"The ART OF PEOPLE"
Photography workshop

view More

the venue

Casa Luz

the vibes

The project

Immersive fairy rings with a western desert twist

A set piece in which to pose models during a photography workshop

The C. S. Visuals +
Bella Kotak

Two photographers, one workshop.
First, the C.S. Visuals: Sean and Carissa Archibong, a renowned photography and cinematography duo who bring unparalleled passion to the realm of visual storytelling, and are committed to crafting compelling visual narratives that resonate deeply with audiences. Second, Bella Kotak: a fine art and fashion photographer who creates breathtaking, ethereal images that blend the lines between reality and fantasy. Born and raised in Kenya, Kotak's multicultural background has significantly influenced her artistic vision, infusing her work with a unique blend of vivid colors, natural beauty, and a deep appreciation for the storytelling aspects of photography.

THE brand lore:

the project details

Houston husband-wife photographers Sean and Carissa Archibong (together, The C.S. Visuals) hosted this soulful photography and editing workshop in conjunction with fantasy photographer Bella Kotak and her partner, retoucher Pratik Naik, at Casa Luz in August of 2024. The theme, "The Art of People" really spoke to the depth of neighborliness, community, acceptance and belonging that I have found to be hallmarks of Houston culture. Watching a room full of artists--all with quite literally different perspectives--immerse themselves in the mini-worlds we created and tell a visual story of their own through what they chose to focus in on was magical. Watching Bella coach participants on how to convey a chosen effect by manipulating the elements of a scene was enlightening, and as always the down-to-earth, open-source posture that both Sean and Carissa take to education and collaboration deeply impacted everyone in attendance. The set piece I built was a nod to Bella's own penchant for setting subjects into baroque, fantastical botanical backgrounds, this one with a Texan desert twist.

the breif

the collaborators

A chance to notice fellow artists with curiosity; to see ourselves reflected in each other's eyes, to trust the noble instincts of our shared humanity.

"The Art of People" is a meet-up style workshop with three interactive studio setups to explore. The workshop will be led by two featured photographers who will share tips and tricks of the trade. We will also have the opportunity to watch them edit their own photos right in front of us. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, it's a great opportunity to hang out with and meet fellow photographers, and spent time sharing and honing your photography style and skills."

The C. S. Visuals

Hi, I’m Hannah — florist, folklore enthusiast, and your local moss goblin with a penchant for logistics planning

I run Edges Wild Studio, a one-woman floral design house where story, art, and botany meet. Whether you're planning a wedding that feels more like a spell than a ceremony or building an immersive brand campaign that needs a wild world to hold it in, I'm your gal. My work blends myth and material together, through meticulous planning, sharp creative instincts, and the occasional zip tie. I have a wealth of experience in weddings, editorial shoots, public art, brand launches, and many weirdly wonderful one-offs. I specialize in taking your vision (even the half-formed and too-strange-for-Pinterest) and giving it tactile, visual form that people remember. I would love to hear from you if you're ready to create something unrepeatable, unexpected, and intensely alive!