"SCU Reunion"- April 30 - May 3, 2017

The SCU Scrapbook...

2009 - The faculty at the first Skip's Summer School

Please note: On November 1, we opened this up to other photographers who have not been to an SCU program in the past.  However, we will NOT exceed more than 100 attendees. We want this to be a great experience for everyone with ample time to network, develop a stronger skill set and get to know the instructors.

Our last SCU program was in 2013 in Chicago. Since then, a few dozen of you have asked about doing another similar program. Meanwhile, the SCU page that Brent Watkins built, although a small group, tends to be one of the most helpful forums on Facebook. This is where most of the information has been posted prior to this page.

Brent built a community and so many of you have worked hard to help each other through the challenges of building a successful photographic business. So, I'm willing to tackle one more program with a format similar to Chicago's, but here's the big differences.
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First, we've got to have 100 attendees to make it work. We're not shooting for big attendance numbers, but to create a program where you not only return home with some great ideas, but you keep building your network.

When I asked Brent who the instructors might be that he'd like most to hear he said, "I don't really care. I'm there to learn from the group and gain ideas from the discussions that come out of a program like this."

I'm reasonably sure we'll have the number of people we need, but if we don't, everyone's payment will be immediately refunded!  And, because we're so far ahead in terms of timing, you'll have plenty of time to make hotel and flight reservations and get the very best rates once we know for sure the program is taking place.

Second, the cost is $400 per person. The hotel is not included, but a welcome reception on Sunday night, April 30 and a buffet lunch on Monday and Tuesday are part of the package, along with the usual coffee pot every morning.

Last on the list, I have to know we've got the commitment within the next few weeks to make this work. The stress of doing a live workshop these days is overwhelming and with so much to choose from you've seen plenty of programs canceled over the years.
 
We couldn't be more excited to share this opportunity. The initial invite was to the Skip's Summer School community exclusively. WE have room for a few more people, so we're extending the invitation outside the group.   

Hope to see you in Sarasota next Spring! 

Skip and Shiela

Taken by Brian Palmer Summer School 2010

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Reunion Speakers and Instructors

This is a small conference with even more intensity than past programs. It's a smaller group and we've been very selective in the instructors. Joining us will be Scott Bourne, Michele Celentano, Skip Cohen, Bobbi Lane, Justin and Mary Marantz and Lee Varis.
 
We'll be talking about business/marketing, creativity, lighting, portraiture and wedding coverage. As in past programs you'll also have a lot time with each of the instructors for other questions or topics not covered in the general topics listed here.

​Click on any of the speakers to visit their websites.

Note: While it's unlikely, things happen outside our control and speaker changes are sometimes unavoidable.

Program Cost

The cost for the program is $400 and everyone needs to be fully paid before we officially launch. If we don't get our base of 100 attendees and the program winds up being cancelled, you'll receive a 100% refund.

I know this is very different from other programs you've attended, but you also know the quality of past SCU workshops and many of you certainly know me.

We want to make Reunion the best one yet!

© dikobrazik

Tentative Schedule

You should plan your arrival by 6:00 PM on April 30. We'll be doing a sunset welcome reception from 6-8:00 pm.

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday - we'll be starting each day at 9:00 am and running until 5:00. Lunch will be at noon on Monday and Tuesday and is included in the price.

Departure should be after noon on Wednesday, but based on past experience, try and plan your departures accordingly. Sarasota Airport is 20 minutes away, while Tampa and Ft. Myers are at least an hour.
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The agenda will be a mix of classroom style presentation, hands-on and based on past programs, I know a few alumni will be leading a PhotoWalk or two.

We'll have a more complete agenda in a few weeks.

The key to all of this right now is confirming the attendance.

Lido Beach Resort

We've picked the Lido Beach Resort, because it's simply a great hotel. It's literally right on the beach and no more than a mile from all the shops, restaurants and galleries in St. Armands Circle.

The reception and two lunches are included in the package. Your hotel room, transportation, breakfast and dinners are not included.

The room rate is $129 and excellent for this hotel. Once we've confirmed this program, you'll need to make your reservation directly with the hotel.  

In addition, the hotel will extend the discounted rate to anybody who wants to come in earlier or stay a few days later. I'm thinking of some of you who might bring your spouse along for a mini-vacation.

Also, if you arrive earlier than check-in time on Sunday, you can check your luggage, grab your bathing suit and the hotel has a place to change until your room's ready.

Please do not contact the hotel now. This program is still tentative and until we make it more than a pipe-dream, the discounted rate doesn't exist.