ILLUMINATE
An Immersive Weekend Retreat to Find Your Light // for photographers
Cover Image taken by Illuminate Student: @aftonphotography
Film made by the talented Kelly Conlin @niceladyproductions
unplug, immerse, and be supported in an environment unlike any other
JOIN US FOR THIS ALL INCLUSIVE WEEKEND
unplug, immerse, and be supported in an environment unlike any other
June 12 - 15th 2026
PRIVATE GLAMPING GEODOMES & YURTS
DRUMHELLER BADLANDS
3 DAILY CHEF MADE NOURISHING MEALS + ALL ACCOMMODATIONS INCLUDED
LET THERE BE LIGHT
(from within and quite literally from an off-camera flash)
STEP AWAY FROM THE EVERYDAY AND INTO ‘ILLUMINATE’
a retreat style workshop crafted for photographers ready to deepen their craft and reconnect with themselves.
This isn’t just an off-camera flash workshop, it’s an opportunity to fully unplug, immerse, and be supported in an environment unlike any other. Surrounded by nature and guided by a team dedicated to your growth, you’ll explore advanced lighting techniques, hone your skills, and discover the light within.
Whether you’re experienced or just starting out with professional gear, Illuminate is for photographers who want to master off-camera flash techniques and elevate their craft. It’s perfect for wedding, portrait, and event photographers—or anyone serious about improving their lighting skills in a hands-on, immersive environment.
With the warmth of community and even an on-site counselor to help you process, reflect, and release, this is a space where you can feel truly seen, supported, and inspired.
STUDENT WORK FROM LAST YEARS WORKSHOP
learn, connect, and ignite a new passion for your art.
STUDENT IMAGES FROM PAST WORKSHOPS
@cristaelisephotography
@jessieraefilms
@janine.rose
I attended Sofia’s Illuminate Workshop in April 2025. And let me tell you, this is the BEST photography workshop I have ever been to in my career thus far. Sofia and her vendor team put so much thought and effort into crafting this workshop for us. It was extremely well balanced with “class” time, plenty of hands on practice, and stunning, professionally designed sets.
We were taken care of the entire weekend in regards to food, with April providing us with the most delicious meals ever. There was so much care and attention into every aspect of the workshop and retreat! I've never felt more well taken care of, and it was very clear how much of Sofia's heart and soul she poured into this for us in creating such a warm, supportive space. The environment she created allowed us to express ourselves creatively, feel comfortable and safe asking all kinds of questions, and feel all of the feelings. I walked away with not only so much more technical knowledge and skills, but reignited purpose and confidence.
I loved that there were so many different levels of experience between all of the attendees. I've been in business for over 10 years myself and there were still so many things I took away from Sofia's workshop that I'm beyond excited to incorporate into my own work in the future. I can't wait for the next Illuminate workshop, and I seriously will never stop recommending this workshop to everyone I know.
@janine.rose
LUMINARIES // ALUM
TESTIMONIALS FROM OUR PAST STUDENTS
Attending the Illuminate Workshop was truly a game-changing experience. Sofia is an incredible host and teacher, the kind of person who not only shares her technical expertise but genuinely takes care of you as a whole human. She made sure we were well-fed, supported, and happy, creating an environment where it felt safe to ask questions, explore creatively, and even feel deeply.
As a photographer herself, Sofia is beyond talented and truly doing something unique in this industry. There are very few people creating the kind of magic she does so the moment she said she was willing to teach, I was ready to give her my money!
What I walked away with was not just the knowledge of how to use off-camera flash in low-light situations or how to photograph the stars it was the ability to think about light differently. Sofia helped me understand how to shape light not just to light a scene, but to create a feeling. I now feel confident in controlling the mood and emotion in my images through intentional lighting.
Sofia is an extraordinary artist and an even better educator/storyteller. If you ever get the chance to learn from her, take it. I truly cannot recommend this workshop enough.
@jessieraefilms
Attending the Illuminate Workshop by Sofia Katherine was nothing short of life-changing. Every aspect of the experience was deeply intentional and heartfelt. Sofia pours her entire heart into her teaching, creating a warm, welcoming, and open space where true growth can happen.
What stood out the most was the depth of care and thoughtfulness in every part of the workshop. It wasn’t just about gaining new skills (though I absolutely did, and they’ve already made a major impact on my professional life) — it was also a powerful personal journey.
Sofia’s ability to hold space, guide with wisdom, and teach with passion made this workshop incredibly special. It’s 1000% worth the investment. I’m walking away not only more skilled but also more connected to myself and my purpose.
If you have the chance to attend this it is an absolute must! Thank you Sofia for enhancing my life and sharing so much of your knowledge.
@chelsieraephotography
There are no words to describe how incredible Sofia and her Illuminate workshop was. Not only did I learn so much knowledge and more confidence with flash. I walked away with so much more confidence in myself to keep reaching for my dreams. The team put together an amazing weekend that expanded our creativity to new heights. Whether you are newer to the industry or more seasoned . Everyone was welcomed and was pushed to higher levels with so much encouragement. Thank You so much for this experience ! It’s something I will hold dear to my heart.
@aftonphotography
The Illuminate Workshop 2026
YOUR WEEKEND ITINERARY
FRI // FEAST + FIRE
FRI // FEAST + FIRE
Kick off the weekend with a warm welcome and a Chef made dinner. After settling in, join your fellow attendees around a fire under the night sky for a special fire gathering.
