Photography Classes & Workshops

To secure your spot, please purchase your ticket from the Eventbrit link ( https://www.eventbrite.com/e/french-embassy-reception-tickets-24433953613 ) Let us dress-up and party on the soil of the birth place of Fashion (FRANCE). This event is a showcase of France and French culture. - We will meet and socialize with French professionals, business people and diplomates at the Event - Buffet Campagnard (Typical french style finger food buffet) prepared by the Embassy's chefs will be served - We will have an Open Bar featuring French wines & drinks. I organized this event, in collaboration with the Embassy and The French-American Chamber of Commerce (I am proudly a member). http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/c/6/5/d/600_434810781.jpeg Payment Instructions : 1. You should login from a PC to see the 'Pay Now' button, after RSVPing. Then hit the button. 2. Verify correct dollar amount for number of people you're paying for. 3. If you don't have a Paypal account, click "Pay with a Debit or Credit Card". 4. If you have a Paypal account, simply log in, and pay as you normally would via Paypal. http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/0/4/6/600_434805126.jpeg Ticket Price : 1. $45 - Up until April 26th, 2016 2. $ 55 - Between April 26th and May 17th, 2016 3. $ 65 - Between May 17th and May 31st, 2016 4. $ 70 - Between May 31st and noon June 3rd,2016. Please get your early bird ticket at your earliest convenience. Dress Code : Reception/Cocktail Attire Parking & Metro Info : Parking on the Embassy's premises is not allowed. However, street parking is free. There is no metro station close by. Hence, we highly recommend a shared ride. http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/b/0/e/0/600_434805280.jpeg Refund & Ticket Resell All sales are final. We only refund the full amount, if the event is canceled. If it is rescheduled, we will send an email to those who RSVPed 'YES' advising that. A full refund will be given to those that let us know within 2 calendar days of the update email, if you are unable to make it on the new date. No refunds will be given after that time. However, you can sell your ticket to someone else if you are unable to attend. Please, feel free to post in the comment box for the event, that you have a ticket for sale. Work out payment between yourselves, and have the seller only send the organizer a "message" through their Meetup profile (do not comment in the comment box of the event posting) letting us know the full name and Meetup profile URL (if a member) of the person taking your spot. You must let us know two hours before the RSVP close time, on the day of the event.

[Book Your Classes by Clicking This Link! ](https://crowndancestudio.com/group-classes/) Finish your week strong with a dance instruction that blends technical skill with pure social joy. This Friday session is a favorite for single moms and retirees to practice their new moves, and enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere before the weekend begins. We make it easy for every student to stroll across the dance floor with some American Smooth from **11 AM to 12 PM.** Price: $25 Drop-in / Membership **DOES NOT** include this class!

**[YOU MUST PAY HERE BEFORE YOU RSVP](https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=LENA84JGZAY8E)** Here is your terrific opportunity to learn the ins and outs of floral photography by award-winning photographer and instructor David Blecman at spectacular Historic London Town & Gardens. **This training is Limited to JUST THREE participants**. We will meet at Historic London Town & Gardens in Edgewater, MD at 10 am at the visitor's center to pay the entrance fee ($10 or $11) and walk the gardens while I teach you the best practices for floral photography. Attendees will be told specifically what to bring via email. What's Included: 1\. Two hours of photography and instruction 2\. A post\-processing training at a convenient time for all via Zoom to get you started on your captures

[Book Your Classes by Clicking This Link! ](https://crowndancestudio.com/group-classes/) Friday: Advanced Expression End the work week with high-energy **Advanced Rhythm** from **7:00 PM to 8:30 PM**. This session dives deep into the technicalities of Latin and Ballroom styles like Rumba, Samba, or Mambo, designed for dancers who value precision and artistic expression. For $25, you'll receive intensive instruction that pushes your physical boundaries and refines your competitive or performance edge in a high-vibe atmosphere. **When: Every Friday** **Time: 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm.** **1 Dances per month:** **\*Please check the flyer on the group class page for the dance of the month. Or contact us to find out.** **Cost:$25 per person for 90 min.**

