Celebrate spring in full bloom with a photo walk through the stunning Conservatory Garden in Central Park. We’ll begin at the Untermyer Fountain (near 5th Ave & 106th St), then wander among vibrant flowers and elegant garden paths, learning how to harness natural light—from soft and dreamy to bold and backlit—to bring your images to life.

Along the way, we’ll explore:

• Floral & Nature Photography

• Compositional Techniques like symmetry, repeating patterns, and leading lines

• Reflections & Wildlife, with a walk to the nearby lake for migrating birds and scenic water shots

This workshop is perfect for photographers of all levels looking to sharpen their eye and capture the magic of spring in NYC.

Celebrate spring in full bloom with a photo walk through the stunning Conservatory Garden in Central Park. We’ll begin at the Untermyer Fountain (near 5th Ave & 106th St), then wander among vibrant flowers and elegant garden paths, learning how to harness natural light—from soft and dreamy to bold and backlit—to bring your images to life.

Along the way, we’ll explore:

• Floral & Nature Photography

• Compositional Techniques like symmetry, repeating patterns, and leading lines

• Reflections & Wildlife, with a walk to the nearby lake for migrating birds and scenic water shots

This workshop is perfect for photographers of all levels looking to sharpen their eye and capture the magic of spring in NYC.

WTC Sunset & Night Photo Walk

Join us for an unforgettable photo walk through one of New York City’s most iconic and emotionally powerful locations—the World Trade Center. As the sun sets and the city lights begin to glow, we’ll explore the stunning architecture, artistic potential, and solemn beauty of Lower Manhattan through your lens.

From the soaring lines of the Oculus to the reflective strength of One World Trade Center, this experience blends creative technique with meaningful storytelling. This isn’t just another photo walk—it’s a chance to create compelling images in a space filled with history, light, and energy

Together, we’ll explore:

• Cityscapes & Architecture: Learn how to use angles, symmetry, and light to capture the elegance of modern design.

• Motion & Light Trails: Turn traffic and pedestrians into art using long exposure techniques.

• Creative Light Painting: Add your own artistic spark to the city by using light as your brush—Susan will demonstrate ways to infuse portraits and scenes with glowing, dynamic effects.

Whether you’re looking to build your portfolio, experiment with new techniques, or just connect with fellow creatives, this night will leave you inspired. Expect a blend of beauty, creativity, and urban magic—right where light meets legacy.

Start your day with an unforgettable sunrise photo walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge.

Join photographer Susan Magnano as we capture the first light of day as it rises over Brooklyn and bathes the Manhattan skyline in a warm morning glow. This photo walk is designed to inspire creativity while exploring one of NYC’s most photogenic landmarks.

We’ll begin on the bridge, photographing its stunning architecture and leading lines, then make our way back to DUMBO to capture the soft morning light reflecting off Manhattan’s skyline.

Along the way, we’ll explore:

• Sunrise Photography techniques and best exposure settings

• Architectural Compositions using framing, angles, and depth

• Long Exposures with ND Filters for motion blur and dramatic effects

• Storytelling Through Light & Shadow at golden hour

We’ll wrap up the morning by heading to a nearby café for a warm cup of coffee, where we’ll review our shots and share stories from the walk.

Light the Night: A Live Light Painting Demo & Creative Portrait Experience

Step into the world of long exposures, glowing trails, and unforgettable portraits in this immersive live demo with photographer and light painting artist Susan Magnano. Susan is exciting to be collaborating with Midwest Photo and Nanlite for this unique experience.

In this inspiring and interactive session, Susan will reveal how to turn ordinary darkness into a luminous canvas using simple tools like flashlights, LED wands, and handmade modifiers. She’ll share behind-the-scenes tips on how she crafts surreal, eye-catching portraits with light, and demonstrate live how you can do it too—no studio or fancy gear required.

You’ll learn:

• How to set up for light painting portraits

• Creative tools & techniques to shape light in-camera

• Tips for working with models and movement in the dark

• How to use light to elevate your storytelling and stand out

Whether you’re a portrait photographer, a night shooter, or simply looking to break creative boundaries, this session will light your imagination on fire.

Midwest Photo @ 2887 Silver Drive, Columbus, OH, United States

Capture the golden glow of sunset and the magic of blue hour in Long Island City.

Join us at Gantry Plaza State Park for a photo shoot overlooking the Manhattan skyline, where we’ll explore portraiture, light painting, and long exposure techniques—all in one dynamic evening.

