Suspect
Photography
Retreat In the Woods II
Photography
Retreat In the Woods II
Photography Discussions - Critiques - Expert Instruction
Hands On Photo Shoots with Models- Editing - Printing - Landscapes
Portfolio Reviews - Book Design - Portraits - Camp Fires & Community
All Taking Place In the Woods.
September 22 - 25, 2026
Hands On Photo Shoots with Models- Editing - Printing - Landscapes
Portfolio Reviews - Book Design - Portraits - Camp Fires & Community
All Taking Place In the Woods.
September 22 - 25, 2026
Suspect Photography Retreat in the Woods
Join us on September 22-25, 2026 for a transformational photo experience.
This retreat is a place for dedicated photographers who seek to find focus, develop their direction and elevate their projects. The retreat will reset your photo core, all in a nature immersive environment, surrounded by like-minded people and under the tutelage of a highly curated educational team. Are you ready for a reset and to find inspiration in the woods?
Location
AutoCamp Catskills
882 NY-212, Saugerties, NY 12477
882 NY-212, Saugerties, NY 12477
Date & Time
September 22, 2026 - 2:00 PM September 25, 2026 - 10:00 AM
Back by Popular Demand! Suspect Photography Retreat in the Woods Returns in 2026!
The inaugural Suspect Photography Retreat in the Woods this past September was an unforgettable and inspiring success! We spent a week immersed in a creative community, surrounded by nature, pushing the boundaries of our artistic practice, and producing truly amazing work.
The energy, passion, and talent of our first cohort culminated in a spectacular final show. Don't just take our word for it—see the incredible work created by our inaugural artists in their final showcase.
The energy, passion, and talent of our first cohort culminated in a spectacular final show. Don't just take our word for it—see the incredible work created by our inaugural artists in their final showcase.
Our Location, AutoCamp
The Retreat takes place in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, at “AutoCamp” and features converted luxury Airstreams nestled in pristine woods. Each student get's their own Airstream, complete with bathroom, shower, air conditioning, fire pit and patio. They are quite lovely and welcoming, providing relaxation and an unforgettable impression.
You're going to love the vibe the Airstreams have. It's your own personal refuge in the woods to focus on photography and enjoy a camp fire, a good night's sleep or just chill.
Faculty 2026
The faculty of the photo retreat represent a curated spectrum of mentors that are highly respected leaders in the photography world. These experts will help you unlock deep creative energies within each of their unique specialties. Whether you are a fine art photographer, a working professional or simply want to jump start your passion- the retreat faculty will provide focus.
Suspect Photography Founder, Retreat MC, and photographer of alternative culture and historic landscape.
The country’s leading lighting specialist. When the pros need help, they ask Cliff. A legend. Literally.
California based, lifestyle, family and couples photographer. Chloe effortlessly captures human connection and emotive images.
Merging Improv into the creative process. Sean’s teachings are transformative and known to unlock creative genius.
Writer, designer, and photographer from West Virginia. Mat has designed books for leading fine art photographers including George Tice and Joyce Tenneson.
Known as a master printer, author, and photographer and educator as well a Nikon Ambassador.
Art Director of Nowhere Magazine, Sara is a travel and lifestyle photographer for the New York Times Travel Section, The Paris Review, National Geographic, Outside Magazine, & Dwell.
Photographer, stylist, model and renowned photo shoot producer. Elevating images by fine tuning the artist and model collaboration.
Landscape Photography Paradise
We’ve chosen Platte Clove Preserve for a sunrise shoot featuring colorful landscapes and local wildlife. This very accessible and easy to walk preserve leads to waterfalls and some great views. For the intrepid retreat student they may spend an optional afternoon exploring scenic Kaaterskill Falls, a two-drop waterfall offering gorgeous photo opportunities.
From the stunning natural beauty of the landscape to the rich literary and artistic heritage immortalized by Thomas Cole and the painters of the Hudson River School, these locations are ideal for your vision and camera.
From the stunning natural beauty of the landscape to the rich literary and artistic heritage immortalized by Thomas Cole and the painters of the Hudson River School, these locations are ideal for your vision and camera.
Retreat models and photo-styling by
Events with Dakota
Events with Dakota
Dakota Lee produces model events internationally and is a highly respected source for professionalism and style on set. Students get to direct their own photoshoots with numerous opportunities to work with our sought after professional models. Your work can be made with professional locational lighting equipment or available light. There will be ample props, clothing, and accessories available to customize your photo shoots.
The woods are models too, and AutoCamp has a one mile nature trail that loops around the location making for perfect landscape photography (or just to clear your head).
The woods are models too, and AutoCamp has a one mile nature trail that loops around the location making for perfect landscape photography (or just to clear your head).
Why Attend the Photo Retreat in the Woods?
The Retreat offers a unique opportunity for an immersive experience in close contact with industry leaders and artists, with the aim of elevating your photography endeavors, as well as fine tuning professional skills. The curriculum's goal is to unlock new creative processes that encompass concept, execution, and presentation.
