An e-course for photographers who want to overcome blocks,
cultivate a truly original vision, and step into their full power as artists.

Light Atlas:
The Path to Wholehearted Seeing

Artists need to reinvigorate themselves every so often - to shake off the dust and get back in touch with the raw, vital energy of creativity. When your artistic spirit feels blocked…it’s time to invite a breakthrough.

Here’s the important thing: creating deep, meaningful, ground-breaking work is possible for you. It’s about honoring your creative whims and making images that sing to your soul. It’s about feeling your breath catch in your throat when you see a gorgeous slant of light - and spending rich, delicious minutes photographing it. It’s about letting go of tired formulas, shoulds, and expectations - and seeing what happens when you invite your innate creative genius to come out and play.

This is the path of the true artist.

When you take a deep breath and decide to walk this path, a brilliant new world opens to you. It’s like waking up.

This is Light Atlas: The Path to Wholehearted Seeing. If your inner artist needs a reboot, join me for this special e-course.

“Light Atlas is a heart, eye, and mind opening class. It’s almost like I walked around for years not even realizing I needed glasses.”

— Socrates Gliarmis

“This course opened me up to my creative self more than I thought possible. I feel more like an artist every day. It’s like an internal light has been ignited and it’s amazing. ”

— Jill Velinos

The Experience:

Led by photographer and curator Laura Valenti, Light Atlas is a six-week e-course about getting unstuck and inviting a thriving, vibrant, wholly original new vision to emerge. You'll receive four in-depth lessons each week - including a photography assignment that helps you apply what you’re learning. Unlike a traditional classroom experience, you can do the lessons any time day or night (cozied up in your pajamas, if you like!).

Lessons are delivered via:

Thoughtful readings
Audio essays
Gorgeous audio slideshows
In-depth interviews with professional artists
Beautiful photography examples and resources galore!

“This course was sooooo freeing. It helped me over a creative “speed bump.” It’s hard to articulate the extent of the impact. A fellow photographer friend saw some images I did for the course, and said they were a “quantum leap” beyond my earlier work. ”

— Gregg Weissman

What You Get:

When class begins, you’ll be invited into a warm, welcoming online community. This is where we'll expand on the themes in the weekly lessons. Expect to find lively discussions, honest (always kind) feedback, and lots of encouragement and support on themes like:

Releasing formulas and creative baggage so you can embrace true artistry
What it takes to fill your images with emotional depth and power
Finding a unique style that brings you alive
Brave image-making - finally finding your own sense of direction
The difference between photographing nouns and making visionary images
How to use different "lenses" (like poetry, mystery, mood, and magic) to see the way an artist does
Finding YOU in your work - and letting go of influences that make it derivative
Moving beyond standard-issue tools and techniques so you can really express what you imagine
How to create more than just “pretty” pictures (get ready to go deep!)
Creating your own visual language to guide your next steps
Rich, thought-provoking answers to the question, “How do I make a meaningful photograph?”
And so much more

Light Atlas also includes a soulful, exclusive collection of interviews with six visionary photographers:

Heather Evans Smith: Learn how she creates breathtaking, magical images with luscious costuming and set design.
Susan Burnstine: Hear how she uses dreams and childhood memories as inspiration (and handmade cameras!).
Douglas Beasley: Learn how he draws from metaphor and mindfulness to connect with his subjects more deeply.
Ervin A. Johnson: Hear a deep discussion about transforming fear into beauty and photography as ritual.
Russel Joslin: Hear about his emotional, mysterious self-portraiture work - and how his images comfort him.
Maro Vandorou: Listen to an in-depth talk about her gorgeous alternative printing and installation concepts.

“Light Atlas was so transformative and insightful that I do not have the words to adequately portray its significance. I highly recommend this class to anyone who wants to dig deeper and make more meaningful and personally fulfilling photos. The lessons are so positive, uplifting, and full of juicy info and they tap into ideas deep within; they really are creative catalysts. Laura is amazing at inspiring students to do new things and see in new ways.”

— Tiffany Couch

There are two ways to experience Light Atlas...

The first option is outlined above. The second option includes everything mentioned above and adds a mentoring component. Here’s what that looks like:

Step 1: I’ll review your past photographic work, website (if you have one), and any portfolios or other images you want to share (I really will look at ALL of it).

Step 2: We’ll schedule a 60-minute mentoring call. Ask me anything - it's your time to use however you like. I’ll offer my reflections on your strongest images and help you build on what you have. We’ll chat about your personal photography goals, and I’ll offer suggestions on overcoming any specific creative challenges you might be grappling with.

The mentoring option is a wonderful fit if you’d love detailed feedback and personalized advice from a seasoned curator, photo juror, and professional portfolio reviewer. Plus, mentoring is discounted when you bundle it with the e-course.

