Vision Quest Photo Workshops

Zen and the Art of Photography

Hollyhock Retreat Centre, Cortes Island B.C. Canada, with Douglas Beasley, October 2–7, 2011

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Revitalize your photography while exploring your relationship to your subject, your camera and yourself. Through photo exercises, assignments and daily field trips, participants will learn to deepen their visual awareness while clarifying their approach, making image that are both more personal and more meaningful. Your photography will become more powerful by cultivating simplicity and developing the power of intuition, fueled by the proper balance of contemplation and decisiveness (be mindful/act now).

This workshop provides a unique opportunity to rethink your expectations of what it means to 'see'. We will work on cultivating simplicity and making more powerful photographs, supporting the notion that a photograph is not 'taken' but 'made'. We will learn to become stronger visually by becoming more in touch with our inner selves and then use that awareness to deepen our connection with our subject; whether it's a person, place, or thing. We will also pay attention to lighting, composition, depth-of-field and exposure issues. Much practical advice will be given in these areas but more importantly you will practice using this information to make more powerful and meaningful images.

Zen & the Art of Photography is a challenging invitation to redefine not only what is personally suitable subject matter but your whole approach to creative expression. Inspiration will be sparked by a balance of conversation, meditation, sharing photos, critiques, writing exercises, readings, poetry or whatever means necessary. Numerous photographic exercises and assignments will be site specific and are concerned with both internal and external experience and growth. Mornings will be spent in class and on photographic exercises and afternoons in the field with Doug, working on assignments, or enjoying the amazing Hollyhock facilities. Expect to learn from fellow students as well as from class activities. Be prepared to grow past your previously perceived boundaries.

Hollyhock Retreat Centre, located on the remote and beautiful Cortes Island, off the coast of British Colombia, Canada is an unparalleled centre of learning and connection that exists to inspire, nourish and support people who are making the world better.

Student testimonials from this workshop:

“I just wanted to write you and tell you what an incredible experience your latest workshop in Santa Fe was. It was exactly what I was looking for and more! You’re such an inspirational teacher. In fact, today after work I am going out and doing your simplify exercise.” — Nate Proctor, Walnut Creek, CA

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“The week’s experience with you has provided a base for my recommitment to photography. Everyone’s willingness to share and to listen to our personal individual photographic ‘hang-ups’ was very special.” — Woody Widlund, North River, NY

“I want to thank you again for what I learned and experienced in Santa Fe. I often find myself focusing on what I learned in your workshop and applying it during my shooting. I am also much more confident in my work and my vision.” — Cheryl Malone, Quincy MA

“I am writing to thank you for a life changing experience. My wife and I cried as we reviewed my photos from the course — especially the self-portrait. I know your teaching, or leading, has touched others before, but I hope you live a rich life for the incredible experience you have given me. And I learned some photography too.” — Blake Martin, South Windsor, CT

“I just want to send a personal note to tell you how much I enjoyed the workshop. I learned things that will help me move forward in my search for more creativity and feeling in my work.” — Jim McKinniss, Rodondo Beach, CA

“My images from this week have a certain resonance and emotional vibrance that my previous images did not have.” — Bob Kessler, Chicago, IL

“That short few days we spent together will be with me the rest of my life.” — Roderick Vesper, Cincinnati, OH

“Yours was the best workshop I was a part of in Santa Fe.” — Laura Ryan, Tierra Amerilla, NM

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Who should attend:

While participants must have a strong working knowledge of their camera, the creative process of image making will be emphasized over the mechanics of camera use. Both digital and film, in all formats, welcome. Open to all levels of experience but better suited to those looking to expand their creativity and vision than those seeking technical help.

Which Zen workshop is right for me?