Earlier this month, I joined a handful of photographers to spend a day with Fer Juaristi, an incredible photographer based in Mexico. Charleston has no shortage of local photography talent, but it is rare that busy, celebrated photographers travel here to lead workshops. Most professional development opportunities for photographers are centered around the huge WPPI convention in Las Vegas, smaller PPA events and conferences like Imaging USA, which just took place in New Orleans. What a thrill it was to learn to “see” more like Fer and to share ideas with other photographers, including ones from NC and DC, who made the trek.

Fer is both energetic and relaxed, and he really challenged us to think in a new way. I am not the only attendee who prefers shooting during the “magic hour” for the day’s last, gentle warm glow. Imagine my surprise when Fer encouraged us to seek out the harsh light, and again when he was more focused on that bright light than our gorgeous Charleston backdrops. I look forward to using a few of his techniques to add a bit more drama to my repertoire.

Following are a few shots from the day, including a few faves from two sessions with our gorgeous models, Robert and Megan Lange, who are really just a couple of married artists in love.

This couple was patient with the eager paparazzi.

Here’s an idea. Check this awesome black tarp obscuring renovation rubble. Let’s shoot here! And leave out the gorgeous sky!

Cynical no more. Bug’s-eye view for the win.