Suspect Photography Workshop & Retreat F.A.Q.
Weather: Our workshops are rain or shine. While great weather is pleasurable, sometimes the true challenge is to create work in adverse conditions. We will also adapt to the weather by changing the schedule as needed during the workshop.
Should I bring a laptop? Yes! During the photo walks you can leave that at your hotel-home base-classroom. You’ll need it for downloading images and editing. It’s also handy to have a USB thumb drive as well.
Tripods: For Street Photography workshops you won’t need a tripod unless you expect use it for special applications. In Street Photography we favor mobility in general. For landscape and fine art workshops a tripod is recommended.
Why take a Suspect Photography Workshop? Quality, Attentiveness, and Value are the benchmarks of Suspect Photography. David Brommer brings over 30 years of event production and photo education to the table. Customer service is tantamount, YOUR experience is of uptmost importance to David. You can expect zero drama, unique aspects (such as student work being projected on the side of NYC high rise buidling at a wrap party), and also David’s wife, Barbara Brommer doing admin in the background to ensure a smooth workshop. David and Barbara are are problem solvers too, they love to take a difficult situration and make it easy.
Why are some workshops expensive? You can expect first class amenities and treatment on a Suspect Photography workshop. These come at a cost. We don’t book our students into cheap hotels, our restaurant choices are foodie level and we don’t spare expense to make sure you have a lovely place to relax after field work.
Suspect Tulum Workshop Section:
WHERE EXACTLY IS IT?
Tulum is located on the southeastern tip of Mexico, also known as Yucatan Peninsula, with the Caribbean sea to its right. Tulum is accessible via Cancun airport (CUN) 90 minutes by car) or via the new Tulum airport (TQO) 30 minutes by car.
IS IT SAFE?
Tulum is generally safe for travelers. Keep it simple and don’t travel with flashy jewelry or watches. Crime is associated with drugs, so it’s best not to try to buy any.
WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE IN FEBRUARY?
During February you can expect warm sunny skies with temperatures ranging from 72°F to 86°F, (22°C to 30°C) with an average high of about 81°F. Rooms have AC, but you wont need it as the breeze coming off the ocean is divine.
I DON”T LIKE CRITTERS, WHAT’S THE WILDLIFE LIKE?
Despite being near the jungle, there are no mosquitoes or insects. The biggest wildlife surprise are the lizards that hang out in the archeological sites, they are innocuous and will gladly pose for photos.
I’M PICKY WITH FOOD, WILL I BE ABLE TO ENJOY THE LOCAL CUISINE? CAN I DRINK THE WATER?
The restaurant scene is comparable to the one in NYC for quality and variety. The restaurants all use fresh local produce and protein, making it flavorful and authentic with a sophistication that makes it unique. Vegetarians will rejoice at the many options, and omnivores will fall in love with the open fire kitchens. There’s truly something for everybody’s palate.
You can brush your teeth with the bathroom water, there is a jug of filtered water changed daily in each room and bottled water is available just across the street in the many convenience stores.
I’M BRINGING PHOTO GEAR, HOW’S THE HOTEL SECURITY? AND WHAT ABOUT OUTSIDE?
The hotel has a security team at the entrance and in all the public areas (restaurant, bars, beach) to ensure only guests are allowed on premises. The hotel beach is roped off and security is always present so there is no access for non guests.
Each room has a lock & key safe, it is not big but it fits comfortably 2 camera bodies, three lenses and a laptop.
I’M NOT AN ATHLETIC TYPE, WILL I BE ABLE TO KEEP UP WITH ALL THE EXCURSIONS?
Expect long walks, on the beach or on the streets. If you are not a swimmer, you will still be able to enjoy the Cenotes experience since they are all located in the jungle, with plenty of photo opportunities. There is no climbing, even the ruins are all on flat terrain. You should pack very comfortable shoes, or sandals (that you can walk with) for the beach.
WILL THERE BE CHANCES TO VISIT LOCAL STORES?
There are two main areas where to find local stores: the main road in the Hotel zone, which is lined with trendy, fashionable boutiques with everything from jewelry to clothing to accessories, and the downtown area, populated with typical Mexican artifacts and souvenir merchants. During our photowalks we will have ample time to visit the local stores and meet some of the artisans.
IS IT TRUE THAT THERE’S A WILD PARTY SCENE GOING ON?
While there are surely many opportunities to party, the scene is not that wild, some restaurants will have dj nights (after 10PM), and dj sessions at brunch, (Fri to Sun). The vibe is very vibrant with music and dance, but it’s far from invasive. Our hotel is on the beach, so you will fall asleep with the sound of waves, not the latest hits.
I DON’T SPEAK SPANISH, HOW WILL I COMMUNICATE WITH THE LOCALS?
Tulum economy is based on hospitality, English is spoken everywhere, from the hotel personnel to the local taxi drivers.
Photography at the Cenote?
The Cenotes are in the middle of the jungle, so you can shoot local flora and fauna freely. When we swim in the actual Cenote, you’ll need a water proof camera. Since the depth will be minimal, you can don’t have to invest in a elaborate housing. There are several options from an Olympus Tough Camera to a inexpensive Kodak Pix Pro. Having one of these on hand for beach and surf use is also great.
Have a question? Email david@davidbrommer
More FAQ’s coming soon!
