Photography Classes & Workshops

**West Coast Swing with Lara Deni** **Where:** Deni Danzco Studio - 3408 Annandale Rd, Falls Church, VA ​ \*Max 10 people per cllass **Thursday** **7:00pm - Level 1 (no experience/beginner)** **Cost: *$74/month*** \- Three classes per month in any one level **Explanation of Levels** * Level 1 (No Experience/Beginner) - 6 count Rhythm, Left and Right Side passes ), Starter Step, Connection, and a few other basics ###### Q&A * Classes are 45min * Exchange of another series or transfer to another person offered, but Only 72 hours before the first class of the series starts and No refunds offered

Have you been thinking about trying self-defense training, but do not want a loud, aggressive, or overly competitive environment? This free intro class is a simple way to get started. Maryland Systema offers practical self-defense training for adults in Takoma Park with a focus on movement, awareness, breathing, posture, and calm under pressure. This class is designed for beginners and first-timers who want real-world self-defense training in a welcoming setting. You do not need experience. You do not need to be in top shape. You do not need a martial arts background. You just need to show up ready to learn. This is not a sport-based class built around winning points, memorizing routines, or trying to look impressive. It is a more practical approach to adult self-defense training that helps you stay balanced, aware, and functional when things feel uncertain. If you have been searching for self-defense classes in Takoma Park, beginner self-defense near you, or practical self-defense training for adults, this class is a good place to start. **What you will work on** * Breathing and staying calm under pressure * Movement that improves balance and mobility * Awareness and posture * Simple partner drills * Practical self-defense training for beginners **Who this class is for** * Adults new to self-defense training * Beginners looking for a low-pressure class * People who want practical self-defense instead of sport martial arts * Adults in Takoma Park, Silver Spring, Rockville, and nearby areas looking for realistic self-defense classes **What to wear** Please wear comfortable workout clothes. No uniform is required. **Why start with this class** This free intro class gives you a chance to experience the training, meet the group, and see whether Maryland Systema is the right fit for you before joining regular weekly classes. **RSVP** Reserve your spot and come try a beginner-friendly self-defense class in Takoma Park.

[Profs and Pints DC](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Owl Wisdom,”** an introduction to the biology, habits, and conservation of various owl species in our region and beyond, with Steve Sheffield, professor of biology at Bowie State University, curator of mammals and birds for the Natural History Society of Maryland, and president of the Maryland Ornithological Society. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-owl-wisdom](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-owl-wisdom) .] Who wants to learn about owls? If you are fascinated by these hunters of the night, you’ll love spending an evening with Steve Sheffield, a biologist who extensively studies owls and works to conserve them. He’ll start by covering the different types of owls in our region and elsewhere, and the ways in which their bodies and their sizes represent physical adaptations to their environment. He’ll especially focus on the owl species of the United States and Canada, describing their biology, ranges, preferred habitat and prey, behavior, and vocalizations. You’ll learn how and why field biologists study owls and how owl researchers from around the world assemble periodically to discuss their work. We’ll consider owls' value to ecosystems and, especially, humans and human-dominated landscapes where they serve as especially efficient killers of rodents and other crop-harming pests. Dr. Sheffield will talk about the many years he has spent researching owls, with much of his work focused on their exposure to environmental contaminants and how they’re affected. Being top predators, owls serve as sensitive bioindicators of contamination throughout the food chain. Much like canaries in coal mines, they function as an early warning system alerting us to potentially dangerous levels of toxicity. We don’t just study them for their own good, but ours as well. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: Burrowing owls in Florida (Photo by travelingwayoflife / Creative Commons).

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, we want YOU to join us! New players are always welcome to come out and play touch rugby with us - all you need is a good attitude and a willingness to learn. Also, bring a water bottle, a mouth guard, and cleats (if you have them - they're not necessary right away). Our experienced coaches will teach you everything you need to know! Bring your energy, your enthusiasm, and most importantly, your love for the game. Let's make this practice a blast!

