Guatemala 
A Photo Festival in Antigua, Guatemala!
Imagine yourself walking down cobblestones streets in a town no more than three-square miles in size. Each building is a different color than the next, all of them weathered from time. In any direction a volcano looms in the distance, often with a layer of clouds circling the top. There are Indians in indigenous clothing selling their colorful wares. The temperature is mild — like southern California — all year long. Antigua, Guatemala — a World Heritage spot — is a place worth seeing.
In early 2012 (Jan 28-Feb 4) we will be offering a wonderful week of four simultaneous classes. By day, you’ll be with one class. By night, the groups will converge. This is not a travel workshop, but rather four distinctive JDPW workshops that happen to take place somewhere other than Los Angeles.
Photos by Julia Dean and Martin Herrera
The teachers in Antigua include Phil Borges, Greg Gorman, Joyce Tenneson and Julia Dean. We’ll begin the week with a Sunday afternoon reception and orientation. On Monday morning, the classes begin, culminating in a Friday night cocktail party and slide-show of all the students’ work. In the evenings the classes gather for instructor slide show presentations and a portfolio night. The week is jam-packed with inspiration and fun. We have an ideal spot for our classrooms and office, all right next to each other facing a beautiful courtyard.
Environmental Portraiture and the Personal Project with Phil Borges
Exploring the Soul of a Portrait with Greg Gorman
The Intimate Portrait with Joyce Tenneson
Mastering Your Flash with Julia Dean
It is going to be a great week!! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us!
For complete information click HERE.
Antigua Workshop/Photo Festival Schedule
Antigua Workshop/Photo Festival Schedule
Saturday, January 28th, 2012
Suggested arrival date at La Aurora International airport in Guatemala City, Guatemala. Upon arrival, taxi or van transportation will be required for travel into Antigua (about 45-60 minutes). Check-in at desired hotel in Antigua or Guatemala City (if preferred).
Sunday, January 29th
4:00 – 6:00 pm: Check-in and Registration at Porta Hotel Antigua, 8a Calle Poniente #1, Del Obispo Conference Room. Reception and Cocktail Party
7:00 pm: Dinner out with class and instructor (not included in tuition)
Monday, January 30th
9:00 am – 5:00 pm: Class
Tuesday, January 31st
9:00 am – 5:00 pm: Class
5:00 – 6:30 pm: Free time
6:30 – 8:00 pm: Optional Portfolio night (casual evening to look at everybody’s work)
Wednesday, February 1st
9:00 am – 5:00 pm: Class
5:00 – 6:30 pm: Free time
6:30 – 8:00 pm: Slideshow with and Phil Borges
Thursday, February 2nd
9:00 am – 5:00 pm: Class
Friday, February 3rd
9:00 am – 1:00 pm: Class
1:00 – 5:00 pm: Students have free time. Staff will be assembling slide show (usually around 8 images per student)
6:00 – 8:00 pm: Cocktail party/appetizers and slideshow party
Workshop Ends
Saturday, February 4th
Check-out of hotel. Taxi or van transportation from Antigua to Guatemala City for return flight.
Phil Borges
For over 25 years Phil Borges (www.philborges.com) has been visiting and documenting indigenous and tribal cultures around the world. His work has been collected and exhibited in museums and galleries worldwide and his award winning books have been published in four languages. In 1998 he joined Amnesty International to present Enduring Spirit, an exhibit and book celebrating the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Phil is Founder/President of Bridges to Understanding (www.bridgesweb.org), an on-line classroom program connecting children from indigenous and tribal cultures with their contemporaries in North America through digital storytelling. Phil teaches and lectures internationally and is co-founder of Blue Earth Alliance, a non-profit organization that sponsors photographic projects focusing on endangered cultures and threatened environments. His current project, Women Empowered, focuses on the empowerment and changing role of women in cultures around the world.
