Are you ready to re-energize your passion for sharing your world?
We invite you to join us for an intimate, inspiring getaway
that will change the way you take photos forever…
Nick Kelsh’s Philadelphia Photography Workshop:
“History and Holiday Lights in the City of Brotherly Love”
December 3 – 6, 2024 — Philadelphia, PA
December 7 Add-On Option:
Longwood Gardens Holiday Spectacle
It’s about you, your camera, the season, and the stories of your life.
Nick Kelsh's Workshops
offer an amazing opportunity to become lifelong friends with your camera ... and your fellow photographers! Each workshop has a carefully chosen location with a program designed specific to that area and the season to create an experience in which you'll expand both your photographic and cultural horizons... not to mention your friendships! In fact, because each place, season and group creates such a unique experience, a quarter of our participants have become repeat attendees! Don't just take our word for it... see what previous workshop participants have to say:The shared experience of a Nick Kelsh Weekend Photography workshop will feed your photographic soul.
What I like most about Nick’s workshops – They are comfortable learning environments. Nick sets the tone so that everyone, no matter their expertise, learns how to improve their skills with only constructive critiques. I was so nervous when I arrived since I was not a professional photographer and felt I was probably in over my head. I was so wrong. The moment I first met Nick and some of the other attendees, I immediately felt at ease and knew I was where I should be. Nick proved to be very patient, explained things where I could understand them, and was always available to answer questions. The other attendees, well, they were awesome. From the professionals to those like me, everyone was willing to share their knowledge and their friendship. The workshops are extremely well organized so that we make the most of our time. Spouses feel included and actually enjoy the experience. Finally, the workshops are like taking a vacation but no one minds that you stop and take lots and lots of photographs!!
Philadelphia Workshop, 2018:
What an amazing time we had. Nick is so generous to spend time with each of us as needed, and it is so fantastic to get help from him in person… If you have not been to one of these workshops, I strongly encourage you to budget for both the cost and the time – to have an experience like this. What a privilege for me to get to spend a week with Nick!
Santa Fe Workshop, 2021:
One of the best things about a Nick Kelsh workshop is getting personal attention and instruction from Nick. This could not get any better… Part of the fun of being on a Nick Kelsh workshop is having Nick scout out good places to photograph in great light…. very fun, and very instructive. Another fun part of a workshop like this is that you get to see the photos others took in the same place you were in. It is always a learning experience to see others’ different perspectives and points of view… [This was] a wonderful trip with Nick Kelsh and How to Photograph Your Life fans. What an experience! We will never forget this time!… It was a magnificent time, and I am sure we all learned a lot. After we have time to edit our photos, we will have a time where Nick shares and comments on our images in a zoom meeting. I am looking forward to that, since learning from others’ visions is a great way for me to break out of my habits… My camera is about five years old now, and I estimate that the shutter has clicked about 100,000 times. I could upgrade to a newer model, but I figure the better use for my money is saving up for more experiences like this one. Maybe I will see you on a future workshop!
Although I have many interests and have never aspired to being a professional photographer, I’ve found joy in taking pictures wherever I go. My weekend in the Catskills with Nick and my other new friends was a game-changer! Not only did I learn crucial camera and editing skills (locked in by an entire glorious weekend of practice), but I started daring to try new things and I began to view the visual world around me with a greater sense of wonder. There is a marked difference in my photos from the fall of 2016 on. I wish I could attend more of these workshops for the fun of it and for the dedicated time to photography, but anyone who is considering going should know that one may be all you need to flip a switch and help you improve tremendously!
An incredible experience that is definitely a highlight of my photography learning experience! Nick’s hands-on approach and help along with all of my fellow photographers made this a truly unique experience.
It was an amazing experience, I made great friends, and my photography improved tremendously!
Connect... Inspire... Support... Grow... Enjoy...
An exclusive invitation to a place I love
I moved to Philadelphia in 1981 to accept a job as a staff photographer of The Philadelphia Inquirer. As a young bachelor from Fargo, North Dakota, there was no doubt in my mind where in the city I would live. I wanted to be as close to the center city historic district as possible, and ended up a short walk from Independence Hall—the epicenter of American democracy—where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution had been signed. Philadelphia is the real deal. I loved walking in the front door of “my” three-story row house across the street from the 18th century cemetery that contained the remains of a Declaration signer. The idea of American democracy is very much alive on the sidewalks and in the walls of Philadelphia.
