Our Instructors

Chris Knight was born in Wiesbaden, Germany and hardened by the sweaty, nearly chewable, humidity of Florida. He combines his unconditional love of art history with his conditional love of technology, topping it off with a flair for the cinematic and an uncompromising eye for detail. His work has appeared in or on Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, L Official, GQ, People, MSNBC, ABC, Oxygen, Ocean Drive, and others.

Chris is the author of The Dramatic Portrait, a Profoto Legend of Light, Fujifilm Creator, and an instructor at Pratt Institute as well as the New York Film Academy.

Acclaimed, award-winning photographer Joe McNally is known worldwide as the quintessential “pro’s pro;” an extremely versatile, deeply experienced assignment photographer whose jobs have brought him to over 70 countries and counting.

McNally is often described as: Authentic, empathetic and articulate, an exceptionally skilled technical photographer who pairs extraordinary camera know-how with a vivid imagination and an ongoing, vibrant creativity. Always curious, always adapting to the conditions at hand and the relentless advances in camera technology, he has photographed FIVE cover stories for the National Geographic (amongst an overall FIFTEEN coverages), and SEVEN covers of LIFE Magazine. He photographed the very first all-digital coverage for National Geographic, which was considered such a significant, watershed moment in the history of that venerable publication that the entire coverage has been incorporated into the archives of the U.S Library of Congress.

In addition to inspiring editorial work, McNally has covered FOUR Olympics for such diverse clients as ABC Television, Sports Illustrated and TIME magazine. McNally is known for his penchant to get his camera in “a different place” and has twice climbed the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, in addition to climbing the Empire State Building four times. He is that rare photographer who has successfully made the bridge between the commercial world and the editorial world, and is highly regarded by clients for his versatility, and willingness to be a team player. Joe McNally, a proud Nikon Ambassador, has an extraordinary ability to photograph simple assignments with intimacy and grace, as well as master movie-scale productions with large crews, tremendous pressure and countless moving parts.

Widely regarded as one of best wedding and portrait photographers in the world, Jerry and his wife Melissa are based in Las Vegas, USA and Melbourne, Australia and travel frequently on international photography and speaking assignments.

Jerry is the most awarded photographer of the Wedding & Portrait Photographers International organization (WPPI) and became their first Grand Master. He was also included in their list of top five wedding photographers in the world. Jerry was also named by American Photo Magazine in their first list of top ten best wedding photographers in the world and was also given a United Nations Leadership Award by the International Photographic Council.

A Nikon Ambassador, Jerry was named the Australian Institute of Professional Photography (AIPP) Fashion Photographer of the Year and represented the wedding and fashion industries in the landmark Nikon D850 camera campaign.

Bear Woods Photography is the photography of David Akoubian. David resides in the mountains of North Georgia with his wife Evelyn.

David has been a photographer since 1972 but his career in photography started in 1992. David learned his craft originally as a painter and from his father. Early in his career traveled with, learned from and taught beside some of the masters of nature photography including John Shaw, Art Wolfe, Galen Rowell, Bryan Peterson, Pat O'Hara, and Rod Planck. David has been teaching photography since 1994 in the classroom and leading workshops around the United States. His focus remains on the Southeastern United States, where he calls home, but does workshops and lectures all around the United States, and Iceland.

David's clients have included, but are not limited to Coca Cola, PNC Bank, Tamron, Sirui, Lensbaby, The Nature Conservancy, and Gibbs Gardens. His photographs and articles have appeared in publications such as Nature Photographer, Audubon Magazine, Blue Ridge Country, Birder's World, Outdoor Photographer, Backpacker Magazine, and many local publications. His work his appeared in several feature books in addition to instructional guides on scenic locations. David works with several organizations volunteering his photography among them, Angels on Horseback and the Mountain Conservation Trust of Georgia. David is a Tamron Image Master, a Kase Filter Ambassador, and a f-stop Gear Ambassador.

Heather Larkin is a portrait photographer and SIGMA America Ambassador located in Athens near Atlanta, Georgia. Heather has been shooting professionally since 2003, and is internationally known for creating colorful, authentic images for clients around the world. Her business, Fairyography, has been featured on The Today Show,, Sigma USA, Professional Photographer Magazine, Canon Cameras, Clickin Moms, Scary Mommy, Online Athens, Southern Distinction Magazine, and more.

Heather Krut is a Technical Specialist with Canon USA and has been a photographer for over 25 years. Throughout this time, she has developed a passion for night sky, travel, creative portraiture, and live concert photography. Heather loves showcasing the features of the EOS R- series system to offer photographers a deeper understanding of in-camera tools that unlock their creative potential. Her photographic work features the entire Canon input-to-output system, including the EOS R5 Mark II along with RF glass, and the imagePROGRAF PRO-1000.

Ron Tarver has a BA from Northeastern State University, Tahlequah, OK, and an MFA from the University of the Arts, Philadelphia, PA. He was a staff photojournalist at The Philadelphia Inquirer for 32 years, where he won a Pulitzer Prize and awards from World Press Photos, Society of Professional Journalists and National Press Photographers Association. Tarver has received Guggenheim Foundation, Independence Foundation, NEA and Pew Fellowships.

His work has been exhibited in numerous exhibitions nationally and internationally, including at The Print Center, Philadelphia. It is included in many collections, including the State Museumof Pennsylvania, Harrisburg; The Studio Museum in Harlem, New York, NY; Philadelphia Museum of Art; and Smithsonian American Art Museum, Washington, DC. Tarver’s work has been published in Ebony, Jet, Life, National Geographic, Newsweek, Sports Illustrated and Time, and has appeared online on Huffington Post and Hyperallergic. He co-authored We Were There: Voices of African American Veterans (2004), which accompanied a traveling exhibition that debuted at the National Constitution Center. His award-winning second book is The Long Ride Home: Black Cowboys in America (2024).

Tarver is Associate Professor/Department Chair of Art, Swarthmore College, PA.

Primarily known for his unique dark and moody portraits, Jason Buff mostly enjoys teaching photography and has been an international speaker and instructor for the last 10 years. His career started in the film industry, but eventually moved to graphic design and Photoshop. From an early age, Jason pretty much always had either a photo or video camera in his hand. In 2008, after a long career as an independent graphic designer, he decided to dedicate himself to photography full time. He attributes his style to both his love of cinematography as well as enjoyment of editing. Jason currently lives with his wife and son in Yucatan, Mexico and travels around the world teaching his unique blend of working in the studio and retouching.

