19th - 23th April, 2026

Photography Retreat
Portfolio Building
Business Booster
Dolce Vita Experience

Join us in 2026 for the next edition of Photo Unity — an immersive, soul-stirring photography retreat set in the heart of Italy’s most enchanting landscapes.

Curated for emerging and established creatives alike, this experience blends hands-on portfolio development with high-level business insight, all wrapped in the effortless elegance of la dolce vita. From golden-hour shoots in timeless villages to intimate masterclasses with top-tier mentors, every moment is designed to elevate your craft and expand your creative network. Whether you’re seeking artistic growth, professional momentum, or simply a deeper connection to your work — this is where your next chapter begins. Come for the beauty. Stay for the transformation.

Photography Retreat

Escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in Italy’s timeless beauty — where every moment becomes a chance to reconnect with your creative soul.

Portfolio Building

Craft a powerful, cohesive body of work through guided shoots in stunning locations, with expert styling and real-time mentorship.

Business Booster

Gain insider knowledge on branding, client growth, and sustainable success from industry leaders who walk the talk.

Dolce Vita Experience

Live the art of slow, intentional living — with delicious meals, inspiring company, and golden hours that linger long after sunset.

MENTORS

SPECIAL GUESTS

EDITION 2025

EDITION 2025

Lovely notes !

  • I didn’t expect to laugh as much as I had and it has a true gift! And those kind of lessons are the once that stick with you in a way that is easy to implement in a business and in the way we do photography”.

    -Diana

  • “Photo Unity has transformed my photography and my business by giving me a strong blueprint and foundation. I come here with nothing planned, just concepts and ideas, it give me a place where to put those ideas”.

    -Chris

  • “ I come here with expectations and have been blown out of the water. Realizing how much more I can do and be as a photographer”.

    -Oluwatomisin

MAURICIO ARIAS

MEET THE TEAM

FOUNDER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world.

Book your spot now !

We want to stay together in Udine to make the most of the Italian experience! Please book your room at the Astoria Hotel, Udine, as soon as possible—rooms fill up quickly during this season due to national holidays and international art festivals. Once your spot at Photo Unity is confirmed, we highly recommend securing your stay right away. We'll all be together in downtown Udine, having the best time! Plus, the bus to Castle Ceconi will pick you up directly from the hotel’s front door!

How do I get to Udine?

The closest major international airport is Venice Marco Polo (VCE). To get from VCE to Udine you have a few options:

By train: From the VCE airport you will first have to take a shuttle with ATVO to Venice Mestre train station. From there, you will be able to take the train the rest of the way to Udine (you can buy your train tickets in advance here). There are also taxis that wait outside the station for your convenience.

By bus: Bus tickets can be purchased in advance with FlixBus. There are buses that leave directly from the bus stop at VCE airport which go to the bus station in Udine. The bus is generally a bit faster than the train but it has fewer departures available.

By private transfer: Using a service like Viator, you can book a private transfer to pick you up directly at the airport and drive you to the hotel in Udine. This is the easiest option but also the most expensive (you might be able to coordinate ride-sharing with other students on our private Facebook group to split the cost). Up to 8 people can ride together.

 

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 FAQs

  • Absolutely! Photo Unity is designed to accommodate photographers and business owners of all experience levels. In fact, this is the perfect opportunity to get you moving in the right direction from the start.

  • Yes, this workshop will do a lot for you! We've assembled a top-tier group of wedding photography educators, each bringing their unique insights and experiences. This diversity of perspectives will not only refine your photography skills but could also transform how you approach your craft and manage your business.

  • Bring your camera gear and laptop! Good walking shoes are a must and don't forget to bring a light jacket and/or sweaters for evenings as the temperature drops more at night.

  • Udine, nestled in the northeastern region of Italy, is a charming city known for its rich history and vibrant culture. Its architecture blends Venetian and Austrian influences, with highlights including the historic Piazza della Libertà and the majestic Udine Castle. The city serves as a gateway to the Friuli region, offering a mix of picturesque landscapes and a lively local atmosphere, characterized by its bustling markets and traditional eateries.

    Venice is a mesmerizing city built on a network of canals and stands out for its unparalleled beauty and historical significance. Renowned for its iconic gondolas, the Grand Canal, and landmarks like St. Mark's Basilica and the Rialto Bridge, Venice is a labyrinth of narrow alleys and charming squares. Its unique setting, with ornate palaces and a labyrinthine layout, creates an enchanting backdrop that has captivated visitors for centuries.

    Castle Ceconi, located in the picturesque town of Cividale del Friuli in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region, is a stunning example of 19th-century Neo-Gothic architecture. Built by the prominent Ceconi family, the castle features intricate stonework, elaborate towers, and sprawling gardens that evoke a fairy-tale ambiance. Its opulent design and well-preserved state reflect both historical grandeur and artistic flair, making it a captivating destination for those interested in Italian heritage and architecture.

  • In late April, Udine experiences mild and pleasant weather, with temperatures typically ranging from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 65°F). The days are generally sunny or partly cloudy-- it's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the city!

    Similarly, Venice enjoys mild and increasingly warm weather, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 19°C (54°F to 66°F). The city often experiences a mix of sunny and partly cloudy days, making it a very pleasant time to wander through its canals and historic streets.

  • Throughout the 4-day workshop, you'll be engaged in educational sessions, meals, and networking activities from 9am to 9pm each day. After the day's schedule concludes, you'll have the opportunity to explore Udine by night, where you can stroll through the city, enjoy gelato, or grab a drink. Udine is very peaceful and safe to walk at night!