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 26 - 30, 2026
Retreat In the Woods Registration Opens Soon.
Join the WaitList to be notified first!
Hands On Photo Shoots with Models- Editing - Printing - Landscapes
Portfolio Reviews - Book Design - Portraits - Camp Fires & Community
All Taking Place In the Woods.
September 26 - 30, 2026
Retreat In the Woods Registration Opens Soon.
Join the WaitList to be notified first!
Suspect Photography Retreat in the Woods
Join us on September 26-30, 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 26, 2026 - 2:00 PM September 30, 2026 - 10:00 AM
Back by Popular Demand! The 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 nights sleep or just chill.
Faculty 2025
(2026 Coming Soon)
(2026 Coming Soon)
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.
Famous for his work focusing on the human condition, Steve has photographed on assignment in more than 40 countries capturing life as he encounters it.
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?
Being devoid of any everyday distractions, 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. Let the 'passionate photographer' Steve Simon, guide you through editing, writing, and presentation. 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. Let the 'passionate photographer' Steve Simon, guide you through editing, writing, and presentation. 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.
We are excited to share that Nikon & Profoto have become official partners of Suspect Photography Retreat In the Woods. We're thankful for their support as they join key photography industry leaders:
B&H Photo, Epson Wacom and Think Tank as sponsors.
The Retreat is thrilled to provide access to Nikon cameras, lenses and Profoto lighting at the workshop! This is your moment to boost your skills with professional gear. And don't worry, Chloe, Steve, Cliff & David are experts who will help you feel confident using your new Nikon Z and Profoto lighting.
B&H Photo, Epson Wacom and Think Tank as sponsors.
The Retreat is thrilled to provide access to Nikon cameras, lenses and Profoto lighting at the workshop! This is your moment to boost your skills with professional gear. And don't worry, Chloe, Steve, Cliff & David are experts who will help you feel confident using your new Nikon Z and Profoto lighting.
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.
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.
Presenting your work is an integral part of the process explored in the retreat. Each student will walk away with a custom printed portfolio of work created during the retreat. This will be a visual reference that will inspire you in the days and months to follow.
Schedule
Thursday 9/25
Check In, Opening Remarks, Photoshoots at Dusk, Meet and Greet Drinks & Dinner, Slide Shows & Screenings
Friday 9/26
Morning Yoga, Breakfast, Group Lesson, Photoshoots, Lunch, Critique Session, Small Group Lessons, Photoshoots, Dinner, Campfire
Fun
Fun
Saturday 9/27
Morning Yoga, Breakfast, Group Lesson, Photoshoots, Lunch, Workflow & Printing, Small Group Lessons, Dinner in the Woods and Group Slide Show in the forest amphitheater
Sunday 9/28
Sunrise Photo Shoot, Breakfast, Panel Discussion and Closing Remarks, Final Printing Session, 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)
-Custom Printed Portfolio of Work Created during the retreat.
-Styled Model Sessions (minimum of 4 models)
-Photography, Lighting, Editing, Book Design, Writing Classes
-One on One and Group Critiques
-8 World Class Instructors
-Limited to 25 students
-Morning Yoga
-Fun activities
-Parking
-4 days & 3 nights at AutoCamp Catskills in a deluxe Airstream Cabin.
-3x Breakfast, 2x Lunch & 3x Dinners (wine & beer included with dinner)
-Custom Printed Portfolio of Work Created during the retreat.
-Styled Model Sessions (minimum of 4 models)
-Photography, Lighting, Editing, Book Design, Writing Classes
-One on One and Group Critiques
-8 World Class Instructors
-Limited to 25 students
-Morning Yoga
-Fun activities
-Parking
Suspect Photography
Retreat In the Woods Costs
Retreat In the Woods Costs
Book Now
Only 1 Airstreams left (waitlist only)
6 Off Site Options.
Registration Will Close Shortly!
6 Off Site Options.
Registration Will Close Shortly!
Off Site Budget Stay Retreat Option:
For those who are local or want a budget option- we are offering the retreat without the Airstream stay package & print portfolio.
Reg $2200.00 Sale Price $2,000.00
Full Retreat Experience:
$4,000.00 for One Participant with Onsite Stay in your own deluxe airstream.
SOLD OUT- Email us for Waitlist
Share the Airstream Companion Rate:
$2000.00 (total for two full Retreat Experiences sharing one Airstream $6000.00)
Sold Out - Email for Waitlist
Non-Photographer Companion Rate:
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.
$550.00
Sold Out - Email for Waitlist
Strictly Limited to 25 Participants.
For those who are local or want a budget option- we are offering the retreat without the Airstream stay package & print portfolio.
Reg $2200.00 Sale Price $2,000.00
SOLD OUT- Email us for Waitlist
Sold Out - Email for Waitlist
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.
Sold Out - Email for Waitlist
Strictly Limited to 25 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.