Spirit of Structure: Abandoned Farms of North Dakota


Use isolated abandoned farmhouses and nearly deserted towns in North Dakota as back drops for multifaceted photos

© Tillman CraneImagine the unique opportunity to photograph in isolated abandoned farmhouses and nearly deserted towns in north central North Dakota. Conditions of the structures range from mere windowless shells to intact buildings containing personal belongings of the long gone occupants. Despite the perception that photographing buildings falls under the genre of architectural photography these structures also provide the photographer with rich possibilities for still life, portrait and abstract, as well as landscape interests.

This is a location workshop in which we will focus on creating photographs. All camera formats, film and digital, are welcome. Large format and film are welcome but be advised that there is no opportunity for processing film in the area. Digital photographers should bring their own laptop for editing their work. 

Although the emphasis is on making photographs, we will take time together as a group to look at each other’s work. If you are working with a digital camera, you have the choice of showing images made during the workshop or from a portfolio you have brought with you. Those working with only film will have to bring a portfolio of images for review.

For all participants: Bring five of your images for introductions. All reviews will be done in the five-images-in-five-minutes format.

Based in and around Rugby and Rolette, we will work in at least two locations each day. Rugby, the geographical center of North America with a population of approximately 3000, is where we will be lodging.  Most locations are within an hour’s drive and if there is a particular location that speaks to you there will be ample opportunity to explore that site several times. Most of your days and evenings we will be spent photographing.

Participants are responsible for lodging, meals and transportation. The workshop will begin on Sunday (May 15th) at 6 p.m. with dinner at the Northern Lights Inn. We will end the week with a closing dinner on Friday (May 20th).

Transportation, Lodging

Hotel:  Rooms are reserved under Tillman Crane Photography Workshop.

Northern Lights Inn
HWY 2 East
PO Box 165
Rugby, ND 58368
701 776 5776

Travel: Airports: Minot ND (MOT) is ~ 62 miles from Rugby.
Bismarck ND (KBIS/BIS) is ~ 125 miles from Rugby. 
AMTRAK serves Rugby as well

Rental Car: Participants will need to arrange for car transportation.


For further information contact tillman@tillmancrane.com