About
On location, hands-on experience is the best way to learn not just the mechanics of photography but the craft and, dare we say "art," of image-making. As an instructor at DB Photo Tours, I customize each session and guide you through a photo adventure the way you would. And I do so by asking YOU about your photography goals. Whether you simply want to shoot better pictures of friends and family or hope to share unforgettable images of unforgettable places, I am here for you. Whether you shoot with a smartphone or professional camera, I can make sure you're fully benefitting from its features. And if you're considering a certain type of camera from a compact point-and-shoot to a full-frame DSLR, I will let you borrow one from our complete range for free during the session.
I am a professional, award-winning photographer who has been teaching photography for years from afternoon classroom sessions to multi-day tours. I look forward to meeting you!
I am motivated to partner with individuals who aspire to become someone who can tell a story with their photos. There are so many people who know they can capture and share images beyond their current ability. I get excited when students I work with begin attaining skills and experience that help fulfill their photographic desires.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Before we embark on any session, whether for a couple hours to a multi-day tour and workshop, it's important for me to know a student's experience and goals for their photography. I reinforce what they already know and use that base to lift-off into the direction to which they aspire. By doing so, we don't waste time and I ensure that students get the most from their experience with me.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Dave Burckhard is experienced in a number of creative endeavors including copywriting, video production, and photography. His clients have includes a number of Silicon Valley technical and commercial businesses but his passion is shooting photographs during travel and outdoor adventures.
Dave has acquired numerous awards for the technical and creative uses of their image-making skills. As importantly, he loves sharing his knowledge and mentoring budding photo superstars.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Because I customize each session, my pricing varies depending on expenses. But I'm known for super-friendly pricing and, more so, for a super-friendly learning experience.
How did you get started teaching?
I gained teaching skills as a photo tour leader and classroom photo instructor. My love of sharing experiences and knowledge evolved into training photographers.
What types of students have you worked with?
Most of my students are beginners who have just discovered an inclination to shoot more and better pictures of just about any subject. Therefore, they are unfamiliar with and even a bit frightened about the technical side of photography. From my experience, I know I can teach the fundamentals of camera operation fairly quickly - even more quickly than students suspect. It's the skill of "seeing" and telling a story in a photo that is the big challenge. Students learn better when they think of the story they want to tell even before bringing the camera to their eye. In that manner, all of us, from beginners to masters, are always in a learning mode.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
On a car trip to Mount Ranier, my first visit with a group, where we had planned to hike, the light rain at dawn turned into a continuous, heavy rain. We were sorely discouraged at the prospect of a cold and sloshy exploration of the mountain. We were considering foregoing the hike and, perhaps, just checking out the visitor center but as we pulled into the trailhead, the rain decreased and within a few minutes had stopped completely. Fog and murky overcast wasn't what I had hoped for but we decided to hike a few miles just to say we did. As we proceeded, spots of sunlight pierced through the clouds and, within a half hour, the receding storm left crystal clear skies, a few clouds, and perfect photo opportunities. I was gifted with some of my favorite outdoor photos.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Before taking on an instructor, be sure to speak with him or her. Ask about experience, former student reviews, the types of photography with which they shoot, and be sure to discuss your goals and budget.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Be honest in how much you intend to commit to photography. Most photographers start out shooting randomly and that's great. Getting comfortable with your camera is the first step. In time, you'll find yourself drawn to certain types of images such as landscapes, wildlife, travel, people pictures, etc. Regardless, the most important thing is developing your own vision and connecting with viewers with your images while having fun at the same time.