Photography Classes & Workshops

Artistic Artifacts hosts **Open Stitch sessions EVERY Thursday evenings** from 5:30 - 7:30 pm — join us! This is a drop-in, bring your own hand stitching project and the necessary supplies (or you can knit, crochet... whatever needle arts you like). There’s no fee to attend, no instruction nor agenda — just a time to spend with other creatives! Visit our website for all our class & event information: **[https://artisticartifacts.com/collections/wk](https://artisticartifacts.com/collections/wk)**

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.

Mindful movement and flow: This class is a slower moving, strengthening and balance building practice based on mindfulness. We will bring our intentions to the awareness of our bodies and our breath in movement or in longer held poses. We will explore different breathing techniques that help clear out physical, emotional or mental energies allowing a sense of peace within. The session is offered InStudio and OnLine. The Zoom link for the OnLine session will be emailed 15 minutes before class starts to those who are registered at www.piesfitnessyoga.com. **Sign up for sessions must be made at least 2 hours prior to class.** The address is 1322 Prince St. Alexandria, VA 22314. Our entrance is located on the side of the building, parallel to West St. **Street parking is available and additional parking is located at Shiloh Baptist church, spaces 36,37,38,39.** The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St.

Join us every Thursday for Beginner Friendly Social Classes and Social Ballroom Dancing. All is welcome and no partner is necessary. You will learn 2 dances per month in our beginner friendly classes every Thursday. 7:00 Pm Beginner Smooth (Waltz, Tango, or Foxtrot). Please see website schedule for dances of the month. 8:00 Pm Beginner Rhythm (Cha Cha, Rumba, or Swing). Please Check Schedule. 9:00 pm - 10:30 Pm Social dancing. Yearly Schedule: Jan, Apr, July, Oct: Foxtrot and Swing Feb, May, Aug, Nov: Waltz and Cha Cha Mar, June, Sep, Dec: Tango and Rumba [Register for Classes Here 📌](https://crowndancestudio.com/group-classes/) * Please visit our website in the link above to register and claim your free intro offer for first time visitors. \*You MUST register online to claim the free offer!! Select “Intro offer.” \*The RSVP here does not reflect the size of our classes. We have e at least 15 members each week. And the number is growing.

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

Experience the ultimate relaxation with our 60-minute Yin & Restorative Yoga fusion class. This session combines the deep, meditative stretches of Yin Yoga with the soothing, supportive postures of Restorative Yoga. During this class, you'll explore longer-held poses designed to release tension from deep within the muscles and connective tissues, promoting flexibility and calm. The Restorative elements enhance relaxation by incorporating props to fully support your body in gentle, nurturing positions, allowing for complete surrender and rejuvenation. This practice is ideal for anyone seeking profound relaxation, stress relief, and a sense of inner peace. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or new to these styles, join us for an hour of blissful tranquility and restoration. **The session is offered InStudio only. Sign up at www.piesfitnessyoga.com required at least two hours before class begins.** The address is 1322 Prince St Alexandria, VA 22314. Our entrance is located on the side of the building, parallel to West St. **Street parking is available and additional parking is located at Shiloh Baptist church, spaces 36,37,38,39.** The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St.

