November 19-22 | Starting at $1600The Inner Room: Self-Portrait Intensive in New Orleans
Limited to 4 participants.
The Inner Room is an intimate four-day self-portrait intensive led by photographer and filmmaker Brittany Markert. This workshop invites artists to explore self-portraiture as a form of psychological inquiry, performance, experimentation, catharsis and visual world-building.
Limited to four participants. One Scholarship position.
Through guided exercises, demonstrations, individual shooting sessions, group discussion, and one-on-one mentorship, participants will develop photographs shaped by an intentional relationship between the body, environment, light, and symbolic language. The focus is not on reproducing a particular aesthetic, but on helping each artist deepen their own visual language and create images that feel emotionally and conceptually authentic.
Although self-portraiture is often understood as a solitary practice, much of the intensive will be collaborative. Participants will work in rotating pairs, assisting one another with framing, focus, lighting, direction, and camera operation while each artist remains the author and director of their own image. These partnerships are designed to foster trust, communication, and a generous creative environment.
This inaugural edition of The Inner Room will take place November 19–22, 2026, at In Rooms Foundation in New Orleans.
What to Expect
Over four days, participants will move between observation, listening, creating, assisting, and reflection. The intensive combines lectures, group meditation and guided active imagination, conceptual discussion, historic references, practical demonstrations, dedicated shooting time, collaborative support, and individualized guidance.
Conceptual and Technical GuidanceWe will examine how space, light, objects, performance, clothing, movement, and symbolism can shape the psychological atmosphere of a self-portrait. Technique will be approached intentionally as a means of strengthening the image and your unique voice.
A Collaborative EnvironmentThe Inner Room is designed as a temporary creative community. Participants should arrive prepared to experiment, communicate openly, respect personal boundaries, and contribute generously to the work of the group.
Creative PartnershipsParticipants will work in rotating pairs, assisting one another.
Each artist remains the author and director of their own image while learning how to communicate their intentions and support another person’s creative process.
A Supportive & Creatively Generous SpaceThis workshop prioritizes emotional safety and respect so you can show up fully as you are to engage in the process.
Emotions, questions and vulnerability are encouraged and welcomed.
Reconnect with your body and mind as you escape the noise of everyday life.
Day OneArrive & Meet
As everyone arrives, we take time to settle in, get comfortable, and begin connecting with those around us. The journey starts here.
Check-In9:00 – 9:30am
Group Activity11:00am
Lunch Break12:30pm
Creative Workshop2:00pm
Dinner6:30pm
Day TwoSet Intentions & Reflect
Together, we pause to consider our goals, hopes, and direction. This is about aligning with ourselves and with the journey ahead. This is a chance to reconnect with what brought you here—your questions, your hopes, your turning points—and consider how they’ve shifted or deepened.
Check-In9:00 – 9:30am
Group Activity11:00am
Lunch Break12:30pm
Creative Workshop2:00pm
Dinner6:30pm
Day ThreeLook Forward & Wrap Up
We explore the possibilities beyond this moment, making space for growth, action, and forward momentum. As we end our time together, we honor the experience, the growth, and the connections made along the way.
Check-In9:00 – 9:30am
Group Activity11:00am
Lunch Break12:30pm
Creative Workshop2:00pm
Dinner6:30pm
How It Works-
Browse our upcoming events to find the one that feels right for you. We host events year-round in all different locations and climates.
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Sign up and pay all required fees to reserve your spot. If plans change, you can cancel up to 14 days before the retreat start to receive a 50% refund.
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After booking, we'll send you a Welcome Packet with everything you need to know—detailed schedules, packing list recommendations, add-ons to consider, and more.
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We'd recommend booking your transportation to and from the event as soon as possible, to ensure you can arrive without any complications or delays.
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Now all that's left to do is pack your bags and get excited for your new adventure.