Last week, I stepped into a room of brilliant women and walked out feeling stronger, seen, and more inspired than I’ve felt in a long time.
I had the privilege of participating in Female Perspectives on Visual Storytelling, an intensive workshop held in a quiet corner of Maine, led by two iconic figures in the world of photography and editing — Sarah Leen and Kathy Moran — along with the wonderful Jennifer Fish, whose care and insight shaped the entire experience. Their legacy, vision, and radical generosity created the conditions for something rare — not only learning, but true connection.
Surrounded by nature and far from the noise of everyday life, we allowed ourselves the luxury of slowing down — to look closer, to listen better, to create with intention.
We were only nine women, selected from many applicants. From day one, the atmosphere was one of trust and mutual support — a space where we could share doubts and dreams, question our processes, reimagine our stories, and be deeply present for each other’s work. We weren’t just editing photographs — we were learning how to be braver, more intentional, more honest.
Alongside our mentors, we had the privilege of learning from Smita Sharma, Mary Virginia Swanson, Elizabeth Avedon, and Bill Marr, whose insights and care made a lasting impact.
We dove deep into powerful personal projects — stories that were intimate, urgent, and rich with perspective. It was a privilege to witness how each voice came through in its own unique visual language.
I brought a project close to my heart, and left with new ways of seeing it — and myself.
But what stayed with me most was the sisterhood that formed — a kind of silent pact between us. In a world where photography can often feel solitary or even competitive, this kind of camaraderie isn’t something I come across often — especially not in person. That’s precisely why it felt so meaningful.
Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to find powerful forms of sisterhood — through women-led collectives, mentorships, and friendships built across time and distances. But to experience it so fully, so openly, and so intensely over the course of one week — that felt exceptional.
Each of the women I met inspired me — not only through their work, but through their presence, kindness, curiosity, and courage. I saw myself reflected in them. And I left carrying more than just ideas and notes — I came back with a deeper sense of belonging, and a renewed belief in the power of showing up for each other.
This week was a reminder that craft can’t grow without community — and that the strongest images often begin in the quiet confidence of being held, understood, and encouraged by others who see the world with the same urgency and care.
To my peers, and now, my friends: thank you for this generous and deeply supportive sisterhood.
And to our mentors — thank you for your radical generosity, for showing us how powerful it is to lead with empathy and openness, and for reminding us what true leadership looks like.
I carry this energy with me — and I hope our paths keep crossing, in work and in life.
I invite you to explore the work of these remarkable women. Their voices, images, and vision deserve to be known.
**A heartfelt thank you to chefs Josh Berry and Maggie Knowles for taking such good care of us — every meal was a moment of pause and delight.**
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And if there’s something you’re curious about, let me know. I’m always listening.
Hi Sandra! Thank you for posting the links to the work by these wonderful women photographers. I've checked out their portfolios on each of their websites! You must have had an amazing week!
Sounds wonderful. Like a miracle of communal creativity. Just reading about it is inspiring. Thanks for sharing, Sandra.