{"title":"2027 Workshop Collection","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"wait-list-may-20-28-2026-deeper-japan-a-cultural-photographic-masterclass-click-book-now-for-waitlist-copy-1","title":"May 19-27, 2027 Deeper Japan: A Cultural \u0026 Photographic Masterclass","description":"\u003ch3\u003eWorkshop Overview\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJapan rewards the photographer who slows down, pays attention, and embraces curiosity. This new workshop—crafted with my longtime collaborator Soichi Hayashi—takes you deeper into the country’s cultural rhythm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the quiet waterfront of Yokohama to the timeless streets of Kyoto and the raw power of Tokyo’s Grand Sumo Tournament, you’ll experience three distinct Japans and build a meaningful body of work along the way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an intimate, thoughtfully paced masterclass for photographers who want to see more, feel more, and grow in ways that stay with them long after they return home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/Screenshot_2025-12-11_at_2.08.48_PM.png?v=1765556181\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e Three-Part Journey Through Japan\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1. Yokohama \u0026amp; Kanagawa – Coastal Calm, First Impressions\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe begin in Yokohama, staying at the beautiful InterContinental Yokohama Pier 8, an elegant hotel sitting right on the harbor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom this waterfront base, we’ll photograph:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e•\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eHarbor-front neighborhoods and quiet backstreets\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e•\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eYokohama’s Chinatown with its density of color and life\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e•\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eNight cityscapes along the bay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e•\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eA day trip to Kamakura and Hakone for shrines, coastal scenes, and the possibility of Mt. Fuji if conditions align\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis first chapter gives you time to land, reset, and reconnect with your way of seeing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e2. Tokyo – The Power and Ritual of Sumo\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWe time our days in \u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTokyo\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e to coincide with the period of the May Grand Sumo Tournament, when the city carries a heightened sense of ritual and tradition. We are actively trying to secure tickets to attend the tournament as spectators, but like the World Cup or other major international sporting events, access is limited and never guaranteed. If we’re able to attend, we’ll photograph from our seats, paying attention to the atmosphere, ceremonies, and the rhythm of waiting and sudden action that defines the sport. With limited access a zoom lens may be the most practical tool.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIf we’re not able to get inside the arena, there are still rich photographic opportunities in and around the venue and surrounding neighborhoods during the tournament—wrestlers, fans, rituals, and everyday life intersecting in quiet, revealing ways. Either way, Tokyo itself is the reason we’re here. \u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eSoichi and I have been photographing Tokyo for more than fifteen years, and we build each day around what we know works. Tokyo rewards photographers who don’t rush—who stay put, work a scene, and let the picture come to them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eFor those who want more time and structure in Tokyo, the optional two-day add-on will offer a deeper, more curated street-shooting experience with two nights accommodation at Hotel Century Southern Tower, and one group dinner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/Screenshot_2025-12-11_at_2.53.58_PM.png?v=1765556152\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e3. Kyoto – Tradition, Portraits, and Everyday Life\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKyoto is the anchor for the second half of the workshop—not just the postcard version, but the deeper, more intimate one.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith Soichi’s local connections (including collaborators you may have met on previous workshops), we’re working to secure:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e•\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ePortrait sessions with craftspeople and local characters\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e•\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eAccess to people and places most visitors never get close to\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e•\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eTime in quieter, more rural areas around Kyoto to escape the tourist crush\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe’ll explore:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e•\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eGion, with its layered history and complex twilight atmosphere\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e•\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eArashiyama, with its temples and wooded paths\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e•\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eA day trip to a nearby city such as Nara, Shiga, Osaka, or Kobe, each offering a different take on daily life\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy the end of Kyoto, you’ll