Trans Allegheny Asylum

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 23-25, 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

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ARCHITECTURE

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MODEL WORK

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CREATIVE & ALTERNATIVE PROCESSING

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FINE ART NUDES

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BALLET DANCER

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ABANDONED BUILDINGS 〰️ ARCHITECTURE 〰️ MODEL WORK 〰️ CREATIVE & ALTERNATIVE PROCESSING 〰️ FINE ART NUDES 〰️ BALLET DANCER 〰️

ITINERARY

DAY 1: Sat, Nov 22
- Meet & Greet 7:00pm

DAY 2: Sun, Nov 23
- Breakfast
- 9:00am Photographing Models Class
- 11:00am -5:00pm Asylum Photo Session with lunch on location

DAY 3: Mon, Nov 24
- Breakfast
- Sunrise at the Asylum
- Full Day Asylum Photo Session
- Lunch break
- Sunset Photo Session Asylum

DAY 4: Tue, 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

Cancellation Policy

Please review our full cancellation and refund policy prior to registration as there are non-refundable and non-transferrable fees associated with each workshop.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Our workshops are designed for all skill levels and involve photographing sunrise and sunsets as well as other field sessions. While workshop locations vary, you should expect to walk relative distances with your equipment. Some workshops are more strenuous than others. If you have any health issues or concerns, please reach out to us prior to registration.

FITNESS LEVEL
EASY

You should be in general good health and capable of carrying your own equipment while we are out in the field, including managing stairs and walking carefully in dilapidated buildings.

FLIGHTS & ARRIVAL
CKB - North Central, WV

The above airport is the closest airport to our workshop location. You are always welcome to arrive early or depart later and settle in and explore before the workshop begins/ends!

EQUIPMENT
DOWNLOAD HERE

While we recommend certain equipment for our workshop, it’s not necessary for you to participate. Check out what our trip leader’s suggest & plan ahead for rentals, borrowing, etc.

Questions?