Personal portraits can be both mirrors and windows. The best ones capture the subject’s essence, while simultaneously conveying the unique qualities of the image-maker. Meaningful and poignant portraits are created from personal relationships. Photography is rooted in the real world, yet memory, mystery, and magic are often present in our images.

This photographic and personal adventure explores the relationships between our subjects, our photographs, and ourselves. By examining these relationships together, we discover how to make portraits that become powerful mirrors and windows.

We begin by looking at Debbie’s work, then focus on the elements that build meaningful and evocative portraits—developing sharp editing skills, learning problem-solving techniques for establishing relationships with subjects, gaining sensitivity to our surroundings, and becoming more observant. Daily assignments help participants hone the ability to recognize and capture the emotional context and revealing moments that define memorable portraits. The multicultural environs of Santa Fe offer rich opportunities for portraiture, and one-on-one sessions with Debbie inspire participants to personalize their images.

Join Debbie for four days of exploration and experimentation, and come away with strengthened skill and vision.