Pictures with a Purpose Workshop

January 12 - 21 . 2026

Join us for an unforgettable 9-day photography workshop in Cambodia! You’ll learn about the history and culture while making meaningful connections with the people we meet along the way. Not only will you leave with lasting memories and beautiful images, but you might just gain a renewed sense of purpose as well.

CAMBODIA

With opportunity to extend to Vietnam January 22-26. See ‘the scoop’ below for details.

Here’s a sneak peek at the adventure ahead!

  • Phnom Penh

    We’ll begin in Phnom Penh, where we’ll immerse ourselves in the rich history and culture of Cambodia. As we explore the vibrant markets and bustling streets, we’ll connect with local people and visit historic landmarks that showcase the city’s deep traditions and heritage. To wrap up our time in the city, we’ll enjoy a stunning sunset cruise on the Mekong River.

  • Siem Reap

    On day four we’ll travel from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap via private van, making stops along the way to photograph authentic daily life in rural Cambodia.

    While in Siem Reap, we’ll explore historic Wat Bo, visit a floating village, and learn about the art and culture particular to this region - all the while making connections with the local people.

  • Floating Village

    On the way to Siem Reap, a stop at one of Cambodia’s floating villages offers a compelling look at life on the water. As we travel by boat through narrow channels and wide, open stretches of lake, we’ll see homes, schools, and markets all built on stilts or floating atop the water. This is a chance to witness a way of life shaped entirely by the rhythms of the Tonlé Sap Lake, and to photograph scenes that are both everyday and extraordinary. Along the way, we’ll learn how communities here adapt to the seasonal rise and fall of the water, preserving traditions while navigating change.

  • Angkor Wat

    A trip to Cambodia would not be complete without time spent at the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat and its ancient temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s truly one-of-a-kind. Here, while working with a local model, we’ll not only capture stunning portraits against this incredible backdrop, but also learn about traditional Cambodian clothing and its cultural significance. We’ll also have an opportunity to photograph both sunrise and sunset in this incredible location.

  • Kulen Elephant Forest

    During our time in Siem Reap we’ll visit Kulen Elephant Forest, a refuge where formerly captive elephants now live in peace. In this peaceful setting, we’ll walk beside these majestic animals as they explore the forest, capturing images of their daily routines—whether they’re bathing in a stream or quietly grazing. We’ll also learn about their histories and the efforts being made to support their recovery and well-being.

  • Lotus Silk Farm

    As our time in Siem Reap finishes we’ll spend a morning learning about one of Cambodia’s most delicate and fascinating traditions. Set against the calm of lotus-filled ponds, we’ll get a look at the intricate process of turning lotus stems into fine, sustainable silk—entirely by hand. As artisans carefully extract the fibers and weave them into fabric, we’ll have the chance to photograph the quiet rhythm of their work and learn about the cultural and spiritual significance of the lotus flower. It’s a peaceful, visually rich experience that highlights the beauty of Cambodian craftsmanship and innovation.

The Scoop: Who, What, and How Much?

  • This is a photography workshop with a focus on cross cultural connection and ministry through the arts. If you come with a lot of photography experience and a professional-level camera, awesome! If you come with an iphone and a desire to learn and explore, that’s equally as awesome.

    All are welcome!

    Each day we will take a little time to debrief and share. Photography instruction time is also available for those who would like it.

    • All in-country transportation

    • Accommodations

    • Interpreter

    • Breakfast each day

    • Entry Fees: Tuol Sleng, Mekong Sunset Cruise, Angkor Wat, Kulen Elephant Forest, and the Lotus Silk farm.

  • The cost of the workshop is $4950 and includes all in-country transportation, hotel accommodations (single occupancy unless otherwise requested), an interpreter, breakfast each day, and entry fees to Tuol Sleng, the Mekong sunset cruise, Angkor Wat, Kulen Elephant Forest, and the Lotus Silk Farm

    What you need to cover is:

    • Airfare to Cambodia

    • A Tourist Visa ($40)

    • Food (lunch and dinner)

  • A deposit of $1,000 per person is required to secure your reservation. The remaining balance is due 90 days before departure. For bookings made within 90 days of the trip.

    Cancellation Charges

    • 120 days or more before start of travel: we will refund your deposit minus an administrative fee of US $200.

    • 60-119 days before start of travel: we will refund 50% of your deposit.

    • 30 - 59 days before start of travel: we will refund 25% of your deposit.

    • Less than 30 days before start of travel: no refund will be given.

    If the attendee is able to find a replacement, or if the spot can be filled from our waitlist, a refund will be issued minus a $500 change fee. While we will make an effort to reach out to our waitlist, we cannot guarantee a replacement.

  • If you’d like to see more of SE Asia, Vietnam is right next door to Cambodia! Following our time in Cambodia we will head to Vietnam where we will spend four days seeing the sights - for starters, the ancient village of HoiAn is a photographers paradise! The cost of the additional four days is $1500 and includes all housing, in country transportation, and breakfast each day. All you need to provide is airfare from Siem Reap to Da Nang, Vietnam and your visa. If you would like to extend your trip, please let us know at the time of booking.

Ready to Join Us?

Once you’ve reserved your spot, we’re here for any questions you have—don’t hesitate to reach out! We’ll also plan an online meetup before the trip to go over details, answer any last-minute questions, and help you get prepared with packing tips. We’re looking forward to connecting with you and can’t wait to explore Cambodia together, serving its people through this meaningful, mission-driven photography workshop.

It’s going to be an unforgettable experience!