This is a guest blog post by Suzy Goodrick, Rad Documentary Style Photographer who will be documenting the 2022 Rooted Retreat in Phoenix, AZ.

A few tips for staying in the moment and being natural in front of the camera:

~ During group activities, leave your phone in your room. When the urge comes up to snap a photo or remember a moment, say “Hey Suzy, would you mind snapping a photo of us?” I’m here to serve you and capture all the moments, seen and unseen.

~ Do your best to stay present. I know it’s easier said than done, but let’s try to be so present in our bodies and souls that we forget about our insecurities and “how we look.” I’m here to get the best angle and make you look good babe.

~ Get to know me. I’m a chill babe who will be at the retreat as an attendee as well! So let’s have a coffee together and get to know each other! A few things to get us started; I’m an enneagram 4 wing 3, INJF, wedding photographer here in Phoenix, obsessed with local coffee, big fan of charcuterie, Disneyland fan, and live music junkie.

A few things to know about the Arizona desert:

Average temps for late September in the Phoenix area will land somewhere in the upper 90’s. The southwest is home to sunny skies and dry heat, so be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, a refillable water bottle, and those sunglasses. The upper 90’s can sound a bit intimidating, but with ample air conditioning indoors and the pool outdoors, it’ll be a breeze – I promise.

The evenings in the desert are stunning. The nights will be in the mid 70’s. Bring a cozy sweater for indoors and a light layer for outdoors.

Hydrate before coming to Arizona. Drink lots of water the days leading up to the retreat. This will help prepare your body to be in the heat. No need to overdo it, just hydrate a bit more than normal. If you want to take the extra step, pack a few hydration/electrolyte tablets (like liquid IV) and drink those beforehand and/or pack a few for the weekend!

Packing List

• For the pool: swimsuit, sandals, hat, refillable water bottle, sunglasses, sunscreen

• For the house: journal, pen, comfy clothes, facial moisturizer

I’m pumped to meet you and share the Arizona desert with you! See you soon!