Ritenour’s Photography

I have a questionnaire students fill out so I know about their experience level, what camera equipment they have and how they currently process their images. Then I can make sure I cover any special need or problem they have.

I have taken all the photography classes the local college offers, have taken many commercial classes, seminars and workshops put on by Professional Photographers of America. I have over 19 years of experience as a professional photographer doing family pictures, commercial photography and teaching classes.

In order to provide continuing photography education, I have a photography club (www.meetup.com/PhotographicArtClub) with over 600 members. we meet once a month and do local photo shoots to hone our skills. I do presentations at our monthly meetings on photography subjects requested by members or are current topics.

I provide private lessons and teach my nine-week class called "From Snapshots to Art." It includes one three hour class a week and two in the field trip to give students the chance to demonstrate what they have learned in class. Each week there is an assignment to take pictures about what was covered in class. Their pictures are critiqued at the beginning of the next class. The price is $398. I provide students with ongoing support after the class is over. When students are in a rush, I can do a two class per week series to get them ready for an upcoming trip or important event.

I have had a lot of experience teaching all sorts of classes for various technical products. I have the ability to teach complex subjects in a way people can understand. 

I knew many people who did not understand how to use their camera equipment and always used the auto modes so I started teaching my class to get them out of snapshot mode. I enjoy helping people get to the point where they are taking great pictures and having fun.

I have worked with beginners who just bought a camera and didn't know how the use it to professional film photographers who needed to learn digital photography. Many of my students have gone on to start their own photography business. I have taught photo classes at the Boys and Girls Club to young students (10 to 17 years).

After completing my class, a student was able to photograph a friends wedding successfully. He was happy.

Another student went on a trip they have been wanting to take for several years. Her pictures were great and she was able to give a good presentation at our photography club meeting.

If they are willing to learn and do what I teach in class they will become good photographers. My photography club provides an important ongoing learning environment to continue their learning of all the new things in photography.

What do they want to photograph? Why?

Are they willing to do the work to succeed?

How motivated are they?

Are they OK with technical things?

What kind of issues are they having now?