GET THE E-COURSE: (registration is closed)

GET THE E-COURSE + MENTORING: (registration is closed)

About your guide...

Hi there! I’m Laura Valenti. For me, photography is so much more than a technical exercise. I'm passionate about helping photographers become visionary artists.

I’ve worked in the arts for 20+ years. I’m a photographer, and I also curate exhibitions for galleries and photo festivals around the world, jury competitions, mentor emerging artists as they prep for exhibitions, and serve as a reviewer at portfolio review events. I love what I do!

Why did I create this class?

Throughout my career, I’ve watched a lot of photographers diligently complete photo assignments and continually update their gear - but still struggle to say anything new with their work. They want to develop a unique personal style, but they’re stuck in a rut making images that feel competent…but ordinary. I created Light Atlas to help photographers access the key ingredients they're missing and breathe brilliant new life into their art.

Light Atlas opens space for major creative shifts. If you’re ready for one - join me.

“I am so grateful for the openness, acceptance, and encouragement I’ve experienced in this course. It goes so far beyond photography and creative seeing. I’ve found a new inner strength to begin to develop and share my voice, vision, and heart - with myself and with others.”

— Jim Meiklejohn

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This is for you if...

Your work feels a little repetitive, derivative, or humdrum and you’re ready to spice things up.
You feel like there’s a gap between your visual abilities and your taste - and you want to learn to close that gap.
Your images feel like generic Instagram or calendar shots - they’re pretty, but not very expressive or imaginative.
You’re comfortable with your technical skills…but it still feels like something’s missing.
You want your work to say something…but you’re not sure what.
You want your images to really express the joy and connection you felt when you pressed the shutter.
You feel a stirring in your soul that says it’s time to explore new territory with your art.
Your photos don't express much emotion (they’re a bit bland and literal, if you’re really honest).
You want to make your images - not anyone else’s.
You're ready for the clarity and freedom of a big creative shift.
Your photography has plateaued and you’d love to get the ball rolling again.
You know you could do more with your photography, and you’re ready to ask deeper questions and get deeper answers.
You want to be able to say with total confidence, “I am an artist.”
You’d love to explore all these ideas with a supportive community of new artist friends.

If this sounds like you…Light Atlas is a wonderful fit.

This is not for you if...

You feel like it’s important to stick closely to established rules and formulas for making art.
You’re most interested in copying popular styles and making images that look like other artists’.
Your primary focus is gear and tech - and you’re less interested in the creative piece right now.

“It’s been a highlight of the year to tune in each day to the lessons. Every day of this class has been important and enjoyable. I love Laura’s unique ability to guide and reinforce us as artists. I learned from all the other students, too - their images, courage, and insight. The result of all this has been two new bodies of work started and a different approach to seeing and making images. ”

— Sally Bowker

Awaken your art...

It’s easy to put art on the back burner and let everything else come first. But, the creative spirit weakens when it’s neglected for too long. Light Atlas opens space: space to play, to joyfully follow up with creative whims. Space to honor your art and integrate it more fully into your life. Space to move closer to your creative goals, one gorgeous image at a time.

Imagine...

Imagine spending a glorious afternoon immersed in your photography, knowing you’re in the zone, creating work that makes your heart happy. Your photographs feel fresh - like you’re finally breaking new ground. You look at your images and know: it’s a breakthrough. You’re finding your voice as an artist.

This is absolutely possible for you.

Join me for Light Atlas: The Path to Wholehearted Seeing.

GET THE E-COURSE: (registration is closed)

GET THE E-COURSE + MENTORING: (registration is closed)

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of camera do I need?

All cameras are welcome! You don’t need anything fancy to take this course. DSLRs, point-and-shoots, camera phones, pinhole cameras made from oatmeal boxes – I have a strict equipment nondiscrimination policy. If it makes you happy to shoot with it, you've got the right gear for this class.

Tell me honestly: how good do I need to be for this?

Since Light Atlas is a conceptual photography course (not a technical class), photographers at every level are welcome. It's never too early to start seeing the world like an artist, so beginning photographers will feel right at home in the course. The only prerequisite is being comfortable with camera operations and knowing how to upload images to your computer.

I'm an experienced photographer. Is this class a good fit?

Experienced photographers often take Light Atlas to reinvigorate their vision when they're feeling stagnant (National Geographic photographers have even taken this class). Since Light Atlas is about overcoming blocks and deepening your relationship with your photography, even photographers with many years of experience will benefit.

How much time do I need to put in?

We each learn and process information at our own pace, so I’m hesitant to put a number on it, but you’ll likely make the most of this course if you spend about two hours a week on the lessons and your weekly assignment. If you miss a week, you can always catch up at your own pace.

