I started working with Nancy Ori by happenstance in the fall of 2013. I’ve attended two of her group workshops in NJ and was fortunate enough to travel with Nancy to France for a 9-day workshop in the Normandy region. All of my experiences with Nancy to date have far exceeded my expectations on many levels. Nancy is a talented photographer who has the unique ability to translate her skills and passion for her craft to others. She has the patience and knowledge to answer any and all questions for students of varying skill levels and is eager to do so. Moreover, Nancy is still accessible to her students when they are in the field during workshops and well after the course has been completed for guidance and critique.
The main distinguishing factor between Nancy’s workshops and others, is her personal touch and pride in a job well done for every aspect of the workshop – the planning and organization of the locations, her teaching method and style as well as her ability to cultivate a sense of camaraderie and friendship among her students. You don’t realize the importance of all of these qualities until you experience them first hand.
I came home from our trip to France with a renewed focus and energy to take my passion to the next level. I attribute this not only to the workshops during the trip but also to the time spent with my traveling companions – strangers who I now consider friends. There is a marked difference in teaching people how to take pictures and inspiring people through the art of photography. If you want to be inspired and learn the art of photography, Nancy Ori is your instructor. You won’t be disappointed.
— Lisa C.
Afternoon, Jacque, You have been on my mind. Wondered how you are getting through these insane days of nothingness. If you don’t have travel fantasies, then you really have nothing!
Looking forward to seeing where you are headed when this madness is over. Always love your tours, your leaders and the world that you have opened up to us when we travel with Strabo!
Glad to put in a word about how amazing your tours are. Not only well-planned, informational, but more important, personal as your leaders are so approachable during the tour, regardless of where we are. The tour leaders have always shared their connections with the land and the people for participants, and that alone keeps bringing us back to Strabo. Travel is as much about seeing a land, cultural enrichment as it is about photography.
And that’s why I travel with Strabo. Sorry to go on, just wanted to make sure you know how valuable you are to those of us with wander lust!
— S. Doner
The trip was a 10 our of 10, as well as the photo instructor. Favorite part was I loved the food, especially the meal at the farm house in Ragusa and being part of the life of that family, if for just one day. These trips are about being immersed in the culture of the location. Meeting new photographers who share their passion along the way is an added benefit.
— S Doner
This was a wonderful trip to Ireland. Loved the different locations – city and countryside – that we encountered along the way from Dublin to Dingle. Our local guide was amazing. His knowledge of Irish history and its topography knows no bounds. Our photography guide, Nancy Ori, and Strabo’s owner, Jacque Steedle, round out this amazing trip which made the photography tour possible.
— M Menago
Hi Jacque. I made it home from Ireland. I just wanted to say again how wonderful the trip was. I enjoyed every place we visited, stayed over night and photographed. I especially like that you arranged for such good weather! I thought the group of people were very nice and easy to get along with, as was our drive and guide. Thanks for all the time and effort that you put into this trip. I really appreciate it.
— K Curtis
Last week was truly an experience of a lifetime and I can’t thank you enough for all the thought, planning, commitment, heart and soul that you and the others gave to putting the program together. You went over and above to create an amazing, fun, memorable and truly unique experience. This trip brought me much joy, positive energy, inner peace and photographic knowledge. I had an absolute ball! Absolutely loved all the direct interaction with the people. This aspect truly differentiates your workshop from a typical trip and made it a very personal, connected and memorable experience.
— Janis
Nancy, that was a great trip. The work that you put into it was very apparent from the variety of experiences we had and the number of people we met. My favorite parts were spending the whole week based in one place and getting a sense of what life is like for the people who live there. Another plus, in my opinion, was the amount of time spent and the subjects covered in lessons. As a “point and shooter”, I felt that what was being taught was interesting and relevant, even though I did not have the capability of implementing some of the suggestions.
— Iris L.
Your instructions regarding exposure settings, use of flash outdoors, control of flash intensity were invaluable. I have a new-found appreciation for variations in natural light as well, while there is much to learn, these tidbits have renewed my interest and passion for photography. It is a wonder and a pleasure to take photos that capture what I saw, and wanted, with minimal adjustments. Also, you were wonderful in taking the time to critique my old photos. While others had given me their thoughts yours were the most insightful, directive and helpful.
— Edgar
I’ve thought a lot about the trip and felt that your instruction was excellent and your patience with our questions and our technical inadequacies was remarkable. I thought everyone else would be much more accomplished than I am and was delighted that I could keep up and learn so many new things. Your teaching style matches my learning style – focused and to the point. I also learned so much from my fellow students who graciously shared their knowledge and experience. The scheduling and pacing of the trip were excellent even though by the evening I was too exhausted to participate in the frivolity. However, I didn’t feel left out because you did not use that time for instruction. It was a great workshop for content, organization and student support.
— Ruth