I’m Abhi — a Philadelphia-based photographer, storyteller, and forever student of human connection. I grew up in India, surrounded by color, culture, and layered traditions that still influence the way I see the world today. Before photography became my full-time life at the end of 2023, I was a neuroscientist. Science trained me to observe closely and think deeply — but photography is where I found my voice. Stepping away from that career to go all in on this dream was one of the most defining decisions of my life.

My work spans multicultural weddings, fine art portraits, boudoir, and commercial photography — but at the core, it’s always about people. I’m drawn to emotion, movement, legacy, and the in-between moments that often matter most. Whether I’m documenting a multi-day South Asian wedding, creating empowering boudoir portraits, or capturing a brand’s story at a live event, my approach is the same: intentional, vibrant, and deeply personal.

Most of my clients say I feel more like a friend with a camera than a vendor — and honestly, that’s the greatest compliment I could receive.

My Dad was a photographer and owned one of the first sports photo agencies in the world. I remember being a kid being in his office looking through hundreds of slide pages on the light box. As a teenager when i realized I wouldn’t be playing shortstop for the NY Yankees I turned my attention to photography and being as close to the action as I possibly could.

Through the years I’ve knelt on 28 Super Bowl sidelines, 30 World Series Classics, Olympic Games, the World Cup and countless other events. I have a few remaining on my bucket list. I spend more time these days away from the big stadiums and working with my partner John Loomis on our Creative Studio www.runway4.co Working on more creative concepts and ideation with the same passion and energy I brought to all my years shooting live sports.

At home, I’m raising my son Luke with my wife Roseann. One goal I have is to be as good of a cook as she is. I’m gaining ground, my palate will never be as good as hers but my presentation is on point.

Kaitlyn Dougher is currently an MFA candidate at the Tyler School of Art & Architecture. Through process-driven exploration, she uses analog and alternative photography to engage with the natural world, contemplating time and place, and collecting intimate moments in nature that would otherwise go unnoticed.

Ray Alvarez is a Florida based photographer, content creator and educator known for his real world approach to lighting and client experience. As the creative behind Shoot With Ray, he specializes in branding, headshots and content creation, blending natural light with off-camera flash to create bold, intentional imagery. Ray is a Westcott Top Pro and Cheetahstand Master Creator who regularly teaches at conferences, workshops, and industry events across the country. His teaching style focuses on simplifying lighting, thinking through scenes in real time, and helping photographers build confidence behind the camera.

Kyle Myles is a photographer living and working in Baltimore, MD. His work has been featured in publications such as Booooooom, Washington Post and The New York Times. In 2020 he established Baltimore Photo Space, a photobook store and gallery focused on small and independent publishers.

I'm Samuel Bouret, a New Jersey-based cinematographer and photographer and the founder of Samuel Bouret Productions. With over six years of experience behind the lens, I specialize in bringing stories to life—visually, emotionally, and authentically. My work is driven by a deep passion for visual storytelling and a commitment to capturing each project exactly as it’s envisioned. I’ve had the honor of working with globally recognized brands including Canon, Sony, DJI, Sigma, Sephora, and V-Flat World. Along the way, I’ve also worked alongside some of the industry’s top creative minds, such as Vanessa Joy, Lindsay Adler & Peter Hurley.

In 2019, I picked up a camera for the first time, and it changed my life completely. I started photographing everything that caught my interest, and through that lens, I discovered what truly matters to me. I practice street photography, social documentary, and portraiture—ranging from fashion editorials to street portraits. Recently, I partnered with Fujifilm and my favorite camera store Unique Photo to lead photowalks and create social media content. I’m excited about the opportunities ahead and look forward to continuing this journey with them. My photography isn’t just about capturing moments; it’s about making a difference, one frame at a time.

Karen Jerzyk is a fine art photographer who creates cinematic, surreal worlds that blur the line between reality and imagination. Known for transforming both ordinary and abandoned spaces with props, lighting, and immersive set design, she builds environments that feel nostalgic, dreamlike, and deeply emotional. Her iconic Lonely Astronaut series, along with her many large-scale studio installations, reflects themes of memory, isolation, wonder, and resilience. Drawing inspiration from childhood, pop culture, and the hidden beauty of overlooked places, Karen’s images invite viewers into strange yet familiar stories that linger long after they are seen. Based in Manchester, New Hampshire, she continues to expand her practice through photography, sculpture, and collaborative set-building.

Susan's artistry shines brightly in the darkness as a photographer, explorer, and educator. Renowned for her expertise in light painting, long exposures, and night photography, she experiments and pushes the boundaries of visual art.

After getting her start as a photojournalist, Susan transitioned her skill for capturing moments into shooting events and portraits. As an award-winning photographer with over 20 years of experience, Susan is a respected educator in the industry and now shares her innovative techniques on her Photo Adventures. Photour Adventures was created out of Susan’s desire to share her passion for photography and travel through workshops and photowalks. She loves chasing the best light from sunrise to sunset and creates her own light into the night. Susan shares her unique style and light painting techniques in her Luminescent Portraits Series.

Susan is also an Ambassador for Benro USA and Nanlite.

Ian Spanier is an award-winning portrait photographer who began taking photographs at six years old when his parents gave him his first point and shoot camera. After majoring in photography in college, Spanier worked in publishing as an editor, but making pictures never left him. Having only known 35mm, he taught himself medium and large format as well as lighting. Spanier considers himself primarily self-taught in lighting. Absorbing lighting styles from his time as a photo editor, studying photography books and portfolios then he really began his "10,000 hours" …and then some.

The original "Masters of Photography" have always inspired Spanier as they shot what they saw. For him, there is no “one” subject that he photographs; he also chooses to shoot what he sees.

Although he works anywhere and everywhere, Spanier left NY for the sunny coast, and now lives in Los Angeles, Ca.