In previous years, the rangers said they try to get to the park and open the gate by 7:45 AM. From the website: [https://www.nps.gov/keaq/index.htm](https://www.nps.gov/keaq/index.htm) Waterlilies are bountiful all over the park! Our volunteers moved the tropical lilies from the hothouses to the display ponds, and they are vibrant. Bird enthusiasts have been enjoying watching the 3 young fledgling red-shouldered hawks, nesting orchard orioles, and kingbirds. Turtles have been laying eggs, and tadpoles and frogs are abundant in the ponds. Every year, we visit Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens on July 4th. The lotus flowers start blooming in early June and will be plentiful by the end of the month. The best time to visit is in the morning, as the temperatures are cooler and the flowers close up in the heat of the day, usually around 1:30 pm. I know it is outside of the Virginia Beltway, but it is not far. It is a very unique place in Washington, DC. I will be there in my grey pickup and rain or shine (hopefully shine)! Bring: Tripod Comfortable shoes Water Fully charged batteries Empty memory cards Rain poncho and plastic bags for the camera and lens in case of rain. Share only your very best, most interesting shots after the field trip, and keep it down to between 5 and 10 photos. Park Facts Entrance Fee: Free Allow Dogs with lease: No Bathroom: Restroom in the Visitor Center Address: 1550 Anacostia Ave, NE, Washington D.C. 20019 Lat, Long: 38.913003, -76.940142 - Parking Lot Plus Code: W375+6W Washington, District of Columbia Website: https://www.nps.gov/keaq/index.htm I generally schedule this meetup on the Fourth of July, as I would have the day off. They are open on July 4th, but one year we waited until 9:00 AM until a ranger showed up to unlock the gate, and it wasn’t a holiday. I also want to mention security, as in the past, a photographer in my group was at the gardens and saw someone’s car being broken into in the parking lot. From the parking lot, walk towards the gardens down the path. I usually stay to the left and head into the lotus fields. Please be careful, as there are just dirt paths between the fields, and if there has been a lot of rain, there can be ruts, and I almost twisted my ankle. You actually need a fairly long lens, as the lotus flowers are tall and can be some distance away. A wide angle is only good for some overall shots, and a good-sized macro works as well. Another thing folks do not realize is that the flowers do bloom into September, but have many full blooms. This is one park where you do not have to worry about mosquitoes, as they are eaten by pond beetles, dragonflies, and damselfly larvae, and also by frogs and birds. There is a boardwalk at the back of the flower fields that goes out to a marsh area. I have seen many types of birds and dragonflies in that area. Being there makes it hard to believe that you are in Washington, DC. On the way out, allow some time to check out the small ponds with different lotus and lilies that also attract frogs and dragonflies. Why you will not see any mosquitoes in the park: https://www.nps.gov/keaq/learn/nature/insects.htm 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.

Kenilworth Gardens in known for its beautiful lotus blossoms and waterlilies at this time of year. For more info about the gardens and rules for visiting see their website: https://www.nps.gov/keaq/index.htm For this Meetup, be prepared. The park is unpaved - good, sturdy shoes will be a must. Also, during this time of year, there will be lots of bugs, so bring bug-spray. The park officially opens at 8am but we have historically gone early and been able to enter upon arrival. Just be aware of heat, humidity and your safety (take water etc).

Flow Beneath the Bells: Traditional Yoga at the Netherlands Carillon Cost: Free Level: Beginner Friendly Take a break from the noise and join us for a refreshing hour of yoga in one of Arlington’s most beautiful outdoor spaces. Whether you’ve been practicing for years or can’t touch your toes without negotiating first, you’re welcome here. This class is designed for beginners, but experienced practitioners will also enjoy the flow. During this session we’ll: • Learn foundational yoga poses • Explore simple breathing techniques to reduce stress and improve focus • Build strength, balance, and flexibility • Stretch out tight muscles from work, running, cycling, or life in general • Spend an hour moving, breathing, and reconnecting with ourselves No pressure. No competition. No yoga experience required. What to Bring • A yoga mat or large towel • Water • Comfortable clothes you can move in • An open mind A Few Quick Notes • Please arrive a few minutes early so we can start on time. • Avoid a heavy meal right before class. Light snacks are fine. • If your plans change, please update your RSVP so someone else can join. Safety Disclaimer Please consult your healthcare provider before starting any exercise program, including yoga. Participate at your own pace and listen to your body. Modify or skip any movement that doesn’t feel right for you. By attending this class, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own health and well-being and participate voluntarily.

