It's hard to aptly describe the Foundation Workshop. It was founded six years ago by former Dallas Morning News photographer Huy Nguyen to teach wedding photographers how to be photojournalists. But it's so much more than that. Mark served as a mentor last year, and was asked to return this year to work with Huy's team. This year I was also lucky enough to be brought on as a mentor, working with Tyler Wirken's team. I came in expecting an intense, fast-paced week of shooting and editing. I got that, but I also found myself with 40 new friends who now share a bond that's simply indescribable. Former Foundation students are correct in saying this workshop changes lives. I saw it with my own eyes, and felt it in my own heart.

Below are a few photos from Mark's and my cameras.




Greg Gibson gives a talk on the first day about the history of photojournalism. That's Ben Chrisman on the floor. Ben was tapped to be one of two official photographers to document the workshop.


Mark's shot of a church at sunset


Andrew Mejia, who was on Mark's team, working the McKinney Community Center.


The famous Sergio, who served as a mentor along with Mark on Huy Nguyen's team.


Emilie Sommer, a mentor for Brooks Whittington's team.


Erwin and Ray of Apertura, along with Ben Chrisman and Ed Atrero, who was a student on my team.




David Pullum, a student on Erin's team, photographs skateboarders. This was his first of many times down in the bowls at the skate park.