Bobby Stormer is an award-winning and published wildlife photographer based in northern New Jersey. Inspired by wildlife conservationist Steve Irwin, Bobby has been fascinated by animals since childhood. He has volunteered for wildlife rehabilitation rescues, dog rescues, and conservation efforts throughout his journey, and credits this experience as instrumental to his success in reading animal behaviors, tracking wildlife, and capturing those treasured moments. Through his work, Bobby hopes to make a positive impact on animal welfare across the globe, as well as inspire others to pursue their own passions.

Shiv Verma, FPSA, HonNEC is a published author, photographer, educator and technologist. He is a Panasonic Lumix Global Ambassador, Wacom Pro-Artist and an X-Rite Coloratti. He has been photographing for over 50 years and has evolved his photography to express his intense devotion to wildlife and nature. He belongs to multiple photographic clubs and associations and serves as President of the New England Camera Club Council and Vice Chair of the Massachusetts Camera Naturalists. He is the immediate past Vice President of Learning and Technology of the Photographic Society of America. He is a member of the Professional Photographers Association of America; past Board Member, General Chairman of the PSA International and Chairman of Nature Division, PSA (Photographic Society of America). In addition, he is a member of the North American Nature Photographers Association (NANPA), and Greater Lynn Photographic Association.

Shiv was honored as a Fellow of the Photographic Society of America in 2020, and as an Associate of the Photographic Society of America in 2013. He was elected an Honorary Member of the New England Camera Club Council in 2022 and a Master Member in 2008.

As a touring musician, my photography started as a way to purely document my travels throughout the United States and Europe. Since moving on from the touring life, photography has become my main form of creative expression. Too often we pass by natural beauty or fail to appreciate the things we are surrounded by every day.

Through my photography I hope to communicate a sense of wonder and inspire adventure. In recent times my work has focused on the landscape-astrophotography field. This style of photography takes many notes from both astronomy and traditional landscape photography and then combines the two. Hours are spent planning shots out days, weeks and sometimes even months in advance to make sure all of the elements align properly. Being able to capture the sense of wonder and vastness that we can feel while staring out in a star filled sky is a feeling unmatched.

Photography is my escape; it's my peace in an otherwise hectic place. I hope that viewers find the same beauty and serenity in viewing my images as I find making them.

Tony Gale is an award winning portrait photographer. Tony was raised in Bellingham, Washington (90 miles north of Seattle) and spent most of his time as a child exploring the woods behind his parents’ house. At 19, after visiting Bruce Lee's grave in Seattle, and taking his first photo with a disposable camera, he bought his first camera. He promptly broke it and bought his first SLR. At 21 he moved to Seattle to pursue photography and in fall of 2000 moved to NYC, the center of the world. Tony shoots for a variety of editorial, corporate and advertising clients, creating compelling images to tell his clients stories. Tony has taught at Parsons, SVA, and FIT, has led workshops and spoken about photography across the country. He is the APA National president and a triathlete in his spare time.

Clay Patrick McBride is known for his bold portraiture that celebrates his subjects through empowerment, humor, honesty and grit; he has an ability to connect with talent in a way that is personal, intense and collaborative in nature. McBride’s philosophy of image making fuses experimentation and limitlessness with his classic training in painting and art history, resulting in an iconic visual language that creates a conversation between the old and new world. His deep interest in connecting with and understanding the world around him is what drives him to keep experimenting with new processes, techniques and to examine the interplay between process and the portrait, time and space.

Over the course of his career, McBride has photographed cultural icons including Jay- Z, Kanye West, Metallica, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Norah Jones, LeBron James, Allen Iverson, Nas, and Snoop Dogg. Selected clients include Nike, Rolling Stone, Sports Illustrated, Sony Music, Atlantic Records, Blue Note Records, Def Jam, and Universal Music Group.

Meg Loeks lives in a remote part of Michigan's Upper Peninsula with her husband, four young children and several animals. Her photography journey started when she was young, shooting with film and developing her own prints. Drawn to low light and color, she is a portrait and lifestyle photographer. Meg is also a mentor and instructor at Clickin Moms and a Profoto Legend of Light. She is also a volunteer photographer for The Gold Hope Project, a nonprofit organization which gifts families battling pediatric cancer a free photo session.

Marcus Rivera is a Philadelphia-based photographer, videographer, and content creator, and the founder of Arevir Visual Media. Known for his cinematic, street-driven style, Marcus blends real-world storytelling with practical content strategies that creators can actually use. Working closely with the creative community at Unique Photo, he’s helped inspire photographers and filmmakers to get out, shoot more, and create with purpose. His teaching style is hands-on, straightforward, and built for all levels—focused on helping creators master their gear, understand light, and turn everyday moments into standout content.

Sophia Chew is a photographer and filmmaker from Seattle, Washington, and the first SIGMA Ambassador to begin her tenure as an active student. During the COVID-19 pandemic, her freshman year of high school was cut short, leading her to pick up photography and social media in her extra time. She has photographed concerts for her favorite artists, collaborated with major motion pictures for social media campaigns, and has been a red carpet premiere host for her favorite TV show. She specializes in self-portraiture and themed fantasy/fiction pieces. Chew has created for companies such as Meta, UNICEF, Netflix, Adobe, Warner Brothers, and Marvel. She is currently majoring in Film and TV Production at a university in California and aspires to be a cinematographer.

Eli Infante is a Westcott Top Pro and portrait photographer based in the Rio Grande Valley, known for his high-speed sync work and bold, creative lighting. With over a decade of teaching experience and an audience of 100K+ YouTube subscribers, Eli combines technical expertise with an approachable teaching style that inspires photographers at every level. Through hands-on workshops, one-on-one mentorships, and engaging online content, he shares practical techniques and creative insights to help photographers elevate their craft. Whether in the studio, on location, or speaking on stage, Eli’s passion is empowering others to unlock their creative potential.

Kiati Plooks is an Award-Winning Boudoir, Portrait, and Dance Photographer and Educator based in Ellicott City, MD. Kiati has over 15 years of experience in the photography industry and enjoys teaching and mentoring in both aspects of photography and the business behind photography when he is not behind the lens. With the knowledge of utilizing both natural and artificial light in his work, he leverages his ability to shape light to contour his subjects to create drama and depth within his images.

