Testimonials

This was my best photography workshop experience, by FAR. The professional instructors where extremely approachable and giving of their time and honest and direct feedback and advice, and luckily they just happen to be nice people. I learned a LOT and broke through some personal barriers on a quest to the next level of image-making. The workshop was fast-paced and JAM-packed with opportunities to learn and participate, and it was FUN. If you are serious about taking and processing the best images possible, Visionary Wild has a great balance of field work and classroom sessions that includes instruction and critiques. And they don’t cut corners in terms of comfort and dining! I write this review with some trepidation as I don’t want all the sessions to immediately fill and lock me out…but I want to try to be a nice, honest and good person too. –Bruce L., 2012 participant

The best workshop which I have attended–in every respect. John Shaw, Jack Dykinga and Justin Black worked together to give the nine participants the best preparatory tips and assistance in the field followed by step by step photographic technique and workflow in both Lightroom and Photoshop. A daily positive critique of a number of shots taken by participants during the field outings and suggestions on how we could improve their quality both in camera and later in processing programs was extensively covered. The lodging, conference facilities, catering and dining in the area was also excellent.  –Suzanne D., 2012 participant

The workshop last week was extremely enjoyable & enlightening. The location, field & class room instruction, image reviews, fellow participants, & leaders were all top notch. In particular, the emphasis on the crafting of an image was crucially helpful for me, and this is now an essential step for my pre-visualization. I suspect that I did indeed get some of the best landscape images I’ve ever taken thank to the two of you. This workshop puts VW at the top of my list for landscape workshops. Thanks, Jack & Justin. –Carl Z., 2012 participant

Attending the workshop with Justin Black and Jack Dykinga in Boulder, Utah was a high point in my photographic learning experience. I have never been to a workshop presented as well as this one. The way Jack and Justin worked together in the classrooms and critiques was masterful. The critiques were done on raw files with Lightroom and Photoshop, which gave real critical insight into how we could improve our images, and also process them… It would be hard to improve on a workshop of this level. –Al W., 2012 participant

Justin’s enthusiasm for what he does in addition to his genuine interest in the locales that his workshops visit cannot be understated. Visionary Wild workshops are a must do for any serious photographer with a love for nature, travel, conservation and environmental photography. –Eric B., 2012 participant

I selected this workshop as I wanted to improve my “creative eye”. I was most interested in being able to repeatedly return to a location and re-shoot a scene learning how to handle the difficulties we often face when trying to compose an image. I liked that it wasn’t held at a well known location where getting the “iconic” photograph was the main focus but was about creating an “iconic” image in a beautiful location where there are no preconceived ideas of what that image “should be.” Being able to return to the same location multiple times and working the scene was really helpful in advancing my photographic skills. The daily critiques of participants images combined with how to process those images in Lightroom and Photoshop was invaluable. This has been one of my best learning experiences in advancing my skills and also the one of the most enjoyable. Visionary Wild has put together a truly unique workshop that any photographer who wants to improve their skills should take. –Julie F., 2012 participant

It’s difficult not to heap superlative praise on Jack Dykinga and Justin Black for their photographic expertise and their absolute willingness to share that expertise with the rest of us.  They are truly visionaries in the landscape photography world, and their love of the Grand Canyon is infectious, and are a lot of fun to be around. –Chuck T., 2012 Grand Canyon raft trip participant

Click here to read Chuck’s blog about our 2012 Grand Canyon by Raft photo expedition

I have attended several workshops over the years by multiple companies that offer these services. The ones that Justin was involved in were by far the most organized, best run workshops that I have attended. This is testimony to the attention to detail and understanding and accommodation of various photographic disciplines that Justin has to offer in organizing and running a workshop. – Eric B.

Having traveled to 5 continents, I can honestly state the Grand Canyon river trip was the best photo trip I have ever taken. Every bend of the river offered new sights and having Jack and Justin leading you to the best sights in the best light was awesome. Their constant availability was priceless. Just go do it! –Paul H., 2012 Participant

The workshops I have attended that have been organized or led by Justin Black have always been well-planned and exceptionally executed, but most importantly, they have been a joy to participate in and have helped me immensely in improving my photographic skills in tangible, concrete ways. – Peter T.

Absolutely, positively the best photographic workshop. The combination of Jack’s vision and emphasis on creative composition, John Shaw’s technical skills, both with capture and processing, and Justin’s organizational talents are unique and make this workshop a must for a photographers wanting to improve. -Tom B., regular client

When my nature photography needed a kick start after a decade of care-management for family elders I chose a workshop with Justin in Owens Valley. I was thrilled when another workshop with him in Lake Tahoe was announced. That second project propelled my desire to emerge as an artist with something to say. Following his advice continues to be important to my development. – Carl W.

Your knowledge regarding location, composition, & willingness to help at any time was exemplary. Just keep on doing it like you are presently running the workshops. Compared to feedback I have heard from some of my friends regarding other workshops yours are far superior. Instructors are down to earth, very knowledgable, teaching in ways that make the subject understandable. Knowledgable instructors, generous with their time, experience with the field location selected, guaranteed to improve your artistic talents and love of photography. –Paul H., Valley of Fire workshop participant

I’m excited that you are going to be running workshops again – I’ve done much of my best work during workshops that you have run.  Just the right combination of great locations and instruction. – Tom S.

Justin is awesome. Any trip, anywhere, anytime… – Dan W.

Hi Justin, I still think about the Tucson workshop frequently. Really enjoyed it! I’ve read your articles in Outdoor Photographer and have been eyeing your new workshops. Hope to see you sometime again. Thanks for a great time in Arizona. –Nancy R., 2012 Vision Workshop participant

Justin Black is a wonderful photographer, an excellent workshop organizer and leader, and just a really nice human being. I’ve been in three workshops and trips that Justin organized and led, and from my participant’s perspective they all ran flawlessly. He’s an excellent sounding board in the field and during image reviews, with sincere interest and cogent advice. You just can’t ask for more. –Mark G.

I have been on several trips with Justin and would be thrilled to attend another…he’s an outstanding host and teacher. –Jim M.

I’ve taken two workshops with Justin, and both were amazing. He’s got a great knack for keeping workshops fun and informative. A rare combination of personal photographic talent and ability to teach to others–regardless of experience–makes Justin’s workshops fantastic. – Kelly O.