JIM THORPE / POCONOS DOCUMENTARY PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
Field Storytelling in the Lehigh River Valley
(August 7-16, 2026)
I was on a multi-week road trip in 2023 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.
BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION CALL
The workshop process begins with a free Zoom conversation. From there, I’ll build a you a custom photo workshop around your goals and challenges and if it makes sense, you can reserve your date(s) with a 50% deposit.
Single day workshop: $1,500
Two day workshop: $2,000
Three day workshop: $2,500
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 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.
