Participant Comments

Photograph ©Craig Varjabedian

"I've been meaning to thank you for a fabulously memorable week last August. The workshop far exceeded my expectations and that had everything to do with how you, Bill & Cindy worked to ensure that everyone learned a lot and enjoyed doing so. I greatly appreciated your enthusiasm for and skill at keeping the group happily moving forward, despite varying levels of experience. Your willingness & ability to openly share your experience as a photographer/human being in New Mexico also added a ton to the week."
 - L.M., Meguon, WI

"I was very impressed with all of the locations you chose for our classroom settings.  It was like having a vacation while also learning about photography.  Being a former New Mexican, I felt like I was at home once again.  Santa Fe and the surrounding areas just make one feel good inside. One of the highlights of the workshop has to be Cindy.  She is an exceptional organizer and everything was planned right down to the nth degree. I had so much fun and learned so much, that I would recommend this workshop to photographers of any level of expertise. Thanks so much for a way cool week........happy shooting."
  - Mary G.

"The workshop was delightful for me. You have a unique talent for hospitality – not to mention your attention to detail. I especially appreciate the time you spent with me at Bandelier. Because of this, I was able to see the rock formation that makes my soul sing. Thank you for your gifts of grace and kindness."
 - Rose B., Texas

"You provided much more than I had expected—you gave me the chance to begin to understand how an artist goes about his or her work, and the inspiration to try it myself! Slowly I am beginning to see that good images have a wholeness, a completeness that is very satisfying. That's going far beyond grabbing a good shot or catching an expression. Wow! I also learned that good photography requires patience, preparation, and trial and error. Not my usual style, so that will require a commitment on my part. I hope your other workshops this year are as fun and successful as 'Ranchers and Renegades.' It was over the top great."
 - Anne G., Jackson, MS

"The program seems to be intent on making sure that students experience New Mexico to the fullest, not only through the camera lens, but with the entire person. It's almost holistic! Northern New Mexico is one of the world's beautiful places, with a rich history. It is obvious that the school's regard for cultures is passionate and the program brings a kind of spirituality to the photographic experience that is contagious! I began the week wondering what I had gotten myself into, and ended it wishing the week could go on and on!"
 - Clyde P., Columbus, IN

"Craig's approach to teaching is to give very personalized instruction. He respects that photography is first and foremost a means of personal artistic expression and he provides both general technical instruction and more personalized attention based on the interests of individual students. I recommend his workshop highly to anyone who wants to be inspired by the natural landscape and fellowship with a group of people that are enthusiastic about photography."
 - Tom H.

"Thanks again for an inspiring and informative workshop! You made learning fun - while you pushed us to improve our photography. I appreciated the way you tailored the workshop to the needs and goals of the students. Not an easy task with such a diverse group. By including history, art and a sense of the community, you helped us to see more than just the "touristy" surface. Our "search for Georgia" brought me new tools (new types of film to try) and a better understanding of what works (and doesn't) in landscape photography. "
 - Diane H.

"I want to thank you for the great experience; it was the high point of my summer, actually the entire year. Great people, wonderful places, and lots to learn and think about. I hope I will have the opportunity to join you again. It would really be fun if we could have an "alumnae" workshop next summer."
 - Mary Jo H., Texas

Check out additional testimonials and participant portfolios here