Last night it was back to class for the first night of teaching the Winter semester at the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA); and it was AWESOME!!!
I love teaching classes at the museum because there is such a range of people who attend the class. But if I had to pick a favorite, I think I’d have to choose Photo 1 (Intro to Digital Photography). I love that the students are so eager to learn and have such a passion for trying out all the techniques we go over in class!

And you have to understand. Most people who take my class have almost NO idea what they are doing. We talked about it in class last night and most students agreed that it was kind of a craps shoot when it came to taking pictures, and if they came out with a good image, then it was purely luck.
I was excited for the students because I told them that when they’re done with this 6 week course, they’ll be able to capture those great images every time because they will have full control over their camera settings!

The 6 week Winter classes are already full (except for People Pictures on Thursday afternoon, still a few seats left in that one!), which is awesome! But there are other classes you can take if you’ve got the photography itch! Check out MOCA for a full listing of classes (including the ones for Spring semester starting in April), but in the meantime, here are a few workshops that I’m teaching at the museum that I’d love to have you attend!

Back to Class with MOCA

Lighting with Flash 101

(I’m working with the fabulous Jackie Poutasse for this workshop)
Accessory flashes are one more tool in your arsenal, and they give you the flexibility and ability to create beautiful portraits in any lighting condition. If you have never used an accessory flash, it can seem a bit intimidating. This workshop is designed to get you up and running with your flash. You will learn how to get the most from your flash on and off camera. Concepts such as TTL metering, wireless flash, flash exposure compensation and rear curtain sync will be covered. Bounce lighting strategies and using flash accessories such as small soft boxes, shoot through umbrellas, bounce cards, snoots, grids and colored gels will be also be discussed.
A digital SLR camera and an accessory flash are required and students must be familiar with basic camera settings.
Members $100/ Non-members $115

Saturday, February 16 ~ 9:30am-4pm

The Business of Photography

In this workshop, students learn how to build their photography business the right way: by developing their vision, establishing a business strategy, and learning how to effectively market to increase visibility and sales. We will also cover how to effectively organize and run a small business, finding the balance between being an artist and a businessperson, the basics of copyright, how to find future clients, and so much more.
Members $70, Nonmembers $85

Saturday, March 9 ~ 9:30am -4pm

(and the one I’m most excited about!)

Modern Glamour, Stylized Wedding

In this photography workshop, an entire mock-up wedding is created: everything from an intimate ceremony, to bridal party portraits, a reception setup and more. It will include all the little details, gorgeous models, a storyline for the day, and limitless photographic opportunities! The day begins with a presentation focusing on the “how to” of wedding photography, walking through all aspects of the wedding day (working with your equipment, photography styles, “must take” shots, editing, etc). During the afternoon, students will have the chance to take what they learned in the lecture and photograph at the various wedding stations set up in the museum and on the grounds.
A digital SLR camera is required and students must be familiar with basic manual camera settings.
Members $100/ Non-members $115;  Registration required by February 22

Sunday, April 21 ~ 9:00am-3:30pm