To secure your spot, grab your ticket from the Eventbrite link ( https://www.eventbrite.com/e/saturday-party-tickets-47082755790 ). RSVPing only on the Meetup page, doesn't allow you to attend the Event. Otherwise, cover is $ 10 at the door. ABOUT THE EVENT Rock it up at the hottest party in town, filled with fun, drinks, dj and dance! We booked the entire venue for this party We will have specials, including our usual suspect MERtini:) Dress code : Dress to impress Event is free and 21+ Come one, come all; this is the most friendliest event you have ever attended! Feel free to invite your friends. They don't necessarily have to be a member Celebrate your birthday and your moments in life with us! For bottle/table service email (info@merevents.com) OR text 202-368-1878. METRO & PARKING INFO Closest Metro Station is McPherson Square (take either the White House or 14th Street Exit). Please take into consideration Metro's weekend truck work and allow enough time for your ride. Check it on http://www.wmata.com/ and plan accordingly. Street parking might be difficult. However, if you plan to drive, there are parking garages around.

Discover the power of your breath to manage your mind and experience instant peace & calm. Join a 60-minute free Workshop and get a glimpse of the Sudarshan KriyaTM- The breathing technique that is revolutionizing the lives of millions. What you’ll discover at ‘Beyond Breath’ ✔ A taste of the Sudarshan KriyaTM, a breathing technique taught in the Happiness Program ✔ An instant energy booster that awakens & relaxes your mind - Take it home and practice daily! ✔ The peace & calm of a unique guided meditation ✔ Secret keys to manage your mind ✔ The power of surrounding yourself with positive, like-minded people. You can use your breath to master your thoughts and emotions - the key to managing the quality of your day. The Happiness Program At the end of this workshop you may enroll into the Happiness Program (3 days, 3 hours each day) to learn the Sudarshan KriyaTM, a science-backed, rhythmic breathing technique through which you can: Tap into a reservoir of energy and use it as you please! Relieve deep-rooted stresses and anxieties Uplevel your productivity Overcome emotional blocks, move on from past events and shed limiting beliefs Heal your body & gain power over your mind Experience the true state of meditation Learn more about the Happiness Program & the Sudarshan KriyaTM in our introductory workshop 'Secrets to Meditation'. Instagram: artoflivingDMV aolf.live/secretstomeditation

Did you know..... The National Gallery conducts free guided tours. All we need to do is show-up! Join us Thursday, April 2, for the 11:00 am tour titled "The Collection, Up Close" The tour will start in the West Building, Main Floor - Rotunda, and will last one hour. Afterward, we'll walk to the nearby L"Enfant Plaza food court for coffee, a bite of lunch and to socialize. Need more info.? Send me a message. Hope you can make it! ....Ross A.

**NOTICE: The park is open until 8:45 PM for Sunset Closing** **This is copied from the website:** Savor the beauty of Meadowlark Botanical Gardens in the soft glow of twilight. During these special extended hours, the gardens remain open until 8:45 PM, offering a peaceful and picturesque setting to unwind, take an evening stroll, or simply enjoy the changing light as day turns to dusk. **Admissions will end at 8:15 PM,** and the gardens will close promptly at 8:45 PM. Regular garden admission ($5–$9) and memberships apply. We will meet at the visitor center. Bring Water, a tripod, comfortable shoes, fully charged batteries, and empty cards There is no specific route in this park. Folks are free to wander around the trails in the park at their own pace. Check out Rob Trek's video from May 16, 2021: https://youtu.be/QwNR_TuxM4Y For dinner, after the field trip around 8:00 PM, we will head to The Virginian Restaurant, 169 Glyndon St SE, Vienna, VA 22180 Share only your very best, most interesting shots after the field trip, and keep it down to between 5 and 10 photos. Beauty, conservation, education, and discovery flourish throughout the year at this 95-acre complex of large ornamental display gardens and unique native plant collections. Walking trails, lakes, more than twenty varieties of cherry trees, irises, peonies, an extensive shade garden, native wildflowers, gazebos, birds, butterflies, seasonal blooms, and foliage create a sanctuary of beauty and nature. [https://www.nvrpa.org/park/meadowlark_botanical_gardens/](https://www.nvrpa.org/park/meadowlark_botanical_gardens/) By sending in an RSVP and joining this meetup event hosted by the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I am also agreeing to the terms of the following release and waiver of liability, which shall be binding on my heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns. In consideration of my (and my child’s) participation in the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I do hereby release, discharge, and hold harmless the Organizer, its members, officers, directors, employees, and the leader(s) of this event from any and all liability by reason of any damage, loss, expenses, or injury arising from my (and my child’s) participation in this event, including that caused solely or in part by the fault of any and all of the above-named parties.

