Alison Shaw's , Martha's Vineyard Photo Workshops

Alison Shaw: She is always happy, always smiling, always laughing.

This is not your typical cookie-cutter workshop. Right from the start, instead of  lining up waiting to drive off  like some camel caravan, we always met at our assigned shooting locations. Donna Foster, who is the hardest working workshop assistant I’ve ever had the honor of meeting, devised the daily critiques in such a simple and ingenious way that it’s shocking no one before has ever come up with it in any workshop I’ve attended . But the most impressive difference with Alison’s workshop was her “One on One “sessions.

We were each given 20 minutes to talk privately with Alison to discuss anything photographically that was on our mind. Let me tell you, that takes moxie. I personally wanted to talk about my plans for the future. I came away feeling better about where I’m at and where I’m headed. Donna, even with all she had on her plate, spent almost two hours over the next couple of days helping me with my ideas, along with other options available.

Working in the field with Alison and Donna, I knew that if there was something I needed help with, both were always close at hand to offer their support. They helped me to work with a quiet confidence without feeling any pressure. It made for a very comfortable and secure atmosphere. No one’s needs are ever overlooked.

For me, the highlight of the workshop was the tour of Alison’s gallery. It was the first time I’ve seen a pro photographer’s studio, top to bottom. As we arrived, Claire was on hand to answer all our questions about the process from photo to print, storage, or anything else that came to mind. This was capped off with Alison and Sue talking about fine art, prints, and the business of photography. They are so attuned to each other that it was like listening to two musicians performing together. Needless to say, I walked away impressed.

I have been very fortunate over the years to attend workshops with some great photographers/teachers, but for me Alison sets the standard for conducting a workshop. One would be hard pressed to find anything better than the team Alison assembled for her Martha’s Vineyards workshops.

I want to thank Alison, Donna, Sue, and Claire, along with all my classmates, for the help, ideas and wonderful time spent together.

I would also like to give special thanks to Tess and Eli, whose work is inspiring.