PHOTO WORKSHOPS Columbia, SC
Documentary photography workshop instructor Sean Rayford / Photo by Kati Baldwin
If you’re looking for a documentary style photo workshop in Columbia, South Carolina, you’ve come to the right place. My name is Sean and I’ve been a photojournalist for more than 25 years, working with the New York Times, Getty Images and the Associated Press for the last ten. I also offer photos workshops in the state capital of the Palmetto State, where I’ve lived since 1997.
SEC Tailgate: South Carolina vs Texas A&M (Nov 6-8, 2026) Small Group Workshop
Photograph an SEC tailgate with a photographer who self published a photo book about Gamecock football fans tailgating outside Williams Brice Stadium.
Sports Photography Workshop (Nov. 28, 2026) - Small Group Workshop
Four hour sports photography workshop limited to eight students
The Power of the personal project (Dec 4-6, 2026) Small Group Workshop
Helping photographers plan, shoot and review a personal photography project. Serving as photo editor and mentor, drawing on 25+ years of freelance experience I guide students from concept through execution.
What photographers say about Sean’s Instruction
“If you don't know where you want to go, you can't set your GPS. This [workshop] reeled me in and I feel like I have a trajectory. I can set my GPS now. I think it gave me chills.”
-Elisa
“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
“Sean has WAY more experience in the documentary photography/photojournalism and he was able to help me figure out a path to what I see as success.
-Jim Conyers
“As someone trying to break into the industry it was really helpful to finally speak with someone who has so much experience. I found Sean's ability to provide advice on a one on one basis really beneficial. Sean listened to where I was in my career, gave me realistic expectations about the industry, and encouraged me to start my own site to host photo essays.”
-Thomas Hunter