The Group gathers in the parking lot between 6:00 AM and 6:30 AM to catch the sunrise over the Potomac River. Google Maps: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/hCUuoxUPKhRbLLZn9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/hCUuoxUPKhRbLLZn9) Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve is known as a top regional birding spot; over **300 species** have been recorded here, including nesting bald eagles and ospreys. Bring your longest telephoto lens and binoculars. I can help you with camera settings so you can capture sharper images of both perched birds and birds in flight. It is thrilling to capture the amazing orange and red colors that are only available at that time in the morning. Share only your very best, most interesting shots after the field trip, and keep it down to between 5 and 10 photos. Bring water, comfortable shoes, a tripod, fully charged batteries, and empty memory cards... Park Facts: Entrance Fee: Free Allow Dogs on a leash: Yes Bathroom: On the north side of the Marina is a building for restrooms National Park Service Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve: www.nps.gov/gwmp Friends of Dyke Marsh (www.fodm.org) By sending in an RSVP and joining this meetup event hosted by the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I agree to abide by the rules and regulations (where applicable) of the event location, and I am also agreeing to the terms of the following release and waiver of liability, which shall be binding on my heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns. In consideration of my (and my child’s) participation in the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I do hereby release, discharge, and hold harmless the Organizer, its members, officers, directors, employees, and the leader(s) of this event from any and all liability by reason of any damage, loss, expenses, or injury arising from my (and my child’s) participation in this event, including that caused solely or in part by the fault of any and all of the above-named parties.

THIS CLASS IS OFFERED THROUGH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER **PLEASE REGISTER WITH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER, NOT MEETUP!** https://capitalphotographycenter.com/classes/class/2026-06-20-national-zoo-field-shoot Join us for a morning at the National Zoo and learn tips for photographing animals. Whether you’re planning an African safari or just want to learn to take better photographs of the animals at the zoo or in your backyard, this class will help you capture more compelling images. Learn how to isolate subjects and effectively use available light to create dynamic photos. Improve your focusing skills to achieve sharp focus on moving and still subjects. **Topics include:** * Compositional choices * Options to control exposure * Shutter speeds and depth of field * Focus settings * And more This class is best suited for digital SLR or Mirrorless cameras that allow shutter, aperture, or manual exposure control. Any combination of lenses covering wide to telephoto range (18–300mm) and a circular polarizing filter if you have one. Tripods won’t be needed for this class. Admission to the Zoo is free, but entry passes are required for all guests, including infants. More information can be found here, https://rb.gy/t0htt3 Questions can be directed to Marie Joabar at info@capitalphotographycenter.com. Class Limit: 8-9 *** **THIS CLASS IS OFFERED THROUGH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER** https://capitalphotographycenter.com/classes/class/2026-06-20-national-zoo-field-shoot