We’ll be working with a professional model, giving you the chance to practice posing and composition with stunning backdrops and shifting light. As the sun sets and city lights begin to sparkle, Susan will demonstrate light painting techniques that bring portraits to life in new and creative ways.

Throughout the evening, we’ll explore:

• Sunset & Blue Hour Portraiture with natural and ambient light

• Posing Techniques for working with models in urban settings

• Light Painting Demos using handheld lights and creative tools

• Long Exposure Photography for dramatic and artistic effects

This workshop is ideal for photographers looking to expand their portrait skills, get hands-on with light painting, and experience the energy of NYC after dark.

Join us in Central Park as we Light the Night and come together to create one-of-a-kind light painting portraits and artwork.

This free social event is open to photographers, creators, and curious enthusiasts who want to experiment with the magic of light painting.

Led by Susan Magnano, you’ll get hands-on guidance and tips to jumpstart your light painting journey. She’ll provide lights and custom tools so you can play, create, and capture your own luminous masterpieces.

You’ll gain practical experience using light painting gear while learning how to craft mesmerizing patterns and portraits—right in-camera.

This special night is part of the #CreateTogetherFund, powered by Aftershoot. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, come connect, collaborate, and create something unforgettable.

Who Should Attend?
📷 Photographers of all skill levels
💡 Creatives who want to learn a new way to express themselves

🕺 Models -Open to anyone but requirement is dress for it - Give us something to create with so be Fashionable , Super Hero suits, and even Halloween Customs are welcomed… Lets get creative.

Meeting spot:

Bethesda Fountain in Central Park

About Aftershoot
Aftershoot is an AI-powered culling and editing software designed to help photographers save hours of work by automating image selection, editing, and retouching. Used by thousands of photographers worldwide, Aftershoot allows creatives to focus on what they do best - capturing stunning moments. Learn more at www.aftershoot.com.

Attendees get 15% off AFTERSHOOT with code: CREATE15

Flow & Time: Long Exposure Photography in Harriman State Park

Join us for a peaceful photo adventure through the scenic landscapes of Harriman State Park, where we’ll slow down time and let the motion of nature become our subject.

This hands-on photo walk will focus on long exposure techniques to capture the soft blur of babbling brooks, clouds drifting overhead, and mirror-like reflections in the nearby lake. Whether you’re brand new to long exposures or looking to refine your technique, this is a great opportunity to experiment and create images that feel both calm and dynamic. We will capture a beautiful sunset along the Hudson River.

Together, we’ll explore:

• Long Exposure Photography – Capture streams and waterfalls with dreamy flow

• Sky Movement & Cloud Trails – Use the passing sky to add drama to your compositions

• Reflective Surfaces & Minimalism – Learn how to simplify scenes for impact

• Sunsets and Composition - We will use unique vantage points and compositions to capture the setting sun

Neutral Density filters and tripods are helpful to bring, but we’ll have a few on hand for you to try out. All levels welcome—this is about slowing down, seeing differently, and capturing time in motion.

Let’s create art with the elements and explore what happens when you let your shutter stay open just a little longer.

Experience the magic of twilight on this special photo walk in DUMBO, Brooklyn.

We’ll begin by capturing the sun setting behind the Manhattan skyline, then transition into the rich tones of blue hour as city lights sparkle to life.

Along the way, we’ll explore:

• Cityscape Photography during golden hour and twilight

• Creative Compositions using framing, symmetry, and leading lines

• Light Painting Techniques with hands-on demos and tools provided

• Long Exposures & ND Filters to add motion, mood, and magic

This workshop is perfect for photographers of all levels looking to explore night photography, try something new, and capture NYC in a whole new light.

Step into the night and spark your creativity with a luminescent photo adventure in Central Park.

Join photographer Susan Magnano for a hands-on Light Painting Portrait Workshop where you’ll learn to harness the magic of light to create striking, one-of-a-kind images—right in the heart of NYC.

We’ll provide a model, light painting tools, and a variety of setups so you can experiment with different techniques and lighting conditions. Whether you’re new to light painting or looking to refine your skills, this immersive experience will light up your imagination.

During the workshop, we’ll explore:

• Light Painting Techniques to illuminate your portraits

• Creative Use of Tools & Flashlights to sculpt with light

• Hands-On Practice with guidance and feedback from Susan

• Portraiture in Low Light using ambient and artificial light

Expect a fun, collaborative evening full of experimentation, creativity, and wow-worthy photos. No two shots will look the same—just like the artists behind them.

