DESCRIPTION:
A combination of classic-modern-contemporary buildings.
Architecture does not ask to be documented.
It asks to be understood.
In the right hands, concrete softens. Steel becomes calligraphy. Light shapes structure. Within shadow, form reveals its quiet authority.
This workshop approaches architecture not as a subject, but as material — material for interpretation, refinement, and authorship.
Guided by Francisco Marin — architect, educator, and fine art photographer — participants engage in a disciplined exploration of space and abstraction. Function dissolves. Context fades. What remains is geometry, rhythm, tension, and silence.
Precision is honored.
Restraint is practiced.
Vision is cultivated.
Aligned with the Leica philosophy of intentionality and clarity, this experience teaches photographers to distill architecture to its essence — to compose rather than correct, to interpret rather than describe.
Lines become gestures.
Light becomes narrative.
Space becomes sculpture.
This workshop is designed for photographers who seek depth over spectacle, subtlety over excess, and authorship over imitation.
AGENDA:
Friday, July 24: Welcome & Introduction
4:00pm-6:00pm: Hosted at our Brand New Leica Gallery Chicago. This evening will serve to introduce students to the main concepts of the workshop. From here we will prepare for Saturday all day shoot and loan out equipment for participants. We will set meeting time and starting location for the next day.
Saturday, July 25: Explore Chicago through Photography
9:00am-10:30am: Students will meet at the Cloud Gate located in Millennium Park to take advantage of the early morning light. From here we will use principles covered in the previous night’s lecture and explore the Jay Pritzker Pavilion designed by the celebrated architect Frank Gehry.
10:30am-12:00pm: We dive into the city to explore iconic buildings and above ground at the "L" rail lines.
12:00pm-13:00pm: Lunch; Participants will have a taste of Chicago and discuss morning walk.
13:00pm-16:00pm: Afterwards Students will take the "L" through the city continuing to chase light between the buildings arriving at the river, touring the water front for golden hour.
TBA: Evening Boat Tour will be hosted by Leica Store & Gallery Chicago. Students of the course will be automatically be reserved a seat for this community event lead by Francisco Marin.
Sunday, July 26: The Editing Process of Francisco Marin
8:00am-11:00am: Relax & Review - Student will take the morning to review their images and select their best for an afternoon of editing.
12:00pm-4:30pm: Meeting back at Leica Gallery Chicago students will be guided through Francisco editing process with their own images; correcting for angle of structure and color. Afterwards students will present their work.
TOPICS COVERED:
- Introduction to Architecture & Defining Architectural Photography
- Recommended Settings and Equipment
- Understanding lighting and use of natural environment
- Principles of Composition for Exteriors & Interiors
- Editing Specific for Architectural Photography
WHO SHOULD ATTEND:
Leica Akademie invites beginning artists and photographers interested increasing their knowledge about Architecture Photography. Those who wish to find a new perspective in their daily environment. This workshop is designed for street photographers looking to take on and master their city.
WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT THIS WORKSHOP:
This workshop will be an intensive 3-day course with multiple locations to feature inspiring architecture. Students should expect some walking and being out in the weather during this weekend.
Camera Equipment may be supplied by Leica Camera on a first come first serve basis. This includes cameras and lenses but not Tripods, students are encouraged to bring them.
DETAILS & ICONIC LOCATIONS:
Locations:
Leica Store & Gallery Chicago
800 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Cloud Gate "The Bean"
Millennium Park
201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602
Aqua Tower
225 N Columbus Dr, Chicago, IL 60601
Saint Regis chicago "The Wanda Vista"
401 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601
THE MART
222 W Merchandise Mart Plaza, Chicago, IL 60654
Weather:
This is an all weather course; rain or shine. Students are advised to dress for comfort and movement.
Registration:
This course has a limit of 12 students and if sold out a wait list is made in case of cancelations. All registrants are subject to Leica Akademie USA Terms & Conditions. This event closes 24-hours before each class begins to solidify attendance. Please feel free to email any questions or concerns to AkademieUSA@Leica-Camera.com
AT-A-GLANCE
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Dates
