Makunema Productions

In working with a student, we would focus on their needs first to personalize the lesson. If you're looking to learn photography from us, we're not going to send you a generic slideshow or video. We will see what's important to you, what your current situation is, and how we can help you best.

I have two degrees, a BA and BS, both in video production. I've also had plenty of experience working with clients, working on projects, and taking extra classes to enhance my skills. 

I have always been interested in education. I will be a lifelong student in one way or another, pushing myself to earn a terminal degree (Doctorate in Film) as well as taking online classes, reading, etc. to always better myself.

As for teaching specifically, I've always been a role model from being the oldest child in my family to being a resident assistant for four years at SUNY Fredonia. Leadership is very important and educating others is one of my greatest passions. I love to learn and show others what I've learned.

Formally, I haven't had any students yet. However, I've hosted many workshops, presentations, and mentored students throughout my time at SUNY Fredonia. Either as a resident assistant, student leader, or a teaching assistant, I would frequently show new students how to use film equipment, edit with Adobe programs, or help explain complicated topics.

This may be completely irrelevant, but I was waiting in a parking lot to get my pizza that I ordered. Suddenly, there was a monsoon and terribly strong winds. Sitting in my parked car, I noticed the pizza place's giant sign blowing across the parking lot. Then, several large pieces of rubber from the roof of the pizza place ripped from the sheer impact of the wind and blew into the parking lot. 

I was fearful initially, but as the young workers of the store ran outside to try and drag back the 400 pound sign, I realized I wasn't going to just sit around and watch. So, I immediately hopped out of my car and sprinted to the giant sign, helping the others push it back to the store. Then, the giant slabs of rubber in the parking lot were concerning, as they could blow into the road or hit someone's car. Regardless, I don't like to see garbage sitting around. So, I helped drag the rubber into a giant pile. I was absolutely soaked head to toe, but I saw people who needed help and didn't want to watch them struggle. It felt really nice and I couldn't help but laugh when I got back into the car and the song "A Little Bit of Rain" was playing. 

Anyway, the question asked about a recent event I was fond of and this one sticks with me because it felt right and felt good. It makes me happy to think back on helping others. 

If someone is looking for a teacher for photography, I think anyone can certainly offer good advice, but I would advise to find someone who's not afraid to experiment and be creative. I find that the most I've learned from photography is by just picking up my camera and messing around. With guided experiments, it's amazing what you can discover. 

Plus, there are rules and guidelines for photography, but photography is just as much of an art as it is a science, so it's important to know when and how to break these rules. 

Consider your current situation. What equipment do you have? Are you looking to buy new equipment? What do you want to do with photography and why are you curious about learning more? Lastly, what problems are you having and what compels you to seek a teacher?