Whether on assignment or on vacation, a photographer inevitably walks away from an experience with a favorite image, the best of the lot, the defining moment of the experience, which he or she cannot wait to share with others. But, photographic stories are more than pretty pictures made in the same place. Taking participants beyond the one-hit-wonders of experience, participants learn to define the key elements that make up dynamic picture stories. This is information that applies to the traditional photo essay as well as addressing the needs of the multimedia photographer.

Through daily discussions, lectures and critiques, Jay reveals the nuances of various narrative assignments and exposes the common undercurrent of concrete visual storytelling. From selecting subjects and defining the heart of the story, to editing and sequencing, students work throughout the week on their own stories. Key elements such as establishing “sense of place”, portraits, including environmental moments and details are discussed in depth with emphasis placed on the delicate interweaving of these components to create a powerful body of work. 

Mornings are spent reviewing daily work and progress, discussing the direction of story ideas and trouble-shooting. Working as a photo editor for the class, Jay provides insight into each student's strengths and weaknesses and avenues to move forward.  By week’s end, students leave with not only a body of work, but also a newfound understanding of the process of creating a photographic story. 

Participants shoot digitally.  A laptop is required for this workshop.

Workshop sponsored by: