One of my favorite aspects of organizing photography workshops is bringing everyone back together after the trip to reconnect, share stories, and—most importantly—exchange images. Photography can sometimes feel like a solitary pursuit, but when we take the time to gather as a group, it becomes a community effort. Each person brings a unique perspective, and those different ways of seeing are what make these reviews so inspiring.

A month or so after the workshop, once the dust has settled and the memory cards have been sorted through, participants are invited to submit their favorite images. By then, most people have had enough time to look through their work, experiment with editing, and decide which shots best represent their experience. The challenge, of course, is narrowing down hundreds (sometimes thousands!) of photos to a maximum of ten. That exercise alone can be one of the most valuable parts of the process—learning how to identify the images that really stand out, and understanding why they do.

The submissions can take many forms. Some participants send in images they’re especially proud of—perhaps a carefully composed landscape, a decisive street scene, or an experiment with a new technique learned during the workshop. Others include shots they aren’t quite sure about, the ones where something didn’t quite work but they can’t put their finger on why. Those “not quite there yet” images are often the most rewarding to discuss, since they open the door to constructive feedback and new ways of thinking.

I’ve been hosting image reviews like this for the photo club I belong to, and I’ve noticed a common theme: people are sometimes reluctant to put their own work forward but very eager to hear feedback on others’ images. It’s completely natural—sharing your creative work can feel vulnerable. But the truth is, everyone is there to learn, and those who take the leap often gain the most. When you see your work through the eyes of others, you start to notice details you might have overlooked, and you discover ways to improve that you can apply the very next time you pick up your camera.

At the end of the day, these are photography workshops. The goal isn’t just to capture beautiful images during the trip, but also to grow as photographers. Image reviews give us the chance to do exactly that—to learn, to practice the art of critique (both giving and receiving), and to build confidence in our creative vision. My hope is that every attendee walks away not only with a portfolio of strong images but also with a few new tools, insights, and ideas to carry into their future photography adventures.