Perspectives

Two Cameras, One Life: A National Geographic Story

with Amy Toensing and Matt Moyer

Online registration for this program has closed. To check availability, find out about future dates, or if you would like further information, please call 505-983-1400 ext. 111. Also, get the SFW E-Newsletter for updates!

Sign-up for the Newsletter:

Course Description

Matt Moyer and Amy Toensing are National Geographic photographers and passionate educators… who also happen to be spouses. Over four hours, they share captivating stories from their long and varied careers, candidly discussing the nuances of their photographic strategies, both technical and interpersonal.

They begin by recounting how they were drawn to photography, charting their parallel lives that began at small newspapers and eventually led to The New York Times. As they open-up about their personal processes and how they acquired their skills, they detail ways to approach long-term, in-depth projects and give advice for those just starting out.

In addition to illuminating aspects of craft (composition, light, mood, and color), the couple offers practical insights into the art of photographing people, from accessing subjects to developing rapport. They also share their own stories of rejection, doubt, and perseverance—even delving into the dark depths of imposter syndrome, artistic questioning, and rejection.

Each two-hour session ends with a Q&A, and throughout our time together, Amy and Matt emphasize journalistic ethics and the importance of honoring their subjects. Discover how these two accomplished photographers ended up working with National Geographic and found light, love, and family along the way.

Additional Information

WHO SHOULD ATTEND:

Open to anyone interested in this special program.

Policies:

View Withdrawal and Transfer Policies for online programs.

Categories
Documentary, One-of-a-Kind, Storytelling, Travel Photography
about
Amy Toensing

Amy Toensing is a photojournalist and filmmaker known for her intimate stories about ordinary people. She has photographed cultures worldwide for National Geographic, and one of her images was chosen among the magazine’s all-time 50 best photos. Amy’s award-winning work has been exhibited internationally and published in Smithsonian, The Boston Globe, The Wall Street Journal, Newsweek, Time Magazine, and National Geographic Traveler. Amy is National Geographic Explorer and grantee, as well as a FUJIFILM Creator; her work is currently included in National Geographic’s group exhibit Women of Vision. She teaches photography to children and young adults in underserved communities all over the world.

Website: amytoensing.com

Instagram: @amytoensing

about
Matt Moyer

Matt Moyer is a photojournalist and filmmaker who focuses on social and cultural issues. He has photographed multiple feature stories for National Geographic magazine and is currently a National Geographic Explorer. Matt covered the Iraq War for The New York Times and has worked on assignment for The Washington Post, The Independent, The Guardian, and National Geographic Traveler. His short documentaries have been featured by the National Geographic Society, Vision Workshops, and PBS NewsHour online. A dedicated educator, he spends time every year teaching photography to young adults and children in underserved communities through the National Geographic Photo Camps.

Website: mattmoyer.com

Instagram: @mattmoyerphoto

You May Also Like

– Summer Season

A Taste of Santa Fe: Food and Restaurant Photography

with Douglas Merriam

July 22 – 24, 2024

Elevated Perspectives: Exploring Creative Drone Photography

with Rick Berk

September 17 and 19, 2024

The Fine Art of Flat Lay

with Philippa Stanton

September 4 – October 2, 2024

Portugal: A Rich Cultural Tapestry

with Jennifer Spelman

October 3 – 10, 2025

Iceland: The Land of Fire and Ice

with Stephen Wilkes

September 15 – 24, 2025

Vietnam: Land of the Blue Dragons

with Jennifer Spelman

April 4 – 15, 2025

Colombia: Colonial Cartagena and Carnival de Barranquilla

with Kike Calvo

February 22 – March 3, 2025

Digital Dreamscapes: The Art of Compositing in Adobe Photoshop

with Gabriel Isak

August 17 and 24, 2024

Getting the Most from Your Nikon Z5, Z6, and Z7 Series Mirrorless Camera

with Rick Berk

June 14 – 25, 2024

Capturing Color: A Comprehensive Guide To Color Toning

with Joe Perri

September 10 and 12, 2024

Motherhood and the Photographic Practice

with Amy Harrity

May 13 – June 3, 2024

Out of Bounds: Unconventional Approaches to Portraiture

with Selina Román

June 11 – 28, 2024