Rio de Janeiro is a legendary city, a cultural cauldron shaped by Indigenous, African and European influences. It tells a story of contrasts, where natural beauty collides with the legacies of colonization and transatlantic slavery. Built upon the ancient lands of the Tupinambá, whose memory lingers in neighborhoods like Ipanema and Copacabana, the city carries traces of its past in its urban fabric. To be Carioca is to inhabit this tension: embracing a life of improvisation and joy. Samba, carnival and the beach aren’t just traditions, they’re part of a shared identity that belongs to every Carioca, no matter their social or economic standing. Our workshop is an invitation to step into Rio’s layered narrative, letting its energy and magic work its way inside of your vision.
We’ve reserved a gorgeous villa in Santa Teresa, a charming bohemian neighborhood perched on a hill in the heart of Rio. With stunning views and convenient access to our photo day trips, it’s our home away from home where we will come together, share our work and process our experiences while savoring traditional Brazilian home-cooked meals.
This is a chance to rediscover photography in its most authentic form in: a blend of personal exploration, group experiences and inspiration drawn from Rio itself.
What We’ll Do:
Photo walks: Street markets, urban gardens, city beaches, samba school, fishing village, Old Rio’s architecture, Pequena África and iconic sites like Sugarloaf and Christ the Redeemer.
Nature escapes: Sunset yacht rides to see Rio’s peaks and excursions into Tijuca rainforest, the largest urban rainforest in the world.
Cultural immersion: Visits to archives, galleries and museums to connect photography with history and art.
Lectures & critiques: Group discussions, critiques, and talks with guest artists to spark dialogue and sharpen vision.
Photography books & references: Exploring classic and contemporary works to situate your practice within a broader tradition.
Old‑school workshop vibe: Hands‑on sessions that go beyond composition and light.
You’ll have the opportunity to photograph diverse aspects of Rio, from everyday life to iconic landmarks while also developing your own personal project. The city itself becomes both subject and source. Whether your interest lies in street photography, cultural documentation, or nature, we’ll support you in shaping a project that feels personal and meaningful.
– A non-refundable $1,000 deposit is required to secure your spot.
– Once we receive your deposit, you will receive a confirmation email detailing your remaining payment options.
– Final payments, must be completed at least **45 days before** departure.
– If the minimum group size of 6 is not met, we will refund 100% of the amount paid (including the deposit).