"For me, portraiture is a sincere conversation, a wonderfully surreal collaboration between light, shadow, trust, and truth. It is a way for me to make others feel seen, heard, safe, loved, accepted, and celebrated; to tell their singularly unique stories and, in the process, tell a bit of my own. Ultimately, it's the alchemy of humanity and reciprocity.

To that end, over the last 11 years, I've photographed tens of thousands of people — artists, rebels, entrepreneurs, rock stars, leaders, dreamers, the everyday folks, and uncannily uncommon individuals, those at the very top of their game and those navigating the lowest points in their lives, the shy and the bold alike. I've created and taught around the country and across the globe, exploring how contrast and narrative intertwine, and at times, combine to reveal who we truly are. My camera has been a passport to new worlds, a powerful conduit for heartfelt connection with fellow humans, and a mirror through which I've come to know and love myself."

"I've been a bit of an adventure seeker and collector of experiences most of my life. Preferring to be active, outside, and exploring. Much of the way I experience the world is through the lens of my camera. Although I couldn't tell you what I did last week or where I'll be next Tuesday, I remember every single picture I've taken; when, where, camera settings, and most of all the story around the photo - which I always enjoy sharing.

Former corporate zombie, recently broken free of 60hr work-week to live on my own terms. Check out my block to follow along on my vanlife adventure, or peruse my portfolio to see some pics from the road."

Charley Voorhis is a documentary filmmaker, director, and cinematographer based in Washington State. With Voortex Productions since 2004, he’s crafted visually impactful films and branding campaigns that connect with audiences. His work includes projects like Harmony Field, Project Pivot, and Voortex Live: a multimedia performance with Wenatchee Symphony. Charley combines a passion for story, immersive visuals, and a nimble production style built for remote, challenging environments. As a Tamron Image Master, he’s also taught several workshops across the country on visual storytelling. Charley will lead a hands-on music-video workshop, drawing on two decades of experience in cinematic storytelling, production, sound, and editing.

Blake Rudis is a classically trained artist who started as a painter. He transitioned into printmaking and sculpture while attending the University of Delaware, where he received his Bachelor's degree in Fine Art. His passion for all things Fine Art shifted when he decided to double down on his love for the American landscape. Shooting analog film starting in 1998, he took up digital photography in 2006. His journey through the American Landscape led him to start a blog and YouTube channel in 2010. Blake incorporates his knowledge of Fine Art, aesthetics, and color theory in his courses and is known for his acclaimed Photoshop® workflow.

Blake is a self-published author and works as an independent photo educator. Some of his partnerships include Topaz Labs, ON1, and Creative Live. Throughout his teaching efforts on his website, f64Academy.com, Blake has helped hundreds of thousands of photographers excel in photo post-production, turning ho-hum photos into stellar works of art.

Rob Sylvan is a photographer, educator, and author. He is the author of many Lightroom, Photoshop, and photography related books, eBooks, and videos. Rob is also a Canon Product Educator, and teaches at photography conferences such as Adobe MAX, Photoshop World, Lightroom Summit, and more.

Caroline Jensen, a Sony Artisan of Imagery, is a photographic artist living on the prairie in southern Minnesota with her husband, four children, and many pets.

Caroline is a creative photographer specializing in emotive portraiture, macro, and still life imagery. She seeks to find emotion in every image and finds her niche in painterly images with dramatic light. She enjoys focusing on one subject, whether that be a person or a flower. Her style, while ornate in processing, strives for a simplicity that guides the viewer’s eye to the heart of the image.

The streets of Brooklyn in the 1960s and ’70s shaped Marc Asnin. Growing up amid racial discrimination, but in a home grounded in social justice, taught him to look toward lives and experiences too often unseen.

Another influence was the neighborhood’s wise guy world, where gangsters and cops were both great storytellers. Asnin became a direct storyteller himself, giving voice to people living with broken dreams while still finding moments of dignity, humor, and hope. His photographs have appeared in The New York Times Magazine, The New Yorker, Life, and Stern. His honors include the Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Awards and support from the W. Eugene Smith Memorial Fund. His work has been exhibited throughout the United States and Europe.

Across his practice, Asnin explores memory, identity, family, loss, justice, and survival. Uncle Charlie, created over decades, became an intimate dialogue between nephew and godfather and a meditation on family, consequence, and the fragile bonds that hold people together. In Final Words, Asnin bore witness to the final statements of individuals executed in Texas. The work developed into We the People Confess, an interdisciplinary exhibition examining race, religion, punishment, and public memory through photography, sound, testimony, historical texts, and visitor participation. The work received support from The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts.

In Act One: A Century in the Making, Asnin serves as concept and visual director, bringing together more than one hundred photographers with scholars, writers, journalists, and public intellectuals to create a collective portrait of the first twenty-five years of the twenty-first century. Across these bodies of work, his practice asks how individual lives become part of a larger story about who we are and what we choose to remember.

Brooke Gorisca is a New York–based photographer, filmmaker, and social-first content designer. A five-time Unique Photo contest winner and 1st place recipient of the 2023 Winter Creative Challenge Expo, she is recognized for inventive, budget-friendly creativity that transforms resourceful hacks into bold, story-driven visuals. Her work has been featured in People Magazine, Hypebeast, WWD, Vision Monday, and MR Magazine, as well as across verified social media accounts reaching more than 4.2 million followers. Commercially, her photography and content have appeared online at Ulta and Sephora, and in global brand campaigns. She has led projects from concept through production and post, collaborating with influencers and celebrities and capturing cultural events such as New York Fashion Week. Brooke also serves on the Board of Directors for the West Hudson Arts and Theater Co., helping expand access to community arts programming.

Temu Nana has been a photographer for over 12 years and has spent much of that time leading small group photographic tours to international destinations on all seven continents. He has won awards in nationwide competitions for travel and photojournalism, but his true photographic passion is for astrophotography. He began shooting the stars 10 years ago and has since expanded into teaching and educating others about the night sky and how to capture its beauty. When not traveling for work, he spends clear nights imaging deep space objects with highly specialized equipment. Many of these images have been shared on social media by the country's largest astrophotography accounts.

Tim Hughes is a content producer and Part 107 licensed drone pilot.

