The Hidden Gems of Puerto Escondido Photography Experience

Exclusive 3-Day Documentary & Environmental Portraiture Immersion*

Embark on an exclusive, all-inclusive 3-day photography experience designed for photographers looking for an in-depth, one-on-one or small-group workshop (maximum of 4 participants) with Alex Coghe. This is a rare opportunity to explore Puerto Escondido’s vibrant coastal life and its hidden gems through the lens, focusing on documentary photography and environmental portraiture. With personalized feedback, hands-on guidance, and unique access to off-the-beaten-path locations, this immersive experience is tailor-made for serious photographers.

Workshop Structure (3 Days)

Day 1: Coastal Life & Street Documentary Photography

• Morning: Fish Markets at Playa Principal
  Capture the early morning rush of local fishermen returning with their catch. Learn to work with natural light and create compelling environmental portraits while documenting daily life at the market.

• Midday: Street Markets of Puerto Escondido
  Explore bustling local markets filled with vendors selling handmade crafts, fresh produce, and local foods. This will be a deep dive into street photography, focusing on composition, narrative storytelling, and capturing spontaneous moments.

• Afternoon: Portfolio Review & One-on-One Feedback
  Over lunch at a traditional Oaxacan restaurant, you’ll receive personalized feedback on your morning’s work, with an emphasis on storytelling, composition, and improving your technical skills.

Day 2: Hidden Villages & Surf Culture

• Morning: Visit to Mazunte or San Agustinillo
  Explore remote fishing villages, where you’ll have intimate opportunities to photograph the local community. This will focus on environmental portraiture, blending human subjects with their surroundings to tell compelling stories.

• Afternoon: Surf Subculture at Zicatela Beach
  Capture the laid-back surfer lifestyle with dramatic environmental portraits and lifestyle shots at one of the world’s most famous surf spots. Learn how to shoot dynamic action shots while also honing in on the quieter, candid moments.

• Evening: Sunset Beach Portraits
  Participate in a guided portrait session during golden hour on the beach. Alex will teach you how to work with natural light, shadows, and reflections for striking and emotive portraits.

Day 3: Advanced Techniques & Final Review

• Morning: Indigenous Communities & Market
  Immerse yourself in the vibrant indigenous market, where you’ll focus on narrative-driven street photography and intimate portraits. This will be an opportunity to apply everything learned in the workshop in a culturally rich, unique setting.

• Afternoon: Advanced Composition & Post-Processing
  A hands-on post-processing session where Alex will walk you through editing techniques, focusing on black-and-white processing to maintain a natural, filmy look.

• Evening: Final Portfolio Review & Mentorship
  During a final traditional Oaxacan seafood dinner, you’ll have a comprehensive review of your work, with personalized advice on how to continue developing your photography after the workshop.

What’s Included:

• Full access to Alex Coghe’s mentorship for 3 full days

• Personalized one-on-one attention or small-group (max 4 participants) feedback

• Transportation to all locations (off-the-beaten-path villages, markets, and beaches)

• Portfolio reviews and advanced post-processing session

• Light snacks and refreshments during shooting sessions

• Oaxacan seafood dinner on the final night

What’s Not Included:

• Accommodation (recommendations can be provided)

• Flights and travel insurance

• Meals (except specified final dinner)

Pricing:

• $4,500 USD total (whether 1 participant or up to 4 participants)
  This price reflects the high level of personal mentorship, exclusive locations, and the intensive nature of the experience. Participants will get unparalleled access to Alex Coghe’s expertise in both documentary photography and environmental portraiture, as well as exclusive access to the unique scenes of Puerto Escondido.

• Special Offer: Early booking discount of $500, reducing the total to $4,300 USD for bookings made 3 months in advance.

*Here are the best available seasons for the "The Hidden Gems of Puerto Escondido: 3-Day Photography Immersion" experience:

1. Fall (Late November to Early December)

   • Best Conditions: Mild temperatures, less humidity, and stunning sunsets.

   • Special Opportunities:

     • Surf Season: November marks the tail end of the surf season, offering dynamic opportunities to capture surfers in action and the vibrant beach culture at Zicatela Beach.

     • Local Festivities: Enjoy quieter, more intimate access to local markets and coastal villages before the busy holiday season. You’ll also get the chance to document traditional pre-holiday preparations, where local artisans and vendors begin showcasing handcrafted gifts and food.

2. Winter (January to Early March)

   • Best Conditions: Dry season, clear skies, and cooler temperatures, ideal for long shooting days.

   • Perfect for: Capturing the more relaxed, post-holiday local life, and great beach and market scenes.

3. Spring (Late March to Early May)

   • Best Conditions: Still part of the dry season, with slightly warmer temperatures but fewer tourists than during winter.

   • Perfect for: Beach photography with quieter scenes and early-morning light along the coast.

In any case we recommend to contact Alex before to book your experience in order to know his availability.