DESCRIPTION
Join award-winning photographers Michael Robinson Chávez and Héctor Emanuel, in collaboration with Leica Akademie USA, for an immersive workshop during Semana Santa in Seville, Spain—home to the world’s most spectacular and renowned Holy Week celebrations.
Over five unforgettable days, participants will witness the splendor of Seville’s Easter processions firsthand, photographing the centuries-old traditions, striking images, and deep emotions that unfold on the city’s streets.
Michael and Héctor bring a wealth of experience in guiding students through the visual process, helping participants broaden their photographic perspective with a focus on storytelling, sequencing, and editing. Each day will include fieldwork amid the festivities, along with group discussions and editing sessions at the beautiful Cobertura Foto facility in the heart of Seville, creating an ideal environment for learning, reflection, and growth.
Whether you're aiming to refine your documentary style or deepen your storytelling skills, this workshop provides a unique opportunity to capture the splendor of Semana Santa while developing a more personal photographic voice. Participants will also receive hands-on guidance in composition and learn how to better read and utilize light to elevate their images. Beyond aesthetics, the workshop will help students break down barriers and build genuine connections with people, allowing that authenticity to shine through in their photographs.
WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS WORKSHOP?
Photographers who are at an intermediate to advanced level will benefit most from this workshop.
Join us for this once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience something truly special!
AGENDA: April 2-6, 2026
Thursday, April 2
Introductions, review of photo work curated by Hector and Michael, and discussion of goals and plans for the week. Photo walk to group dinner.
Friday–Sunday, April 3-5
Students spend the days and evenings photographing the pageantry of Semana Santa. Hector and Michael are available to assist and guide students in the field, with a midday break for one-on-one reviews, editing, and discussion.
Monday, April 6 -
We spend the last day editing, sequencing a strong narrative flow and creating a show of student work for the final reception (with food and drink!) and presentation.
Topics Covered:
- Visual storytelling
- Learning to read light, from the beautiful to the challenging
- Breaking down the barrier between you and the people you are photographing
- Anticipating moments and photographs before they happen
- Moving beyond obvious photographs
- Slowing down to capture the essence of Semana Santa
- Expanding your personal vision and style
- Editing techniques to improve your work and narrative skills
What you should know about this course.
This course hits the ground running. We start with an evening/night photo walk through a procession in Semana Santa Seville. Students should be prepared to be walking a good deal on Sunday and Monday to create images. Students are also asked to have a familiarity with their cameras, knowing settings, and understanding controls. While we will be editing work together, we also ask that students have a base level of editing experience to cull and process their images independently.
Included:
- One on one instruction sessions with Michael and Hector
- Classroom instruction
- Local guides
- All permit, entry fees and taxes
- Group dinner and Farewell reception
Not included:
- Air fares
- Airport transfers and taxes
- Hotel/ Accommodation
- Beverages and alcoholic drinks
- Personal expenses
- Meals not included with the itinerary
- Tips and gratuities
Total Tuition: $2,950.00
Student Testimonial:
"Attending the El Rocío photography workshop was an incredible experience that helped me take a meaningful step forward in my journey as a photographer. My goal for 2024 was to build confidence and refine my ability to balance composition with storytelling, and this workshop provided the perfect environment to do so. Hector and Michael were fantastic instructors—not only in their guidance while shooting and editing but also in the invaluable insights they shared beyond the sessions. Some of the most memorable moments and learnings came from simply listening to their anecdotes over coffee and tapas, gaining a deeper appreciation for photography as both an art and a craft. Thank you Leica Akademie for such a great experience."
- Jaime, 2024
The El Rocio workshop was by far the best photography workshop I have been on. The pilgrimage we had the privilege of witnessing is far more than just a religious procession – it is a window into a unique element of Spanish culture and tradition. I was struck most by how this tradition spans generations where the young people were just as dedicated as the older generations. I never thought that I would be making images from the back of a covered wagon while men and women in traditional dress sang and fed me jamon iberico.
Hector and Michael are phenomenal teachers that made a point of examining each workshop participant’s personal style and approach to photography and then provided individualized instruction to help each participant improve on discrete aspects of their craft. I really appreciated that they challenged us to get outside of our comfort zones while providing specific and actionable pointers while we were out shooting. Additionally, they had incredible energy, were super fun to be around and were full of amazing stories.
- Christopher, 2024
AT-A-GLANCE
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Dates
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