Photography After Hours: A Longwood Christmas
Photography After Hours: A Longwood Christmas is a photography course combining online instruction with an onsite, after-hours session at Longwood Gardens. Participants receive exclusive access to A Longwood Christmas, including the new West Conservatory, and have time to photograph the indoor and outdoor displays at their own pace.
The course begins with an online orientation covering night and low-light photography, followed by an introduction at the East Conservatory. Participants then explore the Gardens independently, reconvene to conclude the onsite session, and finish with an online critique where they can share and discuss their work.
When: November 17–December 1, 2026
Showtimes: Online orientation on Tuesday, November 17, from 6:00–7:00 pm; onsite photography session on Friday, November 20, from 10:30 pm–1:30 am; online critique on Tuesday, December 1, from 6:00–8:00 pm
Tickets: $219; $197 for Members and Innovators. The course is sold out, with general, Member, and Innovator waitlists available.
Venue: Longwood Gardens, with additional online sessions
Format: Creative arts class with online and onsite components
Instructor: Valerie Hoffman, a southeast Pennsylvania photographer and photography instructor specializing in landscape, wildlife, floral, and architectural and real-estate photography. She has a photography degree and more than 25 years of experience selling photographic equipment, teaching private lessons, and leading group classes and workshops.
Ages: Intended as an adult learning experience
Admission: The fee includes all-day admission to Longwood Gardens on the day of the onsite class.
Accessibility and conditions: The onsite course may take place partially or entirely outdoors and includes significant walking. Participants should dress appropriately for the weather and conditions.
Cancellation policy: Registrations may be canceled up to two weeks before the event for a refund minus a $30 processing fee. Refunds are not available when a program has been moved to a scheduled inclement-weather date. Cancellations can be submitted by email or by calling 610-388-5454.
Photography policy: Photographs made during Longwood photography classes may not be sold for commercial use.