MWAC Workshop

2011 dates have been set!

2010-12-28T08:46:00.001-08:00

Find out more at our new page :

http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-MWAC-Workshop/188125277868041

or

http://www.sarahdobbins.com/the-mwac-workshop

waiting list

2009-12-13T08:15:00.000-08:00

I have a waiting list for the next MWAC Workshop--email me to be on it! As of yet there is not a workshop in the works, but I might start planning one for late spring. We had such a wonderful time at the last workshop--I never got around to posting an update (having a baby will do that to you) but it was a simply wonderful group of ladies. I have stayed in touch with several attendees since the workshops via email--I welcome all of them to email me anytime with photos, questions, etc. and some of them have... and it's such a joy to see them grow and develop as photographers!

the September MWAC Workshop is less than a month away!

2009-08-07T07:07:00.000-07:00

And I am so sad to hear of the Intrepid Traveler's closing. What a wonderful addition to Cookeville's west side--we will miss you!

But that leads me to my next point--with the Intrepid Traveler gone, I'm on the lookout for a place to hold our workshop! I've got several leads, so stay tuned... and attendees who are signed up, never fear--we will meet wherever we must! We'll make it work!

There is still time to scoot in to the class if you want in--but do it soon! I am ordering materials and goodies and all kinds of cool stuff, and the deadline (August 20th) is rapidly approaching.

And do you know what I am doing today? I am pulling out all kinds of shots I took when I was first starting out. OUCH! It's painful. But I am going to collect them, print them, and show them at the workshop--we are going to learn all about what NOT to do, and how to fix common problems, based on the flub-ups of yours truly. So if that alone isn't worth seeing, I don't know what is. I can't wait to share it with you. (No, seriously!)

At last!

2009-06-12T08:01:00.000-07:00

I'm now accepting registrations for the September MWAC Workshop!

Here is the info:

Sept. 5th, 2009 (Saturday)
9a-5p
Cookeville, TN
Breakfast and Lunch included
Sweet prizes and take-home workbook also very much included!
cost : $139 before July 1, $159 after

A digital SLR is recommended, but not required, and an editing program such as Adobe Photoshop Elements is also recommended, but also not required.

As always, email me with questions! I look forward to working with you!

Click the "buy now" button to register instantly via paypal, or email me if you would like to send a check.

emails have gone out...

2009-06-03T12:57:00.000-07:00

If you're on the waiting list, but haven't received one, check your junk mail folder... and if you still don't see it, let me know!

The date has been set!

2009-06-03T12:05:00.000-07:00

If you are on the MWAC Workshop mailing list, get ready... You're about to receive an email very soon with the date and time of the next MWAC Workshop!

MWAC Workshop : Round Three

2009-05-12T17:54:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I have a waiting list about a mile long for the 3rd installment of my workshops. I really hadn't given much thought to holding a third one until the emails just started coming in... and kept coming... and coming... and coming! So I've finally started seriously thinking about getting one going, and it will probably be in August or September. Stay tuned for details!

where have I been??

2009-04-13T13:59:00.000-07:00

oh poor, neglected, workshop blog. I actually dreamed about updating this blog last night--and so here I am!

With the February workshop all wrapped up, I've kind of been MIA on the workshop front, but I have a few requests for yet another round of MWAC Workshops, so I thought I would start a waiting list!

email mwacworkshop@sarahdobbins.com to get on the list, and be the first to know of the next workshop in the works!

chilly, windy, but full of energy!

2009-03-03T08:16:00.000-08:00

That's how I would describe Saturday's workshop... what a wonderful group of ladies! We had such a great mix of personalities, and they didn't let me down--they absolutely stepped in and asked questions and asked me to clarify points, and just really made the day what it was for me--an incredibly positive experience!

Here's the image I edited in class... also posted on my regular blog... I was so impressed by all of our models. We had a wonderful group of moms, and the kids who came just proved it even more.

Okay... am I gushing? I probably am. I'll stop. But seriously, some of you who attended have sent me the sweetest emails and I appreciate it so much! I can't wait to see great things from all of you!

almost there...