In my decades living in, and loving, Philadelphia I grew to know the city intimately. Although I moved my family to the Catskill Mountains in recent years, I always love returning to my old Philly stomping grounds and sharing the photographic treasures with others.
We are thrilled to invite you to join us in our amazing old city at this wonderful time of year for a truly special experience. We offer you a festive city explored through our intimate, intensive, personalized, hands-on photography workshop—headquartered in a historic boutique hotel. Picture Revolutionary Era architecture with halls decked, a bustling holiday buzz, seasonal sunlight bouncing off narrow cobblestone streets, Amish farmer’s markets, the “Rocky Steps” and more.
It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn from my lifetime of shooting photographs while visiting our country’s birthplace. American democracy could not have chosen a more beautiful place to have been born. Join us here for the rebirth of your photographic life.
You’ll be inspired and challenged. You’ll photograph, explore, play, eat, relax, grow, bond and, I predict, above all else, be absolutely thrilled with how it will change your photography. You’ll gain the skills and confidence to take control of your camera. You’ll enjoy a memorable getaway and return home with those memories beautifully captured in the kind of photographs you’ve always dreamed of shooting—the kind that you’ll now be comfortable shooting consistently, that will enrich your life and the lives of those you love and those you photograph.
Why spend this time with me?
For me personally, these workshops could possibly be the most exciting thing I’ve ever done in my career. I would rank my photography workshops among the great photographic experiences of my life. They are thrilling and attendees have enjoyed them so much that many have attended multiple workshops.
I've hosted hundreds of seminars, retreats, public speaking events, webinars and online classes. I've written and/or photographed nine books, and I have come to the conclusion thw working with a small group over a period of several days may very well be the perfect teaching and learning format.
There's enough time for me to connect with every student personally and still give you time to be alone with your camera and exercise your mind's eye - in other words, shoot great pictures. That's what it's all about.
Yes, we're going to make sure you're secure in knowing how to use your camera in manual mode but I want more than that for you. I want you to think like a photographer. I want you to think in terms of photographic communication. I want you to tap into your inner storyteller. I want you to create images - during the workshop and beyond - that will enrich your life and the lives of the people you love.
I want to help you get there. And I want you to have good old-fashioned fun doing it.
Oh, and one more thing... I guarantee you'll leave a better photographer.
ABOUT NICK KELSH
Nick Kelsh is a renowned photographer—with nine published books and repeat appearances on OPRAH and THE TODAY SHOW—who has become a photo-guru and friend to many thousands of family memory keepers and photographers of all levels. Nick’s passion for teaching and helping others, knack for creatively delivering photography instruction in easily digestible bites, and inspiring, entertaining style make learning photography easy and fun on his How To Photograph Your Life website, blog and Facebook Page, and in his popular online courses, live workshops and speaking engagements.
Cobblestone … Liberty Bells … Historic Doorways …
Click on the photo below to enjoy an inspiring slideshow of photos taken by previous workshop participants and get an idea of what’s ahead for you….
Here’s What You’ll Get:
A three-day immersive photography workshop in our nation’s greatest historic district—center city Philadelphia.
We’ll kick off with dinner and our welcome introductory session on Monday,and end Thursday afternoon. Take advantage of your Bonus Session by coming early on Monday for your free camera-settings checkup with Nick. The first 6 people to register will be guaranteed an individual session, and other sessions will be “first come, first served” (individual or small group by camera brand) as time allows.
We’ll then spend the next three days diving into the lessons, assignments, photo shoots, reviews/critiques and editing. As always with photography, we’ll be working on mastering or reviewing your camera settings, lighting, composition, and many other specialized techniques and general tips. We’ll shoot in various locations in and around the historic district and other Philadelphia spots.
Our schedule will include both lessons/discussions and on-the-street training. Our itinerary will allow for flexibility to take advantage of optimum locations, time of day and light conditions (and to adjust for weather if necessary)—for viewing and photographing the glory of this city as it gets ready for the holiday season.
Oh, and of course, we’ll build in time to relax . You’ll leave refreshed and re-energized, with deeper photographic knowledge and skills; wonderful new photo-friends, a collection of photographs you’ll be proud of, and the confidence, creativity and control of your camera to consistently shoot the photos you’ve always dreamed of shooting.
My Philadelphia Photography Workshop is a magical event that will:
- Give you the confidence and skills to control your camera creatively in the daily situations that make for great photographs.
- Improve your understanding of various lighting situations and techniques, ability to expose photographs properly, compositional thinking, storytelling tactics and your post-processing and editing skills.