Do I need to be online at specific times?

Because photographers from all different time zones sign up for Light Atlas, there are no live, scheduled lessons that you need to be present for (no uncomfortable Zoom calls or awkwardly scheduled webinars). You’ll get access to new lessons four days a week, but you can learn, post, and share whenever it works best for you. I’ll be with you in the online classroom Monday - Fridays, responding to your posts with ideas and feedback.

What happens if I fall behind?

Light Atlas is really flexible. There’s no such thing as falling behind. If you miss a lesson (or a few) because life gets in the way, you can catch up without missing a beat. Art doesn’t unfold on a timetable, so there is absolutely zero pressure to rush or force things in this class. You'll have access to all the lessons for three full years after the live course ends, so you can refer to them as many times as you like.

What do I need to access this class?

You'll need basic computer skills and solid internet access to navigate this course (if you can stream videos on your computer, you're in great shape). The online classroom is even mobile friendly, so you can easily navigate it with a mobile device if you’re on the go.

What’s the refund policy?

Light Atlas is a highly-rated course that many students take more than once. If you need to leave class for any reason, your registration is always transferrable to a future session of the same course. Or, you can transfer your prorated registration to 1-on-1 mentoring or a different e-course of your choosing. Registration isn't refundable.

How long do I get to keep Light Atlas?

You'll get access to Light Atlas for three full years - plenty of time to complete the course and revisit the lessons whenever you need a boost of inspiration.

I’ll be traveling during the class (and away from my computer), can I still participate?

Many students travel while taking the class. You’ll be able to access all the lessons, post images, and interact in our online classroom from a mobile device, so it’s easy to participate when you’re on the road.

GET THE E-COURSE: (registration is closed)

GET THE E-COURSE + MENTORING: (registration is closed)

What students are saying...

“Before this class, I was in a bit of a slump creatively. Sometimes my images failed to meet what I had imagined. In Light Atlas, I began to see more creatively and my vision improved. I began to create the images that I had imagined. The entire course was eye opening. It transformed my photography and broadened my vision significantly.”

— Mike Lynch

“I can’t even put into words how amazing your course material is, and even better is how you teach and pour into your students.”

— Lissa Watson

“Laura, you really are a godsend to photographers.
You help change artists’ lives and everyone should know it!”

— Cathy Panebianco

“Before I took Light Atlas, I was confused about how to bring more emotional authenticity to my work. First of all, there is the magic of Laura. She is so open and intelligent and motivating. Second, the set up of the course is excellent. Super well organized. I have a deeper awareness of light, and the class gave me a real confidence boost.
”

— Amy Selwyn

“Outstanding class! You have made such a difference in my life!”

— Patricia Hogan

“I’ve taken other online photo classes, but nobody anywhere pays attention to the interior states of the heart and mind of the photographer like Laura. She taps into the unconscious where memory, dream, and reflection are the artist’s greatest allies, far beyond technology. The class discussions are so much more full-bodied and insightful than in other classes I’ve taken, where the tendency is un-usefully more towards “likes.” My question to myself is always, “How can I move my photography forward from mid-level to awesome?” I won’t say I’ve reached awesome yet, but in the two years since I took Light Atlas, I’ve had ten exhibits, including two solo shows! ”

— Sandy Brown Jensen

“My biggest challenge has been to jump start my creative process. The class was extremely helpful because it presented me with new ideas and pushed me to explore them. Most online classes I have seen focus on the technical aspects of photography. This class was all about inspiration and opening one’s vision. It opened up so many new ways to approach photography.”

— Judith Miller

“I was struggling with lack of community and (perceived) lack of shooting opportunities. Light Atlas worked for me because I could do it on my own time. Having the material available for three years is huge. A glaring weakness with other virtual workshops is that the recordings are only available for a few weeks or days or not at all. Light Atlas made me feel much freer with my photography and it helped me immerse myself more in my process. ”

— Jacqueline Asplundh

“Before Light Atlas, I was in a block and removed from my muse. I was struggling with making time for my photography and needed something to help me focus. This was my first online course, and I am very grateful I had the opportunity to work with Laura. She focused on the core of why I was drawn to photography. I looked deeper at my inspiration. One moment that has stuck with me was the joy I felt as I made arrangements with collected objects and explored ways to transform them into art. I still return to this group of photographs to keep that moment alive. I learned so much and have continued to grow thanks to Laura’s guidance.
”

— Peggy Taylor Reid

“I take my photography very seriously and sometimes that stops me before I start. This course really freed me up. It was very non pressured, non competitive. I started creating new, easy images...and I fell in love with them. I now feel looser with the creative process, and I’m so looking forward to continuing this exploration! ”

— Landry Major

“Before this class, I generally felt my images were technically strong, but they lacked the creativity and impact that I was hoping to achieve. Laura’s prompts, the interviews with other artists, the exercises, the support of other photographers in the class - all were tremendously helpful in helping me to progress beyond the technical and literal to seeing in a more artistic, interpretative way. While I have taken other workshops that were focused on the art of “seeing,” this was the first that went beyond composition and really tried to get at creating images with feeling. It was terrific and inspirational! The mentoring was particularly helpful. It was very helpful to have Laura’s thoughts on how I, personally, might take my photographic practice forward, and for me to have an opportunity to ask specific questions, relevant to me.”