Unlearn and reengage your vision through Sean Kernan's unique teachings. Legendary Vincent Versace's printing demonstrations will unlock your image's full potential. Chloe Ramirez's insights into directing non-models and her keen business sense will be invaluable for working pros pursuing a career in wedding, elopement, and portrait studios. Lighting guru Cliff Hausner will take you to new heights of light shaping techniques across the fields and forests of the retreat. Dakota Lee will reexamine the essential relationship between model and photographer to showcase what can be achieved with optimal collaboration and a host of incredible models. Finally, the monograph master Mat Thorne, will show you how you can turn your vision into a great photo book. This 'dream team' has been assembled by David Brommer who will lead discussions on photographic style and make sure you will get the most out of this experience.
Unlearn and reengage your vision through Sean Kernan's unique teachings. Legendary Vincent Versace's printing demonstrations will unlock your image's full potential. Chloe Ramirez's insights into directing non-models and her keen business sense will be invaluable for working pros pursuing a career in wedding, elopement, and portrait studios. Lighting guru Cliff Hausner will take you to new heights of light shaping techniques across the fields and forests of the retreat. Dakota Lee will reexamine the essential relationship between model and photographer to showcase what can be achieved with optimal collaboration and a host of incredible models. Finally, the monograph master Mat Thorne, will show you how you can turn your vision into a great photo book. This 'dream team' has been assembled by David Brommer who will lead discussions on photographic style and make sure you will get the most out of this experience.
You'll learn to master your camera & settings in a calm and supportive manner from our expert faculty.
"I will be honest with you, prior to the Retreat I had no idea how impressive the faculty was. I had extraordinarily positive interactions with Mat, Cliff and Vincent. They are rock stars. Each in his own way was encouraging, supportive, and validating. I came away from the experience of no longer feeling like a fraud (you know, the old Impostor Syndrome").
I will be singing their praises for a long time."
Testimonial from Vera H.
"I will be honest with you, prior to the Retreat I had no idea how impressive the faculty was. I had extraordinarily positive interactions with Mat, Cliff and Vincent. They are rock stars. Each in his own way was encouraging, supportive, and validating. I came away from the experience of no longer feeling like a fraud (you know, the old Impostor Syndrome").
I will be singing their praises for a long time."
Testimonial from Vera H.
One of the best parts of the retreat is the review and critique sessions. These sessions resonate deeply because the faculty feedback is so helpful. They can manifest communally or one one one.
"I liked that we were not pressured into staying with one particular schedule and could flow if we desired or focus on items we wanted to. I chose to stay with more lighting and portrait based work because I needed more input on those areas rather than landscape or nature"
Testimonial from Greg B.
"I liked that we were not pressured into staying with one particular schedule and could flow if we desired or focus on items we wanted to. I chose to stay with more lighting and portrait based work because I needed more input on those areas rather than landscape or nature"
Testimonial from Greg B.
We believe in the power of the print and encourage students to bring their portfolios and books to share. For the work you make onsite, we will have Epson P900 Printers on hand loaded with ink and paper for you to make prints for your portfolio.
Our classrooms and programs are unique!
The Group Classroom is an airy sanctuary of learning, where classes begin and end each day as well as a workflow and printing center. Being a "Retreat in the Woods" classes will also be conducted in the forest amphitheater. Students will break into small groups while taking Classes, on photoshoots and in critiques that occur simultaneously. This program will expose students to all the special styles and talents our faculty will be sharing.
The Group Classroom is an airy sanctuary of learning, where classes begin and end each day as well as a workflow and printing center. Being a "Retreat in the Woods" classes will also be conducted in the forest amphitheater. Students will break into small groups while taking Classes, on photoshoots and in critiques that occur simultaneously. This program will expose students to all the special styles and talents our faculty will be sharing.
"I so enjoyed the retreat. The AUTOCAMP site is beautiful - so well set up and attended. Learning from photographers with différent backgrounds and specialties was fascinating. David and Barbara - and Eisenhower - did a tremendous job of creating such unique and inspiring experience. Thank you!"
Testimonial from NoëlleV.
"A great experience, well planned and organized, knowledgeable instructors, creative model shoots,
interesting group of students"
Testimonial from Dean B.
Testimonial from NoëlleV.
"A great experience, well planned and organized, knowledgeable instructors, creative model shoots,
interesting group of students"
Testimonial from Dean B.
Our final dinner in the woods, a long communal table to share stories, followed by a fire performance.. more stories to tell!
Meet the Retreat Sponsors:
Nikon, Profoto, Epson, Neewer, thinkTANK and B&H Photo
Nikon, Profoto, Epson, Neewer, thinkTANK and B&H Photo
The Retreat Sponsors represent the pinnacle of equipment and supplier companies. We have chosen each specifically for the quality of their products and services. Attendees will have access to Nikon cameras, lenses, Profoto Strobe lights, Neewer LEDs, and Epson printers at the retreat. B&H Photo Expert Max will be bringing all the extra stuff you might have left home like tripods and reflectors, This is your moment to boost your skills with professional gear, a great "try before you buy" experience.