- Establish new ways of thinking about your photography and the way you take pictures. It will help you not just relax but empower you…and it all shows up in your pictures.
- Make you aware of just what makes photographs that work…and photographs that don’t. You’ll be guided by me and enjoy the support and feedback from a diverse group of photographers who share your passion.
- Give you a heart, head, and photo album filled with wonderful memories of a unique autumn rural experience shared with what are surely to become lifetime friends. This is guaranteed to be unforgettable.
ADD ON DAY
Photographing Longwood Gardens Holiday Spectacle:
Flowers, Fir Trees, Fountains and Lights
in one of the world’s premiere gardens!
Saturday, December 7, 2024
Extend your stay and learning opportunities with our Longwood Garden Trip Add-On Option to your Philadelphia Photography Workshop. Add a special day trip to the Brandywine River Valley, home of Longwood Gardens, one of the most beautiful gardens in the world. We’ll capture its magnificent flowers and fields, glorious holiday displays and world-famous illuminated fountains. Join us to photograph a flourish of fountains and flowers in this unforgettable holiday botanical experience.
Longwood Garden’s exquisite Conservatory is reminiscent of the splendor of France’s Versailles with fanciful topiaries, imaginative wreaths, ornate mirrors, and more than 50 trees trimmed in classic holiday hues and sparkling crystal ornaments.
Thousands of floating cranberries, apples, and gilded walnuts create an intricate mosaic in the grand tradition of a French parterre garden. Outside, colorful fountains dance to holiday music, strolling carolers herald the season with song, and a wonderland of a half-million twinkling lights await.
Imagine the photographs… and let Nick Kelsh guide you in capturing them in all their glory!
Topics addressed may include:
- The Exposure Triangle
- Capturing Motion
- Long Exposures
- Bokeh Lights
- Garden Landscapes
- Flowers and trees
- Photographing Water Fountains
- The Magic Hour
- Photographing Lit Christmas Trees
- Holiday Ornaments, reflections, and other details
Join us to get one more holiday adventure and photography packed day with Nick out of your Phildadelphia Workshop!
When you register for the Philadelphia Workshop choose the Add-On Day option to join us on this special photographic excursion to the holiday jewel of Brandywine River Valley.
PRE- WORKSHOP PREPARATION
Before the workshop begins you'll be asked to upload a set of ten photographs to give us a sense of who you are and where you are in your photographic journey. It could be a picture of your family and then your photographic greatest hits and/or mistakes! I'll review these with you in a private consultation call before the workshop and then we'll share them with the group in our opening night presentation, as we get to know each other and all share our photographic achievements, challenges, and goals.
MASTERING MANUAL MODE
We welcome a diversity of experience and skill levels among attendees. I know that we'll have students attending this weekend who could probably teach significant portions of it. On the other hand, we'll have people with expensive cameras who lack the understanding of how to take full advantage of all the bells and whistles.
To level the playing field, I want to make sure that all attendees are relatively comfortable with their camera settings before we get to the first day of shooting. If anyone who’s attending wants to get on the phone with me before the workshop, I will be happy to walk you through your settings.
You'll be asked to watch (or review) my 60-minute "F-stops, Shutter Speeds, and ISO Made Easy" training in advance of the workshop.
Also, I will be available on location during the day on the first day for anyone who wants to be among the first to arrive so that I can sit down with you to demystify your camera settings. A basic knowledge of the exposure triangle and a rough understanding of how to take a light reading is going to go a long way here. (Time for these sessions is limited, so register and arrive early to take advantage of this bonus - the first 6 attendees to register for the workshop will be guaranteed an individual slot for these sessions. All others will be held on a first-come, first-served basis individually or in groups by camera type as time allows.)
On the other hand, for some students, coming to grips with their cameras settings over the course of the weekend may be the huge personal milestone they’ve been dreaming of reaching. It’s all good, believe me. My point is this: I want to help you before the weekend really gets going so we can maximize our time shooting photographs and telling stories.
STORYTELLING
We shoot photographs to tell stories so we will spend time addressing this all-important topic.
We'll talk about the how to tell a story in a single image and how to shoot a collection of images that tell a story. We'll focus on shooting photographs during this workshop that tell stories in a personal way…your way. I want you to go home with a set of pictures that was taken by a specific personality—you. That's, after all, what good storytelling is all about; it's the way the story is told and not the story itself.
I want your pictures to say something about how you feel about the world and the people you're with. That attitude is going to result in the very best family photos when you get home.
