Sam Abell is a very well known, former National Geographic Magazine photographer. He retired from Nat Geo in 2001 after 31 years there. The second phase of his photographic life has continued, as will 
be demonstrated by his soon to be published two volume, 400 page retrospective monograph. Abell was recently honored by his induction into the International Photography Hall of Fame.
Abell is known as a documentary photographer who practices a very controlled & precise style. His images are immediately recognizable for their quietness & lack of much color. I have been drawn to Sam Abell’s work for many years. I find his photographic tenets to really suit me as a photographer. I finally fulfilled my dream of doing a workshop with Abell in May 2025. This was an intense, full day experience over a week on Whidbey Island, WA. It was without a doubt, the best workshop that I have ever done. Abell poured out his heart while giving his all to the 9 participants. His words of wisdom were never ending. 
I would like to share with the BPS members the knowledge that I received from Sam Abell over this very impactful week & how this has changed my approach to photography. I also want to share with members a little of my follow up work, practicing the key principles that I learned during that memorable week in WA. I truly feel that everyone will be able to apply at least some of this message to their own work, regardless of the genre. I hope that many will join.