SMT is hosting a Summer Faculty Concert Series to celebrate the traditions we love and to give the community a chance to see some of our illustrious teachers in action. This series is also a great chance for teachers to mix things up and collaborate with other teachers who they may not usually have a chance to perform with. The first concert will feature Bebe Blumenthal, Jonathan Vocke, Luke Chohany, and Justin Heath in a night of old-time and bluegrass. Tickets are free but donations are welcome. Seating is limited so please rsvp and let us know if your plans change. RSVP for tickets: [https://square.link/u/yWHUtaXD](https://square.link/u/yWHUtaXD?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExOGlHakFSbXNyakdseEZwdXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR56pTrGKzf6RVLMGHYETStlvbtWD_UwD4L8vn70fNymhDztgbz3BL63s4Ouxw_aem_NvI3ijasdDocchMJeGzC1w)

**You’re Invited to BERNINA Bingo at Artistic Artifacts!** Join us on Friday, June 5 and/or Saturday, June 6 (during store hours) for a fun series of BERNINA educational demonstrations — our staff will be sharing all kinds of sewing techniques, on several of our BERNINA models. This event is designed to inspire your sewing habit! Plus **after you have completed at least three of our BERNINA demos, you can submit your BERNINA Bingo card into our daily drawing for a chance to win a $50 Artistic Artifacts gift card!** Visit our shop June 5 and/or June 6 to learn how to create a blind hem, how to make corded pintucks, how to create a combination of stitches to stitch out together, how to scan and place projects and lots more! ***No fee to attend, no purchase required.***

Climbers of all skill levels are welcome to Join "[Sends with Friends](https://www.instagram.com/sends_with_friends_climbing?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==)" rock climbing community for an indoor bouldering event at [Bouldering Project -DC](https://maps.app.goo.gl/m6okjpQsjeSxTqVj8) gym. The first 25 climbers who come in through the doors get in for free, after that you'll pay $15 for a day pass. Rental shoes and chalk bag is provided free of charge. If this is your first time using Bouldering Project-DC facility consider taking the Intro to BP that starts 7:15PM and includes a tour of the facility. You must sign the Bouldering Project waiver and read, understand, and agree to Sends With Friends release of liability form before participating in this event. Please do so beforehand to avid creating a line at the front desk. You can find Bouldering Project waiver here: [First-Time-Visit](https://boulderingproject.com/first-time-visit/) and Sends With Friends Release of Liability form below: \* \* \* \* **Sends with Friends Rock Climbing Meetup Waiver and Release of Liability** **NOTICE:** By signing up for this event, you agree to the terms outlined below and acknowledge the inherent risks associated with rock climbing activities. Participation in any event organized by this Meetup group is contingent upon your agreement to this release form. **1\. Assumption of Risk:** I, the undersigned participant, acknowledge and fully understand that rock climbing is a high-risk activity. I am aware that participation involves risks including, but not limited to, physical injury, permanent disability, or death. These risks may arise from, but are not limited to, natural hazards, equipment failure, human error, and the actions or negligence of others. **2\. Release of Liability:** In consideration of being allowed to participate in any activity organized by this Meetup group, I hereby release and discharge the organizer(s), co-organizer(s), event leaders, and all other participants from any and all claims, demands, actions, or causes of action arising out of or connected to my participation, including claims arising from negligence or gross negligence. **3\. Personal Responsibility:** I acknowledge that I am solely responsible for my own safety during these events. I will use my own judgment in evaluating the risks involved and will take appropriate precautions, including but not limited to: * Wearing appropriate safety gear. * Using reliable climbing equipment. * Following established safety protocols. * Refraining from participating in activities beyond my skill level. **4\. Medical Fitness:** I affirm that I am in good health and physically capable of participating in rock climbing activities. I assume full responsibility for any medical conditions that may affect my ability to participate safely. **5\. Indemnity Agreement:** I agree to indemnify and hold harmless the organizer(s), co-organizer(s), event leaders, and other participants from any claims, damages, or expenses (including legal fees) arising out of or related to my actions or participation in these activities. **6\. Photo/Video Release \(Optional\):** By signing this waiver, I grant permission for any photographs or videos taken during the events to be used for promotional or group-related purposes. (Participants may opt out by notifying the organizer.) **7\. Agreement to Follow Rules:** I agree to abide by all rules, instructions, and guidance provided by the event organizers and leaders. Failure to comply may result in my removal from the group. **8\. Acknowledgment of Agreement:** By joining any event organized by this Meetup group, I acknowledge that I have read and understood this waiver and release form. I agree that my participation in any event constitutes my electronic or physical signature to this agreement.

