Michael Allen Photography & Video
About
Hi, My name is Michael Allen. I love photography and cinematography, with my experience, training and love for photography, I help other photographers grow their talent with hands on, one on one workshops and individual classes.
I picked up a camera when I was a kid, then through high school I was the yearbook photographer. I college I majored in art, then went to work in a production studio where I worked with clients on television productions, commercial photography shoots and concert events. I changed jobs a few times and came right back to photography. I owned several businesses and used photography to promote the companies. Today I work full time in photography and film productions for my own media business.
One of my roles is working for Southern Bride Magazine as the lead editorial fashion photographer for the magazine. We've traveled to exotic locations such as Key West, Puerta Vallarta Mexico, New Orleans, Charleston and all across the Southern US photographing fashion spreads and destination travel locations. I've been shooting for the magazine for 10 years, and this role brings me many other commercial clients that we meet on our trips. Not only do I shoot fashion, but details, architecture, landscapes, food and adventure segments for editorial articles.
That's one of my successes in my career. I shoot for other magazines, commercial clients, movies and films, and for the music industry. I've worked with names such as Dierks Bentley, Lauren Alaina, Bruce Carroll, Tim Howard and Leigh Anne Tuohy to name a few. My photography clients demand the best in photography, and every shoot is different. I shoot in natural light, studio lights, LED fixed light and mixed light depending on the job. I've photographed many high end weddings, and work with commercial clients daily.
I studied in Las Vegas at WPPI for over 8 years learning from the masters of photography, attend as many Professional Photography Association conferences as I can, and continually brush up on my skills as a photographer. I've written 3 books on photography that I use to teach classes, and have many award winning photos published in books and magazines.
Visit my website to see my portfolio and please like my Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram @michaelallen.
I get to meet people and help them with their lives and businesses. I'm an artist, so using photography to create is very rewarding.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
The first step is set some goals and to communicate the type and style of photography that you want to learn. Do you have a camera, and what level do you want to take your photography. If you have some experience or if you are new to photography, I will walk you through the steps that you need to take to get to the next level. Our first class will probably be a lengthy disscussion, recommended textbooks or reading material, and understanding your camera manual. Once we figure out your current skill level, then we will get creative and teach you how to use the camera to accomplish your goals.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I've studied with dozens of master photographers in classroom settings. I've written 3 photography books and have taught photography workshops.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My pricing is based at $50per hour. Once you get through the first hour, we adjust the rate depending on the shoot that we do together. We hire professional models for our advanced classes and pay them, so that has to be negociated.
I charge each class through Paypal when you arrive on site.
I offer online classes on Zoom and Skype.
How did you get started teaching?
I owned a business and we started our own training department. We had 60 plus employees and constantly had to train them on techniques, customer service skills, etc.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've worked with high school and college students, beginners, intermediate photographers, advanced professionals, and everyday enthusiasts who want to learn more.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
If you are looking to hire a teacher, be prepared ahead of time, have a camera that you are comfortable with, and be willing to step out of your comfort zone.