"When I was younger I always had an interest in RC airplanes and Helicopters. This quickly shifted when the first DJI drone was released in 2013. I have taken this hobby and now turned it into a career and passion. My drone work has been featured on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, music videos, real estate offerings, and countless advertisement campaigns. My passion for drones and capturing content started with this first drone, and has grown rapidly as the technology has continued to elevate. I pride myself on capturing a unique perspective that my clients have grown to expect. I continually push myself to learn more and understand the full capabilities of the drone. After being on numerous drone jobs and being asked if I do videography, I started to hone my skills with a regular camera. This has allowed me to continue to grow my company and learn even more about videography. I have a passion for teaching and truly enjoy passing on the knowledge that I have learned over the years."

Sr. Technical Specialist, Cinema & Professional Video

Ryan has been a Cinema EOS tech rep with Canon USA for over 13 years. As an official spokesperson, he is regularly featured on Canon's YouTube and social media for product announcements and tips and tricks. Specializing in both captured and live multi-cam applications, Ryan enjoys helping creatives realize their vision with technical expertise and first-in-class support.

Conservation photographer and Filmmaker, Kristi Odom, has worked in some of the earth's most remote locations to help document stories that will help protect our planet's biodiversity. She is an internationally awarded photographer, an associate fellow of the International League of Conservation Photographers, a Nikon Ambassador and a motivational speaker.

She believes strongly in the power of photography to help create positive change and ultimately help protect the planet's wildlife. A photographer and filmmaker, her work focuses on connecting people emotionally to animals and celebrating those who fight to protect the natural world.

Her accolades include over 60 international photography awards. She also was included in National Geographic’s 2021 collection for Best Animal Photos and her work has been exhibited at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History. Her work has appeared either online and/or in print for the following clients: National Geographic, Washington Post, New York Times, Forbes, Rollingstone, NIkon, Microsoft and Outside Mag.

Based in Colorado, Ivey Kennedy is a self-taught wildlife photographer whose passion for birds has taken her across North America’s most stunning ecosystems. Guided by patience, observation, and a deep respect for animal behavior, she captures wildlife in its most authentic form and brings those moments to life through her refined editing skills, known for enhancing color, mood, and the emotional impact of each image. Ivey teaches photographers how to truly understand their subjects, creating opportunities for meaningful and ethical encounters. She shares this knowledge with an engaged audience, using her imagery to inspire conservation and a deeper connection with nature. On her tours, participants not only experience unforgettable wildlife moments but also learn how to translate them into powerful, visually striking photographs. Ivey’s goal is for every guest to leave inspired, informed, and equipped to create images that feel as alive as the moments themselves.

Formento & Formento come out of a hybrid lineage of art and fashion. You might call them Third Picture Generation Artists. Their work conjures the sensibilities of an art film and extends it through lengthy series. Although their work is not explicit fashion, they tend to observe high fashion standards in casting, hair and makeup, which invariably injects a frisson of glamour into the scenario. Their locations and their light are first rate, giving a genuine cinematic sensibility to the photographs with big screen values, but Formento and Formento are a duo that travels light and manages to achieve soundstage quality without Hollywood budgets.

Richeille Formento a former graphics designer, styles and art directs the pictures while her husband BJ Formento lights and photographs. In their first major body of work they created a dramatic portrait of the American West, traveling in an 25 foot Airstream and finding locations and casting on the fly.

Heather Palecek is an analog, experimental photographer working through concepts of humans' complex relationship with the environment. She works primarily in pinhole photography and camera-less processes, exploring ways to collaborate with Mother Nature in her work. Palecek has a degree in fine art education and photography from Montclair State University and has been a high school photography teacher in NJ since 2010.

Beyond the classroom, she extends her passion for alternative and historic photography processes as the leader of the NJ Pinhole Club and through immersive workshops conducted worldwide. Her award winning work has been exhibited locally and internationally.

Jonathan Thorpe is a Washington DC based photographer whose technical ability to light and direct a story rings true in the images he produces. His approach drums emotion, yet maintains a level of verisimilitude in the form of his narrative portraiture. Since switching to photography in 2008 from a profession in optometry, Jonathan shoots full-time nationally and local to his home in Washington D.C. He is currently a Tamron Image Master, Westcott Top Pro, Rangefinder magazine people choice award winner and Holdfast Gear Ambassador.

Alongside his photography, Jonathan teaches and lectures around the world helping other photographers grow confident in their careers and forays into photography. When not shooting with clients, Jonathan enjoys building and riding his motorcycle, skating with his friends, and doing personal projects to keep his creativity sharp.

Padma Inguva is an IT Professional who discovered photography while going through a difficult time in her life. Photography became her passion and safe haven to recharge and renew. She became well known for her floral and architectural portfolios as well as her impressive teaching skills in just a few years. Padma is also part of the leadership team at Adventures in Photography, offering workshops, presentations and customized portfolio development.

As one of the leading wedding photographers in the world, New Jersey wedding photographer Mike Zawadzki has a distinctive style that helps his couples remember their wedding day memories in a timeless, bold, and genuine way. Mike has been photographing weddings for 10+ years and enjoys a technically challenging low-light situation as much as he does a stunning once in a lifetime sunset + sky. He typically starts with traditional poses that will make older members of families smile. Then, based on the rapport he builds with clients, he mixes in more personalized and creative shots of couples based on their preferences, and vibe. Mike enjoys meeting new couples, and learning about their unique love stories, which helps his subjects feel comfortable in front of his camera no matter how shy or introverted they may feel.

Ross Joseph's career in printing spans over 24 years. He is a Sr. Technical Specialist for Canon’s Marketing / Content Mgmt. & Bus Partner Support group and has taught printer workshops for a wide variety of audiences ranging from groups of hundreds to individualized one-on-one sessions. Over the past 14 years, Ross has had the opportunity to travel the country teaching people on all levels of experience from the beginner photographer looking to print their newly shot photos to the experienced professional photographer who sells prints as an income generating business. As a Sr. Technical Specialist at Canon USA, Ross supports a wide range of educational projects including live & virtual educational programing, research and development.

specializes in wildlife, landscape, and nature photography along with editing with Photoshop and Lightroom. Matt was inducted into the Photoshop Hall of Fame in 2014 and is the best-selling author of over 20 books. Matt loves to educate others and spends much of his time creating courses for his website as well as teaching around the world. He is also a Sony Artisan of Imagery.