Phil’s Statement:
I am a big fan of group process in evaluating work. So we will be evaluating work interactively as a class. We will be going over the personal project that you will be working on during the week in Antigua as well as your past work. I want the student come away from the class inspired and be clear on the direction they would like to see their work take. I would like the student to develop the confidence and skills necessary to create a digital story around a subject they are interested in and to have the know how to get it out there and seen by the audience of their choice. Since we will be in Guatemala I want the students to build their confidence and feel comfortable while working with subjects in a foreign culture. – Phil Borges
Joyce Tenneson
Internationally lauded as one of the leading photographers of her generation, Joyce Tenneson’s (www.tenneson.com) work has been published in books and major magazines worldwide. Tenneson ranks among the most respected photographers of our time. Her images have been displayed in exhibitions worldwide and are part of numerous private and museum collections. Her portraits have appeared on covers for magazines such as Time, Life, Newsweek, Premiere, Esquire and The New York Times Magazine. Vicki Goldberg, critic and author, writes of Tenneson: “Tenneson possesses a unique vision which makes her photographs immediately recognizable. She creates enigmatic and sensuous images that are timeless and haunting. Whether a classically draped nude or a mysterious portrait of a young child and aged man, her photographs speak to the fragility of life, its poignant beauty – and its pain. The images are deeply affecting, often evoking forgotten memories.” Tenneson is the author of thirteen books including the best seller, Wise Women, which was featured in a six-part Today Show series. She is also the recipient of many awards and, in a poll conducted by American Photo Magazine, readers voted Tenneson among the ten most influential women in the history of photography.
Joyce’s Statement:
I am very enthusiastic about teaching in Antigua, Guatemala. It is a magical place, filled with wonderful locations and interesting local color. When I teach on location, I try to help inspire students to take photographs from the heart – using their own personal style and insights to make work that is not just about being in a foreign culture, but somehow relates to their own interests in photography. We will have time for daily critiques, as well as slideshow presentations. It will be a time for each participant to think about their own photographic voice, and ways of enlarging and expanding it. I very much look forward to working with you! – Joyce Tenneson
Greg Gorman
Greg Gorman’s (www.gormanphotography.com) work documents that peculiar obsession of the 20th century celebrity. His photography is timeless and not confined to has-beens, hot properties, and wannabes. Each shot gives a picture of human nature in its infinite range. Each picture is also a testament to the individual character. “For me a photograph is most successful when it doesn’t answer all the questions,” says Gorman, “and it leaves something to the imagination.” For over four decades, Greg has continued to master the art of photography. From personality portraits and advertising campaigns to magazine layouts and fine-art work, he has developed and showcased a discriminating and unique style in his profession.
Julia Dean
©Larry Hirschowitz
Julia Dean is a photographer, educator, and the founder of the Julia Dean Photo Workshops. Throughout her career, she has traveled to more than 40 countries while freelancing for numerous relief groups and magazines. She is also the author/photographer of the award-winning children’s book, A Year on Monhegan Island. Julia received a Bachelor of Science degree in photography at the Rochester Institute of Technology and a Master of Arts degree in journalism at the University of Nebraska. She began her career as an apprentice to pioneering photographer Berenice Abbott. Later, Julia was a photo editor for the Associated Press in New York. She has taught for 29 years at such places as the University of Nebraska, Los Angeles Valley College, Los Angeles Southwest College, Santa Monica College, the Santa Fe Workshops, the Maine Photographic Workshops, Oxford University and the Julia Dean Photo Workshops.
Interesting Places to Photograph
Fountain inside of ruin (c) Julia Dean, 2010
Surrounded by majestic volcanoes and with buildings painted in rich, saturated colors, the town of Antigua provides an oasis of photographic possibilities. Nevertheless, we’ve done some pre-scouting for you. Check out any of the locations below and we promise you will not be disappointed!
La Recoleccion Convent
This beautiful colonial monument finished in 1715, now in ruins, housed the religious order of the “Frailes Recoletos.” Located in the northwest corner of Antigua. Click here for more information.
Entry fee: $40 Quetzals or about $5 USD
San Jeronimo Cloister
Its construction was finished in 1759. Soon afterwards the Spanish authorities established the Royal Customs Office in this building. Located just one block east of La Recoleccion Convent.
Entry fee: $40 Quetzals or about $5 USD
La Merced Church & Convent
This site has an exquisite baroque style-façade that shows an extraordinary stucco finish. In the convent’s courtyard you will also see one of the largest and most beautiful fountains in the city. Located north-central Antigua, at the end of 5a Avenida Norte. Click here for more information.