2009-02-19T12:27:00.000-08:00

Today I'm just tying up some loose ends and getting even more excited (is that even possible?)!

Attention Attendees--and attention any nikonians who still want in!

2009-01-22T12:03:00.000-08:00

If you have not received a questionnaire via email, let me know!

I am really enjoying reading your responses--we are going to have such a great time! Reading some of your problems with your photos now--makes me nod my head and say YES, YES, YES... we will learn how to overcome those problems. Issues that I have struggled with as well at some point in my journey--we'll tackle them all! Some of you made me laugh out loud with your responses!

And, so far, it looks as though I am the only lonely Nikon girl in the group! Shoot Nikon? Been hankering after a registration but missed the deadline? Be the first to email me (include your model of Nikon body) and slip in under the radar with no late registration fee! This offer will expire soon!

I think I used more exclamation points in this post than I ever have before--must be cabin fever!

Welcome, February attendees!

2009-01-05T10:57:00.000-08:00

Of course, there may still be a few of you squeezing in for February (yes, you can still sign up, even though the deadline has passed! It'll just cost you a bit more dough!). But you who have registered, you should have received an email from me today. Please be sure you got it--I want to be absolutely sure your junk mail folder is not going to eat my messages!

Stay warm!

Gift Certificates

2008-12-29T08:01:00.000-08:00

Ok, some of you lucky ducks who got gift certificates for a seat for Christmas--you might notice the date says February 29, 2009. Well, the sharper among us (which obviously does not include me) will notice there is NOT a February 29th, at least not this year. That's meant to be the 28th. But you probably figured that out!

Our Feb 2009 workshop is just about bursting at the seams. I'm not closing registrations yet, because I can squeeze one or two more in, but time's a wastin'. If you think you might want in, you might want to go ahead and take the plunge!

Only six seats left : Hurry!

2008-10-14T12:55:00.000-07:00

I only have six seats left for the upcoming MWAC Workshop--and I just know there are a few of you out there who want to sign up but are just procrastinating! (Or waiting for your husband to sign you up as a Christmas present. ::hint, hint::)

Get in while the gettin's good!

Registrations now open for MWAC Workshop : 28 Feb 2009

2008-09-09T16:31:00.000-07:00

Registrations are now open!

$139 per person until December 25th, 2008 ; after that date registrations will be $175.

This workshop would be a great complement to that DSLR you're getting for Christmas... or the perfect gift for someone special!

See the link in the post below for workshop details.

Announcing : the MWAC Workshop--February 2009!

2008-09-02T09:59:00.001-07:00

That's right, the MWAC Workshop is set for February 28, 2009.

Registrations will open shortly!

But first, some raves and reviews from our June workshop:

"I can't tell you what a difference this has all made. I am finally using something other than automatic!!! I feel so much more confident... I just feel like I am at a
whole new level."

"[my favorite part of the day was] basically getting the understanding of aperture and iso. I really was having a hard time with it and the workshop--face to face help--helped me with that."

"My favorite part of the day was pretty much everything! I think you did a wonderful job of explaining everything. I will totally recommend it to my friends!"

"You were so organized, very thoughtful, and so easy to talk to and understand. I appreciate you taking the time to communicate with us afterward as well."

and some images:

These are looking a little funky here on this blog--so please excuse that!

I can't wait to host this workshop again--I had such a great time with all the ladies at the June workshop and it was just an unbelievable day of learning, chatting, and working!

Here are the details about the workshop (same as before) : MWAC Workshop.

Registrations will open very soon, and all you lucky ducks who got a referral card from a past attendee are still eligible for the discount!

Stay tuned!

MWAC Workshop is moving!

2008-08-22T12:00:00.000-07:00

What happened? I blinked, and all of a sudden it's the end of August, and my fall schedule is getting jam-packed... I am so anxious to get back to work, yet still not quite back on two feet. Wonder if anyone out there has a left foot I can borrow until mine is back?

