(Left) Bishop Manyange Chenjerai sings his prayers to the Domboshawa mountains outside Harare, Zimbabwe. Photo by Nichole Sobecki.
(Right) House of Culture in Arshaluys village, Armenia. Photo by Anush Babajanyan.
Instructors: Anush Babajanyan and Nichole Sobecki
Fee:$900
Max class size: 20
Group presentation language: English
One on one languages: English (Nichole and Anush), Armenian and Russian (Anush only)
Lectures and discussions on the following topics:
- Creative development: identifying goals, productivity, concept development, and nurturing creativity through lifestyle
- Story execution: pitching, developing a budget, production, and problem-solving in the field
- Sustaining a business: Grants, residencies, assignment work, crowdfunding, print sales, and other sources of funding
- Getting your work seen: Publishing, online presence, social media, promotion, and identity
The creation of a personal photography story from concept to publishing.
Testimonials
“Nichole is a passionate and dedicated educator and a great teacher. She has a talent for breaking down the complexities of photojournalism for students of all levels, and she draws on her extensive experience as a photojournalist, videographer, and editor to help students understand the basics while also reaching for their own personal vision. A class with her will no doubt help prepare students for the working world of photography, and to help them tackle longterm projects as well.”
– Peter DiCampo, photographer and Co-founder of Everyday Africa
“Anush is an incredibly warm person, that made me feel so welcome and comfortable during the workshop with her in Sri Lanka. She is able to push you, and really inspire, in an environment where a lot of learning happens. In the 10 days working with her, Anush was able to transform me, as a photographer and storyteller. I discovered how I see the world, with her guidance, and am now able to present that through photography.” – Jordan Sirek
“Anush, you offered an ideal blend of encouragement, honesty, support and most importantly, professional criticism in our Sri Lanka workshop. You have a gentle way about you that allowed me to come into my own growth as a photographer and as a human. You are patient beyond words, and you juggled everybody’s questions with equality and respect, while never letting on if you were tired or possibly frustrated with hearing a question over and over. I sincerely hope I’ll be able to join you for another workshop, as I’m sure we’ll pick up where we left off and you’ll push, bend, stretch me even further.” – Tracy Barbutes
“In February 2018, I had the pleasure of attending the John Stanmeyer Storytelling Workshop in Sri Lanka facilitated by John Stanmeyer and Anush Babajanyan. It was my first time attending such an intensive workshop, and I was extremely anxious. Anush not only alleviated my anxiety but elevated my experience from day one with her considerate and immediate responses to my questions. Her thoughtful insights on my project ideas helped guide me on my journey before even arriving. From the beginning planning stages to day-to-day troubleshooting to the late-night editing sessions, Anush was an outstanding mentor—thoughtful in her criticism, giving of all her time and energy to ensure the success of the students, and dedicated to elevating the workshop experience by being present and available. There is no match for her professionalism, talent, and warm, sincere nature. I look forward to working with Anush again one day.” – Ghadah Alrawi