JERRY DOWNS PHOTOGRAPHY
About
I have written 2 books about using photography as a medium for self-discovery. I have been giving photo classes and photo walks for 20 years. As a professional photographer I have traveled internationally for commeercial assignments and to exhibit my work.
Currently I have 5,000 friends (the max allowed) and 8,000 followers on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jerrydownsphoto
I love working/playing with people. It's a joy to see their eyes when the light of understanding goes off. They positively glow!
Photos and videos
No reviews (yet)
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
First we discover together what they want. I'll ask a lot of questions. ie: What is their level of expertise? What kind of camera do they use? Do they only shoot on automatic? What kind of pictures do you like to take, nature, family, city etc?
Let them know the first and most important lesson: This is supposed to be fun. People learn faster and take better pictures if they are having fun.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been a professional photograper and artist for 40 years, written 2 books about photography, and speak widely about photography, optical illusions, synchronicity and creativity.
I have been leading photowalks at least once a month for the last 5 years.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Typically, a class/photowalk last 3 hours and cost $200.00 for a single individual. If there is more than one person the fee is $125.00 per student with a maximum of 10 people per class.
How did you get started teaching?
People kept asking me were the could learn to do what I do and I kept telling them until I got good at it. I find it very instructional for me to have to put into words what it takes to get a good picture.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've worked with every age and expertise from classes with teenages or seniors or people who only use an iPhone to people with a ton of equipment who have learned that it takes more than good equipment to get a good picture.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Rather than sit in a room and talk I like going out into the world and taking pictures so everyone can have a hands on experience about hot their camera works and how to find and capture a good picture.
My two favorite locations in the San Francisco Bay Area are: 1) Golden Gate Park which include the scuplture garden and tower at the de Young Musuem of Art, the Conservatory of Flowers.
2) Crissy Field which includes the ocean, Fort Point and the Golden Gate Bridge.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Ask them if they are having fun.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Don't overthink it. Do you like taking pictures? Would you like to get better pictures more often? Are you open to try new things? Sign up. Go play.