If you’re considering attending a photography workshop, you’re probably drowning in options. Trust me, I know – I’ve been there. After participating in numerous workshops over the years, I’ve learned a thing or two about what makes a good one and what makes a waste of time and money.
Selecting the right workshop isn’t rocket science, but it does require some thought. The wrong workshop can leave you frustrated, confused, and with a much lighter wallet. The right one? It can transform your photography and open up new worlds of creativity.
Think about what you want to learn. Really think about it. Are you interested in Milky Way photography? Landscape? Wildlife? Each type requires different skills, and each workshop will focus on different aspects. Be brutally honest with yourself about your skill level, too. There’s nothing worse than being in over your head or, conversely, bored out of your mind because the material is too basic.
The instructor matters…a lot. I’ve worked with some fantastic instructors and some terrible ones. The best instructors aren’t necessarily the best photographers—they’re the ones who can teach, who can break down complex concepts into digestible pieces, and who have the patience to work with students at all levels. I’ve seen amazing photographers who couldn’t teach their way out of a paper bag and good (not great) photographers who were fantastic teachers.
Location is another crucial factor. For Milky Way photography, you need dark skies. That workshop in New York City might sound great, but you won’t see many stars there. On the other hand, a workshop in Moab or Death Valley will give you plenty of opportunities to photograph the night sky. The location needs to match your photography goals.
Workshops aren’t cheap. But the cost isn’t just about the money – it’s about the value you get. A $500 workshop that teaches you exactly what you need might be worth more than a $2,000 workshop that doesn’t fit your needs. I’ve seen people spend thousands on workshops that were completely wrong for them, and I’ve seen people transform their photography after a single weekend workshop that cost less than their camera bag.
The size of the workshop matters, too. I’ve been in workshops with 20+ people, and I’ve been in workshops with just 3-4 people. Both can be good, but they offer very different experiences. In a smaller group, you get more one-on-one time with the instructor. You might learn from your fellow students’ questions and challenges in a larger group. There’s no right answer here – it depends on your learning style and what you hope to get out of the workshop.
Weather can make or break a workshop, especially for night photography. A good instructor will have backup plans and alternative locations, but Mother Nature sometimes doesn’t cooperate. Make sure you understand the refund policy and what happens if the weather prevents you from shooting. Some instructors offer rain checks, while others don’t.
When you’re ready to take a workshop, do your homework. Read reviews, look at the instructor’s work, and make sure the workshop aligns with your goals. Don’t be afraid to ask questions before signing up. A good instructor will be happy to answer them. Ask about the workshop size, the daily schedule, what equipment you need, and what skill level the workshop is designed for.
Remember, a workshop is an investment in your photography. Choose wisely; it could be the best money you’ve ever spent on your photography journey. Choose poorly, and well… you might end up with some nice photos but not much else.