have the raw material for a serious, cohesive body of work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/Screenshot_2025-12-11_at_3.21.32_PM.png?v=1765556228\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTentative Itinerary\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5\/19 – Arrival in Yokohama, check in at InterContinental Yokohama Pier 8\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5\/20 – Yokohama + surrounding neighborhoods\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5\/21 – Day trip to Kamakura\/Hakone\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5\/22 – Yokohama + Sumo Tournament (day before the final)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5\/23 – Travel to Kyoto\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"padding: 56.25% 0 0 0; position: relative;\"\u003e\u003ciframe title=\"Bullet Train To Kyoto\" style=\"position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%;\" src=\"https:\/\/player.vimeo.com\/video\/1149229633?badge=0\u0026amp;autopause=0\u0026amp;player_id=0\u0026amp;app_id=58479\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5\/24 – Kyoto: Gion and surrounding areas\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5\/25 – Kyoto: Arashiyama\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5\/26 – Kyoto: Day trip to Nara \/ Shiga \/ Osaka \/ Kobe (TBD)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5\/27 – Check-out; depart from Kansai Airport or return to Tokyo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5\/28-5\/29 Optional Tokyo Add-On Century Southern Tower Hotel. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOptional Tokyo Add-On (May 28–29)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor those who want to stay longer, we’re planning a 2-day structured Tokyo add-on. This extension focuses on working specific neighborhoods, refining your Tokyo portfolio, and pushing deeper into complex, layered street scenes. Details and hotel options (including our favorite Century Southern Tower) will be shared closer to final confirmation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/Screenshot_2025-12-11_at_2.11.35_PM.png?v=1765556277\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAccommodations\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eOur hotel in Yokohama:\u003cb\u003e \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.icyokohama-pier8.com\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eInterContinental Pier 8\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/InterConYokahama2.png?v=1765477326\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/InterConYokahama.png?v=1765477353\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe InterContinental Yokohama Pier 8 is a beautifully designed waterfront hotel that gives us a quiet, refined base right on the harbor. A direct limousine bus from Haneda makes arrival effortless, and once you step inside, the calm of the space sets the tone for the start of our workshop. The rooms are generous, with views that open onto the water, and the surrounding Minato Mirai district offers a mix of modern architecture, walkable boardwalks, and evening light that’s perfect for photography. The hotel also has comfortable lounge areas we can use for meetings or informal editing sessions as we ease into the week.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eOur hotel in Kyoto:\u003cb\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/solaria-kyoto.nnr-h.com\" title=\"Solaria Hotel Kyoto\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSolaria Hotel Kyoto\u003c\/a\u003e (or similar) \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/SolariaLobbyExterior00003.png?v=1766602357\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/SolariaLobbyExterior00002.png?v=1766602330\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/SolariaBreakfast00002.png?v=1766605138\" alt=\"\"\u003eThe Solaria Kyoto Hotel Premier offers a quieter, grounded experience of the city—one that feels distinctly Kyoto. Set directly along the Kamo River, the hotel places us in the daily flow of local life, where walkers, cyclists, couples, and chance encounters unfold from morning through dusk. It’s the kind of place where stories reveal themselves naturally, without effort. The hotel delivers exactly what matters: quality, atmosphere, and a refined sense of calm. The rooms are comfortable and thoughtfully designed, the service is excellent, and the food reflects the care and attention you expect here. Being just slightly removed from the intensity of Gion makes a real difference with more space to breathe, observe, and work—yet Gion remains an easy walk away when we want it. The  neighborhood is rich with small shops and restaurants, and we’re still close to Soichi’s favorite Kenninji Temple, with its beautiful garden and interiors that offer great photo opportunities. It’s an ideal base close to the heart of Kyoto.\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003eOur hotel in Tokyo:\u003cb\u003e \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/global.southerntower.co.jp\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eThe Century Southern Tower\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p3\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/expediav2-20911-b29c64-801040.jpg?v=1765557661\"\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eThe Century Southern Tower has long been one of our favorite Tokyo bases. Just steps from Shinjuku Station, the hotel sits high above the city with sweeping views in every direction—an ideal launch point for photographing Tokyo’s energy and rhythm. The rooms are bright and well designed, the service is consistently excellent, and the location makes it effortless to move between neighborhoods. And then there’s the breakfast buffet: generous, beautifully prepared, and the perfect start to full shooting days in the city. It’s a comfortable, reliable home in the middle of one of the world’s most dynamic urban environments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShinjuku is one of the most populated and diverse downtowns in all of Tokyo, with endless photo opportunities 24-7 and home for many of Tokyo best new and used camera shops. Shinjuku is well known for its neon lights and active night life, as well as the many scenes from the film Lost in Translation. It is a major commercial and administrative centre, housing the busiest railway station in the world, Shinjuku Station. The area surrounding the station is a major economic hub of Tokyo with many companies choosing this district for their head offices.