Experienced professionals and serious amateurs dive into this intensive workshop as a means to jump-start the process of taking their work to the next stage. Designed to motivate, photographers discover how to clarify their work, identify obstacles, and take the steps necessary to revitalize their careers and photographic lives.

Working with renowned photographer and teacher Sam Abell, participants closely edit their existing portfolios and generate new work. In addition to the intensive daily program of editing and photographic assignments, the schedule also includes in-depth, one-on-one sessions with Sam. Throughout the week, each participant seeks to answer two essential questions: "What is a well-lived photographic life, and how do I achieve it?"  The result of this week long immersion in photography is a fine-tuned approach to working, editing, and carrying projects and careers forward to the next level.

Sam Abell is one of the most experienced and accomplished teachers and photographers in the field today. From 1970 to 2005, Sam worked for National Geographic as a contract and staff photographer and as a Photographer in Residence. In 1990, his work was the subject of a one-person exhibition at the International Center of Photography in New York. Accompanying the exhibit was a mid-career retrospective monograph titled, Stay This Moment. Since then he has published three collections of his work:  Seeing Gardens, Sam Abell: The Photographic Life, and, most recently, The Life of a Photograph. In addition, Sam maintains a career as a writer, teacher, and lecturer on photography.

Students are to shoot digitally.  A laptop is suggested but not required.

Testimonials:

"Sam's class was an invaluable opportunity to gain the insight of a photographic legend."
- Harry Oxnard, Los Angeles, CA

"Beyond my wildest expectations!"
- Jane Spencer, Boston, MA

"High energy, comprehensive teaching combined with patience and understanding."
- Judi Hochman, Los Angeles, CA

"Over my 30+ photographic career I have had the opportunity to participate and witness many educational workshops. MMW is by far the best creative experience I have had."
- Mary Mannix. Evergreen Park, IL