The WORKSHOP : New York City

A few months ago, JD (my husband, second shooter, and Chief Supporting Officer) encouraged me to host photography workshops around the United States. I, of course, scoffed and said no way. I was nervous at the prospect of going to new cities to teach a full-day curriculum and I worried no one would show up. What can I say, I'm a worrier.

The good news is that theWORKSHOP sold out in five cities and I was blown away…I couldn't wait to meet so many photographers around the U.S.! JD and I have been on the road flying from city to city and we've loved every minute of experiencing more of this beautiful country. We started our adventure last week in New York City…I was especially excited because photographers from Costa Rica and Canada joined us, as well as photographers from various cities. It was truly an eclectic group of talented photographers and I was honored to teach.

The day started in Manhattan at M Wild Studio (a beautiful natural light studio) and I was excited to take the group to the Highline for a photo shoot…but before I get to that part of the day, let's start here. The lovely girl laughing is Ashley…I'm pretty sure our reactions stem from her confession: her wedding was two days after the workshop. TWO DAYS!!! We all thought she was crazy, but I was blown away by her ability to remain focused and enjoy the excitement for the workshop…as well as marrying the man of her dreams.

One of the best things about theWORKSHOP is the ability to connect and learn from 20 other amazing photographers…I walk away feeling so alive after our conversations…

“I went into the workshop looking to take my photography to a differently level and I can honestly say that I am walking away with more confidence and knowledge than I ever hoped. Not only do I feel more prepared as a photographer, but I am ready to improve my business and blossom into the artist I'm meant to be. I have a new outlook on photography and I cannot wait to start building my brand.” Krystal Balzer

As part of theWORKSHOP, I host a photo shoot to demonstrate my posing techniques as well as instruct attendees on How to Shoot for Their Brand. The afternoon was overcast and drizzly, but we decided to move forward with our shoot and hope for the best…I mean, with this stunning couple, they could pose anywhere and look amazing!

We headed over to The Highline in Chelsea and enjoyed the wet weather. The best thing about Jeremiah and Katelyn Rose is their ability to make the best of anything that's thrown their way. They're a real-life couple who lives in New York and offered to model for us…and even though it was raining, Katelyn simply enjoyed the ride…

I absolutely love the dress she wore for the shoot…it was from Gabriella New York Bridal Salon and it looked stunning…

Halfway through the shoot, the rain started to pick up considerably, but that didn't deter these photographers from shooting to their hearts' content…

Many, many thanks to Facetime Beauty in NYC for styling Katelyn's hair and makeup so well…she made a blushing bride!

This peony and rose bouquet? I can't even. It's so darn pretty and it makes me wish I could shoot Ava Flora‘s creations all day!

“This workshop was one of the best experiences I have had… I met so many amazing photographers, photographed a beautiful couple in the rain in Manhattan, discovered the importance of marketing my brand, and got the swift kick in the butt I needed to jump-start my business.” Allie Skylar

The rain started coming down heavily, but I pretended not to notice…

…but many thanks to JD, he captured the moment when I realized we had to get out of the downpour…I mean, look at that face…

In spite of it all, they kept on smiling…love you, K+J!

We decided to finish the shoot in the studio…one of the reasons I loved this group so much is they always found a way to make me smile and find the silver lining…

“Yesterday we had the workshop! Was it all I imagined? Yes! And more! Just to hear all that Jasmine and JD had to teach and to see her work was amazing. In photography, as in any career, constant learning and inspiration is a must. Jasmine and JD, thank you so much for sharing your career and life experiences with us, priceless! Remember, you'll always have a home in Costa Rica.”Sylvia Guardia

This is my favorite photo of the day…I have no words to sum up how amazing this group was to work with. In fact, they're already planning a one-year reunion, so I can't wait to be there and celebrate their successes! I was impressed with their ability to connect with each other and I have no doubt the relationships they built will be the thing to help them all move forward. Together. Much love…

If you'd like to join us for a future workshop, feel free to sign up for the NEWSLETTER since it's announced there first.

Special *thanks* to Kat Harris for being my NYC workshop rep and organizing a flawless day…planning the logistics in a city as crazy as New York was no small feat and she completed it with grace and kindness. Love her! And many thanks to theWORKSHOP sponsors for making this dream a reality!
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