Entry fee: $5 Quetzals or about 50 cents
Santa Clara Convent
This convent was originally founded in 1699 by a group of nuns from the Mexican city of Puebla, known as “Monjas Clarisas.” Located in the southeast corner of Antigua. Click here for more information.
Entry fee: $40 Quetzals or about $5 USD
Capuchinas Convent
This was the last convent of nuns founded in the city. One of the main attractions is the Del Retiro Tower that was built in a circular shape with 18 rooms or cells. Located in northeast Antigua. Click here for more information.
Entry fee: $40 Quetzals or about $5 USD
Central Plaza
The heart of Antigua, the Central Plaza is teaming with activity from local indigenous selling their wares to town residents playing in the streets. A central fountain provides a beautiful photographic background. Located in the middle of Antigua. Click here for more information.
Hotels and Restaurants
Standard room at Porta Hotel Antigua (c) Juia Dean
Suggested Hotels and Restaurants
Recommended Hotel
Porta Hotel Antigua, 8a Calle Poniente #1, www.portahotels.com
The Porta Hotel Antigua will serve as the “home base” hotel for all instructor and staff. Check-in and registration, opening and closing cocktail parties, evening events and all workshops will be held at this hotel in the courtyard directly across the front entrance. Students electing to stay at this hotel will enjoy close proximity to the workshops and the photo festival.
Other Hotels
Under $100
La Sin Ventura, 5a Avenida Sur #8, www.lasinventura.com (Two blocks from the workshops and one block from the Central Plaza.)
Hotel San Jorge, 4a Avenida Sur #13, www.visit-antigua.com/sanjorge.htm (One block from the workshops and four blocks from the Central Plaza.)
Boutique (Over $100)
Casa Encantada, 9a Calle Poniente #1, www.casaencantada-antigua.com (One block from the workshops and four blocks from the Central Plaza.)
Posada Del Angel, 4a Avenida Sur #24-A, www.posadadelangel.com (One block from the workshops and four blocks from the Central Plaza.)
4-Star (Over $100)
Soleil La Antigua, 9a Calle Poniente, www.soleilantigua.com (Southwest Antigua, several blocks from the workshops and the Central Plaza, but walkable.)
5-Star (Over $200)
Casa Santo Domingo, 3a Calle Oriente #28, www.casasantodomingo.com.gt (Northeast Antigua, several blocks form the workshops and the Central Plaza. Taxi recommended.)
Restaurants
Antigua is full of beautiful, quaint and sumptuous restaurants, but here are a few that we visited and highly recommend:
Cafés and Lunch Spots
Café Condesa, Central Park, 5a Avenida Norte #4 www.aroundantigua.com/dining/condesa.htm
Café Bourbon, 5a Avenida Norte #16
International
Las Palmas, 6a Avenida Norte #14, www.laspalmasantigua.com
Italian
Café Mediterraneo, 6a Calle Poniente #6A,
Fine Dining
Welten, 4a Calle Oriente #21, www.weltenrestaurant.com
Meson Panza Verde, 5a Avenida Sur #19, www.panzaverde.com
Hotel Posada de Don Rodrigo, 5a Avenida Norte #17, www.posadadedonrodrigo.com
Travel to Guatemala
Volcano in the clouds (c) Julia Dean, 2010
Before you travel to Guatemala, make sure to obtain a valid passport. Preparing a copy is always recommended. Try scanning your passport and then emailing to your email account, or keep a digital copy on your computer. This ensures always having a back-up in case your passport is stolen or misplaced.
La Aurora International Airport (GUA) serves Guatemala City, Guatemala. It is located 6 km south of Guatemala City’s center and 25 km from Antigua. If traveling from Los Angeles, a nonstop fight will take about 5 hours. United, Delta, US Airways and LACSA airlines serve nonstop from Los Angeles. Prices will vary depending on arrival and departure times, but on average fares will cost around $550-$650 round trip. Generally you can find lower rates by traveling via connecting or 1-stop flights. American and Continental are two such carriers and provide a multitude of arrival and departure times. American generally connects in Miami and will take about 10 hours. Continental generally connects in Houston and will take about 6-8 hours. Both fares can be found for as low as $500-550.
