Many of us feel isolated from our communities during this unusual time. How can we harness the power of photography to engage with the world around us? Through a unique collaborative experience in artistic thinking, Gail Albert Halaban helps participants explore photography's ability to connect us with others, even as we maintain social distance.

In group activities, exercises, and critiques, we learn to hone our observational skills and express our vision of the world. Participants are encouraged to engage with others and the environment around them through weekly photo assignments that can be applied to any subject matter or genre, from portraits to landscapes. To formulate a project that connects you with others in a meaningful way, ask yourself: What are my passions? What do I love in my community? Who do I dream about spending more time with?

In addition to delving into history and contemporary photography relating to the theme of connection, we also explore specific exercises that allow us to approach our subjects using different formal tools. Our subjects do not define our pictures, but how we craft them is what gives them meaning.

Whether you already have a creative practice or are new to photography, you leave with a portfolio of images and a deeper understanding of the photographic medium as a means of social connection.