Worth learning photography from a pro? Absolutely

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In today's digital age, photography is more accessible than ever. With smartphones equipped with high-quality cameras and an abundance of online tutorials, anyone can start taking pictures with just a few taps. However, the true mastery of photography lies in learning from an experienced professional. Here’s why:

1. Expertise and Knowledge in Photography

An experienced professional brings a wealth of knowledge that goes beyond the basics. They understand camera settings, lighting techniques, composition, and post-processing. This deep understanding allows them to teach the "how" and "why" behind each technique, providing a solid foundation for students to build upon.

2. Personalized Photography Feedback

One of the most significant advantages of learning from a professional is receiving personalized feedback. Online tutorials and books can offer guidance, but they cannot provide tailored advice based on your unique style and progress. A professional can critique your work, point out areas for improvement, and help you develop your artistic voice.

3. Hands-On Photography Experience

Photography is a hands-on art form. While theoretical knowledge is essential, nothing beats practical experience. Professional photographers offer workshops and classes that allow students to practice in real-world settings. This hands-on approach helps solidify concepts and techniques, making the learning process more engaging.

4. Networking Opportunities in Photography

Learning from a seasoned photographer opens doors to a network of industry contacts. Professionals often have connections with other photographers, studios, and clients. By being part of this network, students can gain access to opportunities such as internships, collaborations, and job offers.

5. Inspiration and Motivation in Photography

Professional photographers are not only teachers but also sources of inspiration. Their body of work can motivate students to push their boundaries and explore new creative possibilities. Additionally, seeing a professional’s journey, including their struggles and successes, can provide valuable insights and encouragement.

6. Keep Updated with Photography Trends and Technology

The photography industry is continually evolving with new trends and technological advancements. Experienced professionals stay updated with these changes and can pass this knowledge on to their students. Whether it's mastering the latest editing software in Lightroom or Photoshop or understanding new photography trends, learning from a professional ensures you stay current in the field.

7. Understanding the Business Side of Photography

For those interested in pursuing photography as a career, understanding the business aspect is crucial. Experienced photographers can offer guidance on building a portfolio, marketing your work, setting prices, and handling client relationships. This practical advice is invaluable for anyone looking to turn their passion into a profession.

8. Developing a Critical Eye in Photography

A professional photographer helps students develop a critical eye, teaching them to analyze and evaluate images effectively. This skill is vital for both taking and editing photos, as it allows photographers to make informed decisions that enhance their work's overall quality and impact.

9. Cultivating a Lifelong Passion for Photography

Learning from a professional can ignite a lifelong passion for photography. The mentorship and support provided by an experienced photographer can make the learning process enjoyable and rewarding, fostering a deep appreciation for the art form.

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Ready to Take Your Photography Skills to the Next Level?

Enroll in our photography classes and workshops led by award winning photographer Adam Jacobs.

Giggster Best Fine Art Photographer in San Francisco 2021

It’s always humbling to receive recognition for my photography work and I was recently named as one of the top fine art photographers in San Francisco by Giggster. You can see the full article here.

Fleet Week 2020

Fleet Week is one of the highlights of the year in San Francisco. Thousands gather along the shore to watch fantastic airshows, salute the military and of course, watch the infamous Blue Angels fly jaw-dropping formations across landmarks such as Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge.

This year will be different though. The pandemic means there will be no planes, no crowds and no parades. Instead, Fleet Week has been taken virtual encouraging people to learn more about the aircraft, ships, vessels and other things usually showcased in person from the comfort of their home.

I’m usually commissioned to photograph the airshows. This year I’ve had fun digging through my archives and found this image which is one of my favorite shots from the last few years. Enjoy!

Rush Hour - San Francisco

If only the Bay Bridge was this quiet normally during rush hour..

Hawaii Sunsets: Moody Maui

I can’t believe it was only a year ago, that I was capturing these stunning and mystical sunsets in Maui, Hawaii.

Hopefully, these landscape shots brighten up your day while in Shelter In Place!

Photographing for Four Seasons Hotels

It’s always a pleasure to work for companies that I really respect and who have such a high eye for both detail and creativity.

