Lilo’s course was both enlightening and transformative. Lectures involved understanding photography’s pivotal role in the development of psychological theory and practice as well as introducing the class to artists who utilize photography to navigate the emotional and often challenging moments through this collective journey of life.  

Lilo sees each of her students and encourages them to explore that which may be just outside of where they reside comfortably as a photographer. Without this course, I may have never have given myself the challenge to turn my camera around and explore self-portraiture. Because of this course, I have a broader understanding of photography, an artist’s journal, and greater empathy for the woman (myself) behind the camera.

In her class, Therapeutic Photography, Lilo taught us how to use all aspects of photography—taking, analyzing, and using photos—to promote personal healing, growth, or understanding. Personally, I learned retelling a story through images is a way to express feelings symbolically. It can bring focus to the positive elements in your life and leave worries and preoccupation with heath or sadness aside. 

I discovered that with a camera in my hands, I slowed down. I center on the beauty of nature and its calming influence. Lilo’s teaching of self-awareness through the use of the visual structure of the selfie brought a sense of true identity before the stresses of life and sickness came into play. Art brings these things to us subconsciously, but after this class, I am more aware of the healing power of self-expression.

Lilo creates a warm, supportive atmosphere that made me feel truly free and safe — especially when it came to sharing personal work that can be emotional and deeply moving. She approaches everything with great care, allowing each participant to move at their own pace, while still offering a very well-structured course filled with rich, inspiring content. 

I’m especially grateful for how she consistently highlights the importance of joy. In creative processes, it’s so valuable to shift the focus away from the end result and instead embrace a joyful journey — one that can be deeply healing. 

This course was incredibly meaningful and inspiring for me — it helped me reconnect with photography on a more personal and self-reflective level.

I came away from the course with several new technical and creative ideas. The final outcome was quite nice, as my wife was deeply touched by the book I created, and I made a second copy for my granddaughter so she could appreciate the special bond she shared with her grandma. 

The course also rekindled my journaling practice, something I will probably continue long term. It was an inspiring experience that reminded me of the power of photography to connect us to our loved ones and our own stories.

I really enjoyed the course and especially appreciated the way Lilo created such a wonderful safe space for all the photographers to explore what they find therapeutic in their art. I highly recommend this class if you’re interested in diving deeper into what inspires your photography.