HoustonPhotowalks Photography Club

🔗 Official Cruise Info & Signup: https://www.dancingmoontravel.com/alaska-photography-cruise-2026.html

Bonus: Sign up by October 31, 2025, and get a $50 onboard credit for spa time, drinks, or other onboard fun!

• Deep retro roots on display — This is the 23rd annual arcade expo, showcasing hundreds of classic and modern coin-op arcade games, pinball machines, penny arcades, and even console games—all on free play for attendees with a pass. (houstonarcadeexpo.ticketspice.com)
• Hidden gems in plain sight — Early Saturday, you’ll catch swap-meet treasures in the front parking lot where enthusiasts trade consoles and arcade memorabilia.
• Vibrant visual contrasts — From flashing game screens and workshop setups in the morning to pulsating lights, live bands, DJs, and cosplay at night—each moment offers a unique photo opportunity.

EVENT DESCRIPTION:
Come hang and shoot with us at the Houston Arcade Expo on Saturday, November 15, 2025. We’re talking all-day nostalgia—from buzzing game machines to roaring crowds, electrifying music, and stellar costumes. It’s an event where photography meets play.

Morning & afternoon scenes: When the doors open around 10 am, catch wide views of rows of games, folks playing vintage cabinets, and sunlight spilling across arcade floors. Early on, you’ll also catch the lively swap meet in the parking lot (8 am to noon) full of retro gaming gear and chatter—great for candid, community-focused shots.

Evening energy: As night falls, Saturday turns loud—expect DJs, bands, and the Yacht Rock Disco Party pumping soft‑rock and ’80s dance beats late into the night. Cosplayers strut their stuff, and the atmosphere shifts into a vivid, high-energy carnival you can’t resist photographing.

This walk is for everyone—whether you’re shooting with a pro setup, a mirrorless kit, your phone, or just exploring with a compact camera. The range of equipment doesn’t matter—what counts is your eye for the moment and gaming fun.

IMPORTANT INFO:

• The expo gets very loud on Saturday night—consider ear protection if sensitive.
• A ticket is required to enter (single‑day or weekend pass). You can grab these online. (houstonarcadeexpo.ticketspice.com)

PARKING:

• The Houston Marriott Westchase offers free on-site parking.
• Saturday swap-meet setup and vendors may block off some areas, but ample parking is available at the front, sides, and back of the hotel.

PLEASE NOTE:

• Organizers may not see emails/texts/comments during events.

UPDATAE: Sign on as an official traveler for this event at this link and receive a $50 on-board-credit for your room! use the money to pay towards spa treatments, specialty drinks, or just about anything on board. OFFER EXPIRES OCTOBER 31, 2025!

Official signup link: https://www.dancingmoontravel.com/alaska-photography-cruise-2026.html

Join Houston Photowalks and me, Joe Lippeatt, for an unforgettable 7-night Alaska photography cruise departing Seattle on August 15, 2026. We’ll mix guided excursions, workshops, and free time so you can capture the wild beauty of Alaska your way.

Our trip starts with a photowalk in Seattle, WA, including a visit to iconic spots like Pike Place Market, right next to the original Starbucks. Then we board our cruise and head to Alaska. Along the way, we’ll stop at several scenic ports, take photography classes focused on improving your travel shots, explore places like Victoria, BC, and enjoy plenty of opportunities to photograph Alaskan landscapes and sea life, even right from our balcony rooms.

WHY CRUISE TO ALASKA WITH US?

If you love photography and travel, this trip is a win. You’ll get to:

• Sail aboard the elegant Holland America Eurodam, with high-end dining, comfortable staterooms, and onboard amenities.
• Explore iconic and remote Alaskan ports: Juneau (with a whale‑watching photo excursion), Glacier Bay, Icy Strait Point, Sitka (private photo excursion), Ketchikan, and Victoria.
• Take part in onboard workshops, informal photo hangouts, and photowalks in ports where I’ll guide you, or give you time to go your own pace.

EVENT DESCRIPTION:

This cruise is about combining exploration, creativity, and good company. During the voyage, I’ll lead several classes on photography techniques, composition, and how to make the most of light in challenging environments. We’ll have two guided shore excursions (glacial landscapes + whale watching) and photowalks at other stops. Between sessions, you'll have “on‑your‑own” time to wander, shoot, or relax at your speed.

On your way out of Seattle, we’ll likely take a photowalk in the city or waterfront area, giving everyone a chance to adjust gear, meet each other, and grab some urban frames before venturing north. As we cruise, expect dramatic light, changing skyscapes, glaciers, marine wildlife, and coastal dramatic vistas. At each port, you’ll see local culture, rugged coastlines, forests, and wildlife — so plan your lens choices accordingly.

Whether you’re a beginner, enthusiast, or seasoned shooter, this is a perfect trip! Even if you bring just a smartphone, there will be something for you. The pace is designed to balance guided learning and your own creative time.

READY TO SIGN UP?

For more information, see the official cruise page: Dancing Moon Travel Alaska Photography Cruise 2026
Or contact Pat Hand via our Facebook group (our travel agent for this trip).