Clay Blackmore
Independant
Clay Blackmore is venerable leader in the photographic industry. Not only is he revered for his development of innovative lighting and portrait techniques, but he is highly sought after as an instructor. Clay meticulously developed his photographic, teaching, and business skills during his 25-year association with Monte Zucker, first as an assistant, then as a co-educator and business partner. His clientele has included celebrities such as Tiger Woods, Forest Whitaker, Jenna Elfman, and Maria Sharapova. Clay is a champion of innovation and growth in the photography industry, pushing the boundaries of storytelling with the latest innovations in technology. In addition to his mastery of lighting and classic portraiture, Clay was among the first to test and evaluate new products for photography and HD-DSLR cinematography.
Clay Cook
Student
Clay Cook is an accomplished commercial photographer whose works echo the unique combination of his background in the music industry and his affinity for human connection. Born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky, Cook began his creative career as a musician before his fascination with visual imagery led him to photography. Today, his name has become synonymous with exceptional portraiture and commercial imagery, marked by a distinct ability to infuse his subjects with depth and emotion.
Cook's journey in the world of photography is emblematic of the dedication and drive it takes to transform an idea into a reality. He believes that every photograph begins with an idea, and his role is to breathe life into that idea through the power of imagery. As a storyteller, he employs light, color, and composition to share stories in ways that are both intuitive and engaging. His ultimate goal is to reveal the emotional depth and empathetic nuances of his subjects, giving voice to their unique stories.
His portfolio spans a diverse array of genres and industries, capturing the essence of each subject with profound authenticity. From working on humanitarian projects across the globe to shooting tourism campaigns in Louisiana, and crafting vibrant editorial portraits, Cook's work is a testament to his versatility and creative agility. His impressive clientele list includes names such as A&E, History, Lifetime, Comcast, NFL, and Papa John's Pizza, to mention a few. He has also completed assignments for renowned international publications like National Geographic, Time, Forbes, Popular Mechanics, The Guardian, and W Magazine.
The multi-dimensional aspect of Cook's work is an extension of his creative spirit. His experience in the music industry has significantly shaped his approach to fostering relationships in his photography career. He places immense value on these connections, seeing them as pivotal to the creative process. His blog is a testament to this, offering a window into his world and the experiences that shape his work.
Moreover, Cook is also actively involved with partners who are instrumental in his work. Brands such as Anker, Benro, BlackRapid, Canon, Phase One, Savage, SAXX Underwear Co., Sekonic, SKB, Profoto, Tether Tools, SmugMug, Think Tank Photo, ViewSonic, Wacom, and X-Rite are part of Cook's extensive collaborative network.
Cook's work has been recognized and featured in various media outlets. Bored Panda, CreativeLive, DP Review, Digital SLR Photography, Digital Photo, Fstoppers, PetaPixel, Rangefinder, Resource, and SLR Lounge have all showcased his compelling imagery.
At his core, Clay Cook is more than just a photographer; he is an artist driven by the power of human connection. His images are more than visual compositions; they are narratives that delve into the heart of his subjects, unearthing their innermost depths and emotions. Through his lens, he invites viewers to join him on his creative journey, offering a glimpse into the worlds he captures, one frame at a time. As he continues to expand his creative boundaries, one can only anticipate the new stories he will tell and the new ideas he will bring to life.
Clay Rasmussen
Independant
Clay Rasmussen stands at the intersection of art and adventure, a professional photographer whose work is as much a testimony to his skill with a camera as it is a testament to his love for the natural world and the thrill of exploration. Born and raised in the United States, Rasmussen has turned his passion for travel and outdoor adventures into a successful career, capturing breathtaking imagery that has captured the attention of audiences worldwide.
Rasmussen's work is characterized by its stunning vibrancy and visual impact. His images, whether of grand landscapes or intimate wildlife portraits, are noted for their striking compositions, rich colors, and intricate detailing. This meticulous attention to detail is not by accident but by design, as Rasmussen has spent years honing his craft and perfecting his techniques.
