******
@ Marriott arts district — NEW ORLEANS
OCT 12-14
2025
The first photography conference for Black photographers
IT'S TIME TO attend a photo conference that gives you the tools to be successful – in a supportive, loving, judge-free environment?
Join our expertly guided Cousin photo walks and capture the unique charm of the Big Easy. From the historic French Quarter to the lively streets of the Arts District, you'll create stunning images alongside your photo family.
At the Photo Cookout, you'll see that we're more than just an event – we're a family.
Explore the Vibrant Streets of NOLA with Your Cousins
For the 8th year running, we're bringing together our extended family of talented, passionate, and fun-loving Cousins worldwide to create an unforgettable experience.
Our keynote presentations feature some of the most respected names in the photography industry. Gain insights, tips, and inspiration to transform your approach to the craft.
Learn from the Most Experienced Cousins in our industry
Connect with your fellow Cousins, make lifelong friends, and possibly find your next collaborator. The Photo Cookout family is known for its warmth, support, and creative energy.
strengthen your network and support your family
It's not called a "Cookout" for nothing! Experience the best of New Orleans' world-renowned food scene while bonding with your Photo Cousins.
share a meal and savor the moment — the new orleans way
******
WHERE
MARRIOTT ARTS DISTRICT
NOLA
DETAILS
WHEN
OCT 12-14
2025
PRICE
early bird $499
⇨ Access to all Cousin keynote presentations
⇨ Participation in photo walks
⇨ Networking events and parties
⇨ Exclusive Photo Cookout 2025 family swag
⇨ Chances to win amazing photography gear
WHAT'S INCLUDED IN YOUR REGISTRATION:
⇨ Access to all Cousin
keynote presentations
⇨ Participation in
photo walks
⇨ Networking events
and parties
⇨ Exclusive Photo Cookout
2024 family swag
⇨ Chances to win amazing
photography gear
+ Vendors and Lunch
+ Mastermind Awards
+ Photo Walks
+ Styled Shoots
+ Dine out to support Black
owned restaurants in NOLA
*Enhance your experience with a VIP Day with Dr. T! She will guide you through marketing concepts and provide 1:1 social media marketing training. Please note, this VIP ticket is separate from The Photo Cookout registration.
+ Vendors and Lunch
+ Vendor Time
+ Photo Walks
+ Game Night
+ Post Cookout Photo Walks
+ Styled Shoots
+ Nighttime Photo Session
+ Light Painting
+ Midnight Kickback
OCT 12
OCT 13
OCT 14
OCT 15*
I'm Dr. Tomayia Colvin, EdD, Founder of The Photo Cookout and Tomayia Colvin Education; Photographer at Tomayia Colvin Photography; Sony Artisan; and most importantly – Mama Bear to Grace, Ivory and the entire Cookout and TCE Community.
And you are invited to join us at The Photo Cookout – one part photo conference, one part family cookout.
Unlike
Any Other.
EST 2018
Dr. T
Is this family reunion suitable for Cousins of all skill levels? Absolutely! Whether you're a new addition to the family or a seasoned Cousin, Photo Cookout has something for everyone. Our diverse range of sessions and workshops cater to all skill levels in our photo family.
What if I don't have professional-grade equipment? No worries, Cousin! While some family members bring high-end gear, many create stunning images with entry-level cameras or even smartphones. It's not about the equipment, it's about the eye behind the lens and the support of your Cousins.
Will there be opportunities to try out new gear? You bet! We partner with leading camera and equipment brands to provide demo stations where you can test out the latest gear with your Cousins.
Can I bring a non-photographer friend or partner? Of course! We offer companion passes for those who want to join our extended family. They'll have access to all the social events and can explore New Orleans while you're in sessions with your photo Cousins.
?
?
?
Common Questions
⇨ Don't miss out on the photography family reunion of the year! Click the button below to secure your spot at the Photo Cookout 2025 family table.
join us!
One-Part Photo Conference + One-Part Family Cookout
⇨ apply for a scholarship
The Photo Cookout Cousins is a 501(c)(3) organization that fills in the financial gap that prohibits Black, photographers of color, and people from attending workshops and conferences. We will make sure folks can attend. If you or someone you know is need of a scholarship to attend The Photo Cookout 2024, send them over.
******
no matter what, we've got you covered, Cousin. Let's cook up some magic together!
You've got the basics down, but you're eager to learn from your more experienced Cousins. At Photo Cookout, you'll feel right at home as you learn, grow, and build lasting connections with your new photo family.
What kind of Cousin are you?
I'm the new addition to the photo cookout familY!
You've been part of the family for a while, but you're ready to step up. Our sessions on photography business strategies and marketing will help you turn your passion into a thriving career, with support from your Cousins every step of the way.
I'm the Cousin ready to take on the family business.
You're experienced, but you're craving fresh inspiration. Our diverse workshops and Cousin-led photo walks will reignite your creativity and introduce you to cutting-edge techniques.
I'm the creative Cousin always trying new things.
You're a passionate photographer who wants it all – learning, connecting with your Cousins, and having a blast in one of America's most photogenic cities.
I'm the Cousin who never misses a family gathering
"Joining the Photo Cookout family changed my entire perspective on photography. The connections I've made with my Cousins have been invaluable to my career!"
—
SARAH L
PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER
★★★★★
"The energy at our family reunion is unmatched. I've attended for 3 years straight, and each time I leave feeling inspired and recharged by my Cousins."
—
MICHAEL T
LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHER
★★★★★
"As a new Cousin, I was worried about feeling out of place. But our Photo Cookout family is so welcoming + supportive. I learned more from my Cousins in 3 days than I had in the past year!"
—
EMILY R
HOBBIEST PHOTOGRAPHER
★★★★★
"As a new Cousin, I was worried about feeling out of place. But our Photo Cookout family is so welcoming + supportive. I learned more from my Cousins in 3 days than I had in the past year!"
—
EMILY R
HOBBIEST PHOTOGRAPHER
★★★★★
"The energy at our family reunion is unmatched. I've attended for 3 years straight, and each time I leave feeling inspired and recharged by my Cousins."
—
MICHAEL T
LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHER
★★★★★
"Joining the Photo Cookout family changed my entire perspective on photography. The connections I've made with my Cousins have been invaluable to my career!"
—
SARAH L
PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER
★★★★★
