Some experiences change how you see the world
This is one of them.
Documentary photography workshop instructor Sean Rayford / Photo by Kati Baldwin
I'm Sean, a photojournalist of more than 25 years, working with the New York Times, Getty Images and the Associated Press for more than a decade. And I offer private documentary workshops built around your interests and goals — at your pace.
These workshops are for hobbyists and professionals looking to take their photography to the next level. No groups. No jargon. No keeping up or slowing down.
WHAT DOES OUR DAY LOOK LIKE?
That depends entirely on you.
Before we ever meet in person, we will have multiple video conferencing sessions, so I can learn about you — and where you want to take your photography. I’ll build your experience from scratch and pitch you a proposal for a workshop.
No two workshops are the same.
“Hearing directly from someone actively working at a high level shortens the learning curve and gives clear direction on how to carve out space for yourself. Sean doesn’t sugarcoat challenges, but provides guidance to make the work sustainable and approachable.I feel more prepared to focus, stay ethical, and continue producing meaningful work without getting lost in the noise.”
-Katherine Beard
ABOUT ME:
"Imagine Indiana Jones with a camera and a mini camper, half world-changing photographer and half adventurer." -The Free Times (Columbia, SC)
As a photojournalist based in Columbia, South Carolina, I’ve covered the Palmetto State since 1997.
A 2001 grad from the University of South Carolina, I’ve photographed thousands of assignments and tackled more than a hundred personal projects in the Carolinas.
I know that alligators won’t swim into the Lower Saluda. And I know where to find boiled peanuts and where a Lt. Governor assassinated the first editor of the capital city daily newspaper.
In 2021, one of my photos was published in Time Magazine’s “Best Photos of the Year” and my photographs have been exhibited at The Columbia Museum of Art on multiple occasions. I’ve self published three photo books and more than a dozen photo zines.
Photography has been an integral part of my life and career for nearly 30 years and I love sharing these types of experiences with others.
Before becoming a full-time photographer, I tended bar at a historic indie music venue for more than a decade. Before the music club, I was an assistant manager at a record store and an on-air DJ at WUSC 90.FM. Music has played a very significant role in my life and most of my friends are probably musicians.
I like the outdoors, rivers and boats. My everyday driver is a micro camper-van.
And….. Princess Diana read to my classmates and me when I was living in Alice Springs, Australia.
COLUMBIA, SC PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
CHARLESTON, SC PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
MYRTLE BEACH, SC PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
3 Days / $2200
Asheville / Western NC Photography Workshop
1 Day / $1100
3 Days / $2200
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT CAROLINA DOCUMENTARY PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOPS
1. Do I need to be a professional photographer to attend?
No.
2. What kind of photography will we focus on?
Documentary photography that aligns with your personal interests.
3. What gear should I bring?
Camera gear, computer, phone, weather appropriate clothing.
4. Will we be walking a lot?
If you want an active experience, I can provide that. If you don’t want to or can’t — I’ve got a million ideas that don’t require much physical activity.
5. Do you give feedback or critique?
Yes.
6. Can you help me with a personal project or photo zine?
Yes.
7. Can I choose my own dates?
Yes.
8. Are travel, lodging, or meals included?
No
9. Can two people attend together?
Yes, please inquire further.
10. What happens during the discovery call?
We figure out where your interests and curiosities intersect with the workshop location so I can plan an experience that you can’t get anywhere else.
11. Can I focus on a specific subject or theme?
Yes.
12. Can you help me get access to people or places to photograph?
Yes.
13. Do you help with editing and sequencing after the workshop?
Yes
14. Do you offer any student discounts or scholarships?
Yes. 20% to students who prove recent enrollment
15. What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy?
Cancellation: Full refund if workshop is at least 90 days in advance. Full refund within 15 days of booking, provided workshop is at least 30 days in advance. 75% refund provided workshop is 30 days in advance. 50% with 15 days notice. 25% refund with 7 days notice.
Rescheduling: No fee if more than 45 days in advance. 10% fee with 30 days notice. 30% fee with 15 days notice. 50% fee with 5 days notice. Less than 5 days, 75% fee.
16. Do I need to be in good shape or active to do this?
No. We will cater the personal workshop to your interests and abilities.
