Gelfman Photography Lessons & Techniques
About
I have over ten years of professional experience in commercial photography, as well as a BFA in Photography from LIU Post. I specialize in portraits and events, but have also professionally shot architectural and product photography, as well.
I currently run my own LLC shooting portraits, parties, and weddings in the Long Island/NY Tri-State area. Feel free to view my work on www.gelfphoto.com.
Photography has been my diehard passion for almost my entire life. I started with disposable cameras and polaroids, shot extensively with 35mm and 120 film, and of course now use primarily DSLR cameras for my own personal and professional work. When I'm not working, I'm either reading through photo blogs, watching photography YouTube videos, or out shooting for my own enjoyment. It goes without saying I'm a bit obsessed!
Photos and videos
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Frequently asked questions
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have over a decade of professional experience in multiple styles of photography as well as a BFA in Photography from LIU Post.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I usually find it easiest to charge by the hour, although for longer sessions I'm open to discounting my base rate. Currently I charge $50/hr.
How did you get started teaching?
My original career focus actually was to teach photography on a college level. I spent some time in a Master's program studying at Rochester Institute of Technology and working as an assistant professor before ultimately deciding to take a hiatus and focus on commercial work back in the Long Island area.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've worked with college-level photography students (mostly on a freshman and sophomore level).
I also taught younger students (ages 8-16) at Future Stars Summer Camp in Old Westbury, New York in their Multimedia Program. We would divide days between learning/practicing still photography techniques as well as teaching basic video production in the television studio facilities on campus.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Think about what type of photography is your favorite! There are so many types of photography out there and they all require different and often very specific camera settings and/or lenses. Are you more inclined to shooting portraits, still-lifes, wildlife, nature, landscapes, sports/action, etc?
Of course, there's nothing wrong with just wanting to learn and in-and-outs of a camera to familiarize yourself with the general pratice, but having a particular focus can definitely help in developing the overall lesson plan.