I took part in a two day workshop at Houston Center for Photography this weekend with Magnum Photographer, Eli Reed. In the lecture part of the workshop, Eli shared his years of experience in settings both unique and at times hostile as well as his approach to becoming familiar with their surroundings and people. We talked of the importance of following your instincts and inner voice when on a location and if on assignment to be able to look beyond the assignment if the opportunity presents itself.

We discussed editing techniques and tips on cropping images to bring out the important or the unseen, what for me I would have at first considered unconventional framing and cropping. In the critique part of the workshop, we talked of ways of simplifying a portfolio to create a coherent body of work and how to use the cropping and editing techniques we discussed to improve existing images. I learned personally that my work would benefit from moving in closer to my subjects.

Finally, we took a walk around the grounds of the Houston Center for Photography, The Menil Collection, and the Rothko Chapel. The photos are posted in my Flickr gallery. I am not sure that everyone felt the workshop met all their expectations, but I try to make sure that I am open to all that is presented and to look for my own lessons in the experience.