Products

Travel Photography

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

2-1/2 hours *Early Registration: $50/person (up to 7 days before class date) Regular Registration: $60/person Maximum number of students is 20, minimum number to make a class is 8. Many people buy new cameras and take classes just to get ready for a trip or to improve their travel photography in general. In this evening class we'll cover a wide spectrum of questions, issues and photographic techniques that apply to traveling and shooting. Photographer Peter Poulides is uniquely qualified to teach this class. He started his photographic life in Athens, Greece while attending high school. He went on to shoot for Travel & Leisure magazine for several years, creating more than a dozen feature articles and several magazine covers. He also shot for Travel Holiday, Food and Wine, Smithsonian Magazine and several inflight publications. Some of his magazine work is shown on the About page. Early in his career he was named one of the top 100 travel photographers in the world by Travel & Leisure. His travel assignments have taken him around the world and he still has a long list of locations he plans to visit and shoot on his own. Beyond being able to share your experiences with friends and family, travel photography gives you the ability to record your unique view of the world. The goal is not necessarily to come back with postcard perfect images of all the sites you visit. That's what postcards are for! Learn to shoot what you really see, what draws your attention. Maybe it's people, or food, or traffic signs, architecture, gardens, water or crowds. Travel is a personal experience and your photography should reflect your personality. A few great travel shots, printed nicely, can also solve most gift giving dilemmas! This class is for all levels of photographers using all types of cameras. Even though most of the shots we review will have been shot on a DSLR, the techniques discussed apply to all formats.

How and what to pack for a trip
Airport security issues: getting through without delay
Battery, power and charger considerations
Data: how to keep your precious image files safe while you're traveling
Software: choosing a program for editing your images and the pros and cons of editing on the road with a laptop
Tripod: yes or no, what type?
Bags, slings, backpacks, belts and rollers: how to carry your gear without getting hurt or bogged down
Telling the story: how to cover a location so that you get a good selection of images that delivers a "sense of place"
Mindset: how to let photography enhance your travel experience by being patient and waiting for the photo to happen
Scouting and perseverance: why returning to a location again (and again) might be worth it
Shaking it up: trying new perspectives, limiting your gear to enhance your creativity, maybe even shooting film once in a while !
People: how to approach your subjects, when to give up and move on
Letting your pictures shine: displaying your travel photos when you get home, making prints, creating books and slide shows
Long exposures: shooting in low light and getting those magic photos that are invisible to our eyes

What you'll need: This is not a hands-on shooting class so you don't need to bring a camera, but do bring something to take notes with! A perfect companion class to this is Shooting Panoramas.

michellegross

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

2 hours of tutoring for 3 people

45 minutes travel charge

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

location tutoring for 1-2 people

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

Teen/Senior Portraits - Full Day Workshop

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

Natural Light Teen/Senior Portraiture *Early Registration: $225/person (up to 7 days before class date) Regular Registration: $245/person Saturday, 8am-5pm at The Spot Studio Maximum number of students is 12, minimum number to make a workshop is 6 Senior Portraits are becoming more important to teens looking to showcase their individuality and style as they finish high school and move out into the world. Staid, traditional portraits are becoming a thing of the past and creative, unique senior portraits are now the style. This opens up a wide range of creative options for photographing seniors and teens but also adds to the challenge of dealing with locations, available light and camera techniques. This workshop is for you if you are a parent wanting to capture better natural light images of your own teens, a photographer looking to start your own senior portrait business or if you simply want to learn some great skills for taking better portraits of teenagers. This full day workshop will teach you how to take your basic DSLR skills and apply them to create stunning and stylish natural light images. The techniques apply to any age subject but the focus here will be the teen years and senior portraits. It is a combination lecture and hands-on shooting workshop with live models. We will be shooting in and around Deep Ellum for this workshop, but will be discussing many other location and style options for creating a unique experience and final product for your teen subjects. We will touch on business and marketing, but the main thrust is how to create better portraits that reflect the unique personality of your subject. It will be taught by Margie Woods Brown, a local children’s, senior, wedding and portrait photographer. For more information check out Margie’s Bio and Margie Woods Brown website. This workshop is for those who are already familiar with their cameras and comfortable with the P-A-S-M (Nikon) or P-Av-Tv-M (Canon) exposure modes, ISO, f-stops, depth of field, shutter speed, motion blur and selecting and using different autofocus modes. If you're a beginner (or have been shooting for a while but still aren't comfortable with these concepts) you can take our DSLR-1&2 evening classes or the Beginner DSLR Full Day Workshop first or some other equivalent training. What you’ll learn in the workshop:

Which combination of exposure and shooting modes create the look you want to achieve for your portraits
How to use available light and shade to create stunning images
How to select backgrounds and environments to bring interest, emotion and fun into your photos
How to find flattering and interesting perspectives
Which lens(es) to choose
Effective and age-appropriate techniques to create a rapport with your subjects
How to create a personalized experience and look to compliment each teen’s personality and style
How to use wardrobe and posing to bring out the personality of your subject and make the images uniquely theirs

8am-10am: We will meet at The Spot Studio for a discussion covering basic concepts and how to prepare for a senior portrait photo shoot. Margie will review the basic exposure and focusing modes and show some of her senior portraits, illustrating the tips and concepts to be used on location. 10:30am: On location in Deep Ellum. We will spend about 45 minutes scouting for the best light and backgrounds and going over the basic concepts of selecting backgrounds, and using available light and shade to our advantage. We'll then be joined by our young models and will spend about 2 hours shooting. Margie will be shooting alongside you demonstrating, and will be available to answer your questions and help you to get the images you want. 1:15pm-2:30 We will break for lunch and you will hand over your memory cards so Margie can download them for the afternoon session. 2:30-5:00 We'll meet back up at The Spot Studio for a review and discussion of the shoot, as well as a live edit of everyone’s images. The day will end with a group slide show showcasing your new skills. What you’ll need:

A DSLR with a full battery and empty memory card and a basic understanding of how to use your camera and its settings
The DSLR-1 and DSLR-2 evening classes, Full Day Beginner Workshop or equivalent level of experience is a prerequisite.
Any lenses or accessories you want to use
A handheld reflector if you have one
An umbrella if it looks like rain as well as sensible clothes and shoes you can easily move around in

What’s not included:

Cost of lunch
Parking (if necessary)

Photographing Kids - Full Day Workshop

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

Taking Better Pictures of Kids Full Day Workshop *Early Registration: $225/person (up to 7 days before class date) Regular Registration: $245/person Saturday, 9am-5pm at The Spot Studio (then on location and back again) Maximum number of students is 12, minimum number to make a workshop is 6 This workshop is for you if you are a parent wanting to take better pictures of your own kids, a photographer looking to start your own portrait photography business or if you simply want to learn some great skills for taking better portraits of young humans. This workshop is for those who are already familiar with their cameras and comfortable with the P-A-S-M (Nikon) or P-Av-Tv-M (Canon) exposure modes and using different autofocus modes. If you’re a beginner (or have been shooting for a while but still aren’t comfortable with these concepts) you can take our DSLR-1&2 evening classes or the Beginner DSLR Full Day Workshop first or some other equivalent training. This full day workshop will teach you how to take your basic DSLR skills and apply them to create stunning images of children. The techniques apply to any age subject but the focus here will be kids from the toddler through teen years. It is a combination lecture and hands-on shooting workshop with live models. It will be taught by Margie Woods Brown, a local children’s, wedding and portrait photographer. For more information check out Margie’s Bio and Margie Woods Brown website. What you'll learn in the workshop:

Which combination of exposure and shooting modes make up a magic recipe for photographing kids
How to use available light to create stunning images
How to select backgrounds and environments to bring interest, emotion and fun into your photos
Whether to pose or not to pose (or both!)
How to find flattering and interesting perspectives
Which lens(es) to choose
Effective and age appropriate techniques to create a rapport with your subjects

8am-10pm: We will meet at The Spot Studio for a discussion covering basic concepts and how to prepare for a photo shoot of kids. We will review the basic exposure and focusing modes and Margie will show some of her portraits, illustrating the tips and concepts that we will be covering. 10:30am: On location (to be announced). We will meet on location and spend about 45 minutes scouting for the best light and backgrounds and going over the basic concepts of using available light and shade to our advantage. We will then be joined by our young models and their parents and will spend about 2 hours shooting. Margie will be shooting alongside you and answering your questions to help you to get the images you want. 1:15pm-2:30 You will hand over your memory cards so Margie can download them for the afternoon session. Lunch will be on your own. 2:30-5:00 We’ll meet back up at The Spot Studio for a review and discussion of the shoot and a live edit of everyone’s images. The day will end with a group slide show showcasing your new skills. What you’ll need:

