ADIRONDACK AUTUMN RETREAT -
INDIAN LAKE
September 21 - 26, 2025
Indian Lake, NY
Our signature event — an experience unlike any other workshop — for the first time in beautiful Indian Lake!
Special Note: With the popularity of the retreats, we are holding the majority of registration slots for this retreat for previous attendees
until January 15, 2025. After that, registration will be open to other intermediate to advanced level photographers.
The retreat program is our ultimate Adirondack photography experience; a classic artist's retreat for experienced photographers who want to immerse themselves in their craft. This is a time when all of your attention can be put toward realizing your vision and sharing the fruits of your creativity. As a participant you will be challenged to create a body of work based on your experiences during the week and share your results with the group. (We will be printing some of your work for display in the retreat space.) You will also assist in guiding your fellow participants toward their goals through your supportive suggestions and insights. You will be photographing a variety of Adirondack landscapes chosen for their diverse possibilities — scenic mountains, woods, and waters. Your activities will be planned to take advantage of all the little things that make the Adirondacks unique in the pantheon of American wild places.
Mark will play dual roles during the week: guide and participant. As a guide he has created activities and exercises designed to inspire and challenge you. He will also lead all field trips, discussions and critique sessions. As a participant he will be shooting along with you, sharing his work, and taking part in all creative activities. After the retreat he will assemble and share a representative selection of participants' work, as a memento of their experience.
Mark will provide any assistance that you require during the retreat, technical or otherwise, as the need arises. This is a great opportunity to expand your horizons while working alongside one of the region's premier photographers and teachers.
Camera Skills Needed
This program is for Intermediate and Advanced skill level photographers who would enjoy growing their skills while working in a close-knit group.
Description of skill levels - click here.
Computer Skills Needed
Participants should be capable of performing the image processing steps necessary to take their images from capture to print. Mark will be happy to assist you as needed.
Other Considerations
Locations visited during the retreat are easily accessible and do not require any strenuous hiking or climbing. However, participants must be in good physical shape and able to climb and descend moderate inclines.
As with all outdoor pursuits, some risk is inherent; all participants will be required to sign a waiver prior to the workshop.
Group Size
12 participants maximum.
Registration Fees
$1325
Deposit of $250 required at time of registration. Deadline for early registration discount is July 21st. Click here for information on any other discounts that may be available.
Details
Dates and Times
The Retreat begins Sunday, September 21, 2025 at 5:00 pm and ends Friday, September 26, 2025 at noon.
Where to Meet
Participants will gather at the Adirondack Trail Motel, 6450 NYS Rte 30, Indian Lake, NY.
Lodging
Lodging is the responsibility of the participant and is not included in the registration fee.
We suggest staying at the Adirondack Trail Motel. Contact them at (518) 648-5044 for reservations. A block of rooms has been held for our group, so please mention the Adirondack Photography Institute when making reservations. This is a small motel and early registration is highly recommended.
Other recommended lodging in Indian Lake:
Cabins at Chimney Mountain - 315-416-6874
Point Breeze Motel and Cottages - 518-648-5555
Snowy Mountain Inn - 518-648-5995
Meals
Meals are the responsibility of the participant and their cost is not included in the registration fee. Mark will work with the group to organize meal times and locations.
Getting to the Event
The two nearest airports are Syracuse Hancock International (SYR) and Albany International (ALB). Rental cars are available at both locations.
Transportation During the Event
Participants’ vehicles will be used for transportation during field trips. We will carpool to minimize the number of vehicles on field trips, and to lessen our impact on easily damaged roads and trails. Note that the instructor is not allowed to provide transportation for participants during the event.
What To Bring
Mark has provided a What To Bring list for the Retreat. Feel free to contact him with questions: mbowiephoto@gmail.com or (413) 442-9125.