Reserve Your Seat for an Underwater NAPCP Getaway!

July 18th – 20th, 2024 | Atlanta, Georgia

Hosted by NAPCP Ambassador & 2022 Photographer of the Year, Willy Wilson

Photographers, get ready for some fun! We are excited to announce an amazing Getaway experience in Atlanta, GA this summer. Join us for a chance to learn underwater photography, connect with one another, relax and support your fellow photographers at the NAPCP Inspired Gallery Event!
Our NAPCP Ambassador and 2022 Photographer of the Year, Willy Wilson of Life Unstill Creative is thrilled to extend an invitation to join her for a transformative workshop experience in underwater portrait photography. Aligned with the NAPCP Inspired Gallery Event, Willy will be hosting a day-long underwater portrait photography workshop for a small group of photographers. With over six years of experience in underwater portraiture, and the honor of being named Photographer of the Year by NAPCP in 2022, Willy is eager to share her thoughts and expertise in this exclusive event.
Since 2017, Willy has the privilege of photographing over 100 individuals underwater, continually refining her skills and crafting her own techniques. In this introductory workshop, she will share the fundamentals and essentials of underwater portraiture, providing attendees with a solid foundation to build upon.
Throughout the workshop, Willy will offer practical tips and insights to help participants navigate the unique challenges of underwater photography.  Whether attendees are new to underwater photography or looking to expand their underwater portrait portfolio, she will be there to guide them on this creative journey.

Ready to join us? Reserve your seat now!

Workshop Highlights

Limited availaibitliy to ensure an intimate and personalized experience

In-person access to Willy to enhance your learning experience

Comprehensive understanding of underwater portraiture fundamentals

Practical techniques for posing and directing subjects underwater

Insight into different water environments and shooting conditions

Mid-summer recharge opportunity before the busy season kicks into full gear

Located in Atlanta for ease of travel and opportunity to attend NAPCP’s Inspired Gallery Event

Emphasis on safety protocols for a secure and enjoyable experience

Networking opportunities with fellow photographers

Hands-on practice capturing stunning underwater images

Experience working with professional underwater models

Learn to Create Beautiful Images for Your Clients Underwater!

Underwater NAPCP Getaway Details

PROGRAMMING AND SCHEDULE

PROGRAMMING INFORMATION

This creative retreat offers a full day of immersive learning, relaxation, and networking opportunities with fellow photographers. Participants who have opted for the all-inclusive package will gather at the house on Thursday to settle in, relax, and prepare for the NAPCP Gallery Event. Meanwhile, those staying elsewhere will rendezvous with us at the gallery event hosted at Park Studios. Thursday evening will be an opportunity for all attendees to connect and enjoy a group dinner together. The workshop will be held at the house on Friday, followed by a farewell dinner. 

TENTATIVE SCHEDULE

Get ready for some fun! Here’s a sneak peek at what to expect:

Thursday, July 18th:

  • All-inclusive guests arrive at the house for a fun-filled getaway.
  • We’ll coordinate transportation to the NAPCP Inspired Gallery Event. It’s not just about admiring art; it’s a chance to mingle, laugh, and make memories with both old and new friends.
  • Following the gallery event, let’s continue the camaraderie over a delicious group dinner. Each person will handle their own bill.

Friday, July 19th:

  • Rise and shine! Our day kicks off with a light breakfast and round table discussion about marketing and pricing, setting the tone for a day full of creativity.
  • Attendees will gather, poolside and pumped up, ready to dive into the fun. But before we make a splash, we’ll cover safety, gear essentials, and tips for working with our amazing models.
  • Time for a lunch break! Take a breather, recharge, and connect with fellow participants. Whether it’s swapping stories or simply soaking up the sun, this break is yours to enjoy.
  • Back to the pool for more model magic! Dive into hands-on sessions, where you’ll have the chance to work closely with our models, capturing stunning shots while bonding with your fellow photographers.
  • As the day winds down, we’ll wrap up our poolside adventures around 4 PM. Head back to your rooms for a well-deserved shower and change of pace.
  • But wait, there’s more! Our retreat concludes with a farewell dinner, where we’ll raise a toast to unforgettable experiences and lasting friendships. Everyone will take care of their own meal tab, ensuring everyone can savor the moment their own way.

Saturday, July 20th:

  • As our adventure-filled retreat comes to a close, please remember that check-out time is at 10:00 AM. Be sure to wrap up any last-minute packing and settle any outstanding bills with the accommodation before departing. Safe travels and until next time!

Please note: While we’ve laid out this itinerary, flexibility is the name of the game. We’re here to have fun, learn, and create memories together, so expect some delightful surprises along the way!

NEEDED EQUIPMENT

REQUIRED EQUIPMENT FOR PARTICIPATION

Underwater housing for a cell phone or camera and a dive mask or goggles. You can use a cell phone in a waterproof case, purchase an inexpensive underwater housing bag such as diCapac, use a GoPro or other waterproof consumer camera, or rent an underwater housing for your camera. I started my underwater portrait photography journey using my cell phone and still use it for behind the scenes images. I recommend not investing too much in gear before you see if you enjoy shooting portraits underwater.

TRAVEL AND BOOKING INFORMATION

FLIGHT INFORMATION AND TRAVEL DATES

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport: code ATL
We recommend flying in the morning of Thursday, July 18th and staying until Friday, July 19th late evening or Saturday, July 20th in the morning.