A DSLR with a full battery and empty memory card and a basic understanding of how to use your camera and its settings
The DSLR-1 and DSLR-2 evening classes, Full Day Beginner Workshop or equivalent level of experience is a prerequisite
Any lenses or accessories you want to use
A handheld reflector if you have one
An umbrella if it looks like rain as well as sensible clothes and shoes you can easily move around in

What’s not included:

Cost of lunch
Parking (if necessary)

Lightroom 103

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

2-1/2 hours Maximum number: 20 *Early Registration: $50/person (up to 7 days before class date) Regular Registration: $60/person In this third Lightroom class we cover the rest of the modules and focus on getting your photos out into the world, whether on the web, in print or uploaded to a shared photo site. While not required, it is highly recommended that you attend the first two classes before taking this one.

The data side of photography: Keywording • Metadata • Finding your photos
Tethered shooting: How to shoot with your camera connected directly to your computer for automatic import into LR
Stepping out: Opening files in Photoshop and other programs • Color space and resolution settings
Color: Precision color profiling
Showing your pictures online: Using the Web module to build galleries • Flash templates • FTP from inside LR or in another utility • Watermarking your images for protection.
Slide shows: Making a client presentation or just showing pictures to your family • Customizing your slide show • Creating an MP4 movie with a sountrack
Putting it on paper: Working with the Print module • Print packages and custom layouts • Printer settings and profiles • Printing yourself or sending to a service
Showing off: Using the Publish plugins to connect to Facebook, Flickr, Smugmug and a host of other services

Lightroom Shoot and Edit - Full Day Workshop

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

Lightroom Shoot and Edit Workshop *Early Registration: $215/person (up to 7 days before class date) Regular Registration: $230/person 9am to 5pm maximum number of students is 12, minimum number to make a workshop is 6 Outline: We will meet on location at 9am and spend about 3 hours shooting photos together. Depending on weather and local events, subjects may include the Farmer's Market, Thanksgiving Square and downtown architecture, Fair Park or another suitable location. We'll have lunch together and then head to the studio for an afternoon of Lightroom tips, editing your own photos and a group slide show. Details: This is half photo workshop/half Lightroom workshop. The idea came from talking with students of the Lightroom evening classes who thought it would be great to have a chance to shoot and edit as a group and work through the whole process. Instructor Peter Poulides will work with the small group while we're shooting in the morning. He will answer any questions, help with settings and equipment issues, and offer tips on composition, perspective, exposure and lighting. Peter will be working with an assistant who will help with explanations and make sure that everyone has plenty of one-on-one time. After lunch, we'll meet back at the studio and everyone will set up their laptops to begin editing. Peter will review the import process and then help wherever needed to get everyone’s images loaded and begin the rating and culling process. Once you've selected your favorite images, maybe making some collections along the way, you'll be encouraged to try some of the processing tools in Lightroom to make adjustments to your best photos. Depending on your skill level with Lightroom, this could include everything from cropping and exposure changes to black & white conversions, split toning, cloning and local adjustments. Near the end of the day each student will select a dozen of their best shots and they'll be put together with everyone else's favorites into a slide show for us all to sit back and enjoy. What you'll need: - A digital camera with a full battery and empty memory card and a basic understanding of how to take pictures. Taking one of the evening classes or beginner DSLR workshop first would be helpful but not necessary. - Any lenses or accessories you want to use - A tripod could be handy depending on the location and what you like to shoot - An umbrella if it looks like rain - A laptop with the latest version of Lightroom loaded. A 30 day free trial is available from the Adobe site. You should have a basic understanding of how to get images into Lightroom and taking the Lightroom 101 and/or 102 class first is recommended. You could also spend some time viewing a few of the many free online tutorials for getting started with Lightroom. Try Youtube, the Adobe site or Lynda.com. What’s not included: - Cost of lunch - Parking (if necessary) An email will be sent out a couple of days before the workshop with details on where we will be meeting.

WordPress 102

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

WordPress for Beginners: Part 2 3 hours $80 Minimum to make a class: 8 Maximum: 20 Instructor: Randy Hoyt In this second class, we build on the basics from WordPress 101 and complete our tour of WordPress. We'll look at how to add functionality to your site with plugins, we'll explore some advanced tehcniques for working with images, and we'll discuss other important aspects of maintaining a web site like moderating comments and making your site friendly for search engines. While not required, it is highly recommended that you attend the WordPress 101 class before taking this one. What You'll Need: If you installed WordPress on your own hosting account after taking WordPress 101, feel free to come with feedback and questions about that process. You can bring a laptop to follow along on your own web site, but you can also learn by watching the live demo and taking notes. A handout will be provided with links to all the resources mentioned as well as books, web sites, and community groups.

