Two months ago, I had the privilege of attending one of the most inspiring and enriching photography experiences of my career — Warsztaty Fotografii Artystycznej: Wiele dróg – Jedna pasja (Artistic Photography Workshops: Many Paths – One Passion) in Złodziejewo, Poland.
Hosted in the historic and atmospheric Pałac Jasminum in Zalesie, the setting itself was a dream. Marcelina, the heart and soul of the place, made sure we were taken care of with beautiful rooms and absolutely incredible food. The entire atmosphere — full of history, character, and charm — made it the perfect environment to dive deep into creativity.
The workshop was led by the wonderful and endlessly knowledgeable @KarolKalinowski. From the moment we arrived, it was clear we were in for something special. Karol shared his experience and insights with us generously, talking about photography until midnight on more than one occasion — answering every question, challenging our thinking, and inspiring us to go deeper.
Saturday was our hands-on shooting day. We had the chance to photograph indoors, in a church setting, and outdoors — each environment offering unique challenges and learning opportunities. Karol didn’t just stand back and watch; he guided us, mentored us, and helped each participant push their boundaries. And, of course, the day ended with another late-night session reviewing our work and sharing feedback.
Sunday focused on marketing, postproduction, and the reality of running a photography business. It was full of practical advice and real-world insights — no fluff, just the things that truly matter when you’re trying to build a sustainable creative career.
I’ve participated in many courses and workshops before, but I can honestly say I’ve never experienced anything quite like this. The intensity, the depth of learning, the creative exchange, and the genuine community made this workshop unforgettable. I came home not just with new techniques, but with a fresh perspective, renewed motivation, and a deep appreciation for the craft.
I’m so excited to share some of the results from those days. These images are more than just photos — they’re pieces of a journey that deeply moved and inspired me.
Thank you to everyone who made this workshop so special. I’m already dreaming of the next one.
