Andrew Slaton Photography Expeditions
Big Cypress.
Into the Wild Heart of Florida.
Beneath ancient cypress canopies, where still waters reflect the forest and wildlife moves through the shadows, discover a side of Florida few travelers ever experience. Four days of photography, exploration, and creative discovery in one of America's most extraordinary wetlands.
The Expedition at a Glance
A Different Kind
of Wilderness.
Far beyond Florida's beaches and bustling cities lies a landscape of ancient cypress trees, mysterious blackwater, expansive wetlands, and remarkable biodiversity. Big Cypress invites photographers to slow down, look closer, and discover extraordinary beauty in the quietest places.
Expedition Dates
Jan 21–24
2027
Duration
4 Days
3 Nights
Group Size
Up to 6
Per Instructor
Investment
$2,200
Per Guest
Four Ways to Experience the Wild.
Ancient Cypress Forests.
Discover sculptural trees, flooded forests, delicate reflections, and the interplay of light and shadow beneath the cypress canopy.
Life in the Wetlands.
From wading birds and alligators to the smaller details of a living swamp, explore the photographic possibilities of one of North America's richest ecosystems.
Under Southern Skies.
When conditions allow, explore long exposures, star-filled skies, and the atmospheric possibilities of photographing the wilderness after sunset.
Photography Without the Rush.
A small-group workshop focused on thoughtful compositions, creative development, and meaningful time in the field, guided by Andrew Slaton.
The wildest places often reward
those willing to slow down.
The Spirit of Big Cypress
Where the Water
Holds the Sky.
There is a quieter, wilder Florida beyond the familiar horizon. A place where time seems to move with the water.
Here, ancient cypress trees rise from dark, reflective water. Morning light slips through Spanish moss, revealing delicate textures and unexpected color. The landscape changes with every step, every shift in the clouds, every breath of wind.
The beauty of Big Cypress isn't always announced in grand gestures. Sometimes it reveals itself in a single reflection, a shaft of light through the canopy, or the graceful movement of a bird through the wetlands.
This is a place that rewards patience. We'll explore it with open eyes, creative curiosity, and the freedom to follow the light wherever it leads.
The Photographic Experience
An Extraordinary World,
Waiting to Be Seen.
From intricate woodland compositions to expansive wetland skies, Big Cypress offers a remarkable range of photographic subjects. Each day is shaped by the conditions, the light, and the opportunities unfolding around us.
The Ancient
Cypress Forest.
Enter a world of sculptural trunks, tangled roots, delicate ferns, and quiet water. These forests offer extraordinary opportunities for intimate landscape photography and thoughtful compositions.
Photographic Focus
Forest compositions · Reflections · Texture · Light and shadow
The Wildlife
of Wild Florida.
Big Cypress is alive with wildlife. Wading birds, alligators, turtles, and countless smaller species inhabit this remarkable ecosystem. We'll remain alert to the opportunities nature provides.
Photographic Focus
Wildlife portraits · Environmental storytelling · Bird photography
Reflections,
Mist & Light.
The most compelling moments often arrive at the edges of the day. Soft morning light, reflective pools, and changing skies transform familiar scenes into something entirely new.
Photographic Focus
Sunrise and sunset · Atmospheric conditions · Minimalism · Color
After the
Sun Goes Down.
Far from the brightest urban lights, Big Cypress offers exciting possibilities for night photography. When weather and conditions cooperate, we'll explore the creative potential of the landscape beneath the stars.
Photographic Focus
Long exposures · Star fields · Night compositions · Creative technique
Great photography begins with seeing. Big Cypress gives us the space to see differently.
Join the ExpeditionA Photographic Journey
The Beauty of Wild Florida.
A landscape of quiet moments, unexpected details, and extraordinary natural beauty. This is the world we'll explore together.
Your Expedition Leader
A Photographer.
An Explorer.
A Guide.
Andrew Slaton
For more than 25 years, Andrew Slaton has built a career around photography, storytelling, and the pursuit of extraordinary places. His work has taken him through diverse landscapes, always guided by curiosity and a deep appreciation for the natural world.