Plugins: What's a plugin? • Site backups • Contact forms • Embedding Flickr and Twitter data • Related posts • Caching • Where to find more plugins
Images: Media settings • Edit images in WordPress • Comments on images • Plugins for displaying galleries and slideshows
Blog maintenance: Scheduling posts • Google Analytics • Working with comments
Search Engines: How search engines work • Blogging and search engines • File names and alternate text • Meta tags • Resources and tools from Google
Themes: Advanced gallery and portfolio themes • Tweaking a theme

WordPress 101

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

WordPress for Beginners: Part 1 3 hours $80 Minimum to make a class: 8 Maximum: 20 Instructor: Randy Hoyt If you've been planning to build your own website but have been intimidated by the software and terminology, WordPress may be the right solution. WordPress is free, open-source software that makes it easy to build a web site with no coding. In this first WordPress class, you’ll learn the basics needed to launch a web site or blog powered by WordPress on your own domain name and web hosting account. We’ll also talk a bit about the nature and history of WordPress, and you’ll gain a conceptual knowledge of internet technologies like HTML and JavaScript -- but you won't be required to write any code. What You'll Need: You can bring a laptop to follow along, but you can also learn by watching the live demo and taking notes. A handout will be provided with links to all the resources mentioned as well as books, web sites, and community groups. WordPress is free, but after class you will need to have your own domain name and a web hosting account to implement the techniques we'll discuss. (We'll cover where to get those in the class, but you should plan on spending about $100/year.)

Introduction: What is WordPress? • How is it free? • Who uses it? • What's a "blog" and how is it different from a regular "web site"? • What's the difference between WordPress.org and WordPress.com?
WordPress Basics: Writing a blog post • Adding tags and categories • Uploading images and PDFs • Creating links • Creating pages and subpages
Internet Basics: What's a domain name? • What's a web host? • How do I connect a domain name to a host? • Acronyms you'll need to know: HTML, CSS, PHP, JPG, FTP, DNS • JavaScript vs. Flash
Installing WordPress: The famous 5-minute installation • One-click installations offered by some hosts • Things to double-check with one-click installations
WordPress Themes: How themes work • Where to find themes • Tweaking your theme • Adding widgets

Lightroom 102

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

2-1/2 hours Maximum number: 20 *Early Registration: $50/person (up to 7 days before class date) Regular Registration: $60/person In this second Lightroom class we build on the basics of 101, move deeper into the editing and use of your images. While not required, it is highly recommended that you attend the first class before taking this one.

Getting out of Lightroom: Exporting files • Presets for Email • Color space and resolution settings
Workspace: Customizing the interface • Working with dual monitors • Keyboard shortcuts
Stacks and virtual copies: Working with image stacks to keep things organized • Using virtual copies as a creative sandbox to try different processes, cropping and conversions
Catalogs: Backing up your precious data • Multiple catalogs • Synchronizing catalogs between computers
Processing: Using the local adjustment brush and gradient filter • Spot cloning • Vignetting • Tone curves and color controls • Sharpening and noise reduction • Camera profiles • Creative B&W conversions
Corrections and special effects: • Automatic lens correction for distortion and color aberations • Split toning • Grain simulation

Lightroom 101

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

2-1/2 hours Maximum number: 20 *Early Registration: $50/person (up to 7 days before class date) Regular Registration: $60/person In this first class you’ll get comfortable with Adobe Lightroom,learn how to set it up and start cataloging and processing your images. We will be using the most current version of Lightroom.

Intro: Why is Lightroom such a big deal? • Should I be shooting RAW? • Will I still need Photoshop?
Setup: Basics of workspace, panels and menus • Setting up your preferences
Loading your files: Importing photos from a drive or device • Basic file naming and tagging • What about DNG? • Understanding the Lightroom database concept
Organizing your images: What to do with existing folders of images • Moving from another program like iPhoto or Picassa
Editing and collections: Making your first cut with Flags • Refining your edit with the color and star rating systems • Using the Compare and Survey modes for those tough editing decisions • Working with collections
Basic processing: Non•destructive editing and why it’s such a great thing• Basic adjustments: exposure, contrast, white balance, cropping • Quick black and white conversions • Using basic presets • Syncing and batch processing (one of the coolest things about LR!)

