"Elizabeth's instruction and assignments were extremely effective. She is engaging and sensitive." Val Paulson, former workshop participant

Elizabeth Opalenik has always been in love with photography as a metaphor for life—her life, or the life of the subject standing before her lens—believing photographs are self portraits that lie somewhere between imaginations and dreams. This workshop explores your stories and creative process to develop new ways to express your vision as a photographic artist.

We have all experienced times when we are not inspired photographically, but by revealing ourselves and examining our thought process in a supportive environment we find new paths for our creative purpose. Each day is about taking risks, and often being rewarded by our best images coming from failures and happy surprises. The week is for learning to work with natural and reflected light, models, and fabrics, as well as artistic and spiritual growth through critiques and discussions. There are daily assignments—using models, ourselves, and each other—in the beautiful and fertile locations around Santa Fe. You develop a firm grasp on using today’s tools for making effective photographs. While many images can be enhanced in post-production, good images begin in-camera with strong, heartfelt ideas.

Throughout the week Elizabeth shares extensive bodies of work that span her 35-year passion with photography as she discusses print presentation, organizing a portfolio, digital infrared and intimate, handmade books. Accept the possibility you will view the world differently when you leave.