Charles will teach you how to approach any subject with fresh eyes and learn to see on a much deeper level.

Drawing upon inspiring quotations and images from other photographers who have most profoundly influenced his work, as well as his own personal "Zen moments" in the field, Charles will share ways in which you can engage your mind, eye and heart so they are all in perfect synchronization, making you a better photographer and more in tune with your subject.

Charles is a fine art photographer whose workshops have attracted students nationwide. His photographs have been published widely and are in private and public collections. You can see more of his work on his website https://charlesneedlephoto.com/.

Charles Needle - Mindful Photography: Seeing in a Different Light Tickets, Wed, Jan 14, 2026 at 7:00 PM | Eventbrite

                                                    i.      "The Art of Seeing Differently" / Going Beyond the Cliche.

Henry David Thoreau said, “It's not what you look at that matters. It's what you see.”

Join outdoor photographer and writer Colleen Miniuk for an engaging, insightful presentation on creating unique and personally meaningful images that transcend the cliché.

Learn specific and practical techniques for tapping into your knowledge, passions and observations so you can connect with your subjects on a deeper level. You’ll then express your life experiences through your own lens no matter where your travels take you.

Colleen is an outdoor photographer, writer, educator, speaker and publisher whose work explores deep creative connections with land and water. Colleen’s photography advice column is called “Dear Bubbles.”

A former corporate professional, Colleen is the author of multiple books (including “So Said the River: Life, Loss, and Pie on the Colorado”), a contributor to “Arizona Highways” and a sought-after teacher leading workshops, including one designed specifically for women. 

Juxtapositions: Using Contrasts to strengthen your images

Merriam-Webster defines juxtaposition as “the act of an instance of placing two or more things side by side, often to compare or to contrast an interesting effect.”  Juxtaposition in photography involves combining two or more elements in the same picture, highlighting the interesting contrast between them, to create an eye-catching and thought-provoking image.  Join Susan as she demonstrates different types of juxtapositions or contrasts, and how they can be used to enhance your image composition.

Susan Milinkovich began photographing with her father when she received her first Brownie camera in elementary school.  Her dad gave her the gift of “seeing” a photograph and both parents gave her a love of nature and an appreciation for the beauty to be found in our everyday world.  While she enjoys capturing the larger landscapes, it is the intimate details of a landscape, structure or flower that draws her attention and tells a story.  Susan has participated in exhibits at galleries around the Cincinnati area and has been a part of Cincinnati’s PhotoFocus.  She leads photo walks, teaches classes and workshops, is president of a camera club and is an ongoing instructor at photo workshops at the Great Smoky Mountain Institute at Tremont.  You can see Susan’s photography at www.susanmilinkovich.com

Click here to go to the CVPS sessions in Eventbrite ro register/.

 “Through the Lens: 10 Defining Moments”

Cleveland-based photographer Gabe Wasylko will showcase 10 photographs that represent some of his most meaningful work. He will share insights into the moment each image was captured, the creative process behind it and the stories that make these photographs memorable. 

He blends natural light, honest storytelling and a deep sense of place to create imagery that feels authentic, timeless and rooted in Cleveland’s identity.

Gabe is a Cleveland-based photographer focused on capturing the people, places and moments that define the city he calls home. He grew up exploring Cleveland’s neighborhoods, waterfronts and changing skyline—an experience that continues to shape how he sees and documents the city today.

His work has been featured by Destination Cleveland, The Cleveland Browns, Playhouse Square, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland Metroparks and a wide range of local organizations, brands, and publications.

At the core of his photography is a simple mission: To tell Cleveland’s story the right way—with pride, nuance and respect for the people who live there. Whether photographing city landmarks, community events or quiet moments at sunrise, Gabe aims to create work that sparks connection, builds civic pride and helps others see Cleveland the way he does.

Registration is required for this free program. Click here to reserve your spot through Eventbrite. 

You can see Gabe’s photography:

gabewasylko.com | Instagram

gabewasylko@icloud.com

Moments that Matter: Humor, Heart and the Camera

You’re invited to a special evening presented by CVPS member Michael Gershe.

Michael’s parents met in college through photography and his father passed down his passion to him and his brother.

At 8 weeks old, Michael and his family were hit by a drunk driver. His mother was killed. Despite breaking nearly every bone in his body, he went on to become a collegiate swimmer, comedian, speaker, author and photographer.  For more than 30 years he has been an advocate for road safety, sharing his powerful story at schools, military bases, and courts. 

In his 2019 memoir, “The Magic of Life: A Son’s Story of Hope After Tragedy, Grief and a Speedo,” Michale shares his life story with emotion and humor.

Michael is founder of The Magic of Life Foundation, which helps prevent impaired driving in communities. He is a two-time TedxTalk presenter and co-host of the “Crash Talk 3D” podcast, which discusses road safety.

See Michael’s website:  www.michaelgershe.com 

Awards will be presented on Wednesday, November 18, 2026, live at Hines Hill Conference Center. The slideshow of all the entries will start about 6:30 and the Awards Program will begin at 7:00 p.m. We hope all CVPS members will participate in the contest and attend to see the presentation and discussion of the winning images. See the Photo Contest tab above for submission details.