Meeting Location: Central Park – South End

All levels welcome. Just bring your camera, tripod, and sense of adventure

Capture Halloween Night in the Village: Exclusive Photo Access to NYC’s Halloween Parade

Want to experience Halloween Night like never before? Join us for an exclusive opportunity to photograph the wildest night in the Village—the NYC Halloween Parade!

We’ve secured early access to the parade preparations, so you’ll be right in the heart of the action before the crowds. Be there as the walkers and performers get ready to bring their wildest, most creative costumes to life. We’ll provide special lighting for unique, dramatic portraits of these incredible characters—whether they’re dazzling or downright eerie, you’ll have the perfect tools to capture their essence.

What you can expect:

• Exclusive Access to Parade Preparations – Capture the performers in all their costumed glory

• Special Lighting for Stunning Portraits – Illuminate your subjects in a way that brings their creativity to life

• Dynamic Composition & Storytelling – Learn how to compose powerful, striking images that convey the energy of the event

• Free Exploration – After the parade kicks off, roam the streets to capture the vibrant spectacle from your preferred vantage point

Whether you’re a portrait pro or just love capturing the energy of a one-of-a-kind event, this photo experience will push your creativity and let you see Halloween in a whole new light.

Don’t miss your chance to photograph the energy, the costumes, and the magic of Halloween Night in NYC!

Autumn in Central Park: A Magical Photo Walk Through Fall Foliage

Join us for a photowalk in Central Park during one of the most magical seasons—autumn! As the leaves change to vibrant hues and the air turns crisp, the park transforms into a photographer’s paradise, offering endless opportunities to capture stunning images of the iconic fall foliage and famous landmarks like the Bow Bridge and Bethesda Fountain.

What to Expect:

• Breathtaking Fall Foliage – The rich colors of autumn create a perfect canvas for your photography. Learn how to capture the beauty of the season in all its glory.

• Iconic Landmarks – From the historic Bow Bridge to the tranquil Bethesda Fountain, we’ll explore some of Central Park’s most beloved spots, giving you a chance to frame these gems in a whole new way.

• Photography Tips & Techniques – Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, this walk is packed with practical advice on everything from composition to lighting, helping you create unique, dynamic images.

• Creating Lasting Memories – You’ll leave not only with breathtaking photos but also with cherished memories of an unforgettable experience in one of the world’s most famous parks.

Whether you’re looking to enhance your skills, explore new photography techniques, or simply immerse yourself in the magic of fall in Central Park, this photowalk will provide inspiration, knowledge, and a beautiful collection of photos to take home.

NYC Holiday Magic

Experience the magic of New York City during the most festive time of the year! With its twinkling holiday lights, towering Christmas trees, and stunning decorations, NYC transforms into a winter wonderland that’s perfect for photographers. Join us on this late-night photo tour as we capture the city’s iconic holiday sights and immerse ourselves in the holiday spirit.

What to Expect:

• Iconic NYC Holiday Landmarks – From the world-famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to the sparkling lights of Fifth Avenue, we’ll take you to the most magical spots in the city to photograph.

• Long Exposure Techniques – We’ll teach you how to use long exposures to capture the motion of twinkling lights and the glow of the holiday season, helping you create unique compositions that stand out.

• Creative Composition – Learn how to frame your shots, balance ambient light, and use the environment to your advantage to capture stunning, festive images.

• Fun Holiday Vibes – Bring your camera, tripod, and Santa hat, and join us in celebrating the season while snapping unforgettable shots of NYC’s holiday magic.

This is the perfect opportunity to capture the magic of the holidays in the heart of NYC, all while learning new techniques to elevate your nighttime photography.

Private Workshops

Let us customize a photo adventure for you or a group.

Half day, Full day, or a 5 day photo tours are available!  

What's included:

• Professional landscape photographer guidance and location expertise

• In the field instruction on mastering photography skills

• Perfecting skills and having a grand adventure

• LOCATION SPECIALITIES:

• Cities & Regions- New York City, Dolomites, Sicily, Sierra Nevadas, South West Colorado, Iceland, Guanajuato-Mexico, San Miguel de Allende- Mexico

• National Parks: Death Valley, Arches, Canyonlands, Acadia, Yosemite,

• SUBJECT SPECIALITIES: Landscape Photography, Night photography, Light Painting, Light Painting Portraits, Long Exposure Photography, Portraiture and Cityscapes.