How to begin? For several months, I anticipated, waited, stressed over this trip. Flying worries, natural disasters, my family getting by without me where all on my mind. What to expect? How will I be received? What will I learn? I arrived in Paris on May 16th then headed to Poitiers on a train for a final car ride to this beautiful place…
Already my heart jumped! I was in a haze from lack of sleep and an 8 hour time difference but I knew this was going to be life-changing! Elizabeth, Adam and Kim and several of the attendees….sitting outside ready to greet us. At ease from the beginning. I guess my first workshop post is mostly to set the scene. Elizabeth Messina and her amazing friends put on an experience not to be forgotten. I’d like to introduce some of these talented people and also show you some of the property.
Joan of Arc is rumored to have stayed here. A beautiful statue of her faces the Chateau.
Elizabeth Messina is one of the top Wedding Photographers in the world. Her style is uniquely hers. A film shooter only, she captures peoples essence without compromise and shows us a little piece of herself in every photograph. Besides being talented, she’s also warm, funny, driven. Watching her work was a lesson and a treat. She’s also extremely approachable and affectionate.
Adam and Kim Bamberg are the husband and wife team responsible for finding this outrageous venue. They were married here and have photographed here. Talented and kind, they made everyone feel at home. Kim is also part of the gorgeous Wedding Blog ~ Junebug Weddings. She has great taste and is the most enthusiastic person I have ever met. Her heart is immense.
Kirsten * of Bliss Productions : I want to call her zen master cinema wonder woman. She was so quiet and stealthy, capturing every moment of every day. Her work is beyond beautiful. I loved watching her in action. Here is a piece she did about the Chateau.
A Lovely Workshop :: The Chateau from bliss productions on Vimeo.
Some interior shots of the sitting rooms and dinning areas. Gorgeous light…
Yvette Roman: Yet another talented and well established photographer. Her style roots are pure Rock n Roll. She was always there for us and answered every question. Fun to listen to as I hung on every word. Maybe it was her vibrant nature.
Way more to come….including stunning models, hair and makeup, editors, event design, and all of the exceptional attendees. I think this was by far the longest post in Silvana Di Franco Photography history.



















