A Photography Workshop at Catalina State Park

This past month, I had the pleasure of hosting a photography workshop followed by a family session at Catalina State Park. The event was filled with unforgettable moments as my photography students dove into the art of family photography. With stunning Arizona mountains as our backdrop, we embarked on an exciting journey of learning and exploration. I can’t wait to share the highlights of this workshop!

In our journey to master camera techniques, I wanted to make sure that our location provided a diverse range of lighting and backdrops. Catalina State Park definitely exceeded our expectations. There’s so much to see and do, and I was able to share my favorite photo spots.

So, to practice shooting in harsh lighting, I led my students to the picturesque “river” sand area. The intense sun posed a challenge, leaving my students uncertain about adjusting their camera settings. There, I guided them through the process of correcting their settings and finding shade. 

It was so much fun to watch all of my students improve in this area. Witnessing their growth and ability to adapt to challenging conditions was truly rewarding. Together, we transformed potential obstacles into valuable learning opportunities.

Of course, no photo shoot is complete without the model! Since I wanted to focus on family photography for this workshop, I asked online if anyone would be willing to join us. Shannon and her family were so quick to jump on board!

She and her husband David have two kids, Matheo and Stella. This family is beyond cute, and it was fantastic to have them participate! All of my photographers appreciated their patience and understanding as they learned new skills.

Since workshops are a place to learn how to take photos, I like to slow things down a bit. That way, everyone can learn all the tips and tricks. This means that the family has to stand there and wait, holding their smiles for a while before we get the shot, but Shannon and her family were real troopers!

Working with kids is always a delight, and Matheo and Stella were no exception. Their radiant smiles and infectious energy brought a sense of joy to our photography sessions. As we captured their vibrant spirits against the beautiful desert landscape, I couldn’t help but think we found the perfect family for this event.

I also loved their outfits. Shannon’s exceptional talent for color coordination and her keen eye for detail resulted in a harmonious blend of colors and textures. Each family member showcased their unique style, adding an extra layer of individuality to our photography workshop.

This photography workshop at Catalina State Park was a fantastic experience. From mastering camera techniques to embracing challenging lighting conditions, each moment was filled with growth and discovery. By blending natural beauty with the warmth of a loving family, we witnessed the transformative power of photography and its ability to capture the essence of life’s most precious moments.

Are you planning your own family session and searching for the perfect family photographer? I’d love to get to know you and chat about how we can fill a gallery with the family photos of your dreams!