Transportation from Guatemala City to Antigua
Upon arrival in La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, Guatemala, you will need to secure transportation to Antigua. Taxis wait outside the airport’s arrival exit. Official fares are posted on a sign here, but in reality you may have to pay a bit more, $35 USD (not including tip) one-way to Antigua. Be sure to establish the price before getting in. A tip is expected. Shuttle buses are also available and more economical if traveling with more than one person. Car rentals are available as well.
Although located roughly 25 km (about 15 miles) from Guatemala City, getting to Antigua will take about 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
The return trip from Antigua to Guatemala City is fairly easy, with most hotels offering cab or van service to the airport.
Currency/Exchange Rate
The quetzal (local pronunciation: [keˈtsal]) is the currency of Guatemala. It is named after the national bird of Guatemala, the Resplendent Quetzal. In ancient Mayan culture, the quetzal bird’s tail feathers were used as currency. It is divided into 100 cents, called centavos in legal Spanish or lenes in Guatemalan slang. The plural can be either quetzales (as it is in Spanish) or quetzals (in a slightly anglicised form).
The current exchange rate is approximately 8 quetzals for $1 USD.
Two excellent websites for the current exchange rate are CoinMill.com and XE.com.
Antigua’s Land and Climate
Young guatemalan girl (c) Julia Dean, 1988
Antigua enjoys a delightful climate almost year-round. Its location in a valley at an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters (5,000 feet) above sea level ensures that it never gets excessively warm. Additionally, Antigua traditionally enjoys its “dry” season during December – February, ensuring that visitors will normally not require rain gear. However, this time period can often become quite chilly, especially during the evenings, with arrival from the north of frequent cold fronts coinciding with the northern hemisphere’s winter season. Although days are usually pleasant with temperatures in the mid to upper 70′s, warms clothes are recommended as concrete houses with tile floors are the most popular form of architecture and aren’t typically heated or carpeted, making it feel even colder.
The setting of Antigua is nothing short of spectacular, flanked on its southern extreme by towering 3,750 meter (12,325 foot) Agua Volcano. Colossal 4,235 meter (13,900 foot) Acatenango and active Fuego lie to the west. The surrounding hillsides provide wonderful views of the valley and the volcanoes and are excellent terrain for recreational pursuits such as hiking and mountain biking.
Antigua’s streets are lined with cobblestone, making it a requirement to bring appropriate footwear. Tennis shoes or hiking boots are highly recommended. Still, getting around Antigua itself is fairly straight-forward. True to is colonial foundations, the town is laid out in a grid pattern surrounding the central plaza with calles running east-west and avenidas running north-south. The plaza is bounded by 4a Calle and 5a Calle to the north and south, and 4a Avenida and 5a Avenida to the east and west. Street addresses are labeled according to their direction relative to the the plaza: Norte (North), Oriente (East), Sur (South), and Poniente (West).
Antigua Information
Walking the streets of Antigua, (c) Julia Dean, 1988
We discovered an excellent website called aroundantigua.com that provides a wealth of information on all things Antigua such as hotels & accommodations, dining, shopping/stores, things to do, services, cultural activities and more!
Another great online resource is antiguaguatemala.info. This site provides valuable information pertaining to Antigua’s history, monuments and surrounding volcanoes.
We also highly recommend purchasing either or both of the books below, both of which were consistently in our hands during our recent travels.
1) Lonely Planet Guatemala, 3rd edition, published in September 2007. It simply doesn’t get any better than the Lonely Planet!
2) Moon Guatemala City & Antigua by Al Argueta is an easy-to-carry guide complete with handy maps, sightseeing info, and shopping, restaurant and hotel recommendations/reviews.
“Release and Waiver of Liability” form
Please download the complete the attached “Release and Waiver of Liability” form. This form is required for each student. You may scan and email the form to workshops@juliadean.com or fax to 323-464-0906.
“Release and Waiver of Liability” form (PDF)
Antigua Payment and Refund Policies
Payment
Students may elect to pay a $200 deposit to hold their space in any of the four Antigua workshops. The balance will be due before November 1st.
Receipt of Payment
For all online enrollments, a receipt of payment will be generated and sent automatically to the student’s email account. For all phone, fax, mail or in-person enrollments, a receipt of payment will be generated and sent to the student’s email account within one week of receiving payment. In early January, each student will receive a separate email providing information concerning the workshop/photo festival schedule, what to bring in terms of camera and computer equipment, and any other pertinent information.
