Unscripted: Candid Street Photography at Denver’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade | March

Unscripted: Candid Street Photography at Denver’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Date  | Friday & Saturday, March 13 & 14, 2026

Time  |   6 PM – 9 PM & 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM

Location |  Colorado Photographic Arts Center

1200 Lincoln Street, Suite 111, Denver, CO 80203

Cost  |  $180 Member $200 Non Member

Instructors  |  Jeff Tidwell

Skill Level  |  All skill levels welcome

Objective:

To equip participants with the skills and confidence to capture authentic, candid moments and behind-the-scenes narratives during live public events. Through a combination of classroom instruction and real-world shooting at Denver’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade, attendees will learn how to anticipate action, engage respectfully with subjects, and tell compelling visual stories that go beyond the obvious.

Course Description:

This two-day street photography workshop is designed to help you capture the pulse of public events with authenticity and artistry.

Day 1 offers in-depth instruction on techniques for shooting candid scenes, working with natural light, and navigating crowds while staying unobtrusive. You’ll also learn how to gain access to behind-the-scenes areas and build trust with subjects for more intimate storytelling.

On Day 2, you’ll put your skills to the test at Denver’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade — a vibrant celebration filled with energy, emotion, and endless photographic opportunities. From performers prepping before the parade to spontaneous crowd reactions, you’ll learn to see beyond the spectacle and document the human side of the event. Day 1 will be in the classroom at CPAC. Day 2 will take place downtown before and during the annual St. Patricks Day Parade.

TOPICS COVERED
  • Approaching subjects: how to naturally and unobtrusively engage with environments
  • Composing a frame: principles of composition to create visually striking and engaging photographs
  • Seeing light: how to recognize and utilize different lighting conditions, understanding how light affects mood, texture, and depth in images
  • Anticipating moments and stories: how to read your environment and anticipate fleeting moments
  • Art of street portraiture: how to engage with subjects to convey personality and stories

Materials Needed:

  • Digital or film camera of your choice*
  • Computer if available
  • Appropriate clothes and shoes for weather and walking
  • Note-taking materials

*Loaner cameras/batteries/memory cards are available through CPAC on request. Must request in advance of workshop.