t have one.

While not necessary, if you have a polarizing filter, a neutral density filter, and/or a camera timer, I recommend bringing them, and I can help you learn how to use them during our time together.

As for site safety while in the Odd Fellows Hall, the site is fairly clean and there are few hazards here compared to most similar types of places. That being said, this is not a pristine site and a variety of hazards are present here. Those sensitive to poor air quality may want to consider wearing a mask. All participants will be required to sign a waiver denoting the risks associated with exploring this property.

Due to site rules, no one under 18 is allowed on this workshop. Furthermore, all attendees must purchase a ticket even if they won’t be shooting photos. Note again that the Odd Fellows portion of the workshop is not handicapped accessible and requires climbing some long and steep staircases.

This workshop also has a minimum number of participants required for it to go on. Should that minimum not be met at least 10 days prior to the workshop, all money will be refunded.

Generally speaking, tours will go on even if there is a threat of inclement weather. After all, you can get some great shots during poor weather and the first half of the event is entirely indoors. Should dangerous weather conditions or other conditions force a cancellation, we will attempt to reschedule the workshop. If you are unable to attend the rain date, you can apply your amount paid to another photo workshop or receive a full refund.

If you have any other questions, read our FAQ page. You can also message me using the form below.

About the Instructor

Jim Cheney is the writer, photographer, and creator of Uncovering PA. He is an award-winning photographer who has photographed all 67 counties in Pennsylvania. Jim’s photography focuses on creating unique images utilizing long-exposure shots of waterfalls, sunsets, sunrises, and cityscapes. He also has an interest in abandoned photography.

You can see more of his work on the Uncovering PA Instagram page or on his personal Instagram, JimCheneyPhotography.

Click here for a list of equipment used by Jim.