JIM THORPE / POCONOS DOCUMENTARY PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
Storytelling in the Lehigh River Valley
Aug 3, 2026 / $899 / Register by July 26
In this one day photography workshop we use the cool summer breezes of the Poconos and small town charm of Jim Thorpe to learn about documentary photography. You’ll learn about photographing people and telling stories.
On a multi-week road trip in 2023, I was headed for New York City, but an August heatwave pushed me into the mountains of northeastern Pennsylvania. At 1,400 feet, it’s 10–15 degrees cooler than Philly or New York, and captures the magic of the Poconos. My visit to New York City turned into 7 days in Jim Thorpe, PA and I had such a good time that I return each summer and lead private photo workshops. My name is Sean and I’ve been a photojournalist for more than 25 years, freelancing for the New York Times, Getty Images, The Associated Press and others for a decade.
The workshop process begins with Zoom conversation. From there, I’ll build a you a custom workshop around your goals and challenges. You’ll have a workshop outline before getting into the field.
THE JIM THORPE Photo WORKSHOP EXPERIENCE
Jim Thorpe is rich with history. There are stories around the corners and during the summer, it’s bustling with activity. Its a former playground for the elite that fell into disrepair during the coal bust. Today Jim Thorpe is experiencing a renaissance of sorts. Sightseeing passenger trains run daily through the Lehigh Valley. People from Philly and New York City once again flock for the wonders of the mountains and accompanying outdoor activities. And with it, money to support a thriving local community to preserve it’s history. And during this workshop we try to do those stories justice while learning about photographing.
Your workshop might focus on composition, light, approaching subjects, how to self-publish a photo book or how to operate your camera. I’ll use my diagnosis framework to provide a unique and results oriented experience. And without having to deal with needs of other photographers, it’s more likely to be a better experience for you. If you are looking for a group workshop and the social benefits from being around other photographers in numbers, this workshop will not fill those needs.
But if you’d like a custom and private photo workshop that that will transform your approach to photography, this is more your style.
A CLOSER LOOK AT JIM THORPE (Escape to the Poconos)
Where to stay?
You can camp for $45 a night on a ridge line, minutes from downtown — or you can stay in the heart of Jim Thorpe at the Inn for $160 night. There’s a lsoHampton Inn in nearby Lehighton. And of course some interesting options on Airbnb. I spent that first week camping and highly recommend 100 Mile View Camping.
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
East Coast Tour: Summer 2026 (July 20- Aug 13)
July 20-23: Mt. Airy, MD (Fireman’s Carnival)
July 29-31: New York City (Brooklyn/Coney Island)
Aug 8: Portland, ME (On the Ocean Festival)
And if that sounds like fun, navigate over to to photo workshop main page.