THIS CLASS IS OFFERED THROUGH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER **PLEASE REGISTER WITH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER, NOT MEETUP!** https://capitalphotographycenter.com/classes/class/2026-06-07-iphone-photography Learn to use the iPhone camera and the settings for creative image captures. Join Michael Koren at the National Gallery of Art and learn techniques for exposure, composition and focus. Tap into your creative side through smartphone photography. Using our iPhone cameras, we’ll explore the Museum's offerings from abstract sculptures, colorful paintings and wall hangings, to the architecture of the building as well. We’ll find endless photographic opportunities perfect for iPhone photography. We’ll start with the basics of learning to use the iPhone camera and review the settings for optimal image capture to pro tips and techniques that produce the best results. The number of photography apps available seems endless and can be very confusing when trying to choose what to purchase. Michael will cover one of the most exciting apps for image processing so you can achieve your artistic vision. This class is designed for users of iOS mobile devices. The app info will be included in your confirmation letter (the app is free). Topics include: • Proper techniques and settings for iPhone image capture • Tips and techniques for using the iPhone’s native camera • Learn exciting editing tools • Hands-on capture and editing • Image critique and feedback For more information about the Gallery, visit their website, https://www.nga.gov/index.html Participants will need to bring a fully charged iPhone. A charger is a good idea too as photos quickly drain the batteries. Questions can be directed to Marie Joabar at info@capitalphotographycenter.com. *** **THIS CLASS IS OFFERED THROUGH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER** https://capitalphotographycenter.com/classes/class/2026-06-07-iphone-photography

Photography Isn’t Dead! You’re not becoming “an AI artist.” You’re becoming a **creative director** who uses every tool to create emotion, identity, and visual *impact.* What has AI, it didn’t kill photography. It killed *generic* photography? ✅ How photographers can adapt & thrive. ✅ Which niches are most future-proof. ✅ How to mix photography *with* AI to *increase* income. Let's meet photographers, models, makeup artists, hairstylists, stylists, fashion designers let's talk about it

**Lots of opportunities for flower, landscape, and bird photography!** We will meet in front of the visitor center. https://maps.app.goo.gl/3SQjUg5Y69bmyAfU6 Free but limited parking, free admissions. The visitor center opens at 9am and has clean restrooms. From the website (http://www.montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/brookside-gardens/visit/): Brookside Gardens is Montgomery County’s incomparable, award-winning 50-acre public display garden situated within Wheaton Regional Park. Included in the gardens are several distinct areas: Aquatic Garden, Azalea Garden, Butterfly Garden, Children’s Garden, Rose Garden, Japanese Style Garden, Trial Garden, Rain Garden, and the Woodland Walk. The Formal Gardens areas include a Perennial Garden, Yew Garden, the Maple Terrace, and Fragrance Garden. Brookside Gardens also feature two conservatories for year-round enjoyment. A horticultural reference library is located in the Visitors Center. Admission to the gardens is free. Here is the Photography policy per the website: Non-commercial, Hobby Photography Guidelines Are you taking photos of just the Gardens? Individual photographers are welcome to photograph the plants and gardens of Brookside. No permits are needed, though we ask that you follow the hobby photography guidelines: Do not disturb any gardens, stand on rocks or displays, block paths, or climb garden or fountain walls. The photo session must not interfere with other visitors’ enjoyment of the gardens. Absolutely no tripods are allowed in the Conservatories. Published photographs should credit location of photograph, i.e. “Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD”. \*Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission Department of Parks, Montgomery County Policy on User Fees: (Effective January 1, 2010, approved by M-NCPPC Planning Board, October 2009) Be aware of your equipment, as there have been break-ins in past years. Bring: Comfortable shoes Water Fully charged batteries Empty memory cards Share only your very best, most interesting shots after the field trip and keep it down to between 5 and 10 photos. 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.

