Yellow Dog Village Photo Workshop – Saturday, May 4, 2024 (Afternoon Session)

Description

Date: Saturday, May 4, 2024
Time: 2:00p-6:00p
Cost: $85
Max Participants: 15
Location: Near Kittanning, Pennsylvania

Yellow Dog Village near Kittanning has a long history that makes it a fascinating place to explore and photograph. The homes here were built in the 1910s and 1920s for workers at the nearby limestone mines. The village was built to stop them from forming a union, known as a Yellow Dog Contract, hence the village’s name.

Even though the mine closed in the 1950s, the homes were lived in up until about 2010 when it was completely abandoned. This long and varied history means the homes have many fascinating stories to tell. For more information about the site’s history, or to see a few more images, check out my full article on Yellow Dog Village.

The site is currently home to roughly two dozen structures, of which typically 15-16 will be open for exploration and photography (Note that the exact number is subject to change). Inside, you’ll find historic period details, as well as many furnishings and belongings that were left by the residents who moved out just over a decade ago.

Since the site was fairly recently abandoned, the buildings remain structurally sound, but nevertheless, it’s amazing what the power of moisture and nature can do in such a short period of time.

After a short overview of the village’s history and future, as well as a few ground rules, you will have the rest of the time to explore the many fascinating homes. While many have the same layout, the variety of furnishings left in each makes every home feel very different. Whether you like photographing architecture, macro, or urbex photography, there’s enough here to keep you occupied for the full workshop.

This workshop will be a bit less structured than some of my other workshops due to the nature of the site. However, I will be available throughout the day and will be wandering through the property trying to check in on as many people as possible during the event.

That being said, for anyone who wants or needs some assistance with photos, I will provide as much instruction as I possibly can during the event, and we will start together in one of the buildings on the property to help you get a feel for the site.

While this site is open to the public on occasion at a slightly lower cost, this workshop will allow you to see the site with a much smaller group (roughly 30% of the public tour capacity) meaning that you’ll have plenty of space to explore and get the photos that you want. In fact, the number of buildings here is roughly the same as the group capacity, so you’re very likely to have entire buildings to yourself during this workshop.

As for site safety, I highly recommend boots, long pants, and some sort of mask. While the buildings are structurally sound, these are all old homes, and I don’t know what type of mold or dangerous chemicals may be hiding in the disintegrating building materials. Many of the structures are surrounded by tall grasses that may harbor hazards including ticks to snakes.

It’s worth noting that while some clean-up has been done here, there are some very rough areas here that can present hazards for visitors. All guests will be required to sign two waivers (one for me and one for the site). Also, closed-toe shoes and masks are highly recommended (due to airborne hazards like mold in the buildings). I also recommend a flashlight as some spots can be a bit dark.

Because of these hazards, unfortunately, no one under 10 is allowed on this workshop. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied at all times by a parent or guardian and won’t be admitted without one Furthermore, all attendees must purchase a ticket regardless of age or whether they will be shooting photos.

Drone photography is permitted on the property, and I am an FAA Part 107 certified drone pilot, so I’m happy to help with tips regarding drone photography and videography. Note that drone pilots will be required to follow all FAA and state rules during their visit. No last-minute refunds will be given if drone flying is not possible due to weather, temporary flight restrictions, or other factors out of the control of the instructor and the site owners (as you can still explore the site from the ground).

Since the picture-taking opportunities are primarily indoors, the workshop will go on if there is rain or inclement weather unless the forecasted weather creates dangerous conditions for participants. If we must cancel the workshop, we will try to reschedule it. If you are unable to attend the rescheduled date, you can apply your amount paid to another photo workshop or receive a full refund.

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 monies will be refunded.

If you have any other questions regarding refund policies, suggested equipment, or anything else, read our FAQ page. You can also message me using the form below.

Check out our other Pennsylvania Photography Workshops here.

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 UncoveringPA Instagram page or on his personal Instagram, JimCheneyPhotography.

Click here for a list of equipment used by Jim.