Sony Artisan Monica Sigmon opened her Williamsburg, VA studio in 2000, focusing on family portraiture. She and her husband recently moved to Houston to take over Gittings, a family portrait studio that has been instrumental in shaping the portrait photography industry for the last 98 years. Monica has developed a style that blends traditional and contemporary elements. Her work has been recognized by peers and industry leaders, including being named a Sony Artisan of Imagery in 2021. Monica enjoys sharing her experiences through speaking engagements, covering topics like marketing, branding, and portrait techniques. She's contributed to photography publications and podcasts, discussing both the artistic and business aspects of the field. Monica continues to explore new ways to evolve family portraiture, balancing creativity with practical business insights.

Esteban Gil and Mandy Wright are wedding and fashion photographers, educators, and storytellers with a shared passion for creating images with intention. Their approach goes beyond simply documenting a moment; they’re interested in how you see, why you shoot, and what you want your work to say.

Through their photography, teaching, and mentorship, Mandy and Esteban encourage photographers to experiment, take creative risks, and find the balance between authentic moments and intentional artistry. Their education is rooted in real world experience from shooting weddings and traveling the world to building successful photography businesses and teaching other photographers along the way.

Together, they bring a collaborative, hands on approach to education designed to help photographers see differently, tell stronger stories, and develop a visual voice that feels like their own.

I'm a photographer based out of Lyndhurst, New Jersey. I'm a husband, father of 3, love playing the guitar and I have been fortunate to be chosen as Top Photographer and Videographer for 2021 by IAOTP (International Association Of Top Professionals).

Besides the obvious, like getting to create awesome images and spending a day with amazing people, why do I love to photograph weddings? Stories! Our lives are one great story divided into many chapters. That's why I LOVE photographing weddings. I am given the opportunity to witness and capture the creation of an epic chapter of your life story. I've been blessed to be part of hundreds of these new creations. My parents had a great story. My wife and I have a story. Every couple has a love story to tell. Let me tell yours. It's never too late to do something you love.

Carson Marks Gordon is an award-winning photographer and cinematographer with over 15 years of professional experience. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Film & Video from Drexel University and has accumulated over six years of expertise in the professional inspection and servicing of camera equipment. Renowned for his dedication and passion for his craft, Carson also contributes to his community by serving as a substitute instructor in photography at his alma mater during his spare time.

Will Cadena is an experienced photographer and business owner with the skills and know-how to break conventional photography rules to deliver a sleek, polished look without re-touching. Combining a modern, edgy look with traditional photography, Will has a rare ability to interpret the exact moment a client wants to be captured. An active member of the PPA and WPPI , Will has led national and international clothing photoshoots, portraits, headshots, and private and public events. Will began assisting as a young boy with his Uncle, eventually moving up the ranks to photographer. He instantly fell in love with the art of photography, specifically painting with light. He is devoted to the field and demonstrates his support and passion by speaking on behalf of The Canon Experience Center, Fundy Inspiration Workshop, and more to inspire Disney's Fine Art photographers at Disney World. He's spoken at WPPI, Imaging USA, Photo Plus NY, and is a Speaker & International Judge at WPPI. He spoke hands on for Canon USA workshops. He’s spoken and judged internationally in Italy, Malaysia, Greece, and Iceland. Representing or working with some of the top companies in photography is a profound honor and a distinct privilege.

The dynamic duo of Bobbi Lane, Mistress of Light, and Lee Varis, Sultan of Skin, are award winning commercial photographers with over 40 years experience. Both have photographed a wide variety of subjects, from still life to people to travel. Bobbi’s work includes corporate websites, annual reports, and hundreds of environmental portraits for a wide variety of magazines. She has authored several books and a variety of educational DVDs on lighting. Lee Varis is a photo-illustrator and a digital and advanced imaging pioneer. Lee’s work has been featured on movie posters, video box covers, CD covers, numerous brochures and catalogs. He is responsible for the moth on the "Silence of the Lambs" movie poster, as well as photos of the Starship Enterprise for the Star Trek movies! Lee is the author of the bestselling book “Skin: The Complete Guide to Digitally Lighting, Photographing, and Retouching Faces and Bodies”.

As dedicated photo educators, together they bring insight and enthusiasm to their students in workshops and travel tours worldwide, including Venice Carnival, Iceland, Tuscany and more. Bobbi and Lee teach lighting techniques for portraits with natural light, studio strobes and speed lights. Lee, specializes in Lightroom and Photoshop and is considered to be an Adobe Wizard! Their dynamic workshops are always both educational and fun!

Lee and Bobbi are Fujifilm “X-Photographers “and have been honored by photo organizations and professional magazines for their outstanding education instruction.

Marco Soriano is a Peruvian-American documentary and portrait photographer based in Jersey City, NJ. For four years he worked as digital technician and assistant to National Geographic photographer Michael Yamashita. His personal work explores intimacy, consent, and visibility in public space. His work has been featured by Arc'teryx, The North Face, and 3sixteen.

Steve Vaccariello captures the unexpected in his subjects. It's the moment most often overlooked that Vaccariello interprets and immortalizes on film. With suggestive lighting, evocative shadowing, and unique printing techniques, his work explores the idea of ethereal and evocative beauty, the nuances of form, and the subtleties and extremes of physical expression. "My work draws upon - but transcends - my experiences," he continues. "I'm a purist at heart - camera, light, and composition - striving for that look of unique, but timeless beauty."

Ricky Shoebio has made himself a fixture in the Lifestyle, Footwear, Editorial, Commercial spaces for his and teams visual storytelling. Through the conceptualizing of said pieces, content segments, campaigns, commercials they have laid their stamp on the industry as an agency. Working alongside Nike, Foot Inc, BMW, Revolt, Hulu, Disney, FX, Sony, AT&T, Converse, Adidas, Jordan Brand, Popsugar, Live Nation, Red Bull, FIBA, Eastbay, NCAA, Sony Music, Comic Con, Jack Daniel's, Under Armour, Reebok, Mountain Dew, Oakley, Tesla, Google, The NBA, The Recording Academy (Grammys), HBO, and many others he continues to establish himself as a true visionary and asset.