— Jim Waterbury

“Before Light Atlas, I wanted to express emotion in my photography but wasn’t sure how. This class encourages experimentation and being true to yourself and it gives you plenty of ideas on how to do this. It’s not about making the perfect picture, it’s about finding your voice. What a gift. I feel like it’s opened up a whole new way of thinking about my photography. I’ve taken a lot of workshops and, unfortunately, very few of them were helpful for personal growth. Luckily, I kept trying and found this one!
”

— Teri Vershel

“I was struggling with moving my photography from the purely documentary to images that feel personal and express emotion. The different exercises in this class really helped me find different ways to move my work forward. I really liked the format of this class. Previous classes I’ve taken have required you to be online at a set time and to be present with others on Zoom. I liked that I could log in and take this class when the time worked best for me. The community was very supportive and I really appreciated the comments I received from my fellow students. It was great to see their work evolve too.”

— Jane Feely

“Light Atlas pushed me and expanded my horizons. I came out of the class with new “eyes” when photographing. This class will improve your seeing and creativity 110%. I truly believe Laura has a gift for teaching, along with her gift of being an incredible photographer. Laura takes the time with each of her students to bring forth their creative side. There is no doubt I have grown immensely.
”

— Anne Smith

“Laura’s exercises, interviews, and talks expanded my abilities by an order of magnitude. Two pictures that had their genesis in those exercises later were accepted into juried shows.
”

— Dennis Geller

“Keeping creativity going is always a challenge and Laura’s course certainly gets the creative juice flowing with new refreshing ideas. It focuses on the soul of photography, instead of anything technical or mainstream. Laura really empowers each photographer and her feedback is always helpful and insightful.”

— Mathieu Chiasson

“This is an extraordinary class. Laura has a way of getting photographers to see on a different wavelength. It’s a six-week meditative exercise that struck a deep chord with me.
”

— Alex Hernandez

“Fabulous. Light Atlas is such a beautiful, positive way to begin each morning.
”

— Lea Murphy

“This class is a gift. Thank you for your inspiration, your wisdom, and your encouragement. Thank you for helping me see where my real inspiration comes from.”

— Lorraine Castillo

“Laura Valenti’s class was transformative in my work - helping me to look deeper to create photographs that are vastly more intimate and personal than I had considered before. Laura’s class will help you to bring more soul, meaning and love to your work. I couldn’t recommend it more highly.”

— Christopher Michel

“Laura, you have really outdone yourself with this course! There is so much wisdom, inspiration, and room for exploration in it that I could easily spend a year learning and digesting this material.
”

— Judith Bender

“Of the (MANY!) classes of Laura’s I have taken, Light Atlas is definitely my favorite. It seemed to me that every person made some sort of gigantic leap of growth during this class - transformative growth. Highly recommend.
”

— Diana Nicholette Jeon

“This is such an inspiring and supportive class. The weekly themes are so relevant and eye-opening. I am grateful Laura for your thoughtful, honest sharing and your wisdom. I am also grateful for being part of such a talented group of fellow students - it’s always reassuring to not feel alone.
”

— Connie Gardener Rosenthal

“I was in a rut and I needed a new direction. I also wanted to express more emotion in my work and I had no idea how to do that. Through Light Atlas exercises and class feedback, I learned to expand my subject matter and start seeing everything around me as potential photographic magic. I started photographing what I love and subjects that make me feel serene and happy. I also began experimenting with new techniques and ideas. I stopped being so literal and let go of trying to control everything. This allowed me to start a new body of work. I highly recommend Light Atlas as a way to tap into more feeling in your photography and as a way to get out of your comfort zone and expand your horizons. You will be amazed by the results.”

— Teri Vershel

“My experience was outstanding! I came away with several project ideas. This is a class that makes you really think about your photography practice, to look past the surface and dig deeper into your emotions, thoughts, and feelings. It is a transformational experience! There’s so much good stuff to absorb!
”

— Lisa Marie Waddell

GET THE E-COURSE: (registration is closed)

GET THE E-COURSE + MENTORING: (registration is closed)