I've decided to move the workshop to the late winter/early spring. Fall is such a busy time for so many families, and I am a huge believer that family should come first. I want as many people as possible to come to the workshop without having to juggle family obligations.

So, spread the word; tell your friends--the MWAC Workshop registration opens soon!

I will be sharing some images and some love letters from past attendees in the next post. Stay tuned!

long overdue update!

2008-07-25T12:47:00.000-07:00

I apologize for being away for so long! Things are still on hiatus as I recover from my surgery. (see sarah dobbins : the blog for details).

The good thing is, I am able to get around a little better and will hopefully soon be able to sit at my desk where my calibrated monitor is! Yes, this means I can complete the workshop images and get them all to you who are waiting.

Folks waiting for information on the Fall MWAC Workshop--hang in there. I am still waiting to see when I might be back on my feet. It might be moved to the spring, depending; but I'm still shooting for possibly late fall!

Thanks so much to everyone for your calls and emails of support and well-wishes! They mean a lot!

MWAC Workshop : Fall 2008

2008-06-20T19:43:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to be gearing up once again for the second round of the MWAC Workshop. We had such a great experience with the first one, and I have received so many sweet love letters from many of the attendees--I can't wait to do it again!

I still need to nail down the final date, and as soon as I do, I will open registrations.

To all the parents of our models--I'm still collecting and organizing images from our shooting portion. They will be available soon via immediate download! Stay tuned.

workshop check-in

2008-06-17T08:52:00.000-07:00

We had a great time! Just a few images from Saturday...

...and an example of rule-breaking--I clipped her hands and feet, but don't care because the shot is too cute to pass up! :)

June Attendees

2008-06-04T16:29:00.001-07:00

check the forum for announcements and updates!

Registration is now closed!

2008-06-03T06:39:00.000-07:00

I'm closing up the registrations for the June workshop! I'm elated at the response I've gotten--and I can't wait for the 14th!

Attention all Attendees!

2008-05-15T14:56:00.000-07:00

Everyone who has registered--you should have just received an email moments ago about our "get to know each other" questionnaire. If you didn't receive an email, check your junk mail box, and if it's still not there--let me know!

And the winner is...

2008-05-13T05:51:00.000-07:00

Amanda King! for her striking photo of a beautiful mom and her two beautiful boys. I love the look in a mother's eyes when she scoops up her kids for the camera. Thank you, Amanda!

There were some really, really fantastic entries--I cannot wait to meet all of you! We have some real talent coming to the workshop!

Small reminder : the deadline for early registration is May 15th. After that, there is a $35 late registration fee.

All of you who have already registered, hang tight--I will be sending out an email questionnaire so I can get to know you all better before we meet.

And for those of you who wanted to come but were unable to make it, I'm looking at holding a 2nd workshop in August; drop me a line if you want to be on the mailing list for that.

Okay! I think that's all the information I have for you today! Again, I'm really impressed by the entries I received. I loved looking through them. Congratulations, Amanda!

Win a Free Seat contest ends today!

2008-05-12T06:59:00.001-07:00

Lots of beautiful entries coming in... keep it up! You have until midnight tonight. The images will be judged by a group of photographers and the winner will be posted on the blog!

Win a free seat at the Workshop!

2008-04-30T06:13:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Mom With A Camera Workshop blogsite!

As always, scroll down and read all of the posts to get all the info on the workshop.

To kill time until the early registration deadline (May 15th), I'm offering 2 fun promotions:

1) Register with a friend and each receive $25 off your registration fee! (If you've already registered, this still applies!)

and most excitingly,

2) Win a free seat at the workshop in (what else?) a photo contest! Send your best photo that celebrates Mother's Day. Get creative! Email your entry to mwacworkshop@sarahdobbins.com before May 12th... the winner will be announced on the blog!

Deadline!

2008-04-16T05:20:00.000-07:00

Update--the early registration deadline has been changed to May 15th.

The deadline for early registration for the workshop is May 15th. All seats are given on a first come, first served basis... so if you haven't yet registered, go for it! You will find the paypal link in the posts below.