How to Enroll
- Enroll Online: All major credit cards are accepted
- Enroll by Phone: please call 323-464-0909. All major credit cards are accepted.
- Enroll by Fax: download and complete a registration form and by faxing that completed form to 323-464-0906.
- Enroll by Mail: Download and complete a registration form and by mailing that completed form along with a check payable to: The Julia Dean Photo Workshops.
- Enroll In-Person: The Julia Dean Photo Workshops, 755 Seward St., Los Angeles, CA 90038. Administrative hours are M-Fri, 10 am – 6 pm. Office is closed on all major holidays
Processing fee for all phone, fax, mail or in-person enrollments
A $15 fee will be charged for students electing to enroll by phone, fax, mail or in-person. No fees will be charged for students enrolling online.
Refund Policy
Refund requests arriving before October 1st will result in a $100 administrative fee. Refund requests arriving between October 1st and October 31st will result in a $150 administrative fee. No refunds will be provided for requests arriving after November 1st. The option of receiving credit does not apply. The option of receiving credit does not apply. All refund requests must be submitted via email to workshops@julidean.com.
Cancellations/Airfare
On occasion a workshop may cancel due to low enrollment or unforeseen instructor conflicts. If such a case occurs, all students will be refunded in full. The Julia Dean Photo Workshops does not take responsibility for non-refundable airline tickets, hotel expenses, or any other costs that may be attributable towards enrolling in a workshop.
Antigua Checklist
We’ve prepared a quick and easy step-by-step guide to help you prepare for the workshop/photo festival in Antigua. If you have any questions please give us a call at 323-464-0909 or email workshops@juliadean.com.
- Obtain a passport or make sure your current passport is valid through February, 2012.
- Prepare a copy of your passport and take it with you. A digital file is best.
- Please read and understand the payment and refund policies.
- Register for one of the four workshops. You may choose to pay a $200 deposit initially or pay in full. (Remaining balance will be due by November 1st.)
- Book your hotel reservation in Antigua, Guatemala for seven nights (Check-in January 28, 2012; Check-out February 4, 2012). We suggest Porta Hotel Antigua. You may see other lodging alternatives here. Please be aware of the hotel’s cancellation policy.
- Obtain travel insurance through your health insurance provider (recommended).
- Complete, sign and return the “Release and Waiver of Liability” form via fax (323-464-0906) or electronically via email workshops@juliadean.com.
- Send us a copy of your passport via fax (323-464-0906) or electronically via email workshops@juliadean.com.
- DO NOT book your airline ticket until you hear from our administrative offices. (Note our airfare policy.)
- Pack accordingly for warm temperatures during the day and cool temperatures during the evening.
- Bring a good pair of tennis shoes or hiking books (recommended).
- Bring a flashlight and/or candles for exploring caves, ruins, and your hotel room when/if electricity fails.
- Camera gear and laptops. Bring all necessary cables, power cords, adapters, batteries, etc. (An email will be sent for each workshop detailing what specific gear to bring.)
- Always have cash on hand (either US Dollars or Guatemalan Quetzals) for taxis, tips, access to certain location shoots.
- Upon arrival in La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, Guatemala, arrange for transportation to Antigua. (Suggested date for arrival in Antigua is Saturday, January 28th, 2012)
- Check-in for workshop/photo festival at Porta Hotel Antigua in Antigua, Guatemala on Sunday, January 29th, 2012, between 2-4 pm.
- Check-out of hotel on Saturday, February 4th, 2012.
- Tell your mother not to worry.
Antigua FAQs
Why offer workshops in Antigua, Guatemala?
We felt the need to produce workshops outside of the United Sates in order to provide a completely different feel and background for our students. The town of Antigua was selected because of its magnificent beauty, ancient heritage, and wonderful indigenous people. With its surrounding majestic volcanoes, cobblestone streets and rich, saturated colored buildings, Antigua is quite simply a photographic paradise. In addition, it’s relative proximity to the United States and Los Angeles (about 5 hours nonstop) makes it an an easy travel adventure.
Will you be offering workshops in Antigua just this one time or into the future?
