21 Aug

Phoot Camp!

Inspired by Foo Camp, I’m going to host an invite-only camping trip this fall for dozens of top emerging photographers.

I must be crazy. I just invited way more photo nerds than I can count on all my fingers and toes to come camp out in the woods with me.

It all started when I was putting together this interview with Paul Octavious Cribb. While editing it together, I thought, “Man, Paul is so creative. I bet he would really get along well with Steph Goralnick. I would about pee my pants to hang out with both of them at the same time.” And then I realized they would probably about pee their pants to hang out with each other, and the many other amazing photographers I know. Why not get a group together? I was pretty sure magic would occur, or at the very least bushels of fun.

So I floated the idea out to Paul and Steph, and Kevin “Lomokev” Meredith and Cody Austin (who deserves a special shout-out for his help), too. It’s a real testament to each of them how enthusiastic and supportive they’ve been of the idea. As I write this, Kevin has booked his flight from Brighton, England (and is planning a book signing and course while here, check it out!), Cody has booked his flight from Houston, Steph has booked her flight from Brooklyn, Paul has committed to being here, and I’ve booked the campground. And, I’ve started hearing back from the big group I emailed today: “Ummm… yeah this sounds amazing. 100% in!”

The campout isn’t until October, but keep an eye out afterwards for the results of the photo sessions, photo scavenger hunts, brainstorming sessions, and s’more-making contests that occur. We’ll definitely put together an online showing of the results.

NOTE: Didn’t get an invite? Don’t feel bad. Most people didn’t — I even turned down some of my closest friends! There’s a good chance this could become an annual event, so drop me a line if you’d really like to be considered for next year.

ANOTHER NOTE: This isn’t my big project, but expect to hear an update on that very soon. You can also sign up to be notified when it’s launched here.