2026 Great Plains Storm & Weather Photography Workshop
1. What are the workshop dates?
Participants may book one week or both weeks.
2. Where does the workshop begin and end?
All workshops begin and end in Denver, Colorado, allowing maximum flexibility to chase storms north, east, or south depending on daily conditions.
3. Is there a minimum age to participate?
Yes. Participants must be 18 years of age or older.
This workshop involves extended travel days, physical mobility requirements, late hours, and inherent weather-related risk. For safety, legal, and insurance reasons, minors are not permitted under any circumstances.
4. How many photographers are in the workshop?
Each workshop is limited to a maximum of six photographers, accompanied by two instructors.
5. Why is the group size so small?
Small groups allow:
This is an intentional design choice, not a limitation.
6. Is this a guaranteed tornado workshop?
No.
This is a storm and weather photography workshop, not a tornado guarantee. Tornadoes may occur and may be photographed from safe, controlled distances, but they are not promised.
7. What weather types might we photograph?
Depending on atmospheric conditions, possible subjects include:
Weather is never guaranteed.
8. Why is the two-week option recommended?
Storm cycles are unpredictable. One week may offer limited opportunity depending on timing.
Two weeks increase:
You are buying time and probability, not certainty.
9. What is a typical day like?
There is no fixed schedule.
Expect:
Storms dictate the day.
10. Is this workshop physically demanding?
Yes, moderately.
Participants must be 18 years of age or older and able to:
If you have doubts about your ability to safely participate, contact Focused Adventures before booking.
11. Is transportation provided?
Yes.
Transportation is provided in a 15-passenger van configured to carry only 8 occupants (2 instructors and 6 photographers).
12. How much luggage can I bring?
Space is limited.
Each participant may bring:
Oversized or excess baggage cannot be accommodated.
13. Are food and drinks provided?
Soft drinks, water, and light snacks are provided in the van daily.
Meals are not included.
14. What kind of meals should I expect?
On active storm days, expect fast food or quick stops.
On lighter days, sit-down meals may be possible, at your own expense.
15. What lodging is included?
All hotel nights during active workshop days are included except:
The night of May 23 is included only for two-week participants.
16. Will I have my own hotel room?
Single rooms are provided whenever possible.
In rare cases where storm chaser demand overwhelms local availability, room sharing may be required.
17. What photography experience level is required?
This workshop is suitable for beginner to advanced photographers who are 18 years of age or older.
You must be comfortable operating your camera in manual mode (ISO, shutter speed, aperture). Instruction is provided in the field.
18. What photography gear should I bring?
Recommended equipment includes:
A detailed packing list will be provided prior to departure.
19. Will there be post-processing and critiques?
Yes.
Post-processing discussions and image critiques typically occur in the mornings after planning or during extended downtime.
If storms are active, priority is given to being in the field.
20. How close do we get to storms and tornadoes?
Safety always comes first.
Storms and tornadoes are photographed using appropriate lens choice, not proximity. Clear escape routes and situational awareness are maintained at all times.
21. What if the weather does not cooperate?
Storm forecasting and mobility allow us to adapt daily.
If storms are not within a reasonable driving range, alternative activities or locations may be discussed. Flexibility is essential.
22. What is the price of the workshop?
23. What is the deposit requirement?
24. When is the remaining balance due?
The remaining balance is due 60 days prior to the workshop start date.
25. What is the cancellation policy?
26. Is travel insurance required?
Yes.
Cancellation insurance is required to participate. A Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) policy is strongly recommended.
Proof of valid insurance coverage must be provided prior to participation.
27. Are flights included?
No.
Airfare to and from Denver is not included. Assistance with booking flights may be available upon request.
28. Can the itinerary change?
Yes.
This is a mobile workshop. Weather, road conditions, or safety considerations may require changes at any time.
29. What happens if I am uncomfortable with the conditions?
Storm photography requires adaptability.
Participants must be capable of independently following instructions and responding promptly to changing conditions. Safety and operational decisions rest solely with Focused Adventures and its instructors.
Failure to comply with safety directives may result in removal from the workshop without refund.
30. Who is this workshop best suited for?
This workshop is ideal for photographers who:
There is no guarantee of specific weather events, portfolio results, or skill improvement.
2026 Great Plains Storm & Weather Photography Workshop