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eStreet Philosophies\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/TravelStreet_20_2_large.jpg?v=1522160698\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSteve and Soichi will be teaching you new and powerful street photography techniques guaranteed to push you from your comfort zone to new heights in your work and share their street-shooting philosophies gleaned from a lifetime of wandering urban places, camera in hand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/Screenshot_2025-12-11_at_3.19.36_PM.png?v=1765556325\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis intensive workshop will help you find your own unique vision and street style through assignments created to get you past photographic fears and cliches to capturing lyrical, poetic and decisive moments that communicate the energy of the streets. But mostly you will be shooting the theatre that is the street; sometimes together, often on your own.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/Screenshot_2025-12-11_at_3.07.45_PM.png?v=1765556365\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/850_2999_large.jpg?v=1520055896\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou’ll learn about the “rhythm of place” and we will discuss the laws and ethics of street photography as well as dealing with difficult situations that might pop up. We  will help define a strategy for capturing the rich daily life in Japan; overcoming fears and shyness, approaching strangers, framing, juxtaposition, layering your compositions, letting the image come to you and whether color or black and white best suits your vision. And you will have fun!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe height=\"360\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/player.vimeo.com\/video\/214502463\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eStreet Tech\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou will talk street-tech and Steve and Soichi will give you their minimalist views on gear along with a simplified shooting process to maximizing your response time to capture decisive moments. Their street tools include Nikon cameras with a carefully curated selection of lenses; but they are also familiar with a wide range of equipment to help you maximize your mirror-less, compact, rangefinder, DSLR or even your camera phone for compelling street images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/850_0559_large.jpg?v=1520055787\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe will talk lenses, auto focus, zone focusing, shooting form the hip, using live view, flash and a host of other tips, tricks, distractions and ideas that will improve your work dramatically. It’s a street photography workshop but the lessons learned will benefit you in all genres of image-making.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWe also know that photography doesn't end when you push the shutter button; in some ways that is where it begins. It is paramount that you find a consistent way to deal with the thousands upon thousands of images you will take in your life time. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSteve and Soichi will walk you through their processes of organizing, editing, processing and archiving their huge library of images. You'll learn how they work with programs like Lightroom Classic to cull their best work out of every shoot. They will discuss all aspects of the process, from memory cards through archiving onto drives and in the cloud. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn class, you will look at a selection of your best work from the previous day. These daily critiques are of crucial importance, where you share ideas and constructive criticism as you look through each others’ images. The workshop will be a “safe place” for group discussions with suggestions and new ideas put forward.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/SteveTokyo_3835_large.jpg?v=1519884340\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eShooting Locations\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSoichi Hayashi, my long-time friend has traveled the world and is an accomplished Japanese photographer whose work is beautiful and very different from mine, which will makes for a great and complimentary teaching team.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/soichi_large.jpg?v=1522160908\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the Passionate Street Photography Workshop Tokyo\/Kyoto, you will wander and explore vibrant, visually rich places and neighborhoods chosen for their visual potential. Steve \u0026amp; Soichi have scouted locations and are working out the final detailed itinerary and though the schedule seems packed, flexibility and independence are encouraged among participants–if you fall in love with an area and want to work further their– you are encourage to do so.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/850_2856_large.jpg?v=1520055836\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003eSoichi will provide photography-driven maps for each of the districts you visit along with tips and suggested shooting positions giving you a head start on getting great images. In the lectures, assignments designed to get you out of your comfort zone and push you forward in your work will be given.