Trans Allegheny Asylum Photo Workshop
with Fine Art Models
Challenge your creativity with a private photo workshop at the dilapidated Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum. Once home to patients and turn-of-the-century medical practices, this building served the mentally insane beginning in 1862. The building, mostly left in ruins, leaves a paradise for photographers to explore patterns, textures, windows and all the things left behind that visually depict an era gone by. Join us for this intense 3-day workshop with private access and alternative processing.
Photographing outside of your element is the best way to challenge your creativity and become a better photographer with the subjects you love best. I have always said if you have become satisfied with your work, it’s time to shake things up a little and try something new.
We will have model stations set up for photography so that you can rotate between sets. If you prefer to photograph only buildings, that is completely fine. Trans Allegheny has multiple buildings and there is plenty of room to spread out.
OVERVIEW
DATES: November 22-25, 2025
INSTRUCTOR: Multiple Instructors
COST: $2800
EXPERIENCE: Beginner*, Intermediate & Advanced
FITNESS LEVEL: Easy (see details below)
*Beginners must have a good working knowledge of their camera and settings
Instructors set up multiple sets per day
ABANDONED BUILDINGS
〰️
ARCHITECTURE
〰️
MODEL WORK
〰️
CREATIVE & ALTERNATIVE PROCESSING
〰️
FINE ART NUDES
〰️
BALLET DANCER
〰️
ABANDONED BUILDINGS 〰️ ARCHITECTURE 〰️ MODEL WORK 〰️ CREATIVE & ALTERNATIVE PROCESSING 〰️ FINE ART NUDES 〰️ BALLET DANCER 〰️
Prepare For Your Photo Workshop!
ITINERARY
DAY 1: NOV 22
Meet & Greet 7:00pm
DAY 2: NOV 23
Breakfast
9:00am Photographing Models Class
11:00am Asylum Photo Session
Lunch on location
DAY 3: NOV 24
Breakfast
Sunrise at the Asylum
Full Day Asylum Photo Session
Lunch break
Sunset Photo Session Asylum
DAY 4: NOV 25
Breakfast
Sunrise at the Asylum
Full Day Asylum Photo Session
Lunch break
Workshop Concludes at approx 5pm
Dec 10: PROCESSING CLASS
7:00pm EST Live Zoom processing class
INCLUDES
ASYLUM ACCESS for 3 days including access to interiors and exteriors plus models
EVENING SESSION with model -exterior
MORNING SESSION with model - exterior
FINE ART MODELS our models are experienced high-end models
BALLET DANCER
PROFESSIONAL LIGHTING PROVIDED
CREATIVITY CLASS
HANDS ON INSTRUCTION & GUIDANCE
PROCESSING class scheduled via Zoom for Dec 10, 2025 so that we can maximize our asylum time
MULTIPLE SETS per day with models and dancer
PRIVATE ASYLUM ACCESS indoor and outdoor for our group, and is closed to the public
NOT INCLUDED
AIRFARE to North Central West Virginia
LODGING - Discounted lodging is arranged in Weston, WV but is not included in the workshop rate. Booking info is provided after registration
TRANSPORTATION - Many participants choose to ride to field sessions together by carpool
MEALS - While meals are not included in the workshop fee, we like to dine as a group to discuss the day’s events and be on hand for any questions
TRIP INSURANCE - Please read our full Cancellation and Refund Policy prior to registration
GRATUITY - You are responsible for gratuity paid to housekeeping (average of $5 per day), guides, and drivers
INCIDENTALS
FLIGHTS & ARRIVAL
CKB - Charleston, WV
PIT - Pittsburgh, PA
CKB is the closest airport to our workshop location.
PIT is a 2 hour drive with more flight options.
FITNESS LEVEL:
EASY > MODERATE
The asylum is a very large campus of buildings sitting on over 600 acres. We will photograph in several buildings, some which have steps.
Please review prior to registration as there are non-refundable and non-transferrable fees associated with each workshop.