My first workshop with Chris Dickinson was a real-life experience, to say the least. He picked me up from the airport and started filling me with knowledge as soon as I sat in the car. If you were to have asked me to give a review on the last day of the workshop, I simply could not. I’m a deep thinker, so it takes me a little time to give feedback. What I can say, is that Chris did not just teach me about my camera settings or photography, he taught me about life and myself. That was my first time doing anything, I’ll say, daring; meaning that was my first time taking a trip by myself and not knowing who I was going to meet up with. I had no idea what to expect, but I knew it had to be better than a college course I had taken only a few months prior.
Like I said, Chris picked me up from the airport and started spitting out camera knowledge and trying to see what I knew what I didn’t. It was a little overwhelming and I became intimidated. But I mean that in a nice way. I could feel his passion just in his teaching about camera settings and gear in the car ride. For someone not in tune with their inner self, it was a little hard for me to understand how to handle or embrace it. During the workshop, he had his family join us for the entire weekend. When Joe had joined us for Chris’s presentation, I honestly wondered if she was just there because she is his wife or if she really enjoyed being there. I guess you can say I have been a little sheltered and have only witnessed a handful of relationships. Joe is so passionate and supportive of Chris. It was beautiful to watch and the feeling is mutual between them.
I have been up to Utah three times now. What I can say about Chris as a person and photographer is that he super passionate and authentic, as well as really genuine and caring. He wants to help others and it clearly shows. I followed Chris’s Instagram a little while before I attended one of his workshops. I’ll never forget, he posted an image of three or four extension cords and explained about being creative onsite. There was nothing too special about the photo, but it made me think of myself and how I always had a camera glued to my hand while at my grandparent’s house at a young age. I was always looking for different ways I could photograph things around their property and give new prospective. A college course on photography was only a waste of money for me. The teacher had shown no passion and neither did the students. But really, it was a bunch of older ladies with point and shoot cameras. But seeing Chris’s post and reading his caption was the deciding factor on whether I’d sign up for his workshop or not. I was looking for help with creativity, which I didn’t know at the time and for help with my fancy new camera that I had just bought. I had debated for months to sign up and I am truly glad I did.
Chris Dickinson has changed my life. He opened new doors for me that I never thought possible. Along with the abundance of the knowledge of camera use, finding the light and utilizing it, post editing, being creative and everything dealing with photography, he has taught me that it’s ok to allow myself to be me. He leads me back to the door of finding that place inside me and it has helped my photography, horsemanship, and life. I have gotten more than my money’s worth in going to his workshops. During my time with him at his workshops, he makes sure that he is taking care of every need of everyone. He’s is always right behind his students making sure that all questions are answered and are understood all while getting good shots as well.
Witnessing his relationships with close friends, family, and new friends is really inspiring. Chris and Joe are the first people I can honestly say that I have met that are completely genuine. I have become a part of their family just as much as they are a part of mine. I recommend taking a workshop with Chris to anyone looking to further their knowledge in photography. Whether it be creativity, camera functions, printing or even the business side of photography, Chris can help anyone with anything. There are going to be those few people that you meet, that bring out the best side of you and make you a better person, and Chris Dickinson is definitely one of them.
This picture may not look like much to any of you out there, but it truly brings tears to my eyes. And there are a million reasons why. Have you ever met somebody that some how some way things just clicked? A friendship you felt like you should of found years ago?? Well that's how me and my hubby feel about Chris (and his family!)
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I met Chris just this spring on our way to a branding. Chris, myself and Marty rode in the back seat and not a whole lot was said, honestly. I found out he did photography, which instantly intrigued my interest. By the end of that day, the foundation to our friendship was built and Chris was somebody that was so honest and kind to me about his lifestyle.
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Of course I got home and I instantly had to look him up on Instagram. I was drawn to his amazing work, and literally sat there and drooled. I knew right then I wanted to learn from him if I could ever get the chance. I worked up the nerve and finally messaged him on Instagram. He responded and was so sincere and more than willing to help. This is just the type of guy he is day in and day out!
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This weekend I had the opportunity to go and do a 3 day workshop with Chris! My mind was blown away with what I learned and how much fun it was. He challenged my creativity and pushed me to get out of my "safe" bubble. He took the time to answer each and every little question I was throwing at him, with patience beyond measure.
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I will forever treasure this picture. Very rarely do you see Chris not behind his camera. This weekend was definitely one for the books. Chris, I will never be able to thank you enough, not only for being there to help me with anything I throw at ya, but for being a friend. Me and Marty sure love spending time with you and your family and are truly blessed with your friendship! I hope one day I can repay you!!
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Photo credit: the amazing @laneyaliciab you absolutely rock!