Get that flash off your camera! Half Day Workshop

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

Introduction to portable flash 4 hour workshop $140 Maximum class size, 12 This workshop is about the creative power and flexibility of battery powered, shoe mounted flash units including the Nikon SB or Canon EX series. These little flash units have transformed the concept of what it means to light on location. By learning how to shape and control the output of your portable flash, you can create pictures with high production value without lugging around cumbersome strobes and hunting for AC outlets on location. We’ll look at some of the auto exposure modes that let you work quickly with often great results. Then we’ll dig into manual control for those times when you want to light more creatively and your camera’s brain just doesn’t understand what your brain is up to. The instructor, Peter Poulides, will work with a model, shooting with the camera tethered to a computer and projector so the class can follow along with the demos. The photos will be imported into Lightroom for viewing and comparison. Students will be invited to shoot with their own cameras on some of the manual exposure setups. The workshop is limited to 12 people so there is time for interaction and questions. Some of the gear we’ll cover:

Choosing a flash: compatibility, quality, power, size and price
External battery packs
Wired or wireless
Radio vs optical triggering
Umbrellas, boxes and reflectors
Clamps, adapters and brackets
Putting together a lightweight, portable kit

Some of the techniques you will learn:

Manual vs TTL exposure control
Hard light vs. soft light
Bounced and diffused
Mixing flash with ambient light
Single and multiple units
Front vs. rear curtain sync
White balance, gels and color correction
High speed sync

Introduction to Studio Lighting - Full Day Workshop

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

Full day workshop *Early Registration: $215/person (up to 7 days before class date) Regular Registration: $235/person 9am to 4pm with a one hour lunch break on your own. Maximum number of students is 12, minimum needed to make a workshop is 6 Are you interested in shooting in the studio, either your own or someone else’s? Are you curious about working with strobes or ramping up to start a portrait or wedding business? Whether you already own your own gear or are just thinking about buying or renting, attending this hands on workshop will teach you what you need to start making great photos for you to enjoy or sell to clients. This is a thorough introduction to studio lighting. You will learn how the size, shape, color, quality, angle and distance of the light affect the subject, background and mood of the photo. These techniques apply to many types of lighting, but this class will use studio strobes. We will also look at using smaller speedlights like the Nikon SB series or Canon EX series instead of traditional studio strobes. The instructor, Peter Poulides, will work with a live model, shooting with the camera tethered to a computer and projector so the class can follow along with the demos. The photos will be imported into Lightroom for viewing and comparison. Students will be invited to shoot many of the setups with their own cameras so they can study the photos later on for clues as to what worked and what didn't. You should already have a working knowledge of your camera settings including exposure modes, shutter speed and f-stops. To participate in shooting photos with your own camera it must have a hot shoe or PC sync connection. If you have a Sony camera, you may need the hot shoe adapter accessory. The workshop size is kept to 12 people to allow time for interaction and questions. Some of the equipment and techniques you’ll learn about:

Bare head with reflector
Monolights, studio pack and head configurations, camera speedlights
Umbrella, reflected and shoot through
Soft boxes
Beauty dish
Octabank large source
Reflecting light off of ceilings, walls and floors to create big, soft sources
Snoots, grids and foil
Color gels and white balance
Using reflectors, flags, scrims and cutters
Choosing equipment based on budget and need
Some ideas for DIY lighting gear and accessories
Stands, bags and booms
When and how to use a flash meter
Mixing strobe and ambient light
Working with backgrounds

Gift Certificate

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

This is a great way to help a friend or family member learn more about their camera and develop their photographic talent. Select the level you want from the drop down list. All Gift Certificates expire one year from the date of purchase.

Competitive Cameras Presents: DSLR-4 Short Course

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

DSLR4 The Basics of Digital Image Workflow Maximum number of students is 20, minimum number to make a class is 10.

