“It’s what you learn after you know it all that counts”
John Wooden

Foundation Workshop Mexico in its third edition has been one of the toughest experiences that I’ve been trough in my professional life as a photographer. I had the opportunity to learn of national and international talented photographers, but no one like this workshop. Far away from being a space to learn photography techniques, Foundation goes further, in order to go beyond the human nature in many ways.

I might quote Rafa Palacios during the closing ceremony, “This isn’t a photography workshop, this is a life experience workshop” …Wise words.

During a week of extensive learning where not only your photographer skills have been exposed, but also deep personal issues that you must face in order to accomplish your assignment.

Being exposed as a person has made feelings being exposed also. But to face your fears, to break your own paradigms and to share with amazing people who you can count with as a family, it’s simply awesome.

Nowadays it’s easy to find in social media or cheap literature something about to leave your comfort zone, and that is because outside is where magic happens. The tough part is to realize it, even more tough is to get out of there, but definitely the best that could happen to you is that two great teachers hold your shoulders and take you out of your comfort zone.

My assignment was complex. I had to go to a plaza and figure out a story in it. I was so lucky to find Don Ricardo, an 85-year-old man who literally lives in the plaza and around, but the sad part of the history is that he sleeps in the street. It was a strong assignment that I could accomplish with a lot of effort and particularly with my mentors guidance.

Finally, all the things said about Foundation Workshop became truth, and in a positive way of course. It’s such a great family, and they treat you like wise, every moment they’re looking after you. Being side by side with so important photographers and being amazed with they’re humbleness it’s priceless.

I was also lucky to have the mentors I’ve chosen: Erin Chrisman and Brett Butterstein. Thank you Erin for your patience, wisdom and care. Thank you Brett for your objectivity and your frankness. Everything comes to your life in the right moment; you guys arrived to mine in a more than precise moment. I’m sending all my respect and admiration for you guys.

My team during these week: Sherry, Pamela, Lorenia and Charro. Simply thank you. You guys have been a family and a great support. As Brett says: we were always on time, we were efficient and effective. Great teachers, great challenge, great team.

To the rest of the Mentors, staff members and students, thank you for everything. I leave you all my friendship. I don’t want to mention anyone in particular so I can not forget anybody. I just want to thank especially Huy for your trust.

At last, I only want to recommend this workshop for everyone. It’s worth the effort and definitely the best investment ever.