In November of last year, I had the distinct honor of attending Jose Villa’s Mexico Photography Workshop at Hacienda El Carmen outside of Guadalajara, Mexico. There really aren’t words that can adequately describe what an incredible experience this was, but I will do my best. But I am warning you, this is going to be a long and very sappy post…

So, where to even start? I have been in love with Jose’s work since I first started shooting weddings. His work speaks to me more than any other artist. He truly is a master at his craft and I had longed to go to his workshop for years. Finally, early last year, I decided that I was going to pull the plug and GO FOR IT! I had worked hard and saved up and finally felt that I was confident enough in my skills to do it. It was absolutely the most anticipated event of 2016 for me. I could not wait to not only meet Jose but learn from him, shoot with him, and meet so many other industry professionals.

The Workshop Was Simply Amazing.

We started with a welcome dinner on Sunday night which consisted of some of the yummiest authentic Mexican food and one of the most stunning tables settings I have ever seen.  I did not take any photos because I just wanted to be in the moment.

For the next 4 days, we learned from the best of the best in the wedding industry. We shot so many different amazing editorials, I just was on cloud nine the entire week. But in addition to the classes and shoots, my favorite thing about the workshop were the friendships I made. Truly, someone the people I met are some of the most kind, genuine people I have ever known and we will be lifelong friends. A few times since last fall, we have even flown across the continent just to see each other again.

I learned SO much at this workshop, but there was one incredibly important lesson that stood out to me above all. I was surprised to learn that Jose does things very similarly to the way I do. From how we shoot and how we conduct our businesses. But what makes Jose special is simply who he is and how interjects himself into his work. He truly is an incredibly genuine, kind human being. He sees value in people and he believes in people. So many people’s lives have been changed because of him, and you can really see how much of an impact he has had on this industry.

He is an inspiration because of his work but also just because of who he is as a human being. It was a pleasure to get to be a part of this experience. And for anyone thinking of going to one of Jose’s workshops, I would highly recommend it.

The Vendors

Photography Workshop: Jose Villa Workshops | Host: Jose Villa | Planning and Design: Duet Weddings | Floral and Design: Nicolette Camille | Floral Assistant: La Musa De Las Flores | Paper and Design: Amber Moon Design | Calligraphy: Anne Robin | Printed Paper: Czar Press | Tabletop: Casa De Perrin | Ribbon: Silk and Willow | Cake: Lele

Patisserie | Wardrobe Stylist: Geraldine Magazine | Wedding De-Tailor: The Wedding De-Tailor  | Ring Box: The Mrs. Box | Hair and Makeup: Team Hair and Makeup | Painter and Inspirational Speaker: Karina Puente | Menswear: The Black Tux | Specialty Rentals: Found Rentals

Jose Villa’s Mexico Photography Workshop

Absolutely the best photography workshop I have attended. I highly recommend!