After the shoot: getting your images into the computer
Color: what you need to know about colorspace, calibration and ICC profiles
Storage and archiving: keeping up with your growing photo collection
On location backup: digital wallet vs. laptop, online options
Digital workflow: drowning in pixels, data management, RAID, backup, more backup
Software: Lightroom (or iPhoto, Picasa, ACDSee, etc.) & Photoshop, working through the process
Working with RAW files: basic RAW workflow, exporting to JPG & TIFF
Your web presence: getting your images seen vs. giving them away
Printing basics: megapixels, DPI, PPI & noise, getting a print you’re happy with, home printing vs. sending them out

Competitive Cameras Presents: DSLR-3 Short Course

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

2-1/2 hours *Early Registration: $50/person (up to 7 days before class date) Regular Registration: $60/person Maximum number of students is 20, minimum number to make a class is 8.

Beyond the Basics:

P*: the hidden Program mode that allows quick, creative control.
Metering & exposure control: bracketing, exposure compensation, reading a histogram.
When the camera gets it wrong: getting good exposures in tricky situations.
Metering patterns: understanding how your camera reads and measures light.
Lenses: creativity vs practicality (and cost!). We’ll look at everything from fisheye to long telephoto and how to select lenses as creative tools.
Composition: rules and breaking them, finding out what works and what you like.
Dust & cleaning: when to worry about lens and sensor dust, how to find it and how to get rid of it.

Competitive Cameras Presents: DSLR-2 Short Course

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

Review: f-stops, shutter speeds and ISO
Exposure modes: getting off the green Auto mode and understanding the difference between P-A-S-M, (P-Av-Tv-M)
Built-in flash: when to just say no, how to keep the flash from popping up at the wrong times.
Focal length and maximum aperture: deciphering the numbers on your lens.
Focusing modes: if it’s called auto focus, why do some photos still turn out blurry? Taking control of how and where your camera focuses.
Support & stability: tripods, monopods, clamps, beanbags, stance, leaning & breathing.

Competitive Cameras Presents: DSLR-1 Short Course

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

2-1/2 hours *Early Registration: $50/person (up to 7 days before class date) Regular Registration: $60/person Maximum number of students is 20, minimum number to make a class is 8. The Basics: Getting started This class is for beginners. Highly recommended for those new to digital photography or if you just stepped up to a DSLR from a compact camera. You will learn the basics of settings and exposure and get comfortable with the controls on your camera.

Your new collection of stuff: batteries, chargers, memory cards, readers, filters, caps and hoods.
Buttons and dials: locating and deciphering the physical controls on your camera
Basic menus & settings: file size, quality, JPG, RAW, TIFF, white balance and ISO
The viewfinder: what information is available and how it helps you. Why your camera is called a DSLR and what goes on when you take a picture.
Exposure: a thorough explanation of shutter speeds, f-stops and their relationship to ISO and light.
Motion blur and depth of field: understanding these creative tools is the key to better photos!

Shooting Panoramas

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

2-1/2 hours Maximum number of students: 20 *Early Registration: $50/person (up to 7 days before class date) Regular Registration: $60/person Panoramas are those wide format images you've admired that seem to invite you right into the photograph. They are easy to produce using any digital camera and today's amazing software tools. Because several images are being seamlessly stitched together, even panoramas made with a compact digital camera or smart phone can often be printed at large and dramatic sizes. It doesn't require specialized hardware and the results are impressive and satisfying. This class is for all types of cameras, including DSLRs, pocket cameras and smartphones. Through a combination of live demonstrations and existing panoramic work, you will learn:

How to select good scenes and subjects for panoramas
Which lenses are best for different situations
How to shoot the series of photos
The difference and benefits of single row vs multi row
Camera settings for best results
Tips for shooting handheld panoramas
When to use a tripod
When to consider specialized equipment and the options available
What software is available for processing, both free and paid options
Printing and displaying your panoramic images

What you'll need: This is not a hands-on shooting class so you don't need to bring a camera, but do bring something to take notes with!

Macro/Micro Photography Class

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

A three hour class. Maximum number of students is 15, minimum number to make a class is 8. In this class you will learn some novel and creative ways to shoot in the macro to micro range. This would include shooting flowers, insects, electronic parts, textures - anything that looks interesting or beautiful when viewed extremely close up. This is an area where the compact pocket digital cameras sometimes outshine their bigger and more expensive DSLR relatives. Most compact digital cameras have a macro mode built in. With a DSLR you'll need some accessories, but there are inexpensive add ons that work well. Either type of camera will do for this class. There is a whole world hidden in the macro zone and what makes the biggest difference is the lighting. Most people think this requires specialized strobe lights and accessories. Not so. You'll learn how to use natural light, flashlights, small mirrors and other inexpensive tools to create unique lighting. We'll look at existing shots and also set up and shoot some new objects. If you happen to have access to a microscope, the possibilities for photo exploration expand even further. Crystals under polarized light, insect wings, even tiny bubbles can create beautiful images. Bring your camera to follow along and try some of the techniques. Include whatever macro accessories you already have (diopters, extension rings, bellows, etc.) and a standard or table top tripod.