Activities to inspire your photography and provide wellness like Crow Games and morning Yoga
Sean Kernan has been documenting the Crow Nation for over a decade and brings this ancient indigenous tradition to life with the Crow Games. Using a hand thrown, javelin it offers a fun competition and a great photo opportunity. Do you have what it takes to win the Retreat Crow Award? You'll have to come and find out!
Enjoy Morning Yoga to add a little "Namaste" to your Retreat In the Woods. Take to the air and make work with your drone- the location offers wonderful aerial opportunities.
Catering will be provided by beloved Hudson Valley restaurateurs. You can expect comfort cuisine, crafted using fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients that will satisfy your palate and set the "food mood" for all meals taken during the retreat. Beer and wine are free flowing.
B&H Photo On Site providing loaner equipment, transport to the retreat from the B&H Super Store and to offsite locations, plus that expert gear advice B&H is known for.
Schedule
TUESDAY 9/22
Check In, Opening Remarks, Photoshoots at Dusk, Meet and Greet Drinks & Dinner, Slide Shows & Screenings.
WEDNESDAY 9/23
Morning Yoga, Breakfast, Group Lesson, Photoshoots, Lunch, Critique Session, Small Group Lessons, Photoshoots, Dinner, Campfire Performance & Fun.
THURSDAY 9/24
Morning Yoga, Breakfast, Group Lesson, Photoshoots, Lunch, Workflow & Printing, Small Group Lessons, Crow Games Dinner in the Woods and Group Slide Show in the woods.
FRIDAY 9/25
Sunrise Photo Shoot, Breakfast, Check Out.
The Retreat is designed to be fully inclusive so you can concentrate on the photography without distraction
Full Retreat Package Includes:
-4 days & 3 nights at AutoCamp Catskills in a deluxe Airstream Cabin.
-3x Breakfast, 2x Lunch & 3x Dinners (wine & beer included with dinner)
-Highly Styled Model Sessions Professionally lit
-Photography, Lighting, Editing, Book Design
-One on One and Group Critiques
-8 World Class Instructors
-Limited to 30 students
-Morning Yoga
-Fun activities
-Parking
Suspect Photography
Retreat In the Woods Costs
Retreat In the Woods Costs
Full Retreat Experience: $4000.00
Ticket for One Participant with Onsite Stay in your own deluxe Airstream. Limited to 20 Airstreams. After these tickets are sold out- you'll have to find accommodations offsite (which are plentiful, but for the full communal aspect, nothing beats your own deluxe Airstream in the woods. $800 Deposit.
Share the Airstream Companion Rate: $2000.00
Bring a friend! Each airstream has one queen bed & a fold out single bed. $300.00 Deposit (total for two full Retreat Experiences sharing one Airstream $6000.00)
Non-Photographer Companion Rate: $550.00
Bring your spouse, significant other or just a non-photo friend! This additional ticket provides 3 dinners, 2 lunches, 3 breakfasts, wine & beer, morning Yoga and evening shared events. Plus they get to hang out with some of the nicest people you'll find in the world.
Off Site Budget Stay Retreat Option: $2200.00
For those who are local or want a budget option- we are offering the retreat without the Airstream stay package. $500.00 Deposit
Final Balance Due on August 1st.
Strictly Limited to 30 Participants.
Ticket for One Participant with Onsite Stay in your own deluxe Airstream. Limited to 20 Airstreams. After these tickets are sold out- you'll have to find accommodations offsite (which are plentiful, but for the full communal aspect, nothing beats your own deluxe Airstream in the woods. $800 Deposit.
Share the Airstream Companion Rate: $2000.00
Bring a friend! Each airstream has one queen bed & a fold out single bed. $300.00 Deposit (total for two full Retreat Experiences sharing one Airstream $6000.00)
Non-Photographer Companion Rate: $550.00
Bring your spouse, significant other or just a non-photo friend! This additional ticket provides 3 dinners, 2 lunches, 3 breakfasts, wine & beer, morning Yoga and evening shared events. Plus they get to hang out with some of the nicest people you'll find in the world.
Off Site Budget Stay Retreat Option: $2200.00
For those who are local or want a budget option- we are offering the retreat without the Airstream stay package. $500.00 Deposit
Final Balance Due on August 1st.
Strictly Limited to 30 Participants.
Location
AutoCamp Catskills
882 NY-212, Saugerties, NY 12477
882 NY-212, Saugerties, NY 12477
Shuttle Service from B&H Photo in NYC will be made available for a fee. Shuttle departs from 420 9th Avenue at 11 am on 9/25. Arrive AutoCamp at 1:30 pm. Shuttle returns to NYC on 9/28 will leave AutoCamp at 3 pm and arrive NYC at 5:30 pm.
Contact Us
Suspect Photography believes in a total commitment to the customer/student. Any questions, comments or concerns feel free to email [email protected] us or use the contact form. We are here for you.
Refund Cancellation Policy
F.A.Q.
Refund Cancellation Policy
F.A.Q.