A defining trait of Rasmussen's photography is his ability to bring out the beauty and majesty of nature in his images. From the soaring peaks of the Rockies to the vast expanses of the American deserts, Rasmussen's photographs not only depict these landscapes but tell a story about them. He has a talent for capturing the unique essence and spirit of a place, allowing his audience to feel a profound connection with the locations he photographs.
But Rasmussen's work extends beyond just landscapes. He is equally adept at capturing the majesty and grace of wildlife in their natural habitats. His wildlife photography is noted for its intimacy and emotional depth, with each image telling a unique story about its subject. Whether it's a fierce predator on the hunt or a delicate bird in flight, Rasmussen's photographs capture the essence of these creatures in a way that is both authentic and captivating.
An essential aspect of Rasmussen's approach to photography is his respect for the environment and the creatures he photographs. He goes to great lengths to ensure his work does not disturb the natural habitats he enters. This respect extends to his personal philosophy, as he is an ardent advocate for conservation and environmental stewardship.
Rasmussen's work has garnered him a substantial following, both in the physical world and online. His photographs are exhibited in galleries and published in magazines, and his digital presence continues to grow, with thousands following his journeys and visual narratives. Rasmussen also shares his knowledge and experiences through workshops and tutorials, aiming to inspire and educate budding photographers.
Clay Rasmussen's career is a testament to what is possible when passion and profession align. His love for the great outdoors, coupled with his formidable skills as a photographer, has allowed him to capture images that not only take your breath away but also inspire a deeper appreciation for the natural world. His work stands as a poignant reminder of the beauty that surrounds us, the stories waiting to be told, and the adventures that lie just beyond the horizon.
Through his lens, Clay Rasmussen invites us all on a journey. A journey of exploration and discovery, where every photograph is not just a captured moment in time, but an open invitation to experience the wonder and awe-inspiring beauty of our world. His work is more than just a collection of images; it's a love letter to nature, a call to adventure, and a testament to the power of photography to connect us with the world in ways we never thought possible.
Dale McManus
Independant
I'm a Professional Photographer/Videographer, Award Winning Youtuber, and Web Developer. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Film and 7 years experience in the field of photography/film. I've traveled to different parts of the world as a professional photographer/videographer and utilized my iPhone as my best tool. Now I share my knowledge with students all over the world
Damien photographycourse
Student
Taking a photography course with Damien is an immersive dive into the world of capturing visuals and the art of storytelling. Known for his creative intuition and technical prowess, Damien's course provides an enriching and engaging learning experience that caters to beginners and experienced photographers alike. His approach not only introduces students to the nuances of photography but also unravels the process of transforming ordinary shots into captivating images.
Damien's course begins with an essential exploration of the basics, delving into the various camera functions and settings. The initial focus is on understanding the core principles of photography, including the exposure triangle of ISO, shutter speed, and aperture. Damien takes these complex technical concepts and explains them in an approachable, easy-to-understand manner, ensuring that all his students gain a solid foundational knowledge.
Beyond the basics, Damien's course takes a deep dive into more complex techniques and concepts, including the depth of field and focus. He explains the significance of these aspects in determining how much of the shot is in focus. From shallow to deep depth of field, Damien illustrates how manipulating these aspects can elevate a picture from ordinary to extraordinary.
The course then delves into the hyperfocal distance, a concept crucial for landscape and street photographers. Damien simplifies this concept, explaining it as the focus setting that provides the maximum depth of field. He discusses the practical implications of hyperfocal distance in day-to-day photography and how to calculate it for different situations.
The creative use of flash photography is another crucial part of Damien's course. He elucidates the different types of flash available, their uses, and the impact they can have on photos. With a blend of theory and practical demonstrations, he offers useful tips on how to best use flash to improve lighting and reduce harsh shadows.
