Last year, I had the amazing opportunity to co-host a photography content retreat at a lovely A-frame Airbnb in the Poconos. This retreat brought together photographers and vendors from across the region with a range of expertise, to collaborate.
This multi-scene styled photography tre was an opportunity for attendees to immerse themselves in capturing unique scenes and concepts rarely encountered at real weddings. From __ setups that might be too costly or complex to replicate independently to diverse portfolios bursting with models, styles, locations, and colors, this event promised a burst of creativity!
Without the pressure of a wedding day, participants could let their imaginations run wild, collaborating with new vendors, learning from industry peers, and emerging with an electrifying collection of stunning content ready to share whenever they please!
We reached out to an array of talented vendors, each bringing their unique flair to the table. The videography by Retrosespective Films captured the essence of every moment.
Bridal dresses from Kimberly James Bridal added elegance and grace to our scenes. While the florals by Alt Charm Florals provided bursts of color and texture.
Jewelry from Aventine Jewelry added a touch of sparkle. And the hair and makeup artistry by Hannah Price ensured our models looked flawless throughout.
Styling & vintage rentals by Love and a Truck Co. Vintage rugs from Minimal Chaos added depth and character to our setups. Stationery by Somersault Letterpress added personalized touches, and the delectable treats from Colee Cakees left everyone’s belly’s happy.
Our talented models, Hannah Price, Albert Price, Erin Moran, Conner Cola, Maddie Correnti, and Kaitlin Cavallo, brought life and emotion to our scenes.
The day prior was dedicated to setting up and fine-tuning every aspect of the shoot. From rearranging furniture to creating the perfect ambiance, every detail was meticulously curated to set the stage for our content.
On the morning of the shoot, our vendors arrived at the location, ready to bring our vision to life! Each vendor played a pivotal role in transforming our vision into reality. As the models donned their attire and the florals adorned the scene, the magic of the shoots began to unfold.
Throughout the photography retreat, attendees were treated to a variety of scenes carefully curated to showcase different styles and aesthetics. Maybe it’s was a romantic outdoor wedding set against the backdrop of the Pocono Mountains or a cozy couple’s shoot in a getaway cabin? Every scene was thoughtfully designed to inspire and challenge photographers to push their creative boundaries.
One of the most valuable lessons learned was the importance of small shooting groups and extended shooting times. By tailoring groups based on individuals’ shooting styles and preferences, we fostered a sense of community amongst our attendees. It provided an opportunity for photographers to learn from one another, exchange ideas, and cultivate lasting connections.
The organization was key to the success of our photography retreat. Clear communication and effective coordination ensured that everyone was on the same page, allowing for a seamless execution of the shoot. Months of planning, mood boards, and collaboration culminated in a symphony of creativity as each vendor brought their expertise to the table.