How about traveling with Mathieu Dupuis, the first Quebec photographer published by National Geographic ? Enthusiasts who want to learn how to set their lens in the desert, respect street photography ethics and set their alarm for a more than early sunrise, could have the opportunity to join him during 12 days in Morocco or 9 days in the Arctic.
It will cost $4410 to live the Moroccan experience with the photographer next April. “I went to do the scouting a few months ago and my head is still there,” explains the native Témiscabitibien to whom we spoke by videoconference, while he was working in Abidjan, in Côte d’Ivoire.
In his eyes, the variety of landscapes in Morocco is one of the many strengths of the small African country. “There is the maritime aspect with the section near Essaouira, the very cultural side in Marrakech and the nights in bivouac in the Sahara desert, without forgetting the Atlas with its high mountains of more than 4000 m. »
PHOTO PROVIDED BY MATHIEU DUPUIS
In the eyes of Mathieu Dupuis, the variety of landscapes in Morocco is one of the country’s many strengths.
Photography enthusiasts who will follow him to the Arctic in August 2023 will have to pay the tidy sum of $11,280. “I don’t know the exact route yet,” he says. It is an exploratory journey. We are going to go through the Northwest Passage aboard a ship that will give us access to a scientific and environmental dimension, with several zodiac outings. »
Two-way learning
It was at the invitation of Terres d’aventures that the photographer decided to offer workshops while traveling. “My goal is to convey my vision of reporting on the ground. When I exchange with photo clubs, amateur photographers, professionals or semi-professionals, these encounters are always super enriching. »
He also says that the transfer of knowledge goes both ways. “I don’t have the science infused in photography. Sometimes people will bring me creative dimensions that I wouldn’t necessarily have borrowed. »
Not surprisingly, trips are offered to experienced photographers and “newbies” who want to learn more about the craft. “Obviously, if we realize during the preparatory meetings that the people registered only have a smartphone to take their photos, it won’t work. But we do not ask for a portfolio to check their level. Reservations are taken on a first come, first served basis. »
There is no doubt that participants will greatly benefit from the photographer’s expertise. Whether it’s to play with the contrasts of the desert, to do justice to the shades of yellow, pink, ocher or blue under the full moon. To use their different lenses to have fun with the perspectives.
Or to approach people by establishing a relationship that allows them to have authentic photos.
In street photography, when you follow someone, you have to be on the lookout for the right moment that falls into place with the right light, without however interfering with their path. I want to show participants to see all the little things that line up when you pay attention.
Mathieu Dupuis, photographer
Oscillating between 10 and 12 participants, the groups of the two trips will be relatively intimate. But this will nevertheless require an adjustment on the part of Mathieu Dupuis, who is used to working solo and waking up at impossible times to capture the decisive moment. “It is a concern that occupies my mind. That said, people will be free to do whatever they want. If they want to participate only in the sunset and sleep in the morning, that’s up to them. However, they may be jealous seeing the photos of those who have set their alarm very early to take advantage of very beautiful lights. »
For his part, he will be there evening and morning. “There will be early awakenings, but it will remain comfortable journeys. We will adjust and save ourselves to be active at the right times. We will always be in the quest for the best lights possible. »