And we’ll discuss the difficult but necessary task of choosing which images to keep and which to delete. We'll discuss how cropping, editing, and converting to black and white can enhance your photos and the storyline.
Storytelling with a camera is an art and you will not leave the weekend having mastered it, believe me. But your ability to be a visual communicator will grow and flourish.
Essentially, we’re all going to photograph the same buildings, streets, vineyards, people and views but, as all great storytellers know, the story is in the telling. This is a profound lesson to learn as a photographer.
It's not about being self-centered, it’s actually the opposite. It’s about sharing your vision with the world. It’s what we photographers do.
FOLLOW UP WEBINAR PLUS VIDEO RECORDING
A couple of weeks or so after the workshop we'll have a follow-up session via webinar for a final overview of the weekend, review of your photos and editing lessons.
You'll be asked to evaluate and edit your collection of photographs during the week following the workshop and submit a sample of them for my review with the group. We'll discuss content, technique, composition, and storytelling and I'll demonstrate editing techniques in Lightroom.
You'll receive a recording of this session to download for review as needed—and as a keepsake of the group's greatest hits and our shared experiences together during this memorable workshop.
Get 6 Great Bonuses!
INCLUDING AN EXTRA BONUS OPPORTUNITY FOR OUR FIRST REGISTRANTS!!
In order to give you all the support you need, we're giving you the added benefit of the following bonuses, making your workshop package even more valuable (combined bonuses are valued at more than $1000). This is our way of preparing you to get the most out of your workshop experience, and for optimal success afterwards.
Personal Pre-Workshop Phone/Skype Consultation & Photo Review with Nick
Discuss where you are in your photographic journey, your goals, challenges and any questions you may have. Get samples of your photographs reviewed for feedback, advice on how to prepare to get the most out of your workshop, and a personal plan for growing your skills to take your photos to the next level! (Valued at $125)
Basic Photography Course (Self-Study)
The first module of this course will get you familiar with all your camera settings, and then you'll learn, or review, the fundamentals of composition, artificial and natural lighting, photo storage/editing and more. Whether you shoot with a DSLR camera, point-and-shoot or even your smartphone, you’ll master the practical tips & techniques of the pros. (Valued at $79)
GOING MANUAL Course (Self-Study)
This is my best-selling manual photography course with everything you need to know to make the concepts of manual photography finally click! Watching (or rewatching) these 8 modules of video lessons will prepare you for the workshop and provide plenty of review after. You'll get comfortable with the 3 key settings—the exposure triangle—and much more, to give you a great foundation to start taking your photography to the next level. (Valued at $159)
Camera Settings Checkup (Live with Nick before workshop)
(Frst 6 registrants get individual sessions!)
Arrive early to get a FREE session (first 6 registrants guaranteed a private session—otherwise, small group by camera brand, as time allows) to get yourself and your camera ready to hit the ground shooting. I'll give your settings a once-over and get you up to speed on all those buttons and dials! We'll clear up any confusion or problems that have been holding you back. (Valued at $100)
Follow-up Live Webinar Review/Editing Session
A few weeks after the workshop once you've had time to evaluate/edit your photos and submit a sample collection to me, we'll have a final session via live webinar to provide an overview of the workshop, review of your photos and extra editing lessons. We'll discuss content, technique, composition, and storytelling and I'll demonstrate editing techniques in Lightroom. You'll receive a recording of this session to download for review as needed—and as a keepsake of the group's greatest hits and our shared experiences together during this memorable workshop. (Valued at $150)
SPECIAL EXTRA BONUS:
Free Portraits by Nick
During the workshop you'll get FREE personal portraits by Nick Kelsh! Joining Nick in a live workshop gives you a great opportunity to be professionally photographed by a renowned photographer—so be sure to consider that you'll be photographed when deciding what clothes to pack! Location, lighting and schedule will dictate when you'll be photographed. Includes retouched digital files. (Valued at $350)
Our Historic Venue in “Old City”
In the heart of Philadelphia’s Old City—America’s most historic square mile—our workshop headquarters will be walking distance from Philadelphia’s most photographed treasures, including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, National Constitution Center and Philadelphia’s other historic sites, plus City Hall and other major Philadelphia attractions.
Our workshop will be headquartered at the Independence Park Hotel in Philadelphia’s Old City.