Danceintime runs Cuban Salsa Classes & Social Dancing Every Saturday, all year-long. Come at 1:15 pm to sign in. Stay till 4 pm. Some of us go out for coffee or a bite to eat afterwards and everyone is welcome! $15/person. Cash, PayPal, Venmo, Apple Pay, or Card accepted. Chevy Chase Baptist Church; 5671 Western Ave. NW; Washington DC 20015. NOTE: Enter through back corner door of the church. Danceintime classes are great fun. The dance moves are beautiful, fun, and our class creates a bonded community... Check it out! Class will be held every Saturday in December....celebrate the holidays with dance! For more info: danceintime.com/classes Questions? Contact Barbbernsteintalks@gmail.com

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)

These meetings will be a building block approach to learning photographic mastery over three disciplines: Completely Mechanical (CM) - A 13-week series Completely Exposed (CE) - A 26-week series Completely Composed (CC) - A 52-week series All three series will run concurrently and will dovetail as follows: Q3/26 - CM (Iter 1), CE (Iter 1, Pt 1), CC (Iter 1, Pt1) Q4/26 - CM (Iter 2), CE (Iter 1, Pt 2), CC (Iter 1, Pt2) Q1/27 - CM (Iter 3), CE (Iter 2, Pt 1), CC (Iter 1, Pt3) Q2/27 - CM (Iter 4), CE (Iter 2, Pt 2), CC (Iter 1, Pt4) That's likely confusing, but essentially, CM offered 4 times in that period, CE offered 2 times, and CC 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 Tuesday, with periodic exceptions, and we will try to keep as close as possible to the original plan. Obviously, more data is coming 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.

**Don’t miss your opportunity to learn from a duo with over 16 years of experience combined. During this demonstration event, you can expect to learn how to direct and guide your creative vision through lighting and communication to your model. We guarantee you will leave this event feeling more confident to try new lighting set ups to match up with your anticipated outcome. Finding the right way to express your vision is key to getting your model to pose accordingly, so we got you there too! To take this even further, think about signing up for a tutorial spot following the demonstration.** ***Note: this is a demonstration event only, you will not shoot your own images. However, if you bring your camera we can test it for compatibility with the studio lights.*** **Following the demonstration will be a tutorial/coaching event - sign up separately if you are interested at** https://calendar.app.google/ZcHb4CQB2rrV3U7j9 **Save and book both for $199 (discounted from $215; the discount will be applied on the Tutorial invoice).**

These meetings will be a building block approach to learning photographic mastery over three disciplines: Completely Mechanical (CM) - A 13-week series Completely Exposed (CE) - A 26-week series Completely Composed (CC) - A 52-week series All three series will run concurrently and will dovetail as follows: Q3/26 - CM (Iter 1), CE (Iter 1, Pt 1), CC (Iter 1, Pt1) Q4/26 - CM (Iter 2), CE (Iter 1, Pt 2), CC (Iter 1, Pt2) Q1/27 - CM (Iter 3), CE (Iter 2, Pt 1), CC (Iter 1, Pt3) Q2/27 - CM (Iter 4), CE (Iter 2, Pt 2), CC (Iter 1, Pt4) That's likely confusing, but essentially, CM offered 4 times in that period, CE offered 2 times, and CC 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 Tuesday, with periodic exceptions, and we will try to keep as close as possible to the original plan. Obviously, more data is coming 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.

These events on the schedule are to serve three purposes: 1. These will serve as field shoots targeted at The Completely Series homework. Generally, each of these shoots will focus on the homework assigned in the two prior weeks. So locations and topics will be picked to match those expectations. 2. Additionally, these events are to serve as placeholders for TIME OF DAY. They are intended to be modified as needed to capture SUNRISE and/or EARLY MORNING light. They will likely be modified to time out for the IDEAL light on that day, at that location. EXPECT THEM TO BE MODIFIED as the time of year changes and/or schedule conflicts occur. But THERE WILL BE at least one morning shoot per month. 3. Lastly, they are also to serve as semi-monthly morning shoots for the group as a whole. YOU DO NOT NEED TO BE IN THE COMPLETELY SERIES to attend any of these morning field shoots. Locations and specifics will be updated as the event date approaches.

This will be our regular monthly meeting, with a new topic picked each month. Topics to be determined and posted soon.

**✅ 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**