Hi, I am Sherrlyn Borkgren,professional Photojournalist
I’m a purpose-driven, environmentally conscious photographer, based in Eugene Oregon with 25 years as an international magazine and newspaper photojournalist and correspondent.. I invite you to photograph and explore with me. These are journeys, not tours — immersive travel photography workshops in Guatemala, Cuba. We mingle with locals, uncover mysteries, make friends, and make outrageously great photographs.
Traveling with goodwill and purpose is the key to crafting meaningful stories. Through deliberate and ethical photography, we create transformative experiences that benefit both the communities we visit and ourselves. Whether you’re a solo traveler or joining with others, our immersive small-group photography journeys are designed to inspire and leave a lasting impact on your perspective of the world.
It's only by seeking out and establishing genuine connections, and learning to use the camera as a tool that tells stories, that we can open ourselves up to the kind of transformative travel experiences that reshape our understanding of the world.
I invite explorers, photographers, writers, poets, and anyone who loves to laugh and make friends to join these journeys. Bring a professional camera with multiple lenses—or just your phone. Bring your writer’s pen to capture the story. It’s the person behind the lens, not the equipment, who makes the photograph truly unforgettable.
An unexpected splash cools Jan down during a wet boat ride in Guatemala
Guatemala After a few exciting days we all start getting a little funky
Sherrlyn with her dog and Guatemalan children
About Sherrlyn Borkgren
International Photojournalist, Storyteller & Photography Guide
I’m Sherrlyn Borkgren, an international photojournalist based in Eugene, Oregon. That is me above this writing.
For more than 25 years, photography has taken me around the world—from remote villages and cultural celebrations to historic moments and everyday stories of people whose lives deserve to be seen.
My work has appeared in publications including National Geographic, Newsweek, Time, People, CNN, Save-the-Children, and other international media.
Photography has always been about more than taking pictures.
It is about listening, connecting, and finding the stories that reveal our shared humanity.
Why I Created These Journeys
I created these photography experiences because I believe travel can be more than sightseeing.
These are not traditional tours. I don’t even like the word “tours”.
They are opportunities to explore with curiosity, connect with local people, and use photography as a bridge between cultures.
We slow down. We observe. We learn.We have fun!
The result is not just a collection of images—it is a deeper understanding of the world.
Whether you bring a professional camera, a simple camera, or just your phone, the most important tool is the person behind the lens.
Guatemala & Cuba
In Guatemala, photography opens the door to ancient traditions, Mayan culture, colorful communities, landscapes, and everyday life.
In Cuba, beyond the famous classic cars, you’ll discover music, creativity, humor, resilience, and people who bring the country to life.
My goal is always the same:
Create meaningful photographs while respecting the people and landscapes we encounter.
Guest Photographers & Educators
Over the years, I have had the privilege of working alongside talented photographers who occasionally join these experiences, like Lynn and Sharon
As a photojournalist, I delight in listening to stories from workers while my little grey dog sits on the man's lap. There are 8 billion people in the world and each one has a story.
The gift of a book, a smile, and a moment of connection as Pat shares kindness with a Mayan storekeeper.
“A traveler engages and becomes forever linked with the culture of another. It’s not the same as going to another country as a tourist. ”
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“I’m short,” says Lynn Johnson. “That’s one of the things I pack in my camera bag.”
Lynn Johnson
Lynn joined our first Guatemala beta journey and will return for future trips.
Her work has appeared in National Geographic, Sports Illustrated, and Women of Vision. She has received major journalism awards and has taught photography and storytelling at universities and workshops.
Beyond her accomplishments, Lynn is known for her compassion, curiosity, and commitment to ethical storytelling.
Sharon Levy strong armed and strong hearted watch for an upcoming workshop with storyteller Sharon Levy.
Sharon Levy
Sharon Levy is an Emmy-winning visual storyteller and educator.
With a background in television, radio, and visual storytelling, Sharon brings creativity, humor, and a gift for helping people discover their own voice.
Watch for upcoming experiences with
Painter at Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
One awesome traveler in our group, Patrick, gifts some books to Mayan women in Guatemala