We will collectively set personal intentions for the days ahead and also release any self doubts that stint our creativity into the fire that night.
SAT \\ NEW MOON CLASS
SAT \\ MOONLIT CLASS
Dive deep into the art of lighting, where we’ll explore techniques and secrets to mastering off-camera flash for any setting. Saturday’s classroom session is all about illuminating your subjects in challenging environments and transforming ordinary scenes into extraordinary moments. As the day flows into night, we’ll take our learning outdoors under the new moon. Here, you’ll experience a hands-on night shoot, where you can bring your newfound skills to life, crafting images that truly shine.
SUN // CANDLELIT DINNER
SUN // CANDLELIT DINNER
Sunday is all about refining your skills in the intimate, warm glow of a beautifully curated reception setting. You willl learn how to capture every detail under the flicker of candlelight. We’ll cover everything from decor and speech lighting to the magic of dance floor moments. With every click, you'll build a portfolio that reflects the heart of celebration in low light environments.
MON // FAREWELL BREAKFAST
MON // FAREWELL BREAKFAST
Our final morning together begins with a warm, nourishing breakfast, giving everyone a chance to reflect on the weekend’s experiences and newfound connections. Take this time to savour one last meal, share memories, and say goodbye to the new friends you've made. With hearts full and skills sharpened, you'll leave feeling inspired and ready to bring your light to the world.
YOUR INSTRUCTOR, SOFIA
Obsessed With Light + Devoted to the Night
Hi, I'm Sofia. I’m here to guide you through a one of a kind photography retreat style workshop shaped by my love for off camera flash and creating in the dark. When most of the industry leaned into light and airy, I found my voice under the night sky // where silence, stars, and challenge became the best teachers I ever had.
Flash photography is more than solving technical problems. It is about vision, confidence, and creative possibility. It invites you to experiment, to trust yourself, and to see light where others do not.
This weekend is about learning technique, yes
but also learning to reclaim your style,
to create boldly,
and to light the way // in your work and within yourself.
Photo: @cassiemolyneux
INVESTMENT // ACCOMODATIONS
PRIVATE GLAMPING GEODOMES & YURTS
All meals are included, prepared by a private chef
Option 1: GEODOME $4600 CAD // Shared Accommodations // You and one other roommate will share a geodome with your own double beds.
Option 2: YURT $4300 CAD // Shared Accommodations // You and one other roommate will share a yurt with your own double beds.
Drumheller Badlands - Private Property
*Exact Location will be shared w participants only.
PAYMENT PLANS AVAILABLE
Initial Non-Refundable Deposit to secure your spot: $1000 CAD
The remaining balance of your chosen accommodation will be divided into equal monthly payments and processed each month up until the workshop.
5% Discount for anyone who pays for their spot in full.
If you need a slightly different schedule please mention it on your application and we can see what is possible.
THE ILLUMINATE TEAM
This isn't just a workshop // it’s a crafted experience
An incredible team of talented individuals, each bring their expertise and passion to make your weekend unforgettable.
Here's who will be on Sofia's workshop team that weekend:
— Event Photojournalist – Capturing behind-the-scenes moments
— Bridal Couture Designer - Providing Gowns for our Wedding Sets
— Certified Counselor – Providing on-site support
— Private Chef & Dessert Assistant – A duo from Vancouver Island specializing in nourishing meals made from scratch
— Makeup & Hair Artist – Ensuring our models look flawless for every set.
— Wedding Decor Team – Curating each setup with an eye for detail and style.
— Floral Designer – A Cree / Italian floral designer known for her intentional selections.
— Candle Light Designer – Specializing in candle light decor - this will bring our sets to another level
— Sofia’s Right-Hand Man – A helpful (and handy) presence for anything we need along the way.
FAQs
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Calgary YYC You are a 90 minute drive to the property from this airport.
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YES! The owner of this magical property in Drumheller is a sweetheart and is happy to chat with anyone that would like to extend their stay after Monday morning breakfast farewell.
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Yes, there is limited wifi in the greenhouse gathering spot. The rest of the property including most of the accommodation spaces have no wifi. The property is majority unplugged with cell service available just a walk up the property if need be.
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Absolutely. We know you will leave with some beautiful images showing off your new off camera flash skills. We have a team of vendors contributing to the scenes you will be photographing so we will provide all students with a list of vendors to please tag when using on social media.
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Your camera.
A flash.
An off camera flash transmitter.
A honeycomb grid or flash modifier.
A tripod.
A light stand with a flash bracket.
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90 minutes!
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For privacy reasons, we will only be sharing this information with the students who have signed up.
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Absolutely not! While our workshop will include elements that wedding photographers can benefit from, the workshop is designed for all types of photographers wanting to learn lighting.
Event Photographers. Commercial Photographers. Portrait Photographers.
Anyone wanting to level up their lighting.
We’ll be focusing on night photography, storytelling, and creative lighting techniques that can apply to any niche. -
We ask that anyone attending knows how to shoot in manual mode on their camera. If you are fairly new to manual mode that is totally ok, just let us know when you sign up and we will give you some homework before the workshop.
Imagery on this page is a collection of photos taken by the Illuminate Team + Students @cassiemolyneux / @cristaelisephotography / @jessieraefilms / @aftonphotography / @janinerose / @hollyjanephotography / @ashleyelizabethphotography7 / chelsieraephotography / @krissybrk / @soulhoneyevolution
