Inspiration from Work Shops

Ok, so it's been awhile, I'll get better at blogging.

Last July I had the most fortunate and wonderful photography workshop experience in Boston to study with the generous, beautiful, and remarkably talented , Jennifer B Hudson.  Check out her work.  Its simply breath taking on one hand and visually provocative on the other.  The workshop took place at the "hauntingly" (yes a ghost is host-ess) historic, Longfellow's Wayside Inn.  Simply said, the Inn is a magical place.  Quite worth the visit, to dine or stay in one of their historic rooms. (Beware of Room #9!)  Just  follow the Old Postal Road out of Boston MA, 40 minutes and a beautiful drive.
     This was the perfect retreat for inspiration, relaxation and meeting new friends - all who are incredible photographers.  The weather was blissful, perfect really and a treat for July.

Going to a work shop is an investment in more ways than one. Time and money of course. You hope to learn photo tricks and tips with camera or post production with some software. Lighting and posing elements are a plus.  But what I find most rewarding is in the kind of magic and rekindling of creativity and passion for the career path I have chosen.  I LOVE PHOTOGRAPHY!! 
Maybe I've been lucky.  Its not always easy committing to a work shop and even a little scary.  I think, I listen to my heart when it comes to choosing my gurus. I read their blogs, check feedback but more importantly  I ask, does the work they create- speak to me? Is there something they are doing and saying that makes me just want to know them?  See if I can catch a little piece of genius glitter that
will relight my visual integrity?  We all, photographers, creatives, artist alike run into brain drain. That's when I know its time for a workshop.                                                                                            
 David Anthony Williams is another fantastic master of inspiration. Just go to his website. You'll be be scrambling to find out where and when you can get there like a bolt of lightening fast.  I'm talking small workshops. 12 to 20 people max, intimate and personal.  His Aussy accent and humor are wonderful but his philosophy is powerful. He says," Life is a constant wonderful struggle to get the riches of our hearts out where other people can see." As a photographer, I think this speaks volumes. Its why I do what I do, and try to capture as David says,"what it is about you, not just for you, but for people who love you and want to see you". 
Okay, so just in revisiting my workshop mentally, I"m all inspired again.  So, I'm thinking,  here's the investment payoff!