About
When teaching I am very patient. You ask questions and I then teach you. The starting point is wherever you would like to start. If you want to start from the beginning then we start there. If you want to start on something specific, because you are an experienced photographer, then we can start there. Whichever way you choose your learning experience will be enjoyable.
I have a deep passion for photography. I have been doing it for several decades and I still have pure fire for it. I enjoy all types of photography and I really enjoy teaching and sharing my experience.
Highlights
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juan B.
Rhonda J.
Jane O.
Ayo A.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Usually done within a workshop but if your need is a 'One on one,' we still have it at a park or coffee shop. We usually go to a park with water movement like a waterfall or something of that sort. This is all needed in learning how to deal with motion and there are some lighting challenges that can be resolved in a park. Besides, parks are nice and relaxing. And, each lesson is very informative.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a member of Professional Photographers of America (PPA) and Professional Photographers of California (PPC). I have attended West Coast School for Professional Photographers. I have attended numerous advanced workshops and I am a student of the profession. I continue to learn.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My workshops are generally $40 and are usually 2 to 2 1/2 hours long. "One on one's,' or private lessons are usually $30 a session and can vary in time depending on the individual need. Usually an hour or a little longer. Also, if you attend a private session you will be able to email me or text me on an ongoing basis about photography. I do that because there is a lot of information given and we don't always retain everything.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching photography as a way to give back. I was taught photography as a youngster and always said that I would teach it as soon as I was able. I mentored photographers who are hobbyist and photographers who became professional. I am proud and honored to teach photography.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with beginner photographers to advanced/pro photographers.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I have provided the Long Beach Police department with wall photos of there guys in action. The photos are on the walls in the West Division and thru out the South Division headquarters. The city of Long Beach and the Long Beach Police Department have used my photos for there website and recruiting brochures. I have provided the Long Beach Holiday Inn Hotel with photos for there brochures as well as other businesses. I have also provided Redondo Beach Police Department officers with a slew of old style photos for there personal collection. Several Long Beach Police officers have been thru my beginner's workshop with more attending in the future.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
As a student of photography, you want an instructor who will make sure you have the basic knowledge of photography first. If you don't know the basics of photography and try to move on to advanced lighting, for example, you will more than likely get frustrated and possible quit. That would be an injustice. Your instructor has to be willing to make sure you have a sound basic understanding of photography before you move unto more advanced photography. Photography is a process and the rewards are amazing. The more you know the more fun it gets.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
I believe the main question a student should think of before searching for an instuctor is, "What do I want to get out of the photography?" After the student confidently understands the basics of photography then the student should look to what got them interested in photography. Maybe they saw a portrait photo shoot and they were intrigued. Maybe it was the beutiful landscape that they past while driving or on vacation, maybe it's a family thing or maybe it was to make money on the side. Whatever the need, the student should first have a good understainding of basic photography then move on.