Sicily is an amazing tapestry of grit, grace, beauty. Given its location, it's a cultural crossroads representing influences from Italy and the European mainland, as well as the influences of Africa and Greece. All of this vibrant mix of history can be seen in its food, traditions, art, and the colors of daily life. One can stroll waterfronts, ancient cobblestone streets, have a beautiful dinner overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, and enjoy the the gregarious nature of Sicilians as they welcome you to their country and their traditions. Sicily has the largest number of sites named as UNESCO World Heritage sites in all of the country of Italy.

Needless to say, the country is a photo rich environment! From up close and personal street shooting, to scenics, theater, food and tradition, it beckons the camera at every turn. The muted colors of the ancient buildings are beautifully interrupted by the riot of colors as Sicilian urban dwellers hang the wash and draw their shades in response to the Mediterranean sun. As you walk and look, the pictorial story of Sicily unfolds in front of you.

Telling stories, both with words and pictures, is what legendary, award-winning photographer and educator Joe McNally is best known for. We are excited to offer the opportunity to join Joe for this very unique and rare opportunity to hone your camera and storytelling skills in the wildly beautiful country of Sicily. You'll accelerate your learning and confidence behind the camera with extraordinary portrait opportunities, street photography, scenics and so much more all with the assistance of fabulous local guides and our talented staff.

We begin our the workshop together in Palermo, with its fascinating blend of ancient history where you can see the Arab-Norman influence in its castles, cathedrals, or cloisters and feel the energy and pulse of modern-day life. One of our first visits is an early morning (meaning before the doors open to the public) visit a historic monastery where, in the days gone by, young women would enter into a cloistered life. It became famed for its bakery and the astonishing richness and color of what its fabled kitchens would produce. The light here, bouncing off these ancient walls, is spectacular and we will observe and photograph the pastry making process. We will also visit with the famed Cuticchio family, the first family of the legendary Sicilian “Opera de Pupi,” and witness the making of and theatrical antics of Charlemagne and his knights. Puppets and Pastries! Portrait work, details, navigating the elements of a story will all be the focus of these special, private photo shoots.

From the urban bustle of Palermo, we visit the northern seaside village of Cefalù with its stunning beaches and eclectic mix of architecture. We continue on from Cefalù  to our second destination of Siracusa in the south-eastern part of Sicily and stay on the Island of Ortigia. Siracusa, with its remarkable archeological ruins and amphitheatre, will provide the stage (literally!) for a very exciting excursion with costumed theatre performers for an outdoor portrait shoot unlike any other.  We have several days to enjoy the beautiful coastal areas, vibrant small streets, palazzos and traditional markets of beautiful Siracusa. Top hotels, great food and wine, critique sessions, access to lighting gear are all a part of our time together.

Joe McNally is widely known for his concise, lucid critique style, born of shooting assignments for renowned publications for many years. He also is with the class all day, making himself available for one-on-one sessions throughout the workshop. Jairo Rojas joins us, a wonderfully talented, bilingual photographer and videographer and owner of RedWolf Media, who is non-stop energy and well versed in all manner of visual communication, including post production and video shooting. Annie Cahill completes the team and produced this tremendous adventure in meticulous, certain fashion. Known for crafting unique opportunities for photographers, she combines her history as a technical representative for Nikon and event manager, past experience as a Director for Adorama Pro, with a vast array of skills and patience to ensure a successful trip experience.

A great visual journey awaits. See you in Sicily!