The Power of Emotion. The Evolution of the Art: Lessons from Santa's Enchanted Workshop

Speaker: Sharon Benton

Class Description

In a time when technology and AI are rapidly changing photography, one thing remains constant: the power of human connection. At Santa’s Enchanted Workshop, we discovered that meaningful images begin long before the shutter clicks—they begin with the experience. In this class, Sharon Benton shares how intentionally designing a studio ecosystem—where the client experience, artwork, products, and storytelling support one another—can elevate the art, strengthen sales, and create deeply meaningful moments. While inspired by Santa’s Enchanted Workshop, these principles apply to any studio or photography experience.

Sharon Benton

Sharon Benton is the creator of Santa’s Enchanted Workshop, a one-of-a-kind photography experience that has grown into something far beyond a traditional photo session. What began as a creative way to 3/26/26, 3:01 PM 17hats
photograph families with Santa has evolved into a thoughtfully designed studio where storytelling, emotion, and artistry come together to create meaningful moments families treasure for years.

Sharon believes photography is about much more than images—it’s about the experiences that bring those images to life. Through projects like Oliver Pippin, Keeper of the Magic, and the ideas behind her “WWWD” (What Would Walt Do?) approach to creative thinking, she continues to explore how imagination and thoughtful design can expand what a photography business can become.

Known for her warm and encouraging teaching style, Sharon loves helping photographers see that they are not limited to a single box. With creativity, intention, and a willingness to think differently, a photography business can become a place where art, storytelling, and joy all work together.

Sharon Benton's Gallery of Work

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