His works with Ciara, Run DMC, Carmelo Anthony, Angus Cloud, Broderick Hunter, Juvenile, Don C, Damien Lillard, Elton John, Eddie Huang, Ryan Penagos, and Visual artist King Saladeen; have garnered him a well respected reputation in a short time. Leading KYD to be a one of the most prominent Black Owned Agencies in New York. And also helping SOCIAL Magazine and SOCIAL TV grow to a 50,000+ print subscription with a 500,000+ UMV, and 255,000+ subscribers with over 100,000,000+ in only two years; Shoebio has made a phenomenal following for himself and the people and organizations he has supported.

Matthew Borowick is a New York-based photographer whose work moves between the earth, the sky, and the space in between. Shooting from the ground, and from drones, he pursues a single obsession: finding the moments when a landscape reveals something about itself that is only visible from exactly the right angle, altitude, or light.

Anabel DFlux is a published photographer living and working in Las Vegas. She is known for a vast array of photographic work. Art is her passion in life, and in 2009 she made her dream a reality by establishing Deliquesce-Flux Photography. Since then, Anabel has become renowned for her innovative work including exotic animal photography, live music shooting and dynamic, imaginative portraits. In 2019, she became a SIGMA Ambassador, and continues to work tirelessly throughout the country with the latest SIGMA lenses by her side.

Rick Friedman has been a photojournalist for over four decades. Based in Boston, he travels the world for numerous publications, corporations, advertising assignments, and film and television productions.

His published work has appeared in Time, National Geographic, Newsweek, The New York Times, Nature, USA Today, The Guardian, Der Spiegel, Stern, Discover, and many other publications. His photographs have appeared on CNN, ABC, NBC, CBS, Fox, Nightline, 60 Minutes, Saturday Night Live, and in numerous documentaries. He has produced over 75 book and magazine covers and worked on 20 movies.

Brooke Shaden is a fine art photographer, mixed media artist, and writer specializing in conceptual imagery and self-portraiture. She grew up in Lancaster, PA and has two degrees in English Literature and Filmmaking. Brooke has always seen the world as a dark yet beautiful place. Inspired at a young age by mortality, she has always had a fear of death and a fascination with it. That intrigue morphed into a deep desire to portray grief in a positive way, and that north star has guided her work since 2009.

Over the past fifteen years, Brooke has helped new artists to reflect the way they see the world in their art and to heal through the experience. She specializes in finding beauty and darkness and utilizing a gentle approach to bring others into that space. Community is at the forefront of Brooke’s life. She hosts an annual creativity conference called Promoting Passion which focuses on our purpose, legacy, and impact. Outside of her own convention, Brooke speaks to crowds of thousands throughout each year to inspire personal growth and reflection.

Represented by five galleries and with work collected by museums, her art has made an indelible mark and has inspired hundreds of thousands of up-and-coming photographers. With sponsorship from companies like Sony and Microsoft, Brooke has made it her mission to share inspiration far and wide. She was named in the top 10 most influential photographers, photographer of the year, winner of Ron Howard’s Project Imagination, and received the distinguished alumni award from her high school in 2019. In 2026, she signed a 2-book deal with HarperCollins to publish her dark fantasy books. Brooke co-founded The Light Space, a photography program for those vulnerable to human trafficking, and was a foster parent from 2019 to 2023 to six children.

When Brooke isn’t making visual art or traveling, she’s either reading or writing fiction.

David Bergman is best known today as the official tour photographer for country superstar Luke Combs, but it's just the latest chapter in a 35-year career that spans music, sports, journalism, and education.

Bergman was named a Canon Explorer of Light in 2015, one of the highest honors achievable by a professional photographer. He's also received the Professional Photographer Achievement Award from the International Photographic Council at the United Nations, is a three-time iHeartRadio Music Awards nominee for "Favorite Tour Photographer," and a two-time CMA Touring Awards nominee for "Tour Photographer of the Year."

In the music world, David toured globally with Bon Jovi for nearly a decade and has worked with Barenaked Ladies, Sarah McLachlan, and Gloria Estefan, among others. After moving to New York City in 2001, he covered major events including the Olympics, Super Bowls, and World Series games, earning 13 Sports Illustrated covers and a reputation for capturing defining moments under pressure. He began his career as a freelance photojournalist before joining The Miami Herald as a staff photographer, covering everything from local stories to international news and sports, including more than a few rides in the Presidential motorcade.

David's work continues to reflect a passion for visual storytelling and a commitment to mentoring the next generation of photographers.

JC Carey is a lifetime image maker that like many photographers was terrified of lighting until he was gifted with a class in 2007. The class was terrible with too many of the “recipes” that people love to share rather than teach how to light, but it lit a fire that has never stopped burning. That gift changed everything. It transformed him from someone that barely took pictures of people and knew nothing about lighting into someone still trying to figure out how to light everything.

The last 15 years have passed with him being blessed with a daughter, a career doing what he loves, multiple magazine covers, and with meeting amazing people and trying to create great images of them. The art of photography and taking pictures is his passion but the ability to make his vision a reality in a photograph is what truly drives him. JC has taught all over the US including being part of the Staff at Summit Workshops.

JC is a professional photographer based in New Jersey as well as proudly joining Westcott as their East Coast Sales Manager in 2020, using their gear for the entirety of his lighting lifespan.

Todd Lauther is an artist and educator who works primarily in photography and bookmaking. He received his M.F.A. from Syracuse University and his B.F.A. from Montclair State University. He held teaching positions at Mercer County Community College, Ursinus College, and Syracuse University. Currently, Todd is the Education Coordinator at Unique Photo's Philadelphia location, where he teaches a variety of classes.

Todd’s work has been shown in various museums and galleries such as The Woodmere Art Museum in Philadelphia, PA, Point of Contact Gallery in Syracuse, NY, Academy Art Museum in Easton, MD, and Candela Gallery, Richmond, VA.

Bob Davis is no newcomer to the photographic industry. He's been a professional photographer for over 30 years. It was obvious to him at an early age that being a photographer was what he wanted to do with his life.

