Name: Writing from Photographs with Sonja Livingston | Winton Library
Start: 2026-10-13
End: 2026-10-13

Rochester, NY, is the third-largest metropolitan area in New York State, nestled along the southern shore of Lake Ontario. With a proud sports tradition, Rochester is home to iconic teams like the Rochester Red Wings (MiLB), Rochester Americans (AHL), Rochester Knighthawks (NLL), and Flower City Union (NPSL). Our vibrant sports culture thrives across all levels, from youth clubs and high schools to elite collegiate programs, creating a strong, year-round foundation for athletic excellence.

The Rochester NY Sports Commission champions Monroe County through the power of sports tourism. By attracting championships, invitationals, and tournaments across a wide range of disciplines, we help fuel the region’s economy and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. Each year, Rochester welcomes a growing roster of sporting events, showcasing our top-tier facilities, supportive community, and dedication to teamwork on and off the field.

We invite event organizers, rights holders, and sports professionals to discover why Rochester and Monroe County are ideal destinations for your next competition or tournament. Let’s play in Rochester!

Visit Rochester

What can photographs tell us about our lives today, the traditions of our past, and the world we want to create? Which stories, emotions, details, secrets, and meanings lie just outside frame of the photograph?

Whether you’re creating memoir, poetry, family history, or a scrapbook—using photographs to inspire or accompany your work can add much-needed texture, focus, and intimacy. This session will offer tips and writing prompts to help get you started. You’ll have time to discuss your work in a supportive environment and come away with fresh ideas and drafts to refine or expand into longer projects. Bring 3-5 photographs (phone or hard copy) that intrigue, inspire, or hold great meaning for you.

This workshop is presented as part of our [Rochester Reads 25th Anniversary](https://writersandbooks.org/rochester-reads/) programming. Participants in this workshop will learn from Sonja Livingston, author of our 2026 Rochester Reads selection, *Ghostbread*.

**Sonja Livingston** is the author of four books of creative nonfiction, including the award- winning memoir Ghostbread, which has been adopted for classroom use around the country. Her work appears in The Kenyon Review, Ploughshares, Salon, and elsewhere. Honors include a NYFA Fellowship, an Iowa Review Award, an Arts & Letters Prize, a VanderMey Nonfiction Prize, and an AWP Book Prize. Sonja is an associate professor in the MFA Program at Virginia Commonwealth University and teaches in the Postgraduate Program at Vermont College of Fine Arts.

Writing from Photographs with Sonja Livingston | Winton Library

Nestled in the heart of Henrietta, New York, the Fairfield Inn Rochester Henrietta/University Area hotel offers guests a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and thoughtful amenities. Just a stone’s throw away from the University of Rochester and moments from downtown, this modern hotel places visitors right where they need to be to explore the best of the area. Our spacious, well-appointed rooms provide a peaceful retreat with plush bedding, free Wi-Fi, and ergonomic workspaces. Jumpstart your day with our complimentary hot breakfast, featuring a variety of healthy and indulgent options. Stay active with our fitness center or take a refreshing dip in our indoor pool. Business travelers will appreciate our convenient services and proximity to key corporate offices. Whether you’re in town for business, pleasure, or a bit of both, Fairfield Inn Rochester Henrietta/University Area is dedicated to making your stay exceptional. 

Fairfield Inn Rochester Henrietta/University Area

Escape to a serene retreat at Woodcliff Hotel & Spa, nestled in the rolling hills of Fairport, NY. Our elegant accommodations, world-class spa, and breathtaking views offer the perfect balance of luxury and tranquility. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a rejuvenating escape, our dedicated staff is committed to making your stay unforgettable. Experience gourmet dining, championship golf, and endless outdoor adventures just minutes from Rochester. Book your stay today and discover why Woodcliff Hotel & Spa is the premier destination for discerning travelers. 

Woodcliff Hotel & Spa

Nestled at the gateway to the scenic Finger Lakes region, the RIT Inn & Conference Center is a premier hotel choice located at 5257 W Henrietta Rd, Henrietta, NY. Our luxurious property combines comfort, convenience, and top-notch service to ensure an unforgettable experience for both business and leisure travelers. Featuring elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, each stay promises relaxation and rejuvenation. Delight in our world-class amenities, including indoor and outdoor pools, a fully-equipped fitness center, and on-site dining options that offer a taste of local and international cuisine. For business travelers, our state-of-the-art conference center is the perfect venue for meetings, conventions, and events, accommodating up to 500 guests with the latest technology and professional planning services. Whether you're exploring the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes or conducting business, the RIT Inn & Conference Center is your home away from home in Henrietta, NY. 

RIT Inn & Conference Center

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Victor, New York, Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester/Victor invites guests to experience unparalleled comfort and convenience. Perfectly situated at 7637 NY-96, our hotel is the ideal base for exploring the rich history and natural beauty of upstate New York. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, our spacious, well-appointed rooms and suites are designed to meet all your needs, with complimentary Wi-Fi, cozy beds, and modern amenities ensuring a restful stay. Kick start your day with our free hot breakfast, and unwind in the evening with a relaxing dip in our indoor pool or a workout in the fitness center. Shopping enthusiasts will appreciate our proximity to Eastview Mall, while outdoor adventurers can explore nearby trails and parks. At Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester/Victor, we're committed to making your stay memorable, offering friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home. 

Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester/Victor

Nestled in the vibrant heart of the Chili neighborhood, just moments from Rochester Airport, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham offers a seamless blend of comfort and convenience for travelers seeking a memorable stay in Rochester, NY. This inviting hotel prides itself on delivering an exceptional experience through its thoughtfully designed rooms, equipped with plush bedding, modern amenities, and complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring a restful night for business and leisure travelers alike. Begin your day with a smile, thanks to our complimentary breakfast, setting you up perfectly for exploring the wonders of Rochester or a productive day of meetings. With a location that puts the best of the city within easy reach, including local dining, shopping, and entertainment options, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Chili/Rochester Airport promises a stay that's not just comfortable, but also enriched with the genuine warmth and hospitality Wyndham hotels are known for. 

Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Chili/Rochester Airport

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and convenience at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Rochester-Victor, an IHG Hotel. Nestled in the serene town of Victor, NY, at 7502 Main St Fishers, our hotel is the ultimate gateway for both business and leisure travelers. Just a short drive from downtown Rochester, our location offers easy access to major attractions and corporate hubs. Start your day with our complimentary Express Start Breakfast, featuring a range of delicious hot and cold options to energize your morning. Our modern guest rooms and suites are designed with your relaxation in mind, equipped with plush bedding, free high-speed Wi-Fi, and ample workspace. Dive into our indoor pool or keep up with your workout routine at our 24-hour fitness center. Whether you're here for a meeting or exploring the Finger Lakes, our friendly staff is dedicated to making your stay memorable. Experience comfort and convenience at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Rochester-Victor, where we make every journey brighter. 

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Rochester-Victor, an IHG Hotel

Nestled in the picturesque town of Macedon, New York, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Macedon offers a welcoming retreat for travelers seeking comfort and convenience. With its strategic location along NY-31, the hotel provides easy access to the Finger Lakes region, making it an ideal hub for tourists eager to explore the natural beauty and attractions of the area.

The hotel features a range of accommodations designed with guest comfort in mind, including modern rooms and spacious suites that cater to both solo travelers and families. Each room is equipped with essential amenities, ensuring a restful stay for every visitor. For added convenience, guests can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi throughout their stay, perfect for both business travelers needing to stay connected and families looking to share their vacation moments.

Designed with accessibility in mind, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Macedon ensures that all guests, including those with disabilities, can enjoy a comfortable stay. The hotel is a short drive from several local attractions, adding to its appeal for those eager to explore the nearby charming towns, scenic trails, and cultural landmarks.

Whether you're in town for business or leisure, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Macedon offers a restful and convenient experience, making it a compelling choice for your stay in the beautiful Finger Lakes region. 

Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Macedon

Nestled in the beautiful and tranquil town of Victor, New York, the Best Western Plus Victor Inn & Suites offers guests an escape into comfort and convenience. Just off Route 96, our hotel is the perfect base for travelers looking to explore the Finger Lakes region, shop at the nearby Eastview Mall, or indulge in the local wineries and breweries. Our modern and well-appointed rooms, complete with plush bedding, ensure a restful night's sleep, while our complimentary hot breakfast provides the perfect start to your day. Whether you're here for business or leisure, you can unwind in our heated indoor pool or stay active in our fully-equipped fitness center. With our friendly staff dedicated to making your stay exceptional, the Best Western Plus Victor Inn & Suites is more than just a place to stay—it's a gateway to the best of Victor and the surrounding beauty of upstate New York. 

Best Western Plus Victor Inn & Suites

Welcome to Hampton Inn Brockport, a haven of comfort and convenience located just moments away from the charming historic village of Brockport, NY. Nestled at 4873 Lake Rd N, our hotel offers the perfect blend of cozy accommodations and warm hospitality, ensuring a memorable stay for both business and leisure travelers. Each of our spacious rooms is equipped with modern amenities, including free high-speed internet and a comfortable Hampton bed, guaranteeing a restful night's sleep. 

Kick start your day with our complimentary hot breakfast featuring a variety of healthy and indulgent options. Stay active in our fitness center or unwind in our indoor pool. For those visiting SUNY Brockport or exploring the scenic Erie Canal, our prime location offers easy access to the best local attractions. At Hampton Inn Brockport, we're committed to providing you with an exceptional stay, filled with genuine service, comfort, and convenience. Experience the beauty of upstate New York with us! 

Hampton Inn Brockport

Escape to The Lake House on Canandaigua, where unparalleled luxury meets the serene beauty of upstate New York's Finger Lakes. Nestled along the picturesque shores of Canandaigua Lake, our hotel offers an oasis of relaxation enriched by a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels like home. Each meticulously designed room boasts breathtaking views, inviting guests to unwind and indulge in the comfort and elegance that define their stay. Whether you're exploring the lush vineyards, embarking on a culinary journey at our acclaimed on-site restaurant, or finding peace at our world-class spa, The Lake House caters to every desire. Our exceptional service and attention to detail ensure that from the moment you arrive, your experience is nothing short of extraordinary. Let The Lake House on Canandaigua be your retreat to relish memorable moments and create new traditions amidst the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes. 

Writing from Photographs with Sonja Livingston | Winton Library

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