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSchedule\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe are working out our final itinerary but we will spend the first nights in Tokyo before taking the bullet train to Kyoto. Workshop attendees in the past have arrived early and have continued their travels in Japan after the workshop and we can assist you in making those arrangements. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTestimonials\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAnna Blanco, New York City\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Best workshop I’ve ever taken! Steve is not only a great photographer, he is also a terrific teacher. He is patient and very hands- on. In some workshops the instructor sends students out to shoot after a short lecture–Steve goes out with his students, coaching them throughout the process. His course is well organized and covers diverse topics. He is funny and engaging and generous with his time and knowledge. I had SO MUCH fun and am ready to sign up for the next one. Highly recommended!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAnne Dunford, Ithaca, New York\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"My week in Steve’s Street Shooting workshop challenged me tremendously. There’s nothing like taking your work apart and putting it back together with new vision to make you a better photographer. If you take this workshop, I guarantee you will see the world differently at the end.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eGary Niederpruem, Chicago\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“What a fabulous experience. I learned more about photography in one week than I had in 5 years. Steve is very knowledgable about the technical side as well as composition. He is very patient, gives excellent feedback and will work one on one with you on any photography subject you want. I asked him for help on night photography and at 10 PM he was out on the streets of Havana with me with step by step instructions on how to take the shot. 5 star plus rating!!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003ePaul Lavergne, San Juan, PR\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Steve’s passion for photography is contagious and his teaching abilities and knowledge extraordinary! I highly recommend this workshop to anyone interested in photography.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eChapman Solomon, Mountain View, CA\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Participating in the NYC Street Photography Workshop was an enriching and exhilarating experience. It challenged me to step out of my comfort zone to improve my skills. Steve’s curriculum and hands on approach offered me an opportunity to learn new techniques, add some creativity and visualize subject matter from another perspective. Each day presented abundant photo opportunities, resulting with the capture of some amazing images, exceeding my greatest expectations.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eStephen Sholl, New York City\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Not only is Steve a great photographer, he is also a caring, compassionate person as well. He is constantly trying to help participants achieve their photographic goals in a gentle, caring, and sincere manner. Sadly, the critiques of my work were very helpful. Steve was right-on in terms of his suggestions to better my work. The totality of the workshop was terrific, primarily because the parts were all excellent as well. Choice of shooting locations, image reviews, suggestions, videos shown, and galleries visited were all great. Steve also promoted wonderful interactions among the participants. The venue was perfect for the workshop. We could spread out, leave your things there, use the facilities, and eat the goodies provided. You know you’re in good hands with Steve! An outstanding workshop!!\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eSteve Lavelle, London\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This is an outstanding workshop, led by a world-class photographer. It is impossible to spend time in a room with Steve Simon and not be inspired to get out there and make great images …I had high expectations and you exceeded them…Steve is very personable, articulate and passionate about photography, very welcoming with a warm, engaging personality. Steve’s style is outstanding. I knew of Steve from the TWiP podcast and would have attended if he was talking about how to watch paint dry…”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eOscar Piñeyro, Dallas\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"I just spent the last three days with Steve Simon, What a wonderful experience, the best time spent in a workshop ever. Steve is a perfectionist, every presentation not only had spectacular photography but also the perfect music to enhance the mood, a roller coaster of emotions. He cannot hide his journalistic background every single image tells a story. His technique is flawless; his teaching patience unparalleled. I am eager to start a new chapter of my photography applying what Steve taught me in the last few days.