His workshops are designed around more than technical instruction. They're about developing a stronger photographic eye, learning to recognize exceptional light, and becoming more intentional about the images we create.
In Big Cypress, that philosophy comes alive. The landscape rewards patience, observation, and a willingness to explore beyond the obvious. Andrew's goal is to help each photographer discover those moments and translate them into meaningful photographs.
"The best photographs often begin with curiosity, patience, and the willingness to look a little closer."
Join Andrew in Big Cypress →Your Expedition Itinerary
Four Days.
A World Apart.
Four days immersed in the wild heart of South Florida. Our schedule is intentionally flexible, allowing us to respond to the light, weather, and photographic opportunities that make every visit to Big Cypress unique.
Thursday · January 21, 2027
Welcome to Wild Florida.
Our expedition begins in the Naples area, where we'll gather, get acquainted, and discuss our photographic goals for the days ahead. We'll review field techniques, safety considerations, and the conditions shaping our itinerary.
As the schedule and light permit, we'll head into the wetlands for our first photographic session, beginning to explore the distinctive character of Big Cypress.
Friday · January 22, 2027
Beneath the Cypress Canopy.
We'll devote our day to the extraordinary photographic possibilities of the cypress forest. Sculptural trunks, quiet pools, layered vegetation, and shifting light offer endless opportunities for compelling compositions.
Through hands-on guidance and individual exploration, we'll work on seeing beyond the obvious, simplifying complex scenes, and developing stronger landscape images.
Saturday · January 23, 2027
Wildlife, Water & the Night Sky.
Today we'll explore additional wetland environments, remaining attentive to wildlife encounters, changing skies, and the subtle beauty of this remarkable ecosystem. We'll work with both broad landscapes and intimate natural details.
If weather, access, and conditions cooperate, we'll also plan an evening session dedicated to long exposures and night photography beneath South Florida's darker skies.
Sunday · January 24, 2027
One Last Look at the Wild.
We'll make the most of our final photographic opportunities, revisiting favorite subjects or exploring new compositions as time and conditions allow.
Our expedition concludes with reflections on the images we've created, the techniques we've practiced, and the photographic possibilities that await beyond Big Cypress.
Itinerary is illustrative and subject to change based on weather, water levels, wildlife activity, access, and the needs of the group. Specific arrival and departure instructions will be provided before the workshop. Night photography is weather-dependent.
Four days to slow down,
explore deeply, and see differently.
Reserve Your Place
Everything You Need to Know
The Details
That Matter.
An intimate, thoughtfully organized photography expedition designed to maximize your time in the field. We handle the essential workshop logistics so you can focus on exploring, learning, and creating.
What's Included.
Three Nights of Shared Lodging
Accommodations in the Naples area, providing a convenient base for our photographic explorations. Lodging is shared unless otherwise arranged and confirmed.
Workshop Transportation
Ground transportation during scheduled workshop field activities, allowing us to explore photographic locations together.
Professional Photography Instruction
Field-based guidance with Andrew Slaton, including composition, exposure, creative technique, and individual photographic development.
Park and Access Fees
Applicable entrance and access fees for locations included in our scheduled workshop activities.
Breakfast and Field Snacks
Breakfast and snacks for our time exploring in the field.
Planning Your Expedition.
Dates and Meeting Location
January 21–24, 2027. Our workshop is based in Naples, Florida. Specific meeting instructions will be provided before departure.
Physical Activity
Moderate activity, including walking on uneven ground and off-trail exploration. Conditions may include mud, standing water, and wet terrain.
What to Bring
Your camera equipment, suitable outdoor clothing, sturdy footwear appropriate for wet environments, and personal essentials. A detailed recommended gear list will be provided.
Meals and Personal Expenses
Lunches, dinners, alcoholic beverages, personal purchases, and gratuities are not included unless expressly stated in your booking agreement.
Travel to South Florida
Guests arrange their own travel to the Naples area. Flights, transportation before and after the workshop, and other independent travel expenses are not included.
A Note on Exploring Big Cypress.