Histograms, often overlooked by beginners, are introduced as a valuable tool for improving image exposure. Damien's detailed explanation of histograms and how they represent the tonal values of an image is a game-changer. He shows how to interpret histograms to achieve the perfect balance of highlights, mid-tones, and shadows, ensuring well-exposed photos every time.
Damien's course also incorporates an extensive section on post-production, with a focus on Adobe Photoshop. He discusses how to use Photoshop's tools for retouching and enhancing images, demonstrating techniques like cloning and object removal. Damien also sheds light on the vast range of filters available in Photoshop, offering step-by-step guidance on how to use them to achieve desired effects and transform photos.
In the final segment of his course, Damien educates his students on the various output formats available and their specific uses. He emphasizes the importance of choosing the right format depending on the purpose, whether it's for print, web, or digital viewing. This knowledge is critical in ensuring the image quality is retained during the export process.
Throughout his course, Damien instills a sense of artistic interpretation and creative freedom in his students. He emphasizes that the rules of photography are meant to be understood and then potentially broken, encouraging experimentation and out-of-the-box thinking.
To sum up, Damien's photography course is a comprehensive, engaging, and rewarding journey that imparts technical knowledge while stimulating creativity. It provides a unique blend of structured learning, practical exercises, and personal artistic development. Whether you're a novice looking to understand the basics or an experienced photographer wanting to refine your skills, Damien's course is a valuable resource that will undoubtedly enhance your journey in photography.
Daniel Arranz
Independant
Soy fotógrafo y retocador profesional. Estoy certificado por Adobe como Experto en Adobe Photoshop y Adobe Photoshop Lightroom. Soy coordinador del área de postproducción en la escuela La Máquina de Madrid y llevo más de 7 años trabajando como profesor de edición y retoque fotográfico. Mi trabajo se ha publicado en periódicos como el País o el Mundo, revistas como National Geographic o Digital Camera y mi última publicación es el libro “Domina el retoque con Photoshop” que ya va por la segunda edición y la tercera está a punto de salir. Mi especialidad es el reportaje de viajes y street photography.
Daniel Kordan
Independant
I live in the world today and currently based in Bali, Indonesia. But there are places on Earth, I attached with by my soul. It’s villa Gaia in Tuscany I lived for few years. I love Lofoten islands, with their remarkable atmosphere of fishing villages, sailing adventures, incredible hikes and northern lights dances during the winter time. The world can’t live without testimonials, so I should place here a few words on awards and publications. I have publications in such magazines as Digital SLR Magazine, UK, Photography week, Photography Master Class, National Geographic, Discovery, Photoworld China, Digital Photo (Bauer Media) magazines. My key clients are Apple, Gazprom Neft’, S7 Airlines, RedBull, HSBC. I am spending most of his time in Norway at Lofoten islands and in Tuscany at our villa Gaia, guiding groups from Europe, UK, US, Asia . I am official Nikon, Gitzo and Lucroit ambassador.
David Cuerdon
Independant
David Cuerdon, an award-winning visual artist, is a maverick in the world of photography, revered not just for his artistic prowess, but also for his innovative use of digital technology. As one of the world's first digital fashion photographers, Cuerdon has firmly established himself as a trailblazer in the industry, earning recognition for his unique fusion of creative vision and advanced technical skills.
Born into an era of film and darkrooms, Cuerdon embraced the advent of digital technology, integrating it seamlessly into his work. His penchant for exploring new frontiers of creativity through technological advancements is a testament to his adaptability, marking him as a true digital pioneer. This ability to merge art and technology is visible in his extensive body of work, which ranges from striking fashion photography to captivating portraiture. His work has not only been showcased in fine art galleries internationally but has also graced the pages of high-profile publications and been enlisted by renowned brands. Clients like Playboy, Glamour Magazine, Neiman Marcus, and May Company have all trusted Cuerdon's exceptional skills to deliver compelling visual narratives.
