Street portraits are spontaneous collaborations occurring when a photographer and subject genuinely connect. It takes skill and confidence to approach someone new, ask to take their portrait, and then weave the existing light and environment together into an image.

Our week focuses on building the technical and creative skills required to work nimbly within the energy of the street. Jennifer Spelman shares techniques for directing subjects that aren’t used to being photographed and strategies for working flexibly within changing lighting conditions.

Our daily assignments begin with photographing one another, advance into working with models on location and progress to photographing subjects we encounter on the busy, colorful streets infused with the beautiful Mexican culture. We develop our skills of approaching subjects with an active eye, heart, and mind, ready to capture their stories with sensitivity.

San Miguel de Allende and surrounding towns provide stunning environments for creative photography, offering a wealth of portrait opportunities to test newfound skills and build confidence. In addition to spending time in the field utilizing these new skills, we also engage in critiques and lectures. Throughout, Jennifer is on hand to provide on-the-spot guidance and instruction.

Come prepared to bring out the best in yourself and your subjects! Everyone we meet in life has a story, and it’s a beautiful gift to create a dynamic portrait that shares the life of a stranger.