\"\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Passionate Photographer","offers":[{"title":"May 19-27 -2027","offer_id":59503684550942,"sku":"TPP-TOKYO2011","price":500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/Screenshot_2025-12-12_at_11.29.01_AM.png?v=1773772211"},{"product_id":"june-18-20-2027-the-mermaid-parade-street-photography-workshop-nyc-with-steve-simon","title":"June 18-20, 2027: The Mermaid Parade Street Photography Workshop — NYC with Steve Simon","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA Street Photography Adventure You Won’t Forget\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJoin award-winning street photographer Steve Simon for a powerful 3-day masterclass timed around one of New York City’s wildest and most visually rich events—the Coney Island Mermaid Parade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou’ll spend a long weekend immersed in the streets of New York, chasing the rhythm, energy, and surprises the city has to offer—with full access to the outrageous, one-of-a-kind Mermaid Parade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/MermaidParade202500010.png?v=1754514859\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a focused, small-group experience built around shooting, learning, and growing. With just 8 students, you’ll get one-on-one feedback, full group support, and the time and space you need to make serious photographic progress.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore we meet in person, you’ll have a private Zoom portfolio review and a group session to prep your gear, mindset, and approach. That way, when you’re here, you hit the ground running.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe’ll photograph iconic neighborhoods like Times Square, Chinatown, Harlem, the Brooklyn Bridge, Union Square, Washington Square Park, and some of Steve’s favorite off-the-beaten-path locations. The weekend builds toward our highlight: shooting credentials for the Mermaid Parade staging area at Coney Island.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/MermaidParade202500002.png?v=1754514858\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Mermaid Parade: A Photographer’s Dream\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince 1983, the Mermaid Parade has marked the start of summer with a sea of glitter, satire, skin, scales, and street theatre. It’s a living, breathing homage to the old Coney Island Mardi Gras of the early 1900s—reborn as a freewheeling public art show open to all.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThousands descend on the boardwalk in hand-made costumes, marching bands play, dancers swirl, mermen and mermaids pose, and the streets overflow with the kind of unpredictable energy street photographers dream about.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/MermaidParade202500005.png?v=1754514858\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThanks to our photographer access passes, you’ll be right in the staging area—where the best pictures happen. Up close and personal. Candid. Human. Real. You’ll shoot before the crowds arrive, as people get ready, make last-minute adjustments, and become their characters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt’s not just about costumes. It’s about moments. And you’ll be there to capture them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/MermaidParade202500004.png?v=1754514857\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/MermaidParade202500006.png?v=1754514857\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShoot With Purpose\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis workshop isn’t about shooting everything that moves. It’s about slowing down, building your eye, and shooting with intention. You’ll get street assignments designed to challenge you, break habits, and deepen your way of seeing. You’ll be encouraged to follow a theme for your final project, and we’ll review your work together each day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/1.ClareDanes_large.jpg?v=1520052060\" alt=\"\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/SteveSimon_104_large.jpg?v=1520051340\" alt=\"\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe’ll talk about finding your rhythm on the street. About patience. About getting close. About capturing layered, decisive moments that say something about the place, the people, and the time we’re in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/Screenshot_2026-06-24_at_9.13.24_AM.png?v=1782308042\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStreet Philosophy Meets Street Tech\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe’ll talk gear—what helps, what gets in the way, and how to simplify. Steve will walk you through his personal shooting setup with the Nikon Z mirrorless system, and offer practical tips for using whatever gear you bring—whether it’s a DSLR, mirrorless, compact, or your phone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou’ll cover autofocus setups, lenses, zone focusing, live view, shooting from the hip, working with flash, and more. But always in service of the image, never for the sake of tech alone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInspiring, Supportive, Honest Feedback\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach day includes a classroom session with edits, critiques, and honest conversation about your work. We’ll look at what’s working and what can be pushed further. The atmosphere is always constructive and supportive—this is a safe space to try new things, take risks, and grow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe’ll also visit a NYC photography gallery and talk about sequencing, themes, and visual storytelling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYou’ll Leave With\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e•\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eA powerful set of images from one of the most dynamic weekends NYC offers\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e•\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eA deeper understanding of your own photographic voice\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e•\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eA fresh set of street strategies and tools\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e•\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eA community of like-minded photographers\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e•\u003cspan class=\"Apple-tab-span\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eAnd a whole lot of great memories from the Mermaid Parade and beyond\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCome curious. Leave changed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/ConeySimon_20_large.jpg?v=1520052083\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/ConeySimon_3_large.jpg?v=1520052076\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/Screenshot_2026-06-24_at_9.16.40_AM.png?v=1782308090\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOur Venue:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.cre8ivenyc.