$175.00
Pennhurst was an institution for the mentally and physically disabled individuals of Southeastern Pennsylvania. Constructed and opened in 1908 as a state school for the mentally and physically disabled, Pennhurst’s property was vast, covering 120 acres. Created to house over 10,000 patients, Pennhurst was one of the largest institutions of its kind in Pennsylvania. It was devoted strictly to the care, treatment and education of the disabled. Originally named Pennhurst Home for the Feeble Minded and Epileptic, it finally was just called Pennhurst State School. After a decade of controversy, it closed on December 9, 1987. Pennhurst fell into complete ruin as the complex was shut down. Buildings were abandoned as they were, with patient’s clothes and belonging strewn about. Furniture, cabinets and medical equipment were left to decay as if someone had just got up and walked out the front door. This is the place that will eventually resurrect into one of the most studied properties in the ghost hunter media, and will become an amazing haunted attraction. Join us as we photographically explore this remarkable and erie place. We will have access to the Mayflower building, as well as touring the grounds. A brief history will be given at the start of the tour, then we will be free to wander at our leisure. Instruction will be given throughout the workshop on creative composition, exposure, flash HDR photography, light painting and more! enabling you to truly capture the essence of the place. A full list of details will be emailed several weeks prior to the event. This workshop is suitable for all levels of photo enthusiasts, but being familiar with the settings on your camera is highly recommended. Physically, you need to be able to be on your feet and move up and down several flights of stairs for up to four hours. The buildings are not heated or air conditioned, and are in a state of arrested decay. Liability waivers will need to be signed for both Pennhurst and Valerie A Hoffman Photography. Workshop fee: $175, includes instruction, tour and access to the building and grounds-as permitted by Pennhurst.
In stock
For anyone that finds old buildings and places where people once lived and worked of interest than this is a must go trek. Val is a Master of this kind of photography and as someone that’s spent some time learning from her it would be time and money very well spent. This may be the only trek that I’m able to manage this year, one I don’t want to miss. You shouldn’t either. 🙂
I have only been taking pictures for 35 years. Every time I have the opportunity to meet with Val I learn something new.
On November 4, 2017, I had the opportunity to photograph at Pennhurst Asylum with Val Holman. The event was well organized from start to finish. She was available to help with any and all photo issues. I have no hesitation in recommending Val if you want to shoot at Pennhurst.
The November 4, 2017 tour was fantastic. Val was an absolute pleasure to work with. Her knowledge of photography, and photographic equipment allowed for very quick answers to any questions I had while there. I also appreciated that Val had familiarized herself with the Pennhurst site well before the tour, as she was able to suggest quite a few “money” shots while on the grounds!
Mike, Thanks so much for taking the time to leave feedback. I am so glad you were able to make it, and that you had a great time! It was a pleasure having you and your wife join us! I am so glad I was able to be of help. Looking forward to seeing your fantastic images, and hope to see you again soon!