John Wimberley workshop in Bainbridge, Washington

The most important aspect of photography is seeing. While equipment and techniques have their place, it is the quality and depth of ones' seeing that determines whether a picture can be more than a mere record. Light reflected from surfaces is recorded by the camera, but it is the job of the photographers' eyes to see through those surfaces to the meaning within.

In this exciting workshop we will examine seeing from a number of perspectives. Some of the factors we'll explore include: cultural conditioning, personal history, visual symbolism and the differences between the visual scene and the photograph. We will explore the concept of photographing while in a state of heightened awareness called lucidity while in a sentient environment. Because all parts of the body and psyche are interconnected, we will examine the important roles played by energy level, posture, movement and breath. Simple exercises to rest and refresh the eyes will also be presented.

In addition, we will examine the crucial contributions of peripheral vision and the intuitive organ of insight; the third eye. The goal will be to have our pictures reflect an ever deeper, richer, more meaningful experience of life.

This workshop is open to anyone with a camera, regardless of age, format, or whether film or digital.

John Wimberley has been called "one of America's preeminent landscape photographers." With 42 years in photography, John's critically acclaimed work has been honored with more than 60 exhibitions and has been published around the world. His photographs are in hundreds of public and private collections, including many major museums. John is also a retired Yoga teacher, and brings a body-centered perspective to teaching photography.