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

The creative retreat will take place at a private AirBnB on July 19th. While programming will be on the 19th, most participants will want to attend the NAPCP Gallery Event at Park Studios and the dinner afterwards on July 18th.

The registration fee for this underwater Getaway is $699 which covers the following:

  • One day of expert-led underwater portrait photography education in a private pool
  • Instruction on essential topics like gear, camera settings, safety, and posing underwater
  • Guidance on planning and styling an underwater portrait session
  • Hands-on experience with professional models, including 1-on-1 shooting time
  • Breakfast round table discussion about marketing and pricing
  • Networking opportunities with fellow photographers
  • Retreat workbook
  • Access to a recorded video demonstrating a clean edit workflow for underwater portraits
  • Lunch, snacks, and beverages provided
  • Two coordinated group dinners (meal expenses covered by attendees)
LODGING

Option 1: All-Inclusive Experience (Limited Availability) Secure your spot early to enjoy an all-inclusive experience with lodging included. Benefit from comfortable accommodations onsite, including two nights’ stay, access to the pool before and after the workshop, downtime to socialize, and continental breakfast, lunch, and snacks provided.

COST – $1050 for private room | $950 for shared room

Option 2: No-Lodging Option For locals or those who prefer alternative accommodations, you may not require lodging. If needed, both The Hyatt Place  and the Atlanta Marriot Buckhead are conveniently situated near Park Studios. Book directly through their website or contact the hotel for reservations.

COST – $699 workshop only

SHUTTLES AND TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION

Attendees are responsible for arranging their transportation to and from the airport, as well as to the workshop venue and any off-site locations like Park Studios. Additionally, attendees and the host can collaborate and share transportation as needed for added convenience.

WHAT TO PACK

In addition to the below noted gear, if you plan to attend the Inspired Gallery Event on Thursday and dinner on Friday night, you will want to pack for a couple of dressy evenings out. Temperatures in Atlanta in July are typicially in the 90s in the day and upper 70s in the evenings and 75% humidity. Bring a wrap or sweater for restaurants and the gallery.

What to bring for the workshop:

  1. Camera/housing:you need to decide what you will shoot with for the workshop.

2. Dive mask/goggles: dive masks cover your nose are will be more comfortable, but you could also wear goggles and noseplugs.

3. Swimsuit

4. Plastic bags for wet stuff

5. Sunscreen

6. Noseplugs (if you’re planning to wear goggles instead of a dive mask)

7. Towels for yourself and your gear

8. Coverup or dress to wear between the pool and your hotel room.

Ready to join us? Reserve your seat now!

The Underwater NAPCP Getaway Includes:

One day of expert-led underwater portrait photography education in a private pool

Instruction on essential topics like gear, camera settings, safety, and posing underwater

Guidance on planning and styling an underwater portrait session

Hands-on experience with professional models, including 1-on-1 shooting time

Breakfast round table discussion about marketing and pricing

Networking opportunities with fellow photographers

Retreat workbook

Access to a recorded video demonstrating a clean edit workflow for underwater portraits

Lunch, snacks, and beverages provided

Two coordinated group dinners (meal expenses covered by attendees)

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

PORTFOLIO USE

Absolutely. While workshop images cannot be used in photography competitions, they are great for adding new work to your portfolio. One thing to note is that cell phone photos are fairly limited in what you can adjust in post-production. So if you are looking for portfolio work, I recommend using a camera.

INSPIRED GALLERY EVENT

If scheduling does not permit you to attend the gallery opening, you are welcome to participate in the workshop and dinner on Friday.

WETSUITS

We will be shooting in a pool, so a wetsuit is not necessary.

DIVE GEAR

You do not nead a snorkel or dive tank, we will practice breath management for this class.

DO I NEED A LAPTOP

We will not be reviewing images or editing on the day of the workshop. Students will receive a video demonstrating an editing workflow.

CLASS INCLUSIONS

Access to a private pool, professional models, group instruction, lunch, and snacks.

SWIMMING REQUIREMENTS

Yes, you do need to know how to swim in order to participate in this event.

UNLOCK NEW SKILLS

Delve into the fundamentals of underwater portraiture, from developing techniques to collaborating with models in aquatic settings. Whether you’re new to underwater photography or seeking to expand your skill set, this workshop offers a low-risk, high-reward opportunity to explore a captivating art form.

ACCESSIBLE EQUIPMENT OPTIONS

Utilize waterproof cell phone housings or bring your own professional equipment or rent a housing. To fully experience the class there is no need for costly investments upfront. While cell phone photography may not provide enough data for extensive editing, the controlled environment and access to professional models ensure that attendees, regardless of the equipment used, can still benefit from the learning experience and aim to capture beautiful results.

ELEVATE YOUR BUSINESS

Expand your photography offerings and set yourself apart in the market by offering unique and memorable underwater sessions. Discover the potential to delight clients with captivating images, particularly during summer months or exotic destinations. With access to professional models, participants have the opportunity to create images that are portfolio-worthy, showcasing their skills and elevating their body of work.

IGNITE YOUR PASSION

While this workshop won’t make you an underwater photography expert overnight, it’s a valuable stepping stone in your journey. Whether you’re drawn to the artistic challenge or intrigued by business opportunities, this workshop promises to inspire your creativity.

Registration for this event is now closed.