Lisbon Story: A Journey in Light and Image

Where else can you glide through centuries-old streets in a sun-yellow tram, pass majestic castles, photograph hand-painted tiles from the 1600s, and end your day having a meal under strings of paper lanterns? Lisbon surprises at every turn with its seven steep hills, sweeping rooftop views of the Tagus River and Ponte 25 de Abril, and a layered visual history that dates back thousands of years. It’s the second-oldest capital in Europe after Athens, known for its colorful azulejos (ornate ceramic tiles), vibrant street art, iconic ravens, and the soulful fado music echoing through neighborhoods like Alfama.

In Lisbon Story: A Journey in Light and Image, photographer Lilit Danielyan shares her deep connection to the city she calls home. With her insider knowledge of Lisbon’s contemporary art world and creative pulse, she helps you explore the city through photography, capturing its golden light, rich colors, and cultural textures during the spirited lead-up to the Santos Populares street festivals. Life moves at a slower, more relaxed pace here, giving you space to notice the small details—golden light, quiet gestures, and the feeling of the city unfolding around you.

Lisbon has become one of Europe’s hottest art capitals, attracting a global creative community with its thriving gallery scene and independent spaces. As decorations go up and the city prepares for the festivals, you experience a more local side of Lisbon—less touristy, more lived-in. With Lilit guiding you to her favorite spots and lesser-known corners, you explore the city’s visual rhythms and rich photography culture, including visits to the MAC/CCB Museum of Contemporary Art, neighborhood art galleries, and talks from guest speakers. A few surprise activities are woven in to spark inspiration and expand your perspective, because in Lisbon, the unexpected often leads to the most memorable moments.

Each day blends exploration and reflection. You photograph the city’s iconic sites and little-known hidden treasures, take part in hands-on activities such as tintype portraits, and visually explore historic neighborhoods, taking advantage of Lilit’s intimate knowledge of her hometown. A day trip to the fairytale town of Sintra offers a change of pace, with its misty forests, colorful palaces, and poetic landscapes adding new textures to your image-making. There’s also time set aside for a scenic escape to the nearby coast, where you can capture the dramatic cliffs, ocean views, and refreshing sea air. In the classroom, you review your images with Lilit and the group, share discussions and insights on the creative process, and refine your voice through presentations and thoughtfully crafted activities.

Shared meals are a soulful and photogenic part of the workshop experience, offering moments to connect over Portuguese gastronomy, including a special group dinner featuring live Fado music that celebrates the city’s rich culinary and cultural traditions.

You leave Lisbon with more than images—you carry shared moments, conversations, and a deeper connection to a city that celebrates both tradition and bold artistic expression. This balance of photographing, learning, and discussion creates a rich, immersive experience capturing Lisbon’s unique light and culture. The friendships made and the stories uncovered continue to inspire long after the workshop ends.