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eCRE8IVE NYC\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e134 W 29th St, 2nd Floor, New York, 10014\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTestimonials\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eGary Niederpruem, Chicago\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“What a fabulous experience. I learned more about photography in one week than I had in 5 years. Steve is very knowledgable about the technical side as well as composition. He is very patient, gives excellent feedback and will work one on one with you on any photography subject you want. I asked him for help on night photography and at 10 PM he was out on the streets of Havana with me with step by step instructions on how to take the shot. 5 star plus rating!!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAnna Blanco, New York City\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Best workshop I’ve ever taken! Steve is not only a great photographer, he is also a terrific teacher. He is patient and very hands- on. In some workshops the instructor sends students out to shoot after a short lecture–Steve goes out with his students, coaching them throughout the process. His course is well organized and covers diverse topics. He is funny and engaging and generous with his time and knowledge. I had SO MUCH fun and am ready to sign up for the next one. Highly recommended!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eAnne Dunford, Ithaca, New York\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"My week in Steve’s Street Shooting workshop challenged me tremendously. There’s nothing like taking your work apart and putting it back together with new vision to make you a better photographer. If you take this workshop, I guarantee you will see the world differently at the end.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003ePaul Lavergne, San Juan, PR\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Steve’s passion for photography is contagious and his teaching abilities and knowledge extraordinary! I highly recommend this workshop to anyone interested in photography.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eChapman Solomon, Mountain View, CA\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Participating in the NYC Street Photography Workshop was an enriching and exhilarating experience. It challenged me to step out of my comfort zone to improve my skills. Steve’s curriculum and hands on approach offered me an opportunity to learn new techniques, add some creativity and visualize subject matter from another perspective. Each day presented abundant photo opportunities, resulting with the capture of some amazing images, exceeding my greatest expectations.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eStephen Sholl, New York City\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Not only is Steve a great photographer, he is also a caring, compassionate person as well. He is constantly trying to help participants achieve their photographic goals in a gentle, caring, and sincere manner. Sadly, the critiques of my work were very helpful. Steve was right-on in terms of his suggestions to better my work. The totality of the workshop was terrific, primarily because the parts were all excellent as well. Choice of shooting locations, image reviews, suggestions, videos shown, and galleries visited were all great. Steve also promoted wonderful interactions among the participants. The venue was perfect for the workshop. We could spread out, leave our things there, use the facilities, and eat the goodies provided. You know you’re in good hands with Steve! An outstanding workshop!!\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eSteve Lavelle, London\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This is an outstanding workshop, led by a world-class photographer. It is impossible to spend time in a room with Steve Simon and not be inspired to get out there and make great images …I had high expectations and you exceeded them…Steve is very personable, articulate and passionate about photography, very welcoming with a warm, engaging personality. Steve’s style is outstanding. I knew of Steve from the TWiP podcast and would have attended if he was talking about how to watch paint dry…”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eOscar Piñeyro, Dallas\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"I just spent the last three days with Steve Simon, What a wonderful experience, the best time spent in a workshop ever. Steve is a perfectionist, every presentation not only had spectacular photography but also the perfect music to enhance the mood, a roller coaster of emotions. He cannot hide his journalistic background every single image tells a story. His technique is flawless; his teaching patience unparalleled. I am eager to start a new chapter of my photography applying what Steve taught me in the last few days.\"\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Passionate Photographer","offers":[{"title":"Jun 18-20 2027","offer_id":59507163758878,"sku":null,"price":250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2207\/4823\/files\/MermaidParade202500118.png?v=1754520565"}],"url":"https:\/\/photoeducate.com\/collections\/2027-workshop-collection.oembed","provider":"Photo Educate","version":"1.0","type":"link"}