However, Cuerdon’s contributions extend beyond his photographic achievements. He is an enthusiastic digital evangelist, committed to sharing his extensive knowledge of digital photography and Photoshop on global platforms. He takes great joy in demystifying the complexities of digital photography and retouching, helping others master these tools through live and online training. Cuerdon's infectious enthusiasm and profound knowledge make him a sought-after teacher, enabling students worldwide to learn from his expertise.
Cuerdon’s passion for education led him to create the best-selling Photoshop training course, David Cuerdon’s Beauty and Portrait Retouching Kit, produced by KelbyOne. This comprehensive kit has become a valuable resource for many, providing practical and in-depth guidance on Photoshop’s vast capabilities in enhancing beauty and portrait photography.
In 2010, Cuerdon's exemplary skills and profound impact on the photography community earned him a coveted spot on the Photoshop World Instructor Dream Team. This recognition attests to his invaluable contribution to the industry, not only as a remarkable photographer and digital artist but also as a dedicated mentor and educator.
Yet, Cuerdon’s persona extends beyond his professional accomplishments. Known for his quirky sense of humor, he describes himself as a "Photographer, Digital Artist, Retoucher, Teacher, Photoshop Guru, Pixel Junky, Animal Lover, Geeky Nerd, Husband, Father, Brain Surgeon, Ninja." The last two titles, he humorously admits, are not technically accurate, but they add a layer of levity to his otherwise serious pursuit of excellence in photography.
David Cuerdon's illustrious career is a testament to his dedication to his craft, his relentless pursuit of innovation, and his commitment to sharing his knowledge with others. His rare blend of artistic creativity, technical prowess, and educational advocacy continue to inspire and shape the landscape of digital photography. His willingness to share his expertise so generously with the world amplifies his impact, ensuring that his influence extends beyond his own work to inspire the next generation of digital artists.
David Yarrow
Independant
David Yarrow is one of the most acclaimed fine art photographers in the world, celebrated for his iconic and evocative works that traverse across wildlife, indigenous communities, and landscapes. Born in Scotland, Yarrow's creative journey began at an early age when he found a passion for capturing the world through his lens.
The essence of Yarrow's work lies in his ability to produce incredibly detailed, immersive and powerful black-and-white images. His photographs possess a timeless quality that speaks of the wild, unspoiled regions of the earth and the raw, authentic beauty of the creatures that inhabit these spaces. Yarrow's wildlife photography is not just about capturing an image of an animal; instead, he seeks to convey the spirit and personality of his subjects, their struggles, triumphs, and their interplay with the environment. This approach has led to some of his most striking and memorable work, as he artfully combines composition, natural light, and close proximity to create imagery that resonates with viewers.
Yet, Yarrow's work extends beyond wildlife. His captivating images of indigenous communities around the world reflect a deep respect and understanding of their cultures. His compelling portraits capture not only the faces of the people he encounters but also their histories, their stories, and their indomitable spirits. These images, often shot in remote and challenging environments, bear testament to Yarrow's commitment to using his craft to shed light on often overlooked cultures and places.
David Yarrow is not just a photographer but also a storyteller. Through his lens, he narrates tales of nature's grandeur and fragility, of cultures untouched by modern civilization, of the primal instinct of animals, and the serene yet powerful landscapes they inhabit. His images are immersive, often giving viewers a sense of being in the scene rather than just observing it.
This distinct ability to immerse the viewer stems from Yarrow's philosophy of 'being in the picture.' His determination to capture the essence of his subjects often finds him in the heart of the action, whether it's amongst a herd of elephants in Africa or the indigenous tribes of the Arctic. This immersive approach, coupled with the use of wide-angle lenses and natural light, allows him to capture photographs that are as intimate as they are expansive, offering a unique perspective that has become Yarrow's signature style.
