Shine on Retreat - Costa Rica
One of the most incredible aspects of the work that I do is being able to connect & create with retreat leaders of all kinds to capture their international retreats & experiences. I met yogi & international retreat leader Taylor Harkness through Instagram before connecting with him in-person in his hometown of Atlanta, Georgia.
Retreats are also one of my favorite challenges. Costa Rica is absolutely gorgeous and it can be quite challenging to navigate as a photographer in many ways. The humidity, unexpected downpours, often little to no access to air conditioning, not to mention, sand, sunshine and mud.
Rather than being daunted by this, I am ignited by the possibility of being kept on my toes & knowing I will need to use my instinct & expertise to navigate any challenges that arise moment-to-moment.
From shooting one minute on a brightly light beach in midday sun to running into the wet jungle to capture a trail of ants marching through the shadow of tall trees, it requires special attention to adequately prepare and remain aware that anything can change from one to the next.
Another important aspect of retreats, especially when it comes to yoga retreats is integration. It is absolutely fundamental to me to ensure that I am not encroaching on or taking away from the experience of the event.
I’ve learned from experience to strike the mindful balance between being a fly on the wall and being involved enough that it doesn’t feel like a stranger with a camera is always in your face.
This mindfulness & intention allow me to tune into the energy of each moment as it unfolds and to discern when a moment is meant to remain private and undocumented or meant to be captured and shared, to ensure every attendees experience remains sacred.
“I have no words - these are incredible! Looking through these images, I cried like a fucking baby, Mon! I can’t imagine having anyone else there to capture it!”
— Taylor Harkness, Shine On Retreat leader