Here are some commercial lifestyle and interior photographs that I was commissioned to create for The Four Seasons Hotels a few months ago which have just been released.

Birthplace of Silicon Valley - Hewlett Packard

I just photographed what appears to be an inconspicuous garage in Palo Alto but, is in fact regarded as the ‘birthplace’ of Silicon Valley. For it is here, that the company Hewlett-Packard (HP) was invented.

The garage sits in the garden at 367 Addison Avenue. It was built in 1905 and was originally occupied by Palo Alto’s first mayor Dr John Spence, his wife Ione and their two daughters in 1909. It was then divided into two separate apartments (numbers 367 and 369) in 1918.

During this time, William “Bill” Hewlett and David “Dave” Packard both attended nearby Stanford University and in 1937 had their first business meeting. The then Dean of Engineering Frederick Terman encouraged them to establish an electronics company in the local area rather than leaving California.

Therefore, in 1938 Dave Packard moved into the first-floor three room apartment a 337 Addison Avenue with his newlywed Lucille with Bill Hewlett sleeping in the shed. A now widowed, Mrs Spencer moved into the second floor apartment.

Dave and Bill formed a partnership and began using the one-car garage with jus $538 in start up capital and in 1939 flipped a coin to decide whose name would precede the other for the company. Thus, Hewlett, Packard was born.

The company’s first product which you can still see a replica of today was an audio oscillator, known as the HP200. Interestingly, one of their first customers was the Walt Disney Company who purchased eight of these oscillators to test the sound systems in theaters running the iconic film Fantasia. This was the first major movie to be shown in stereophonic sound.

The garage and house have been replicated to show exactly how they looked at the time when Bill and Dave worked there and although closed to the public you can view it from the sidewalk. Tours are also available which I would highly recommend to technology and history buffs.

Having the garage all to myself to photograph is one of those unique experiences that I am often fortunate and privileged to have as a photographer!

My photo as a Billboard outside SFMOMA

As a photographer nothing quite beats seeing your work in print rather than just on screens.

I was therefore really excited to collaborate with the San Francisco Museum of Art (SFMOMA), one of the worlds largest museums of contemporary art, on a campaign to create a photograph that was made into a giant billboard to market the museum. The photograph shows their amazing outdoor rooftop sculpture at dusk bustling with visitors.

The billboard has been printed in downtown San Francisco and is located right outside the entrance of the museum.

Here are some photos I took as I was walking past last week.

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Chosen as one of the six best Fine Art Photographers in San Francisco

I was so excited to be chosen by Peerspace as one of the six best Fine Art Photographers in San Francisco. See here for the feature on my work along with the five other talented photographers chosen.

Yosemite Valley - Channeling My Inner Ansel

During my photography workshops, I often refer to the work of one of the masters of landscape photography Ansel Adams to showcase how the power of great composition, being patient and understanding the fundamentals of light are crucial in creating great photographs. Much of his work was shot in Yosemite National Park in California.

I just spent Memorial Day weekend in the park photographing where there has been a recent spell of wetter than normal weather. This meant that the waterfalls were flowing stronger than normal, the Merced river was full of fast flowing water and the trees were lush, verdant and green - great conditions for photography. Unusually, for late May there was even a freak snow storm which blanketed much of the park, clearing out most of the crowds and leaving me to explore many new areas without having to deal with traffic or people in my shots (which can often be the case at this time of year).

Below are some of my favorite shots as I channeled my inner Ansel. Do you prefer the color or black and whites?

After visiting this spot so many times, this was one the best times I’ve seen the light falling so perfectly on El Capitan on the left and Bridal Falls on the right. I also love the big booming clouds and how you can see Half Dome in the background with a little covering of snow. There is a reason this spot is known as Inspiration Point!! This photo is going to look awesome printed out huge.

Color version of the above…which do you prefer?

Another view from Tunnel Point/Inspiration Point taken late at night as low fog settled over the valley creating a perfect leading line to Bridal Falls.

Color Version of the above

My neutral density filters always come in useful on trips to National Parks. This was taken with a 6f stop ND filter to give the fast flowing water (pretty unusual for this time of year) a soft, silky appearance. I got some wet feet but it was definitely worth it for this shot!