Photography Workshops

Testimonials

“Awesome trip with Kenny, Michael, and Jason! They were well organized to get us to some outstanding locations at the right times with exceptional conditions. They were constantly evaluating weather and swells so that they could adjust the plans in real time to maximize chances for big waves and great lighting. All three were very helpful in suggesting areas to shoot, and pointing out and calling out waves to capture. They also provide hands on adjustments to photos in post-processing sessions which really took my images to the next level. I watched as Kenny took another participant’s image from raw to wow, with lots of adjustments made in both Lightroom and Photoshop – it was a mini master class. We also had a great group of participants with many for whom this was a second or third workshop with Kenny or Michael – so that speaks highly for these guys. I hope to attend another of there workshops soon!” – Mark B

“The best workshop! Michael and Eric are an amazing duo, their planning, knowledge and field experience is top notch. I’ll definitely attend more of their workshops!” – Cindy C

“The Death Valley workshop led by Michael Shainblum and Eric Bennett was inspiring, creatively invigorating and filled with stunning viewpoints that were off the beaten path. With Michael and Eric’s guidance, we adjusted with the weather each session of each day to pick the best locations. Their in the field instruction helped me correct settings quickly so I could focus on the art of composition. Mixed with the classroom post processing, I quickly got more comfortable with advanced techniques and applied them to images captured that day. Thank you Michael & Eric for sharing your knowledge of the area, the collaboration and shared experience with likeminded people!” – Michael T

“This workshop was everything I had hoped for. An opportunity to see and photograph locations I had dreamed of for ages, learn from two pros who have been there and done that and come away with shots I’d always strived for. Michael and Kenny make a great team and have the awareness of their role: to teach. I think every one of the attendees went away with more skill and confidence than they had before the workshop. They made it all about the attendees and not themselves – I got the idea they really wanted to raise every one of their students to a level of skill rivaling their own. On top of it all, it was fun! Michael and Kenny both seemed to have as much fun as everyone else. Thanks guys! It was a blast and I’m looking forward to another one somewhere down the line!” – Tom P

“The workshop was amazing. Kenny and Michael led us to fantastic photographic locations – multiple each day. They were always there to help and to gently push us to try new compositions and concepts. The classroom instruction was really helpful, and they adapted it to the needs of the people attending. Finally, Kenny, Michael, and Jason were just a lot of fun. Simply put, for those wanting a moderately intense opportunity to improve their photography and take wonderful photos, I highly recommend it!” – Dan B

“This was a really fun and productive workshop. When I think of a trip like this, I’m looking for a few elements: the quality of the instruction, the location, and “vibe” that the leads give to the group. Michael and Eric were top-notch as instructors, planning wonderful experiences and adjusting plans depending on weather and opportunities, giving hands-on direct coaching in the moment and debriefing after each outing, and customizing their approach for the personality, experience, and hopes of each client. Death Valley was terrific as a location, and we had a great mixture of the popular spots (Mesquite Flats, Dante’s Peak, etc.) and some more out-of-the-way spots (e.g., an epic trip out to the Ibex dunes). The experience was overall great, and I came away from it with some fantastic photos and memories.” – Steve G

“An unforgettable photography tour of Ireland. It was one of the best workshops ever. Amazing locations with a bunch of exceptionally talented photographers.. The locations, the hotels, the food were fantastic. It wasn’t a fixed itinerary but with the changing weather in Ireland, there was always an even better spot to shoot. Will do it all over again in a heartbeat. Thank you Michael for giving the chance to experience something amazing….” – Nahla 

“HIGHLY recommend the 1 on 1 SF/Bay Area Workshop!! Michael clearly has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to photography and has an amazing way of breaking down techniques and tips as we shot while cruising the coast. Locations he took me to were amazing, always great to learn new locations off the beaten track! Michael also helped me with a few editing tips when we finished the day, it never felt like we were on the clock which fits perfect with Michael’s easy going attitude, all round nice guy!” – Emil U

“I attended a one-on-one photography workshop in San Francisco, and it was an incredible experience! Michael was not only knowledgeable but also patient, guiding me through both technical aspects and creative techniques at my own pace. We explored some of the city’s most iconic locations, learning how to capture the beauty of San Francisco through different lenses. The personalized attention made a huge difference, and I left feeling more confident in my skills. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your craft, this workshop is a must!” – Terrill G

“My Oregon Coast workshop with Michael wasn’t just a photo class; it was an adventure with new friends and fellow photographers. Michael’s hands-on instruction not only advanced my photographic skills and knowledge but helped re-shape my visions of the landscapes we were shooting in new, creative ways. Looking forward to my next session!” -Mike J

“Photographing with Michael is even more fun than watching his YouTube channel! His landscape photography videos are truly epic as he calmly brings us viewers along for the adventure, walking us through framing and setting choices to get the perfect shot. Joining him in person for a 1:1 workshop was like an interactive, high fidelity version of that experience as he gently guided me in creating my own photos at locations around the Bay Area. A masterful photographer, educator and human being, Michael is an awesome choice to elevate one’s landscape photography game.” – Bill S

“Michael & Kenny’s Oregon coast Milkyway workshop was an incredible experience, I was surrounded by a great group of night sky photography lovers and the experience exceeded my expectations. The workshop was well organized, included post-processing classroom instruction, and took us to superb locations off the beaten path. Not only were they knowledgeable, but also down to Earth and kind, for example, helping me and everyone set up their gear in the dark! I learned new editing techniques that I had not seen anywhere else. I captured great images of the night sky, but I also enjoyed the time hanging out and getting to know Michael and Kenny. The workshop was so much fun that I’ve already booked and looking forward to attending our next adventure. I highly recommend joining a workshop to improve your skills, meet up with like-minded photographers, and to have a memorable photography adventure.” – Nick H

“Death Valley workshop led by Michael was outstanding.  He got us to some amazing locations and was always ready to help with our photography. His knowledge of the area, combined with attention to weather made for one very special experience. I’m thinking of doing this workshop again.” – Margaret K

“I started my photography journey in 1975 and over the decades traveled around the globe. Ten years ago, I started to look for photo workshops to interesting locations. That is how I found Michael Shainblum on YouTube 8 years ago. He’s a remarkable photographer, super inspiring, patient teacher and his work is just incredible. Michael’s eye for abstract also spoke to me. I contacted Michael for a 1 on 1 workshop and was very interested in his fog photography in and around San Francisco. I spent 4 days with him at the end of July beginning of August 2024. Michael offers a lot of seasonal locations and photographic styles throughout the year around San Francisco. They say you should never meet your heroes, but a workshop with Michael, for me, pure gold. January 2025 I am going on Michael’s Death Valley workshop. Michael’s images of that desert location, stunning. I highly recommend taking a 1 on 1 or one of Michael’s group workshops.” – Chris M

“Our private workshop in Oregon and Northern California with Michael was excellent! His deep knowledge of photography and the amazing locations he chose for us to photograph were incredible. This made our trip very memorable. I recommend Michael warmly!” – Carlos F