OVERVIEW
This experience is an opportunity to slow down, tune in to local rhythms, and make images that reflect your inner journey (just as much as your outer journey). It’s so easy to return home from a trip with images that feel surface-level - images that fail to translate the emotion you experienced in the field. In “Sacred Light, Silent Shadow,” we'll explore deeper creative territory. We’ll discuss poetic seeing and meditative image-making as we move into closer communion with the spirit of the place. We’ll consider the difference between images that present facts ...and images that bring tears to the eyes. We’ll turn our attention to gorgeous slants of light and moody shadow (the heart and soul of powerful art). You’ll come away with a collection of expressive photographs, a more intimate relationship with your creative practice, and a greater confidence in your ability to take your vision on the road.
SCHEDULE
1 night in Tokyo - Fun excursion, welcome dinner.
7 nights in Kyoto - Days will consist of group excursions to temples, shrines, and gardens (both iconic and off-the-beaten path). Our local team will curate the best experiences. You can also choose to branch out on your own if you wish, and you'll have the freedom to do so. We'll also have 1-on-1 mentoring and classroom sessions with Laura.
1 night in Tokyo - We'll travel back to Tokyo via bullet train, have a bit of time for shopping, and then share a farewell dinner.
Dates
June 10th - 18th, 2025
(Participants should depart North America/Europe by June 8th to arrive on the 8th before the workshop begins on the 9th. For your return trip, plan to fly out on June 19th or later).
What’s included
9 nights accommodations (modern Japanese hotel and/or traditional inn)
9 breakfasts
7 group dinners (2 nights free on your own to explore Kyoto’s culinary delights)
Domestic transportation (round-trip bullet train to/from Kyoto)
Admissions to temples, shrines, and museums in our group excursions
Detailed info pack on travel to Japan
What’s not included
International travel
Extra hotel nights
Travel/trip insurance (highly recommended)
Lunches (cheapest meal of the day in Japan, estimated $10~$20 depending on the meal)
Alcohol (except at designated events such as the welcome and farewell dinners)
Class Size
5~9 participants depending on the breakdown of duos and singles. We reserve the right to close registration at any time.
Tuition
$7,750 US per person (new, more affordable price), double occupancy (when paid by bank wire) + $345 for credit card. Single supplement $550.
Payment schedule: $2,500 deposit to register
50% of the balance due January 15, 2025
Remainder due March 15, 2025
Cancellation Policy:
Up to 90 days prior to the trip: 10% fee
89~60 days prior to the trip: 50% fee
59~0 days prior to the trip 100% fee
It is our advice to not book international travel until we have officially confirmed that the trip will proceed.
*Travel insurance is required unless a waiver release is signed.
About Laura Valenti
Laura Valenti is a photographer and curator who helps people hone their vision, deepen their relationship with their craft, and make meaningful images they love.
She’s had her fingers in a lot of pots in the art world, for over 20 years now. Laura teaches interactive e-courses, supports emerging photographers in her creative mentoring program, speaks to photo groups, and curates exhibitions for galleries and photo festivals worldwide. She also juries photo competitions and serves as a reviewer at national and international portfolio review events, where she helps photographers fine-tune their vision and promote their work with more confidence.