Guided Book Study

“Books are a uniquely portable magic.”
― Stephen King

So much of my photography education has come from reading books. Through the pages of these books, I have learned from incredible artists and photographers, some of whom no longer live among us.

Please join me in a guided book study of three books that have impacted me as a photographer and someone who enjoys creating.

During the guided book study, we will focus on one book per month. After reading the books, we will meet on Zoom for a discussion of the book and to share any photographs or artwork inspired by reading the book.

The schedule for the Summer/Fall book study is:

Monday, July 1, 2024, 7:00 p.m. on Zoom Introduction to Study
(You will receive a list of books to purchase.)

Monday, August 12, 2024, 7:00 p.m. on Zoom

Monday, September 16, 2024, 7:00 p.m. on Zoom

Monday, October 21, 2024, 7:00 p.m. on Zoom

Meetings will take place using Zoom technology. This study will consist of an introductory session followed by three educational Zoom sessions. Each session will be approximately one hour in length. Since participation will allow you to be much more successful, please make sure you will be available for all sessions.

Participants will be responsible for getting their own books, whether from the public library or bookseller. One title is no longer in print but can be found sold online.

All books chosen will have a purchasing price of no more than $45.

The registration fee for the book study is $75.00. The registration fee $75.00 covers educational sessions led by Mary using Zoom technology. Participants will be responsible for purchasing their books.

The registration fee of $75.00 covers educational sessions led by Mary using Zoom technology. Participants will be responsible for purchasing their own books.

Testimonials:

“Mary’s book study session was a wonderful experience for me.  The class was so much more than I had anticipated.  Not only did I read three fantastic books, but the assignments given were challenging.  As a result of taking this class I have grown as a photographer, and as a person.  I highly recommend the class.  It was worth every penny.  Thank you, Mary”

Photographs and quote courtesy of Marcy M.

 

“I felt like I went on a wonderful journey with Mary of learning more about myself and my photography through books.  I loved our image assignments and the support I received from Mary and the other ladies in my group.  I feel our book study has helped me look at photographing subjects more freely.  I am looking forward to learning even more about my passion.”

Photographs and quote courtesy of Jenny L.

 

“Reading and writing have become a part of my daily life as I set new goals using my newly enhanced skills in seeing and thinking about my photography practice as a result of Mary’s Guided Book Study. I have and continue to acquire not only photography books, but other art genres as well, ranging from biographies and coffee table photo books to technical and “how-to” to philosophical writings and musings. I have read many of these and moved on to the next often with little thought and study given to each. For this class Mary thoughtfully choose three books for us to study – a Master, a Composer, and a Philosopher. The assignments for each book found me reading carefully and taking notes. I was continually thinking about the assignments as I read and as I went about my daily life. I have begun “seeing/looking” a little differently now that I have incorporated many of these new ideas into my daily thought processes, my photography practice, and my life. I will revisit the books read in class, but also explore the many books I have on my shelf. While I occasionally wrote a note or marked a quote from a book, the daily practice of reading deeply AND making written note of quotes, ideas, and “AHAs” from each as well as writing down my own thoughts inspired by these books over the last 3 months is a practice I will continue. Mary’s Guided Book Study class and the assignments given each meeting provided a guide in reading and forming my own interpretations of the books. After working alone for several weeks, we came together discuss our ideas about the texts and to share our photographic interpretations of the assignments making this a very rich and engaging experience. As a result of Mary’s Guided Book Study, I have begun writing goals for my photography practice.”

Photographs and quote courtesy of Levia H.

 

“I’ve just finished Mary’s online Book Study class and it’s nothing short of amazing! The books were carefully chosen by her were educational not only for photographic technique, but delve into the history of photographers and inspiration for creativity in making my photos more than just a snapshot. The assignments were geared to inspire and be more imaginative in making photographs. Highly recommend!”

Photographs and quote courtesy of Lynne D.

 

“I would highly recommend The Book Club. Being a part of this Club exceeded all my expectations. The books were thoughtfully selected and built upon each other. We were given assignments that stretched me creatively and made me think differently about my approach to creating images. I feel like my images are less about documenting where I am or what is happening and more about creating an image that has something to say. I loved seeing the images created by others and appreciated the support you could feel from the group. I look forward to continuing the learning experience with these lovely ladies!”

Photographs, writing, and quote courtesy of Stephanie J.

Cancellation Policy: