Reflections from a Women's Photography Retreat on the Shores of Hatteras Island
It has taken me some time to put this post together. Each time I sat down to write, I just could not find the right words to describe the experience. When the idea for the Saltwater Retreat women’s photography workshop was first born, I envisioned a small group of creative women coming together at a beach house on Hatteras Island to share their love of coastal photography and lift each other up in spirit, education, and encouragement. The retreat was never intended to be a traditional workshop where camera techniques were taught and expected to be practiced individually. Instead, the intention was for each person to bring something to the table to share, teach, and inspire. I asked each woman to come to the Outer Banks with an open mind, an open heart, and a willingness to share.
On the first evening, as the group arrived at the house, the atmosphere was filled with excited energy. As introductions began, laughter filled the air. After everyone settled into their private rooms, we gathered for dinner. Formal introductions were made and soul-baring began immediately. Right away, I could tell this group was going to be incredible. Without prompting from me, they shared their histories, struggles, and hopes openly and honestly. My heart swelled with delight.
Each day that followed was filled with more and more connection between the attendees. They arose each morning before sunrise to walk on the beach, stepping out alone but also working together to create images in the early coastal light. During the daily discussions, each woman brought questions, answers, and ideas, helping each other brainstorm and consider new ways of creating the photographic life they envisioned. Meals were filled with chit-chat, laughter, and the occasional tear as they shared stories from home. Our daily shooting excursions were like field trips with school girls, you could see the joy on their faces as they experienced new places together. During their breaks, the women chose to spend time gathered around the dining room table instead of alone, sharing the images that they had created that day on both digital frames and film rolls. On the last evening together when one of the attendees learned her beloved dog had passed away, we all cried together. And when we all said goodbye, there was not a dry eye in the room.
Since returning home from the retreat, I have watched as the women have formed real-life friendships, meeting for coffee, chatting long distance on the phone, and working together on a photo project. This experience spans far beyond photography and I can see how each one was touched in a unique way. What might not be as obvious, though, is how I was touched by this experience. Knowing that I helped bring these women together to encourage each other is a gift that cannot be measured or really even expressed in words. Our lives are all woven together, not just with the common thread of photography, but with having shared something so monumental together on the shores of the Outer Banks.
Want to find your creative voice behind the lens?
If you are craving this kind of quiet, supportive, and intentional space, I would love to share the coast with you. You can view the upcoming schedule, explore lodging, and see what is fully included for our next all-inclusive Women's Photography Retreat.
Can't make it to the beach this season? We can still explore your unique visual style together from anywhere. I offer private, one-on-one virtual mentoring sessions tailored to help you grow your craft and overcome creative blocks.
