PHUKET VEGETARIAN FESTIVAL STREET PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
October 10 – 18, 2026
With Leica Ambassador Robin Schimko
Location: Phuket, Thailand
A UNIQUE PHOTOGRAPHIC EXPERIENCE IN THE HEART OF SPIRITUAL THAILAND
This October, join me in Phuket, Thailand, for an unforgettable 9 days of intense, immersive street photography during one of Southeast Asia’s most striking cultural events - the Phuket Vegetarian Festival.
The festival is loud, raw, spiritual, chaotic - and visually unlike anything you’ve ever seen.
This workshop isn’t about watching from the sidelines. It’s about getting close, feeling the energy, and capturing the heartbeat of a community that lives its rituals with fierce devotion and unshakable faith.
This year will be special because I’ll take you to places most tourist won’t go and where we are not surrounded by dozens of other photographers. I’ll be an unforgettable experience.
WHY PHUKET? WHY THIS FESTIVAL?
I first came to Thailand in 2013 - a trip that left a mark. What followed was an unexpected return in 2018, then several extended stays for photography projects in Bangkok and beyond. Each time, I was drawn deeper into Thailand’s layers of spirituality and visual intensity.
One recommendation kept surfacing: “You have to see the Vegetarian Festival.”
I did. It blew my mind. Now I want to take you there with me.
WHAT TO EXPECT
This is a 9-day intensive workshop focused on helping you evolve as a street photographer by challenging you with real-world, fast-moving situations. You'll learn to anticipate, to feel, to react - and to tell visual stories that go beyond the obvious.
Each day we’ll be out shooting together, often early mornings and late into the night — especially during the wild processions. We'll also review and edit our work daily, hold group discussions, and have 1-on-1 time to focus on your individual goals.
Between the rituals, you’ll also have the chance to explore the quieter side of Phuket: its markets, back alleys, and daily life - always with your camera in hand.
HIGHLIGHTS
Access to the Vegetarian Festival - with guidance on how to shoot respectfully and fearlessly
Daily street photography walks - in and beyond the main festival areas
In-depth photo reviews and editing sessions
Learn how to work up close and with intention in high-energy environments
Improve your composition, timing, and ability to anticipate human behavior
Discussions on ethics, cultural sensitivity, and documentary approach
Open Q&A: Gear, Leica-specific workflows, long-term projects
WHO IS THIS FOR?
This workshop is ideal for intermediate to advanced photographers who want to push themselves. You should be comfortable shooting on the street and ready to handle fast-paced, high-sensory situations.
You don’t need to shoot with a Leica - all gear types are welcome. But you do need an open mind, a passion for street photography, and a willingness to be part of a tight-knit group for a week.
ABOUT YOUR MENTOR
I’m Robin Schimko, a photographer based in Heidelberg, Germany. I’ve been shooting street for over 15 years - mostly while on the road - and working with Leica since 2015. As a Leica Ambassador, I’ve led workshops, mentored photographers, and pursued long-term projects across Asia and Europe.
This workshop is a reflection of my own photographic journey - full of movement, culture, and moments of unexpected connection.
DETAILS
Dates: October 10–18, 2026
Location: Phuket Town, Thailand
Group size: Max 4 participants
Skill level: Intermediate and above
Language: English (German support available)
Workshop fee: 1250€ (early bird 1050€ until April 30th)
Included: Daily mentoring, portfolio reviews, group feedback,
Not included: Flights, accommodation, meals, insurance
READY TO JOIN?
If you’re ready for a week of high-adrenaline photography, intense cultural immersion, and personal growth with your camera - this is for you.
Let’s go deep. Let’s shoot hard. Let’s experience something unforgettable together.
Reserve your spot now.
See the dedicated workshop page for details. (click here)
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The exact meeting location will be communicated two week before the workshop.
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You'll need a digital camera capable of manual settings for exposure and focus. I recommend bringing a single lens with a focal length between 24 and 35mm (full frame equivalent). Shooting film is also an option, but ensure you can develop and scan the film on the same day, ready by the following morning. If you have additional questions about required gear, please reach out.
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We can make arrangements—just contact me before the workshop begins.
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If I need to cancel the workshop for any reason, a full refund will be provided. If you need to cancel, a full refund (minus a 10% administration fee) is available up to two months before the workshop. If you cancel within two months, you can attend any future workshop within one year from the original date at no extra cost.
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If you need help choosing a hotel, feel free to reach out. I’d be happy to recommend the best areas to stay in and suggest options based on your preferences.