Dynalite Equipment - Damage Deposit

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

Required on all equipment rentals. Will be fully refunded when undamaged equipment is returned.

Studio Rental - Damage/Cleaning Deposit

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

Required with any studio rental. Deposit will be refunded in full when studio is left in the same condition as it was found. See rental agreement for details.

Dynalite Extra Head Rental

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

With fan, modeling light and extension cable.

Dynalite 500 or 1000 Extra Power Pack Rental

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

With optical slave.

Video/Film - Half Day Studio Rental

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

Video/Film - Full Day Studio Rental

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

Still Photography - Half Day Studio Rental

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

Dynalite 1000 Kit Rental

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

INCLUDES:

Dynalite 1000x or 500x pack
3 Dynalite heads with fans & modeling lights
3 Head extension cables
Set of grids
Wireless sync
2 umbrellas
1 soft box

Still Photography - Full Day Studio Rental

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

INTERMEDIATE DSLR PHOTOGRAPHY - 4 DAY WORKSHOP

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:08 -0500

A series of four classes, each two and a half hours long, meeting over a period of a week or two. Maximum number of students is 12, minimum number to make a class is 6. The material covered will be similar to the Intermediate Full Day Workshop, but students will be given assignments between classes and there will be more time for review, comments and discussion of the work. During the 3rd class we will meet at a location, weather permitting, to shoot photos or shoot in the studio.

INTERMEDIATE COMPACT DIGITAL CAMERA CLASS

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:09 -0500

Various days and starting times, a three hour class Maximum number of students is 15, minimum number to make a workshop is 8 This is for those who have taken the Novice class or have equivalent experience. In this class we’ll delve into the creative options in your camera’s menu system and learn why a compact camera can sometimes be a better choice that a full size DSLR.

Megapixels and sensor size: what they mean, why it matters and when you can ignore the numbers
ISO & noise: the trade off and why some noise can be a good thing
Image editing : digging deeper into Picasa for image editing and cataloging
File management: Don’t bother shooting if you aren’t going to back it up!
Stills into motion: shooting video, using continuous or interval mode to create timelapse sequences
Printing: from wallets to gallery prints, understanding aspect ratio and cropping

BEGINNER DSLR PHOTOGRAPHY - 4 DAY WORKSHOP

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:09 -0500

A series of four classes, each two and a half hours long, meeting over a period of a week or two. Maximum number of students is 12, minimum number to make a class is 6. The material covered will be similar to the Beginner Full Day Workshop, but students will be given assignments after the first two classes and there will be more time for review, comments and discussion of the work. During the 3rd class we will meet at a location, weather permitting, to shoot photos or shoot in the studio.

INDIVIDUAL & SMALL GROUP INSTRUCTION

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:09 -0500

I am available for tutoring for camera instruction, Photoshop, Lightroom, printing, lighting, or any area of photography in which I’m proficient. This is a great way to learn just what you want, whether it's how to shoot and print panoramas, lighting for portraits, or getting your system color calibrated. Do you have a big trip coming up and want to get comfortable with your new equipment, or maybe just brush up on your photographic skills? I have done a lot of travel photography over the years, both on assignment for travel magazines and as personal projects or stock shoots. (check the About page) A strong understanding of photographic concepts and techniques can help you move beyond shooting travel snapshots to creating the kinds of photos that you will be proud to print big and hang on your wall. A few great travel shots can solve most gift giving dilemmas! Beyond the camera equipment itself, there are many other details to consider as a travel photographer, like accessories, lenses, cleaning kits, bags, power issues, data backup, and equipment and personal safety. Please note that the price is the same for one or two people. This way you can learn with a friend and share the expense. Prices for groups of 3 and up vary depending on the number of students. I am also available to travel to your location to tutor or teach classes. Hourly rates may be higher and travel charges may apply depending on your location. Please email me to discuss your needs and to talk about scheduling before purchasing any time. Lesson times are flexible and are available most weekdays and some evenings and weekends, depending on my shooting and teaching schedule. Rates for meeting at The Spot Studio: 1-2 students $110/hour "a la carte" 1-2 students 6 hour package $540 ($90/hr) Six-hour packages can be broken up into separate sessions.

