Wandering around the Austin Organs Factory

Austin Organs is one of the truly great pipe organ factories of the world. And it's been located in our own Hartford, CT backyard since 1899. A handful of friendly artisans design and manufacture each organ to very tight specifications for clients throughout the country. Almost all parts are created from scratch using their many vintage machines.

From a photographer’s point-of-view, this place is astounding. The factory is cavernous. It's room after room of machinery, tools, and assorted parts dating back to the early 1900’s. With little change in almost a hundred years, just about every square foot of the factory holds the promise of wonderful photo opportunities. There's even a cat that quietly roams about.

I will be working with you, if you want, as you wander and photograph, suggesting shot locations, setup information, lighting possibilities, and camera angles. I’ll also review your images as you shoot, offering feedback and suggestions. And I’ll be assisting those of you needing help with the operation of your camera.

To give you an idea of what’s to be found at the Austin Organs Factory, here is a link to their website (click the tabs at the top of the page – you’ll find lots of photos to peruse): http://www.austinorgans.com/aoifactorygallery1.html

A few things to please keep in mind:

• Be sure your camera battery is charged. If you have them, bring extra batteries and camera cards. Also, bring your battery charger.
• Bring lenses ranging from close-up to wide-angle.
• A tripod and cable release (for firing the camera) will be useful.
• We'll be doing a bit of walking, including going up and down stairs.
• The photos you take cannot be used for any purpose other than your own personal use. They cannot be used for anything commercial or editorial.

Please note that no refunds are allowed unless the seminar is canceled. Also, switching from one seminar to another is not allowed. I need to know the exact number of attendees in a seminar to determine whether or not I can afford to run it.

Feel free to call with any questions. My cell phone number is 860-712-7098.