About
If you want to MAKE better pictures, this course is for you! Other photography courses focus on teaching technical skills, but ours is different. I teach not only the "how" to make great images but "why" a great image is a great image. I will guide you to anticipate the moments and grow your confidence with each lesson.
I enjoy creating imagery that can help educate people. I love showing unique cultures and sharing important messages through art.
Specialties
Interest in additional skills
Student's age
Experience level
Photography type
Photos and videos
Reviews
Crystal G.
Lena O.
Joseph R.
Emily S.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I ask a few questions to get an idea of what type of photography the student wants to pursue, and then we establish some goals. I teach a little bit about the art of photography, and then we go over the technical aspects of your equipment. That way, while you practice, you have an idea of what subject matter to focus on.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I was trained in Rochester, New York, home of Kodak. I received a degree in photography at the Rochester Institute of Technology and have since worked for Magnum and National Geographic photographers. I have served national publications such as The Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, and others. I worked as the Cheif Photographer at the California State University of Long Beach, and most recently, have been traveling the country documenting rural and nomadic communities in the United States.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I charge $60/hour for my time. I think that's an incredibly reasonable rate, comparable to private music lessons.
How did you get started teaching?
Before becoming a photographer, I was an elementary school teacher. I enjoy teaching and have a gift for explaining complex ideas in simple ways. I like to connect with my students and help them grow and succeed.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with beginners with point-and-shoot cameras all the way to experienced semi-professionals looking to break through an artistic slump or help find deeper meaning in the images they are making.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Recently, I was hired to photograph images for a Hawaiian travel website. Spending two weeks in Hawaii doing what I love is a very fond memory.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Many people think that photography is a technical skill but it really is more like playing an instrument, and you can figure out what all the buttons do and how to make a technically great photo, but many photographs lack soul or a hook. They lack a story that captures the attention of the viewer. I think it is important to find a teacher that can not only teach you how to make a proper photo but also teach you how and when to break the rules.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What sort of images do you look at? What do you like? What draws your eye? What subjects are you interested in? What sort of images do you want to make?