Big Cypress is a wild and dynamic environment. Weather, water levels, trail conditions, and wildlife activity can influence our plans. The itinerary remains flexible so we can prioritize safe access and the strongest photographic opportunities. Wildlife sightings and night-sky conditions cannot be guaranteed.
Small groups. Thoughtful exploration.
Extraordinary photographic opportunities.
Join the Expedition
Your Place
in the Wild.
Four days of extraordinary photography in one of Florida's last great wilderness landscapes.
Step away from the ordinary and experience Big Cypress through the eyes of a photographer. Explore ancient forests, discover extraordinary natural details, and develop your creative vision in a small, supportive group.
With lodging, workshop transportation, and professional photographic guidance included, you can devote your attention to the landscape and the images you came to create.
Dates
January 21–24, 2027
Duration
4 Days / 3 Nights
Location
Big Cypress, Florida
Group Size
Maximum 6 Per Instructor
January 2027 · Registration
Big Cypress
Photography Expedition
$2,200
Total workshop investment per guest
Your $500 deposit reserves your place and is applied toward the $2,200 workshop investment. Remaining balance payment timing, cancellation terms, and other booking conditions are governed by the applicable workshop registration agreement.
Some places stay with you
long after you've left.
Before You Go
Questions & Answers.
Everything you need to know before joining our Big Cypress photography expedition. If you have additional questions, we're always happy to help.
What photography skill level is required?
Photographers of different experience levels are welcome. Whether you're developing confidence with manual camera settings or refining an established photographic style, the workshop offers personalized guidance and creative challenges. A basic familiarity with your camera is helpful.
How physically demanding is the workshop?
Expect moderate activity, including walking on uneven terrain and exploring off established trails. Depending on conditions, some areas may involve mud or standing water. Guests should be comfortable walking outdoors while carrying their own photography equipment.
Please discuss any mobility concerns before booking so we can assess whether the planned activities are a good fit.
Will we be walking through water?
Potentially, yes. Some of the most interesting cypress environments may involve wet or muddy conditions, depending on seasonal water levels. Specific routes will be selected with safety and current conditions in mind.
What camera equipment should I bring?
A DSLR or mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses is ideal. A wide-angle or standard zoom is useful for landscapes and forest compositions, while a telephoto lens can be valuable for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light photography, reflections, and long exposures.
Bring extra batteries, memory cards, lens-cleaning supplies, and protection for your equipment in damp environments. A detailed gear recommendation will be provided before the trip.
Will we photograph wildlife?
Wildlife photography is part of the experience. Big Cypress is home to alligators, wading birds, turtles, and many other species. We'll take advantage of encounters as they arise, but wildlife sightings and specific subjects cannot be guaranteed.
Is astrophotography included?
Night photography is one of the potential workshop experiences. When weather, access, and sky conditions cooperate, we'll explore long exposures and photographing the landscape after dark. Specific celestial subjects and clear skies cannot be guaranteed.
What is the weather like in January?
January is generally part of South Florida's cooler, drier season, often making it an appealing time to explore Big Cypress. Temperatures can vary considerably between early mornings and afternoons, and rain or changing conditions remain possible. Layered clothing and weather protection are recommended.
Where will we stay?
Three nights of shared accommodations in the Naples area are included in the workshop investment. Specific lodging details and room arrangements will be communicated before the expedition.
What meals are included?
Breakfast and field snacks are included. Guests are responsible for lunches, dinners, and personal food or beverage purchases unless otherwise specified in the registration agreement.
Is transportation provided?
Transportation during scheduled workshop field activities is included. Guests arrange their own travel to and from the Naples area. Specific arrival instructions will be provided before the workshop.
How large is the group?
The workshop is limited to a maximum of six students per instructor, allowing for a more personal learning environment and individual attention in the field.
How much does the workshop cost?
The total workshop investment is $2,200 per guest. A $500 deposit reserves your place and is credited toward the total. The remaining balance is $1,700.
Payment deadlines, cancellation conditions, and refund eligibility are governed by the workshop's applicable registration terms.
Ready to Experience Wild Florida?
Join Andrew Slaton for four days of photography, exploration, and creative discovery in the remarkable Big Cypress wilderness.
Reserve Your Place