Kapchur.us Photography
About
I've owned and operated my photography business since June 2011. My primary "focus" has always been people. So, I shoot lots of events, portraits, weddings, body painting... basically anything with people. In addition to people, I have extensive experience in product photography as well as real estate photography.
Having been mostly "self taught", I have also been through hundreds of hours of online courses and have also taken several live group courses at local camera shops. Although that style of learning worked well for me, I realize for many they just want a one-on-one experience to help them shoot exactly what they want and not all the extra "fluff" that more "thorough" courses can offer.
I have the experience and the gentle personality to help guide you through picking your first camera, getting started with a camera you already have, understanding the basics of photography or more complicated topics like portraiture, nature photography, using flash or strobes, natural light shooting, night photography (not stars or moon), high dynamic range photography (HDR), panorama, and lots of other technical skills. I've acquired most of my technical skills because of my love and curiosity of process and methodology.
I've also acquired my first semi-pro drone, take dozens of courses on flying and photography techniques with my drone and also have studied for and passed my FAA Part 107 Commercial Drone Operations Certification. I also have and maintain commercial drone insurance.
I do not do photography as my primary job. I've been a legal administrator (law firm manager) for many many years and initially got into photography as a creative outlet. As my skills progressed I was asked more and more to do paid shoots, then I put together an actual part-time business. A few years back, I took two years off from my legal work to finish my MBA where photography/videography was my primary income. And although I made enough to survive, I also learned that doing photography full-time took too much of the joy out of it. When photography is my passion and I don't have to solely rely on it to survive I enjoy it SO much more.
Learning photography has given me an amazing and creative way of viewing the entire world around me. I very much look forward to sharing skills and knowledge to bring you the same joy.
Photos and videos
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
The first lesson is usually 2 hours, minimum. Generally I will spend the first 30-45 minutes "interviewing" the student about their experience with photography, what they like and dislike, their challenges, what exactly they NEED to learn and then any additional skills they would like to add. From there we will start directly in with exploring their physical camera, discussing their accessories and start covering the basic operations for the three main variables on all manual settings for all cameras, Apature, Shutter Speed and ISO.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I've been through several "basic" photography certification courses and dozens of hours of video training courses online through Lynda.com as well as resources available through the Professional Photographers of America (PPA).
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
The first two hour lesson is $200. Additional lessons will be $75 for one hour or $125 for two hours. If you want to prepay for a few sessions at once we can also discuss other discounts.
How did you get started teaching?
I love cameras and technology and love to share that knowledge. I've mentored several photographers over the years and find it amazing.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've had a few beginner students who were purchasing their first camera or had an existing camera that they wanted to learn how to use. However, I've had many more students who already considered themselves sufficient in the basics and wanted very specific technical knowledge for particular shooting or image styles.
I've also had a few students who only wanted to learn Lightroom and basic photoshop skills (or wanted to know other alternates they could use for editing).
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Just like most teacher/student relationships, as long as the teacher has the qualifications and knowledge, the true important piece is your chemistry and comfort level working with them. Do they communicate well to your needs? Do they "preach" to you? Or do they cater their lessons around your exact needs?