Purple Macaroni Photography
About
Hi, I'm Amy. I'm a photographer and filmmaker in Portland, OR. I am also a media educator, with over 10 years of experience teaching youth and adults how to make movies and improve their photography. I am adept at meeting students where they are at and helping them reach the next level. I can tailor our lessons to the needs of the individual student in a way that group classes or online videos can't do.
I really enjoy watching a student grow in their learning and exploring their creative potential.
Highlights
Specialties
Interest in additional skills
Student's age
Experience level
Photography type
Photos and videos
No reviews (yet)
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I like to meet with the students to see where they are at and what they would like to get out of working with me. Then, I'll set up lessons and mini-projects that will allow them to practice their new skills. All lessons are tailored to the individual and what their focus is.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been behind the camera most of my life at this point. I started photography in middle school with traditional black and white film photography. I was a photographer for my high school newspaper and yearbook. I transitioned to filmmaking, which combined my interests in theater and photography. I came back to photography a few years ago when digital cameras caught up in quality with film. I taught both youth and adult classes at the Northwest Film Center, creating several of the classes from scratch. I am adept at tailoring the lessons to fit the individual student.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Right now, it's $20 a lesson (up to an hour of meeting time). If the student wants an extended lesson, or wants to meet at a location outside of my travel zone for a photography session, we can discuss that.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching while working at the Northwest Film Center as a student equipment room employee. I was asked to help teach Summer Camp Classes. Then I was asked to teach weekend workshops, and eventually was asked to take on full classes for both youth and adults.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students from age ranges, backgrounds, and skill level.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I love when a student makes a connection and their work improves in a jump. It's fun to see it on their face when they realize they did it, too!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Meet with any potential teacher first. You'll be spending time with them, often one-on-one, so begin comfortable with them is important. Make sure they ask what you know and what you want to know and that they feel confident they can meet you where you are at skill wise. Ask to see samples of their work, as well.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Have a clear idea of what you want to learn, the more specific the better. Also, take an honest look at what you already know. You may know more than you give yourself credit for! It will help your instructor keep you moving forward if they aren't going over things you already know.