A Columbus Family Photographer goes on a film workshop with zero expectations
…And was completely blown away! I have been following fellow family photographer Yan Palmer’s work and words for awhile, trying to glean a bit of her knowledge and photographic wizardry for myself, so when she announced she’d be leading a film photography workshop along with Ryan Muirhead in Joshua Tree, CA, I knew I wanted to sign up. The two were somewhat mysterious in their advertising of the workshop (more to come on that below), but I figured if it involved film, a visit to the southwest, a break from work + momlife, and time spent with likeminded artists, I couldn’t go wrong (and I was right!!!).
Did I learn a lot about film, cameras, technique, etc? Yes. But more importantly I felt that spark in my soul that happens when I’m deeply inspired by the people and ideas floating around me. Without going too far into the nitty gritty details of the retreat, we touched on art history, the creative process, finding meaning, not letting social media influence our work, self-critique and pushing outside of our comfort zones, connecting with potential clients, in addition to sharing personal stories of joy and sadness. It was beautiful to connect with so many open, generous, creative souls.
BTS of Yan working her magic
At one point Ryan mentioned that he’s always curious to see what kinds of people will show up to the retreat, because they advertise it purposefully “so no one will sign up.” And yet it attracted exactly who needed it most. The following paragraph, taken directly from their announcement of the retreat, is what sealed the deal for me:
WHY?
So you don't have to fake it, whatever "it," is, ever again. Or at least a lot less. That way, even if we never conclude how to do this human thing right, we can at least say we made SOMETHING. Was it art? Maybe. Was it something that helped? We want to believe and hope it does. But all we can really claim, is that it's something that came from giving figuring "human," out, our best shot. (Also, we used film and will tell you precisely how to use it too).
I feel like it’s my life’s quest to figure out how to “human,” and this workshop helped guide my journey. My soul is renewed, my passion reignited, my understanding of film a little bit clearer. Sharing some of my favorite images from the weekend below.
