McConnells Mill State Park Photo Workshop – Saturday, May 30, 2026
$150.00
In stock
Description
Date: Saturday, May 30, 2026
Time: 7:00a-12:00p
Cost: $150
Max Participants: 8
Location: McConnells Mill State Park
McConnells Mill State Park in western Pennsylvania is one of my favorite state parks in Pennsylvania. There are historic structures, beautiful waterfalls, and an incredible stream just waiting to be uncovered, which makes this a great spot for a photography workshop.
We will start our time photographing the area around the historic mill, covered bridge, and dam, which is one of the most scenic areas that you’ll find in any state park. We will then do a loop hike along the beautiful Slippery Rock Creek passing flowing waterfalls and other beautiful scenery.
Exactly what route we take will depend on the group and how fast we move, but we’ll have plenty of time to find great compositions along the trail and to talk about the best settings and how to get a great image.
The workshop will cover settings for how to get a smooth look to your waterfall images. We will also discuss how to adjust your shutter speed to cover a variety of lighting situations and to create a variety of looks in flowing water. Whether you want smooth water, a bit of motion, or to stop the movement of water completely, we’ll talk about how to achieve these results.
We will also cover the different shooting modes that you can utilize, how to properly meter your images in challenging lighting situations, helpful filters to have when shooting moving water, and creating images with great composition.
This workshop is geared towards beginner or intermediate-level photographers, but anyone is welcome to come along to enjoy shooting in a small group setting. However, while this is a workshop for beginner and intermediate-level photographers, you’ll get the most out of it if you have a basic idea of how to work your camera.
At a minimum, I’d recommend having a camera that you can change the shutter speed on and knowing how to do so. 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. Please note the full list of required and recommended gear below.
Generally speaking, the workshop will go on even if there is a threat of inclement weather. After all, you can get some great shots during poor weather. However, if conditions are dangerous, we may have to cancel the workshop at the last minute.
The workshop will be held on rough and slippery terrain and near water. We will be hiking 4-5 miles on trails rated “more difficult” and “most difficult” by the park in areas with limited cell phone reception in the event of an emergency. Please make sure that you are capable of handling this terrain before booking.
You are encouraged to consult your doctor if you have any medical concerns. I am happy to answer specific questions about the day and whether this is the right workshop for you.
This workshop also has a minimum number of participants required for it to go on. Should that minimum not be met at least a week prior to the workshop, all money will be refunded.
There is no minimum age to participate in this photography workshop. However, anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Everyone who joins will be required to purchase a ticket regardless of whether they are shooting photos or not.
Note that the ending time is approximate and may be a bit earlier or later than listed depending on how the day pans out.
Our recommended gear list is below. If you have any other questions or want information on our cancellation policy, read our FAQ page. You can also message me using the form below. I’m also happy to provide suggestions on how to spend the rest of your day in the area and will provide a few places to visit at the conclusion of the workshop.
Gear List
Required: Hiking boots or similar shoes with sturdy traction for uneven and slippery trails, drinking water
Highly Recommended: Camera you can change the shutter speed on, tripod, polarizing filter, neutral density filter (3-stop or 6-stop)
Other Recommended Gear: Remote timer, your camera manual, snacks
About the Instructor
Jim Cheney is the writer, photographer, and creator of Uncovering PA. He is an award-winning photographer that 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.