[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

Join us for an hour of relaxing Yoga which. Cost: Free Level: Beginners What we will be doing: 1. This will be an hour long beginners flow yoga class. You are welcome to join if you are experienced or absolute beginner, just being interested is enough. Yoga is for everyone! 2. Through this meetup we will learn some yoga poses, breathing techniques, stretch our body, build strength. More importantly, we will try to learn about our body and find inner peace. Please: 1. don't get too full before practice but you can always bring snacks. 2. Please be on time, class will start on time. 3. Wear comfy clothes. 4. Bring your own mat or towel, water and YOURSELF. 5. UnRSVP if you can't make it. Disclaimer: Please consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any exercise program, including yoga. Yoga involves physical movement and may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to listen to your body and modify poses as needed to accommodate your individual needs and abilities. By participating in this yoga class, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own safety and well-being, and agree to release the instructor from any liability for injuries or damages that may occur during or after the class

Theme: Gentle Flow Yoga & Meditation Level: Beginner to Intermediate Time: Sunday 9:00 – 10:00 AM Location: Bluemont park Cost: Free What to bring: Yoga mat, water, comfortable clothing Location: Basketball court of Bluemont park, google map 38°52'06.2"N 77°07'52.0"W Parking: South Bluemont Parking Area About the session *A gentle flow-based yoga session to move, stretch, and reconnect with your body. We may include simple breathing techniques and a short meditation session. - This is not a high-intensity class. You are welcome to go at your own pace and take breaks anytime. *Suitable for beginners and regular practitioners. Notes - Light food is recommended before practice *Outdoor session: feel free to bring sunscreen, towel, or anything you need - Please be mindful of your own body and practice within your limits By joining, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own health and well-being during the session. About the host 200h Yoga Teacher Training (2019) Long-term yoga practitioner and part-time teacher 🌿 May you find a moment of ease and connection in your practice. **Smiley Social documents:** 1. [Group Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg) 2. [Liability Waiver](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco)

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

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.

*Note: this is a demonstration event only, you **will not** shoot you own images. However, if you bring your camera we can test it for compatibility with the studio lights.* Bondage elements can add an extra layer of emotion and artistry to your images. Sample images on the internet are however dominated by BDSM style shots that are often sexualized and emphasize the model being in distress. In this demonstration Rachel and I show ways to use bondage elements in an artistic way. We explore the types of accessories that work best in artistic images and the best way to photograph them. Our model is Rachel Adams, an internationally known fetish model with many years of experience in this genre.

**✅ 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**

We will have coffee and treats (optional) at Jacquemin Farms Bakery. Shoot some farm Market shots, then cross the street to shoot some water lily and landscape photos. Then those who want can continue to Riviera Park where we can get very close to water lilies.

**✅ 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/

I have been studying the question of "self" online with Prof. Ellie Anderson and so I thought a prompt on the "self" might be interesting. Full confession: I had Claude create this prompt and I like it, so here goes: Imagine a thought experiment that merges two classic puzzles: > You undergo a procedure, performed neuron by neuron, in which every biological component of your brain is replaced with a functionally identical synthetic substitute. At each step, your behavior, memories, and personality remain unchanged. When the last neuron is swapped, is the consciousness experiencing the world still you? And — more pressingly — was there ever a continuous "you" to begin with? ### Questions to Wrestle With * If consciousness is purely physical, does the *gradual* nature of the replacement matter, or is it equivalent to being destroyed and rebuilt? * Could there be a "self" without continuity of experience — even moment to moment, while you sleep? On a more practical level, consider the simpler case first: **hemispherectomy** patients — people who have had an entire cerebral hemisphere surgically removed — often retain a strong sense of personal identity and continuity. This suggests "you" are not rigidly tied to specific physical material. But does that vindicate the synthetic neuron case, or merely show that identity is more *flexible* than we thought — not that it can survive *complete* substrate replacement? I used Claude so I could get this out today and let everyone have some time to consider it. Hope to see you at the Oracle. Sorry about the location change two weeks ago. That's what I get for trusting local weather predictions!