Workshops

In addition to what you’ve come to expect from the Seminar+Portfolio Review — compelling presentations from successful professionals, personal portfolio reviews from industry leaders, networking opportunities, and camera cleanings — this year we’ve added workshops to the day’s lineup!

These dynamic workshops are designed to enhance your photography skills, support your well-being, and boost your creative confidence. Whether you're looking to secure grants, master lighting, streamline your workflow, or learn how to manage trauma, these sessions offer expert guidance and practical tools to help you grow in your career. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from industry leaders and connect with peers at these valuable sessions.

Workshops will be held in three 45 minute blocks. Seminar participants can choose which workshop to attend during each block.

Block 1

The Making of “Finding Us”

“Finding Us” is a portrait of four descendants of enslaved people sold by Georgetwon University to stave off bankruptcy. These individuals are using their unique talents to regrow the family trees felled nearly two centuries ago. In this panel discussion we’ll hear from the filmmakers and the people they documented.

Learn how to streamline your editing, organizing, and project management techniques to increase efficiency and creativity. Led by industry experts, this session offers practical strategies and tools to optimize your productivity and elevate the quality of your work.

Take Control of Your Workflow and Production

Block 2

Decide and Defend with The Kalish

This session will guide you through identifying the key factors that influence your creative choices and how to effectively communicate these decisions to clients and peers. Plus, watch how to take a large compelling photo set and edit down to a news story. Enhance your confidence and clarity in presenting your work with compelling narratives and strong rationale.

Level Up Your Lighting!

Baltimore Banner staff photographer Jessica Gallagher will unlock the secrets of professional lighting in this workshop for photographers of all levels. Explore various lighting techniques, from natural light to advanced studio setups, and learn how to manipulate light to create stunning visual effects. Gain hands-on experience and expert tips to elevate the quality and impact of your photographs.

Block 3

Trauma-informed Visual Journalism and Documenting Difficult Stories

How can you approach stories of trauma, violence, conflict, and tragedy with empathy, sensitivity, and compassion while protecting yourself, your sources, and your subjects? We’ll have a conversation with leading photo and video journalists on tackling tough stories and the lessons they've learned in the process. 

The Art of Freelance; Pitching and Branding Yourself

Learn from freelance photographer Jackie Molloy how to brand, pitch, and set yourself apart from a sea of other photographers. Learn how to distinguish your work, build relationships with editors, and master a visual pitch. Molloy has been published internationally, including in National Geographic, Smithsonian, The Globe and Mail, and The Washington Post.