An Intimate Portrait of Place: Northern New Mexico

To know a place, we must slow down—to see not only the big picture, but the intimate details that give it character. To observe not only the terrain and what grows there, but the history of the land and our connection to place. To become aware not only of what we see, but how a place makes us feel. 

Perhaps nowhere in the U.S. is the history of a place more evident than in Santa Fe—the nation’s oldest capital city, where ancient roads cross and the oldest church in America still holds services. Northern New Mexico is a region where human occupation stretches back thousands of years and where the convergence of Native American, Hispanic and Anglo cultures has resulted in a rich local heritage, a unique architectural style, flavorful cuisines, traditional crafts and so much more. 

During this 5-day workshop, we step back in time to explore some of the region’s roots. Our days involve the exploration of various landscapes, architecture (including interiors), and historic sites that define the uniqueness of this place—ranging from ancient ruins and geological landscapes to Santa Fe’s Plaza and neighborhoods, encompassing locations like pueblos, ranches, trails, and churches. Landscape photography inherently demands extended outdoor hours. Typically, our routine involves early starts for photography sessions, followed by late-afternoon classroom sessions for lessons, image processing, and sharing. 

Our focus transcends capturing mere images and immediate attractions; instead, we delve deeper into storytelling and portraying a profound sense of place. Employing a structured approach to landscape exploration, we aim to develop cohesive bodies of work applicable for publication, exhibition, and social media. Join Lee Anne White this summer and explore your own sense of place in magical and storied Santa Fe and the breathtaking surrounding countryside.