How Ted Forbes’ Photography Workshop Transformed My Creative Journey
Last year, I had the opportunity to attend a workshop led by Ted Forbes from The Art of Photography. The workshop focused on creating a zine, from developing a concept to finalizing it for publication. The result was The Street Is My Studio, a zine that transformed my experience photographing Melbourne’s streets into a tangible, printed collection.
The Impact of a Photography Workshop on The Melbourne Portraits Project
That workshop was an eye-opening experience. It provided the tools, structure, and motivation I needed to finally bring my long-standing photo book project to life. At the time, The Melbourne Portraits Project was in its earliest stages. Just an idea with scattered images and concepts waiting to take shape. But after creating the zine, I had a clearer vision of how to tell a cohesive story through photography. The process of curating, sequencing, and refining The Street Is My Studio helped me understand the importance of pacing, theme, and visual flow. Key elements in shaping a compelling photo book.
The Melbourne Portraits Project on The Art of Photography
Fast-forward to this week: I was enjoying a wonderful selection of new zines featured in Ted Forbes’ latest video when, to my complete surprise, I saw The Melbourne Portraits Project included! Seeing my photo book among a collection of inspiring publications was an incredible moment. This photo book, nearly two years in the making, gained recognition from someone who has been such an influential figure to many photographers around the world. It was truly an honor to see all the hard work that went into bringing this project to life recognized in such a meaningful way.
Why Ted Forbes’ Photography Workshops Are Worth It
I’m incredibly grateful to Ted Forbes. Not just for featuring my book on The Art of Photography, but for his guidance and continuous support. His ability to break down the creative process and encourage deeper storytelling has been invaluable to my journey. His workshop didn’t just teach me how to create a zine, it motivated me to complete a project I had been developing for years.
If you’ve ever thought about creating your own zine or photo book, I highly recommend attending one of his workshops. These sessions provide the structure and insight needed to turn your ideas into something real. Whether it’s a small, personal zine or a full-fledged photography book.
Take Your Photography to the Next Level
If you want to explore photography as a visual storytelling tool, pick up a copy of Ted Forbes’ book, Visually Speaking. It’s an excellent resource for photographers looking to strengthen their ability to communicate through images and elevate their creative process.
Keep Creating and Pushing Boundaries
A huge thank you to Ted and everyone who has supported The Melbourne Portraits Project. This journey started with a simple idea and evolved into something so much bigger. Proof that sometimes all you need is the right push to turn inspiration into action. If you’re considering starting your own zine or photo book, take the leap. You never know where it might lead!
© Paul Tocatlian. All Rights Reserved.
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