After May 15th, I will still accept limited registrations, but there will be a $35 late registration fee.

Email me with any questions!

Mom+With+A+Camera

2008-04-04T14:01:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the MWAC Workshop blogsite!

You'll find all the nitty gritty details you need in the posts below. I'm just updating the blog to firstly, make sure everyone knows what MWAC means, and secondly, share an image I took last week.

MWAC = well, see the title of this post. But if you're a dude, don't be turned off! I have lots of very talented colleagues who do amazing photography work with children... and they are male.

You might have seen this sweet little thing on my photography blog.

At the workshop we will talk a little bit about photographing newborns amongst other ages.

Register soon; seats are very limited to ensure a small and cozy atmosphere. Only a completed payment will reserve your seat!

Details at last!

2008-03-24T04:32:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to finally get to spill the beans about the workshop.

Speaking of beans... that reminds me of coffee beans... which reminds me of the coolest, most beautiful little coffee shop nestled down in the historic West Side of downtown Cookeville--the Intrepid Traveler.

We will be meeting in a private room, snug in the back. Go by and check it out--and be sure to order some secret recipe hot chocolate. It's delicious!

Okay, enough raving, onto the nitty gritty.

The MWAC Workshop
June 14, 2008.
9am - 3pm (approximately)
at The Intrepid Traveler (but we will be shooting across the street at the Depot.)
Cost is $139 per person.

Breakfast and Lunch will be provided!

Also, each attendee will go home with a great little bag of goodies, including a notebook of all the things we're going to cover all day.

I've also got a few really awesome prizes in store for a few lucky attendees!

Please see the post below to read again about what we will cover in the workshop.

Now, the fine print : Workshop fee is due in full upon registration. This fee is nonrefundable, but it is transferable. There is a minimum number of people needed for the workshop to go forward--so tell your friends! There is also a maximum number so that we can keep it small and cozy.

You may pay via paypal (secure way to use credit or debit) or by check in the mail (but email me first) to:

188 Second Avenue North
Cookeville, Tennessee 38506

I'm thrilled to be able to present this workshop, and can't wait to share with you everything I know about shooting and beyond. Email me with any questions!

So, I'm a mom... I have a camera... now what?

2008-03-09T09:24:00.000-07:00

Okay, so maybe you're not even a mom. Maybe you just want to expand your potential as a photographer, and you want to learn the tricks of the trade for photographing kids.

You've come to the right place! Sarah Dobbins Photography of Cookeville, TN is hosting a workshop this spring for mamarazzi--that is, moms with a camera who want to learn how to take better pictures of their kids.

This is an all-day workshop that covers location, lighting (our light source being THE SUN!), camera settings, and tips and tricks for getting those shots we love.

Then onto editing. How to make the most of your pictures once you get them on your computer.

There will be a portion of the workshop that involves putting your new knowledge into action and shooting actual models.

Technical info: It's preferred that you have and bring a DSLR--that is, a digital camera that has a body that can come apart from the lens. If all you have is a point-and-shoot camera, and you still want to come, then come on! But be aware that a lot of what we will cover will only apply to DSLR's... or at least a camera where you have control over some settings (aperture, shutter speed, ISO, etc.)

I will be editing in Photoshop CS2. I will talk about Photoshop Elements and how it's a great program for doing basic editing--and you can get it for under $100.

Here is a before and after with my simple editing steps:

And here's an example of how you can take a mundane location (my less-than-neat living room) and, with a good understanding of light, turn it into a beautiful portrait you'd hang on your wall! (And I've been meaning to print this one for months... Someone else will have to teach you how to promptly print pictures of your kids--I am no help!)

The workshop will take place on a Saturday and will last from 9am-3pm or thereabouts. Lunch will be provided! In addition, there will be a few take home goodies and a few lucky gals (or guys) will win a fabulous gift.

There is a minimum number of participants needed for the workshop to take place, so share with all your friends!

Details about time, place, and cost will be forthcoming (hopefully soon!!). Stay tuned!