Gardens of San Miquel de Allende
On a dreary March day in Minnesota, I saw a description for an October workshop - “Finding Gardens” in San Miquel de Allende. What was not to like? I’ve always enjoyed gardening and had never been to Mexico. Plus, the instructor was Sam Abell, once long-time executive photo editor of National Geographic.
Many years earlier, I had taken a workshop with Sam in Sante Fe, New Mexico. Sam’s reputation as a photographer is almost exceeded by his devotion to teaching. One is always fortunate to find an inspiring teacher, but it’s rare to have an opportunity to reconnect. He’s always respectful and clear when reviewing work. I learned to dread the words, ”That isn’t going anywhere.” My head still rings with his advice about composition: build the composition in layers, watch the corners and edges, separate subjects. When you’re done, turn around and see if there’s another image.
