Image 1 of 1
“Summer camp was the recharge I needed….not so much a class, but rather to be surrounded by like minded photographers, with lots of creativity and stories to share!
We bonded, we bounced ideas off each other, we created art we can use on our clients when we get back home, and most importantly, we reminded each other that we can all do this thing and enjoy life!”
“WHY I SIGNED UP FOR ROUND TWO SUMMER CAMP 2026 ☀️ A little take away form me.
Going to Ana Brandt’s studio was an experience in itself — absolutely exciting and inspiring. Every room had something new to discover: outfits, fabrics, props, lighting setups, and even a podcast studio (which was a first for me!). You could easily spend a week there and still find something new each day.
What truly stood out was the full client experience — from the moment you walk in, everything is beautifully thought out. It’s no wonder she’s so successful.
The summer camp itself was fantastic. The group of photographers I met were amazing — everyone was supportive, creative, and full of great energy. It was so unique to be able to shoot in Ana’s space and see firsthand how she works. We practiced so many different lighting techniques, poses, and setups. She challenged us in the best ways.
The models were incredible, and the beach shoot looked like it came straight out of a movie — absolutely breathtaking.
As a photographer from a small town in Canada (5 hour flight) it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience to fly to California for something like this. A lot of people hesitate to attend events like these, but stepping out of your comfort zone is where the magic happens. Ana creates a space that is not only safe but also incredibly inspiring.
I’m so grateful I had this experience
Thank you Anamaria Brandt ....
I also have to mention Alex — because Ana and Alex truly come as a duo.
He was always around, helping behind the scenes, floating through the studio so smoothly you sometimes didn’t even realize he was there… until a GoPro popped up in your face! Next thing you know, an incredible behind-the-scenes video is up on Facebook capturing all the magic.
Alex was everywhere — whether it was filming, adjusting camera settings, helping with lighting, setting up the podcast (more than once!), or even personal touches like making my beautiful summer camp cup. He was constantly making sure everything ran smoothly.
You might not always see someone like him front and center, but he’s absolutely essential to how everything comes together. They really are a dream team.”
“I had such a great time at Ana’s Summer Camp! I connected with a wonderful group of like-minded photographers, all at different stages in their photography journeys. We supported and encouraged one another, shared laughs, and worked together to capture our perfect shots.
Ana shared valuable lighting techniques and showed us how to create beautifully unique backdrops using fabric. They felt like a work of art and something you can make your own in any studio. She challenged us to think creatively and push beyond our usual approach.
I’ve attended several of Ana’s workshops, but this camp was by far the most unique and memorable experience. I hope I’m able to attend next year’s camp! 🤞🏻❤️”
“Summer Camp was Melissa Winn’s idea - she just sent me this - so powerful -
Attending this summer camp-style photography retreat was like taking a deep breath after years of creative isolation. In an industry that often feels solitary—where most of our wins and struggles play out behind screens—the most powerful part of this weekend wasn’t the gear or the techniques. It was the camaraderie.
There was a profound sense of community here, a shared understanding that we’re all navigating the same creative currents. For once, the support wasn’t silent. It was loud in laughter, in shared meals, in impromptu brainstorming sessions, and in those quiet round table discussions where someone says, “I see you—and I believe in you.”
Social media can be so performative, sometimes discouraging. But this retreat reminded me that we’re not alone. We’re in the same boat. And we don’t have to paddle it solo. Together, we can build the kind of village that lifts one another up, that nurtures growth, that roots for each other’s success—not just in silence, but with intention and joy.
This wasn’t just a weekend escape. It was a recalibration. A return to why we create in the first place.”