BEGINNER COMPACT DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CLASS

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:09 -0500

Various days and starting times, a three hour class Maximum number of students is 15, minimum number to make a workshop is 8 Question: “What camera should I buy?”. Answer: “Whichever one you’ll have with you the most!”. Compact digital cameras have gotten better, smarter and cheaper. They are often the camera at hand, even if you have a bigger camera back at the house somewhere. In this class, you’ll get to know your camera’s functions and settings and discover techniques to help you make better pictures.

“My pictures are blurry”: learn the difference between motion blur and focus softness and what you can do about them
Shooting posture: stability
Getting the shot: learn why your camera sometimes takes forever to click the shutter and how to keep from missing those shots
Don’t just stand there: trying out some interesting angles to create more fun, dynamic photos
Composition: some simple concepts to add impact and grace to your pictures
Flash: when to turn it off, how to control it, red eye
Lighting: some simple ways to use available light to your advantage
Flower power: using the amazing macro capabilities of your little camera
Megapixels: how much is enough?
Sharing your photos: posting on a website and emailing
Cropping and editing: using software to enhance your photos
Printing: sizes, services and home printing

INTERMEDIATE DSLR PHOTOGRAPHY - FULL DAY WORKSHOP

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:09 -0500

*Early Registration: $215/person (up to 7 days before class date) Regular Registration: $230/person 9am to 5pm with a one hour lunch break on your own. Maximum number of students is 12, minimum number to make a workshop is 6 This workshop is for you if you’ve taken the beginner workshop, the first two evening courses or have the equivalent level of experience. In this workshop we’ll dig deeper into the equipment and get further into the creative choices and challenges of consistently taking, processing and displaying great photos.

Review: shutter speed, f-stops, DOF
P*: the hidden Program mode that allows quick, creative control
Motion blur: using slow shutter speeds and camera movement as a creative tool
Metering & exposure control: bracketing, exposure compensation, reading a histogram, using manual exposure mode creatively
Metering patterns: getting good exposures in tricky situations by changing metering patterns and using your spotmeter
ISO and noise: when to worry about it, why some noise can be a good thing
Lenses: creativity vs practicality (and $ !) we’ll look at the whole range from fisheye to super telephoto. How to get the most out of your glass
Software: a brief look at Lightroom and the basics of digital workflow
Lighting: finding it vs. bringing it with you, an intro into working with off-camera flash, great lighting from a lightweight kit
Dust & cleaning: when to worry about lens and sensor dust and how to get rid of it
Shoot: we will shoot photos of a live model
We end the day with a live edit and a slide show of everyone’s best shots

BEGINNER DSLR PHOTOGRAPHY - FULL DAY WORKSHOP

Sat, 19 May 2012 09:14:09 -0500

*Early Registration: $215/person (up to 7 days before class date) Regular Registration: $230/person 9am to 5pm with a one hour lunch break on your own. Maximum number of students is 12, minimum number to make a workshop is 6 This is for those novices who have a Digital Single Lens Reflex camera and want to learn how to shoot with more confidence and creative control. This is a hands-on workshop with a small group, live shooting demonstrations and time for your questions. In this beginning workshop you will learn:

Your new collection of stuff: batteries, chargers, memory cards, readers, filters, caps and hoods.
Buttons and dials: locating and deciphering the physical controls on your camera
Basic menus & settings: file size, quality, JPG, RAW, TIFF, white balance and ISO
The viewfinder: what information is available and how it helps you.
Focal length and maximum aperture: deciphering the numbers on your lens.
Why your camera is called a DSLR and what goes on when you take a picture.
Exposure: a thorough explanation of shutter speeds, f-stops and their relationship to ISO and light.
Motion blur and depth of field: understanding these creative tools is the key to better photos!
Exposure modes: getting off the green Auto mode and understanding the difference between P-A-S-M, (P-Av-Tv-M)
Built-in flash: when to just say no.
Focusing modes: if it’s called auto focus, why do some photos still turn out blurry? Taking control of how and where your camera focuses.
Techniques for stability: stance, camera operation, holding the camera
Assignment: we will shoot photos together of a live model.
Assignment review: surprises and near-misses, we end the day with a live edit and slide show of your best shots.