We believe that students will have such a great time photographing in Antigua that we envision this new programming becoming a staple of our curriculum into the distant future.
I’d love to go, but I see you’re offering four workshops during 2012. Which one should I choose?
You can enroll in any one of the four workshops: 1) xxx with Phil Borges; 2) Mastering Your Flash with Julia Dean; 3) xx with Greg Gorman ; 4) xxx with Joyce Tenneson. A basic understanding of photography fundamentals is required for all the workshops. If you’re uncertain regarding your level of experience or wish to receive more information for a specific workshop, please call 323-464-0909.
I see two payment options: 1) Full, 2) Deposit. Can you explain?
You may select one of two payment options (Full or Deposit) for each workshop. Selecting “Full” pays your entire tuition of $1795. Selecting “Deposit” ($200) holds your place in a given workshop. The balance of $1595 will be due by November 1st. You are responsible for booking airfare and securing a hotel reservation.
What does the workshop fee include?
The workshop fee includes class tuition, opening & closing night cocktail parties and reception, five lunches (Monday-Friday) at Porta Hotel Antigua, Monday & Wednesday evening instructor presentations, and Tuesday evening portfolio night.
What does the workshop fee not include?
The workshop fee does not include airfare, hotel, transportation to & from La Aurora International airport in Guatemala City, Guatemala, and evening meals.
How far is Antigua from Guatemala City, Guatemala and how do I get there?
Although located roughly 25 km (about 15 miles) from Guatemala City, getting to Antigua will take about 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. Upon arrival in La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, Guatemala, you will need to secure transportation to Antigua. Taxis wait outside the airport’s arrival exit. Official fares are posted on a sign here, but in reality you may have to pay a bit more, $35 USD (not including tip) one-way to Antigua. Be sure to establish the price before getting in. A tip is expected. Shuttle buses are also available and more economical if traveling with more than one person. Car rentals are available as well.
I see the dates for the workshops are listed January 30 – February 3. Are those the actual dates for the workshops?
Each workshop will run Monday – Friday, January 30 – February 3, 9 am – 5 pm. However, check-in will take place on Sunday, January 29th, 2-4 pm, followed by an opening reception/cocktail party from 4-6 pm. Consequently, we strongly recommend an arrival date in Antigua, Guatemala for Saturday, January 28th. The workshops will end on Friday, February 3rd, following a closing reception/slide show presentation from 6-8 pm. Saturday, February 4th will be the departure date from Guatemala. To obtain a full workshop/photo festival schedule please click here.
Where will check-in and the opening reception/cocktail party take place?
Porta Hotel Antigua, located at 8a Calle Poniente #1 in Antigua, Guatemala.
Where are the actual classrooms?
The classrooms and actual workshops will be based at Porta Hotel Antigua in a courtyard/compound directly across the street from the hotel’s main entrance.
What’s the weather like in Antigua during January and February?
Antigua enjoys a delightful climate almost year-round. Its location in a valley at an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters (5,000 feet) above sea level ensures that it never gets excessively warm. Additionally, Antigua traditionally enjoys its “dry” season during December – February, ensuring that visitors will normally not require rain gear. However, this time period can often become quite chilly, especially during the evenings, with arrival from the north of frequent cold fronts coinciding with the northern hemisphere’s winter season. Days are usually pleasant with temperatures in the mid to upper 70’s,
What should I wear in terms of clothing and shoes?
During the daytime, t-shirts or shorts can be worn with temperatures approaching 80 degrees. However, during the evening warms clothes are recommended with temperatures cooling off to the mid-low 60′s. Further, concrete houses with tile floors are the most popular form of architecture and aren’t typically heated or carpeted, making it feel even colder. Antigua’s streets are lined with cobblestone, making it a requirement to bring appropriate footwear. Tennis shoes or hiking boots are highly recommended.
Can you let me know the currency in Guatemala and the exchange rate?
The quetzal (local pronunciation: [keˈtsal]) is the currency of Guatemala. The current exchange rate is approximately 8 quetzals for $1 USD. Two excellent websites for the current exchange rate are CoinMill.com and XE.com.
What is the voltage in Guatemala and what kind of adapter should I bring?
The voltage in Guatemala is the same as in the United States, 110. It’s recommended you bring a two/three prong adapter.