Yarrow's career spans over three decades and his work has been exhibited in some of the most prestigious galleries worldwide. His popularity as a fine art photographer is not only a testament to the quality of his work but also his dedication to conservation. A portion of his profits goes to supporting conservation and sustainability efforts, reflecting his commitment to the very subjects and environments he captures.
Aside from his photographic pursuits, Yarrow is also an author and a philanthropist. His fine art photography books are renowned for their engaging content and stunning visual narratives. His commitment to philanthropy is evident through his contributions to various conservation and social causes, further solidifying his influence beyond the realms of photography.
David Yarrow's work is more than mere images; it is a call to appreciate the splendour of the natural world and the diverse cultures within it. His ability to connect with his subjects, combined with his technical prowess and artistic vision, results in images that are not just visually striking, but also deeply emotive and thought-provoking. David Yarrow is not just capturing moments in time; he is capturing the raw essence of life itself, sharing with the world a profound appreciation for the beauty, diversity, and fragility of our planet.
Don Glannatti
Independant
Don Giannatti is a man of many talents, who has spent five decades immersed in the world of photography. As a photographer, author, mentor, and teacher, his contributions to the industry are both wide and deep, reflecting his unique vision and unyielding passion for his craft.
A master of his field, Giannatti’s work has spanned across a diverse range of genres, from commercial to editorial, portraiture to still life. His talent for capturing the essence of a subject, whether it be a person or a product, is nothing short of remarkable. His remarkable eye for detail, compelling composition, and meticulous lighting techniques breathe life into his subjects, resulting in imagery that is as engaging as it is beautiful.
A significant part of Giannatti’s work involves commercial photography. He has lent his expertise to countless businesses, delivering high-quality images for advertising, marketing, and branding purposes. His clients have ranged from small, local businesses to large corporations, each benefiting from his exceptional ability to create visual content that tells a compelling story, enhances brand image, and captures consumer attention.
Equally noteworthy is Giannatti’s work in portraiture. His approach to capturing individuals goes beyond merely creating a likeness. He digs deeper, capturing the unique essence of each person he photographs. Through his lens, Giannatti brings to light the nuances of his subjects, revealing their personality, emotions, and individuality. This dedication to capturing the true essence of his subjects has earned him a reputation as an empathetic and insightful portrait photographer.
Beyond his extensive portfolio, Giannatti’s commitment to the field of photography shines through in his role as an educator and mentor. With a firm belief in the value of sharing knowledge, he has dedicated a significant portion of his career to teaching aspiring photographers. Through workshops, online courses, and one-on-one coaching, he imparts practical knowledge, valuable insights, and industry secrets gleaned from his extensive experience. His goal is to equip students with the skills, techniques, and confidence needed to navigate the photography world.
One of Giannatti’s most influential contributions to the education of photographers is his writing. He has authored multiple books aimed at guiding photographers at various stages of their careers. From covering the fundamentals of photography to exploring the complexities of lighting and composition, his books serve as comprehensive guides for anyone seeking to refine their photography skills.
Despite the ever-evolving landscape of photography, Giannatti's core philosophy remains steadfast: simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. He believes that one does not need the most expensive equipment or a high-tech studio to create great photos. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of understanding and mastering the basics of light, composition, and connection with the subject.
A testament to his remarkable career and commitment to the industry is Giannatti’s website, Lighting Essentials, a hub for photographers seeking inspiration and knowledge. It hosts an array of resources, including articles, courses, and tutorials, all designed to enlighten, inspire, and educate.
Giannatti’s enduring passion for photography, coupled with his unwavering dedication to sharing his wisdom, has left an indelible mark on the industry. He is more than just a photographer – he is a guide, a mentor, and an inspiration to many. His life's work reflects not only his personal commitment to the art of photography but also his desire to nurture and develop the talent of others. In Don Giannatti, we see a beautiful amalgamation of talent, wisdom, and generosity, a true luminary in the world of photography.