When I became a photographer I did so with the goal of making images that truthfully and authentically told the stories of the people who bravely stepped in front of my lens. I wanted to make images that mattered. Somewhere along the way I lost my WHY, I set it hastily aside for someone else’s goals; getting published, booking more weddings, finding the “perfect” clients. The hustle drained me and my creativity. It stole my heart and my soul was no longer seeping into the marrow of my work. I was lost. With the help of some amazing mentors, and a few fleeting days of honesty and vulnerability in the mountains, I found myself again. I reconnected fully to the steady thrum of my heart and decided then and there to never again let anything – or anyone – silence it.

Throughout my journey as a photographer, I’ve had countless conversations with other creatives who suffer through the same things I did (and still do, at times because, let’s face it, I’M A REAL-LIFE PERSON who feels ALL THE THINGS). So many people struggle with feelings of self-doubt, lack of inspiration, and feelings of aimless drifting and the desire to connect deeper with their clients and make images that truly matter, that resonate and inspire and stir something deep within.

The good news is that there is a way out. A way forward or rather, a way back to everything you wanted to do or become or create or accomplish. You simply have to write your life.

Which is exactly why I started this workshop. The first one was held last August to a group of creative business owners and was a smashing success, so I’m offering a photography-based Workshop on Saturday, April 30th, from 9-5 in Minneapolis. We’ll discuss making images that matter, authentic storytelling, connecting with clients, being vulnerability, dreaming better and failing bigger and tackling the motherfucking shit out of our dreams.  We’ll shoot. We’ll share. We’ll eat and laugh and have an amazing time. And hopefully you’ll walk away feeling renewed and ready to chase after your wildest dreams with ferocious abandon.

In an effort to make this workshop available to most budgets, seats are priced at only $500 but are limited.  Contact me to reserve your spot. Together, we can stop seeing the world with our eyes and learn, instead, to see it with our hearts.

On the fence or unsure if The Workshop is for you? Here are some words from the first Workshop’s attendees:

“Athena shares her heart and wisdom during this afternoon of community. A perfect fit for all comfort levels — this workshop leaves creatives with a rekindled fire and purpose.” -Kelsea

“Athena was such a joy to be around and is so talented and knowledgable in what she does not hold back when giving advice. The Workshop taught me to embrace myself, to not be afraid of other people, and most importantly, to not be afraid of myself. To be brave. It was so nice to be surrounded by people who are as passionate about the art of telling stories as I am. It was such an uplifting and inspiring experience. If you get the opportunity to attend, do it.” -Ka

“One of the many incredible things about The Workshop is how vulnerable and open the community is. I walked into Athena’s home that morning and instantly was made to feel at home – I felt comfortable sharing both my struggles and accomplishments in being a working artist. There’s not many workshops that can provide you with an atmosphere like this – I treasured it, along with all the life experience, advice and stories Athena shared from her story. Can’t recommend The Workshop enough.” -Nicola