**Leader**: Owen , OR owenpepstein@gmail.com **When**: Sunday June 21st, 8:00 AM **Location**: **1550 Anacostia Ave NE, Washington, DC 20019** **Meet**: Meet in the Parking Lot **Bring**: Your camera gear, a tripod, and a variety of lenses, extra batteries, and good walking shoes. **Tickets**: There is no entrance fee. **Info**: Hardy Water Lilies (Late May – Mid-September): These are the classic impressionist-style flowers that float directly on the water's surface, framed by tight networks of flat lily pads. They open in a vibrant spectrum of white, pink, yellow, and deep purple. Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is a tremendous site for birding in Washington D.C. Birding is one of many great reasons to visit Anacostia Park and the Aquatic Gardens. Over 250 different species of birds have been spotted at Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens! **Breakfast**: @ IHOP , 3601 Bladensburg Rd, Colmar Manor, MD **Tripods**: Tripods are allowed so feel free to bring your tripod or monopod We meet at interesting photogenic sites in the area ranging from DC, Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania and Delaware. You can shoot on your own or team up with a helpful Club member for tips and inspiration. All Are Welcome - Members and Non-Members Are Welcome. If you wish to join the Silver Spring Camera Club Membership remains a very reasonable $50 for individual members, $80 for family and only $35 for students. Guests are always welcome to participate. Please see our group website to become a member at: Silver Spring Camera Club – [https://www.ssccphotography.org/](https://www.ssccphotography.org/) There is NO participation Fee for this Field Trip. Visit us on the web: [http://www.ssccphotography.org/](http://www.ssccphotography.org/)

**[YOU MUST PAY HERE FIRST BEFORE YOU RSVP](https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=6BTSTS95QHSYN)** Join a small group of photographers for this in-person Lightroom Classic (LrC) training. Bring your laptop or just come to watch and learn the ins and outs of getting started or advancing your knowledge of utilizing Lightroom Classic, including: 1\. Importing your images from your memory card straight to your hard drive through the LrC import module\, and skip unnecessary steps\. 2\. Learning the various preview options during importing 3\. Learning how to rename and re\-number your images for a more sensible workflow 4\. Learning how to make corrections to your images during the import process 5\. Learning how to get started editing your images\, and some tips and tricks to make the process seamless and easy 6\. And a hell of a lot more This "lab" workshop will take place at the Positive Negatives home studio and training center, and is limited to only SIX attendees. Instructions and details will be sent to all registered attendees.

Improv workshop at Library. We will teach basics of Improvisation and rules before each game. Experienced and newbies alike are welcome to attend/participate. If you don't want to perform this time around, feel free to come enjoy the workshop and relax. If you need to cancel, please change your status to "will not attend."

[Book Your Classes by Clicking This Link! ](https://crowndancestudio.com/group-classes/) Take a deep dive into the world of Latin rhythm with our **Level 2 Bachata workshop from 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM**. This 90-minute intensive is crafted for dancers who have moved past the basics and are ready to refine their body mechanics, intricate footwork, and partner connection. **For $25,** you’ll receive focused, high-value instruction that bridges the gap between foundational steps and social dance mastery, ensuring you leave the studio feeling confident and inspired

These meetings will be a building block approach to learning photographic mastery over three disciplines: Mechanical Mastery (MM) - 13 weeks of the series Exposure Mastery (EM) - 26 weeks of the series Composition Mastery (CM) - A 52 week series All three series will run concurrently and will dovetail as follows: Q3/26 - MM (Iter 1), EM (Iter 1, Pt 1), CM (Iter 1, Pt1) Q4/26 - MM (Iter 2), EM (Iter 1, Pt 2), CM (Iter 1, Pt2) Q1/27 - MM (Iter 3), EM (Iter 2, Pt 1), CM (Iter 1, Pt3) Q2/27 - MM (Iter 4), EM (Iter 2, Pt 2), CM (Iter 1, Pt4) That's likely confusing, but essentially, MM offered 4 times in that period, EM offered 2 times, and CM offered 1 time. **TO BE CLEAR - THERE IS NO CHARGE FOR THESE CLASSES.** This is an aggressive series, with presentations, homework, group shoots to be added in, likely at LEAST twice a month, image critiques, and an expectation that you are willing to put in the work to elevate your photography significantly. Open to all levels and all equipment levels. Don't let hesitation about your skillset and/or gear keep you from a one-time opportunity. The group will meet every Monday, with periodic exceptions, and we will try to keep as close as possible to the original plan. Obviously, more data to come, and will be published as this is further developed, but now is the time to decide if you want to be a part of this.