Bob's cameras have always been a passport for him, allowing him a front seat to history. While at the paper, he had covered countless amazing events, such as presidential elections, Michael Jordan's entire career with the Chicago Bulls, and many faith celebrations and rituals. Bob has traveled around the world photographing weddings and human-interest stories for non-profit organizations. Bob has since moved on from the newspaper industry. Now, a partner with his wife Dawn Davis, Bob & Dawn Davis Photography & Design's client list reads like a "Who's Who" of entertainment's elite. They have had the honor of photographing Ashley's wedding, of ABC's TV show The Bachelorette, to J.P. in Pasadena, California, and many other "A" list weddings such as Eva Longoria and Tony Parker, Salma Hayek and François-Henri Pinault, La La Vazquez and Carmelo Anthony, Tracey Edmonds and Eddie Murphy, and many other fabulous events with Oprah Winfrey. Bob's work has been featured in publications such as O, People, OK, Inside Weddings, Town & Country, Munaluchi, Grace Ormonde, The Knot, Ritz-Carlton, Professional Photographer, Rangefinder, and Popular Photography.

Chris Zaccone is an Adobe Certified Professional and Photoshop instructor. He taught for over a decade at Pratt Institute’s School of Design and has worked professionally as an illustrator and graphic designer.

Over the years, Chris has taught thousands of students across photography, design, fashion, and retail. His approach focuses on building strong, efficient workflows that allow for maximum creative range—without overcomplicating the process. Rather than specializing in one narrow area, he works across a broad set of Photoshop tools and techniques, helping users understand how the pieces fit together so they can create with confidence and flexibility.

More recently, Chris has been working with the latest AI tools in Photoshop, including Adobe Firefly—Adobe’s generative AI model—along with additional partner models now accessible within the platform. His focus is on helping users break through the barrier of prompting to achieve the results they’re actually looking for, while working within smart, safe, production-ready workflows.

Lee Varis is a Fujifilm X-Photographer and photo-illustrator now working in the Boston area. He's been involved in commercial photography for over 45 years, and started working with computer imaging over 25 years ago. He currently works with digital as well as conventional photography in conjunction with computer graphics to create images for use in print advertising.

Lee's work has been featured on movie posters, video box covers, CD covers, numerous brochures and catalogs. He was responsible for the moth on the "Silence of the Lambs" movie poster, as well as photos of the Starship Enterprise for the Star Trek movies!

Matthew Christopher has had an interest in abandoned sites since he was a child, but started documenting them a decade ago while researching the decline of the state hospital system. His two books, "Abandoned America: Dismantling the Dream" and "Abandoned America: The Age of Consequences" and his website, also titled Abandoned America, have chronicled the stories of modern ruins of all kinds across the United States and abroad. He also has recently created an Abandoned America podcast to share interviews and stories that delve into the mysteries, histories, and stories of abandoned places.

Matthew has an MFA in Fine Art Photography from Rochester Institute of Technology and has taught photography at a college level and now teaches photography workshops. He has had gallery shows across the US, lectured on abandoned spaces and mental health history, and his work has been in dozens of publications and media outlets including the New York Times, ABC and NBC News, PDN, The Atlantic, Photographer's Forum, The Huffington Post, Buzzfeed, the Daily Mail, NY Daily News, and many more.

Taylor Ballantyne (CEO & Founder of Ballantyne Films Inc) is a Sony Camera and Nanlite endorsed Director and Photographer. She specializes in commercial advertising, print, editorial, music and film. Over the course of 20 years in the industry she has developed her reel and portfolio working with celebrities, super-models, athletes, musicians, creative agencies, license branding companies, and production companies globally.

Taylor has achieved at a high level in the industry by cultivating long lasting relationships with her clientele. She has received national attention for her accomplishments; some include 7 Sports Illustrated Covers, director of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit's "In Her Own Words" short film & photographic series as seen on Good Morning America & Cannes Lions Film Festival. She directed a top charting music video across all genres featuring Kelly Clarkson and a feature film entitled "Trouble Is... 25 The Film" featuring Kenny Wayne Shepherd released on Amazon. She currently resides in Nashville, TN and continues to expand her commercial and film portfolio traveling all over the world.

Fabiola Lara is a Chilean-American illustrator, designer, and content creator based in Philadelphia. Her work playfully explores the beauty in everyday moments while reflecting her Latinx identity through bold colors and rich textures. She is also the creator of Philadelphia’s Mini Print Vending Machine, transforming restored vintage sticker machines into an interactive art experience. Through her illustration and content creation work, Fabiola shares her creative process, builds community, and collaborates with brands like Instagram, Adobe, and The Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Jessie Marrero is a professional, published newborn photographer with over 17 years of experience specializing in Maternity, Newborn, and Milestone photography. Trusted by countless families, including high-profile clients, Jessie is recognized for her refined technique, safety-first approach, and timeless, emotionally rich imagery. Through years of hands-on practice and refinement, she has developed a thoughtful, intentional approach to newborn photography—one she now brings to the classroom to help photographers build confidence, skill, and artistry.

is a corporate, portrait and luxury wedding photographer in Austin, TX. She has been an influential speaker in the community for well over a decade. Starting her photographic journey in 1998, she has since been named a Canon Explorer of Light, an accolade given to only 5 wedding photographers in the country, earned 5 college degrees, and a PPA Photographic Craftsman degree.

Vanessa is trusted by brands like Hilton Grand Vacations, Bravo, Profoto, Lexar and more, and has spoken at almost every major convention and platform in the photography and wedding event industry such as CreativeLIVE, WPPI, ShutterFest, Imaging USA, Wedding MBA. She hosts personal workshops and international photography adventures around the globe. Recognized for her talent and more so her business sense, her clients love working with her and industry peers love to learn from her tangible, informative and open-book style of teaching.

Dani Mack's photo career began as a hobby but rapidly blossomed into a successful career. Starting out as a "soccer mom with a camera" she was noticed by her daughter's coach for the quality images she was creating. That connection provided her with the opportunity to photograph other teams, leading to Dani photographing over 150 teams in a little over a year, including the 2023 Little League Softball World Series champions and Staten Island Ferry Hawks.

To further improve her skills, Dani learned from some of the best in the industry, including Brad Deel, Jaison Sterling, JC Carey, Jean Fruth, and former Sports Illustrated editor Steve Fine. Her remarkable work has been featured in the NY Post, and she's collaborated with brands like Kilogear and the American Flag Football League. Dani has established herself as a prominent figure in the sports photography field, extending her portfolio to include sports portraits, and boutique volume photography.