About
One-on-one instruction is a great way to teach, and I believe that my students progress at a much faster rate than those students in a classroom situation.
Teaching is one of the best ways to keep learning!
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Samantha L.
Luz V.
Karen D.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Speaking with them to determine what they want to do, and what they actually know. Building from there, I tailor a lesson plan that will serve to get my students to a skill level, both with their cameras and using the post production software, PhotoShop and Lightroom, that will allow them to create images they will be proud of.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Staff instructor, The Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism, 1973-1978; apprenticed for Life Magazine photographer John O. Shearer, 40+ years of work in the field and studio.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$30 per hour; negotiable discounts for multiple days and/or hours.
How did you get started teaching?
When Life Magazine folded in the early 1970s, the photographer I was working for, John O. Shearer was offered a position as a professor at The Columbia Graduate School of Journalism. John invited me to teach darkroom and basic camera work, which grew to include instruction on how to plan and assemble a picture story. In addition, while at Columbia, I also worked for famed television producer and director Fred W. Friendly instructing his students on film and motion picture camera work.
What types of students have you worked with?
Beginners and intermediate level, some of whom were working towards eventually turning professional. In several recent cases my students have reached professional levels and are currently producing paid free lance assignments.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Covering Harvey/Irma/Maria responses from Texas to St. Thomas.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Talk with the photographer, explain what you want, where you want to go and how you think you can get there. Go to the library, if time permits, and go through books of photography, as opposed to books ON photography. See which style of photography catches your eye which can serve as a starting point.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What do you want to accomplish and what path do you see towards achieving that goal? In addition, what type/types of photography do you want to pursue? For example someone who wants to be a studio photographer will take a vastly different path, once the basics are firmly in place, than a photojournalist or landscape photographer will take.