Included on the National Registry of Historic Places, this boutique hotel offers a blend of historic features and modern comfort. You’ll enjoy 17-foot-high ceilings, rich decor, and a beautiful glass-enclosed atrium and well-appointed guest rooms, plus complimentary Wi-Fi, complimentary full breakfast, afternoon tea and cookie service and a Wednesday night wine and cheese reception.
We’ve negotiated a very reasonable group rate and workshop participants will receive info on how to book their rooms with workshop registration confirmation. (See details of rooms and rates in the FAQ at the bottom of the page.)
Treat yourself to this valuable experience.
You deserve it!
There’s no doubt that this is a significant investment.
It’s a commitment to yourself and your passion that will pay you back for the rest of your life.
Consider this: for the cost of a memorable getaway under the experienced guidance of a renowned photographer you will grow as a photographer in joyful and unexpected ways that will enrich your relationship with photography for as long as you live.
You’ll always be able to tap into the moments and insights that are going to make this workshop experience so amazing.
Plus you're guaranteed to go home with some amazing photographs—and an amazing group of new photo-friends!
This is an opportunity you'll want to experience if you can.
Ready to take your photography to the next level?
Join us now to be part of an extraordinary experience!
Don’t miss this opportunity to grab your spot for an amazing city photography workshop!
Space is limited to 12 participants so register now to reserve your place!
Nick Kelsh’s
History and Holiday Lights in the City of Brotherly Love
Photography Workhsop
December 3-6, 2024
Earlybird Discount through April 30: $1795
Regular Price: $1995
Add-on Day Option:
LONGWOOD GARDENS HOLIDAY SPECTACLE
December 7, 2024
Book now!
Onsite rooms are limited and assigned on a first come basis in order of registration.
Register now to secure your top choice room and get your priority bonuses (above).
(Your registration fee is 100% refundable up to 120 days prior to workshop start, so it’s risk-free to reserve your spot!)
Hurry to register now if you want to…
- Save $200 with our Early Registration Discount!
-
Get a FREE Interactive iPhone Photography Course ($200 Value) for you—and your workshop guest (** EXTRA EARLYBIRD BONUS TODAY ONLY!!)
- Grab your 6 BONUS OPPORTUNITIES plus take advantage of a chance to be professionally photographed by Nick.
- Be first in line to claim a slot for your personal one-on-one Camera Settings Session with Nick. Remember: The first 6 people to register will be guaranteed an individual session, and other sessions will be “first come, first served” (individual or small group by camera brand) as time allows.
- Get the room you want (first come, first serve).
- Be sure to get in. The workshop is limited to just 12 participants. We expect it to fill up!
Once those slots are filled you’ll miss the opportunity to enjoy this rare experience on the intensive road to photographic improvement—and to enjoy a wonderful seasonal getaway with like minded photography enthusiasts in one of America’s most photogenic cities.
Want in, but not sure about travel/housing yet?
No worries… it’s RISK-FREE to secure your spot!
We understand that you may need a little time to look into travel arrangements or make plans with potential roommates—and we can help coordinate both— so we welcome you to register now to get a discounted spot (and secure your bonuses). Nick Kelsh Photography Workshops are fully exchangeable/refundable until 120 days prior to workshop start date. So you can purchase to reserve your spot with no risk, while you work out your logistics and secure travel arrangements. If you need to cancel within 120 days of the workshop we’ll make every effort to refund your fee (less $100 administrative fee) if we can resell your spot, or you can apply your fee to another workshop within two years.
Still on the fence?
You may have lots of questions, so below are lots of answers!
FAQ
So join us now to get your discounted spot and special bonuses!
This special experience, which I, as your trusty photography guide, have carefully and lovingly programmed for you, is sure to engage, enrich and inspire you…in mind, body and soul!
Don’t delay, as space is limited – hurry to grab your spot!
Also, rooms will be available on a first come, first serve basis, so book soon to have the widest choice.
Register now to take advantage of our Early Registration Rate!
I hope you’ll join us for a memorable weekend and I look forward to helping you…
Stay in focus.
Nick
Can’t make this one? Scroll through the photos below to see past and upcoming workshops!
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Nick Kelsh is a renowned photographer—with nine published books and repeat appearances on Oprah and The Today Show—who has become a photo-guru and friend to many thousands of family memory keepers and photographers of all levels. Nick’s passion for teaching and helping others, knack for creatively delivering photography instruction in easily digestible bites, and inspiring, entertaining style make learning photography easy and fun on his How To Photograph Your Life website and blog and Facebook Page, and in his popular online courses, live workshops and speaking engagements. |