Let’s meet and wander the galleries! General admission on Sundays is free.

TOPIC (TBD): Meeting Schedule: 1. 6:00 - Introduction, Meet New Members 2. 6:10 - Old Business 3. 6:20 - New Business 4. 6:30 - Pre-Shoot Briefing/Education 5. 7:15 - Break 6. 7:30 - Image Critique 7. 8:00 - Adjourn Pre-Shoot Brief/Education: NIK Collection 8 Image Critique: Previous Photoshoot Images (iPhone images and Christmas Cards). If anyone has images they would like critiqued, please provide them at the beginning of the meeting. Providing Images for Critique: For now, I will collect images at the beginning of the meeting on a USB memory stick. My computer has USB-C ports, so a USB-C memory stick or one with dual (USB-C / USB-A) ports will be needed. Images should follow these format rules: JPG - 80% quality or higher 132 dpi resolution 2048 pixels across the long edge Embedded colorspace - sRGB

**✅ Salsa Wednesdays with Todd Smith!** **👉 Beginner Salsa Class** **$15 In Advance / $20 At the Door** 7:00 pm – 7:15 pm … Registration 7:15 pm – 8:15 pm … Beginner Class **👉 Intermediate Salsa Class** **= $15 In Advance / $20 At the Door** 8:15 pm – 8:30 pm Registration 8:30 pm – 9:30 pm Intermediate Class **👉 If You Take Both Salsa Classes** **= $25 In Advance / $35 At the Door** **👉 Buy Advance Tickets Now at:** https://columbussalsadancing.com/salsa-wednesdays-dance-class-tickets/ **👉 Questions? Text Todd @ (614) 774-8146**

These meetings will be a building block approach to learning photographic mastery over three disciplines: Mechanical Mastery (MM) - 13 weeks of the series Exposure Mastery (EM) - 26 weeks of the series Composition Mastery (CM) - A 52 week series All three series will run concurrently and will dovetail as follows: Q3/26 - MM (Iter 1), EM (Iter 1, Pt 1), CM (Iter 1, Pt1) Q4/26 - MM (Iter 2), EM (Iter 1, Pt 2), CM (Iter 1, Pt2) Q1/27 - MM (Iter 3), EM (Iter 2, Pt 1), CM (Iter 1, Pt3) Q2/27 - MM (Iter 4), EM (Iter 2, Pt 2), CM (Iter 1, Pt4) That's likely confusing, but essentially, MM offered 4 times in that period, EM offered 2 times, and CM offered 1 time. **TO BE CLEAR - THERE IS NO CHARGE FOR THESE CLASSES.** This is an aggressive series, with presentations, homework, group shoots to be added in, likely at LEAST twice a month, image critiques, and an expectation that you are willing to put in the work to elevate your photography significantly. Open to all levels and all equipment levels. Don't let hesitation about your skillset and/or gear keep you from a one-time opportunity. The group will meet every Monday, with periodic exceptions, and we will try to keep as close as possible to the original plan. Obviously, more data to come, and will be published as this is further developed, but now is the time to decide if you want to be a part of this.

**✅ Bachata Mondays with Todd Smith!** **👉 Beginner Bachata Class** **$15 In Advance / $20 At the Door** 7:00 pm – 7:15 pm … Registration 7:15 pm – 8:15 pm … Beginner Class **👉 Intermediate Bachata Class** **= $15 In Advance / $20 At the Door** 8:15 pm – 8:30 pm Registration 8:30 pm – 9:30 pm Intermediate Class **👉 If You Take Both Bachata Classes** **= $25 In Advance / $35 At the Door** **👉 Buy Advance Tickets Now at:** https://columbussalsadancing.com/bachata-mondays-dance-class-tickets/

**Itinerary And Pricing To Be Published Soon...** Professionally guided photographic tour and workshop throughout the country of Ethiopia.