Change the way you see the world.

The workshop your friends have been warning you about.

The 5-day Foundation Workshop offers photographers the unique opportunity to work closely with the world’s best documentary, wedding, family, editorial photographers and photography teachers.

Under the guidance of experienced instructors, workshop students will explore and develop their photojournalistic skills through the process of shooting and editing a complete photo story of real subjects. Students will be challenged to approach their real assignments creatively and encouraged to shoot passionately while establishing a foundation for learning the skills and perspective of a photojournalist. Foundation is an intense experience where students can expect to be pushed out of their comfort zones photographically and personally.

We are looking for adventurous brave students.

2025 WORKSHOPS

FW25 (APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN)

Feb. 23-27, 2025
Lawrence, Kanas

APPLY HERE

Foundation Workshops Class of 2024

FW24

Photography and slideshow by: David Eulitt

Foundation Workshops Class of 2023

FW23

Photography and slideshow by: Jason Vinson

FAQs

Wow! It’d better be a great workshop!

We have been at this since 2003 and we believe in the process! You will be getting the full attention of the best photographers and teachers in the industry in a setting that’s like no other. Each team will consist of 2 teachers to 6 students ensuring as much personal attention as possible. Many of the workshop instructors have gone through the workshop process themselves and all are dedicated to your learning process.

How does the team system work?

Each team has 2 instructors for a max of 6 students. Because the teams function as independent units, each team is free to customize its schedule and procedures to suit the needs of its students. Students will be receiving instruction visits by the instructors in the field on each shooting day for the ultimate one on one learning. After shooting, the team will gather for editing, critique, and discussion.

Can I choose my instructors?

Yes. All students will be able to choose the team leader they want when registering. Team availability will be based on a first come first served basis. Once a team is full the registration form for that team will no longer be active. Students can then select another team to join.

Can we edit my work in private? I don’t want to look bad in front of my peers.

We learn not only from examining our own work but from that of others. The editing sessions are conducted with the whole team present. It’s an invaluable process to begin to understand how other photographers think and see.

What skill level should I be at to make the most of the workshop?

Students should already be very familiar with using camera gear in a variety of situations. The teams will not spend a lot of time and energy teaching students how to use a camera.

What will I be photographing for the week?

Students of Foundation Workshop 2024 will select an assignment at random once at the workshop. The assignments will be a mix including businesses, individuals, and families. All assignments are different and unstructured. Each student will have their own experience. We cannot guarantee any specific outcome or events with assignments.

Do I need digital equipment? What should I bring?

You’ll only need the basic digital equipment : two digital bodies, a wide lens, a medium lens, a long lens, flash, and memory cards. You’ll be shooting JPGs to ease with the editing process. Additionally, students should bring a laptop.

Will we be discussing post-production techniques at the workshop?

No. Photoshop is only a tool to process the images from your story. We will focus our time at the workshop exclusively on the processes of seeing and capturing those images, not on post-production methods.

Do I have to stay at the host hotel?

We ask all students stay at the host hotel in efforts to produce a strong workshop community as well as for safety reasons. We prefer students not be driving late at night after team critiques.

I heard that participants did not get a lot of sleep during past workshops. Is that true?

Unfortunately, that’s true. The workshop is very intense, full of challenges and interesting people. Fueled by their passion for photography, many participants find it difficult to rest when immersed in such an environment.

However, since the Workshop was expanded to 5 days students are able to get additional rest.

Will there be any other organized social activities for fun?

Not really. Photography is fun!

I cannot come for the entire workshop. Can I leave early or arrive late?

No. It is very important that all students be able to be present the entire time. This ensures students experience the proper learning process from start to finish. Students need to arrive at the hotel on Saturday Feb. 24th, 2024 no later than 6:00pm and leave the workshop on Friday, Feb. 30th, 2024. Students are encouraged to not book early morning flights on the 30th following the workshop celebration party as historically that night is a late night.