Category Archives: Workshop Updates

Photography Tips, Workshop Updates

Improving Your Photography Skills

Leave a comment

Photography is an art that requires a mix of skills and talent.  It is not just about camera settings or the quality of your camera gear and lenses.  If you want to create better images, it involves truly understanding the fundamentals of photography, how the sensor works (on digital cameras), the aperture, shutter, managing depth of field, freezing or blurring of motion, lens focal lengths, the many various focusing modes, RAW vs JPG, and an array of other factors. But that is just one aspect to consider. 

You also need to consider the importance of LIGHT.  I can’t emphasize this enough. The management of light, quality of light, angle of light, mix of multiple light sources, diffusing it, manipulating it, is all something every photographer must explore and understand.  I promise your photographs will improve if you devote more attention to this.

Then there are factors unique to specific types of photography. For portraiture, posing and interacting with subjects is critical. If you use electronic flash or studio lighting, you must learn the skills to operate these lights effectively.  For landscapes, the understanding of sun angle, and a wide range of other factors are important.  For wildlife, understanding where to find the wildlife and their habits is important.

Oh and there is the study of art and composition!  All of these things are important, in fact essential, in the pursuit of better photography skills.

And then there are all the software tools on your computer to help you manage and organize your thousands of photographs, and edit them to make them “perfect” and print them. All of this work is called “post-processing” and while it is important to create the best image possible in your camera, virtually all images need some degree of post-processing/editing work.  

I offer a wide range of classes to help you take your photography to the next level.   Regardless of whether you are a total beginner or  you have been doing photography for quite a while, I can help you. I also offer private instruction on most any topic.

Check out these classes starting soon!

There are so many ways you can improve your photography. Where do you start? Start from where you are!

Share
Workshop Updates

Looking for Gift Ideas for Photographers?

Leave a comment

Sure cameras, lenses, tripods, etc. are all great gift ideas for photographers, but all of that camera gear is wasted if you don’t know how to use it well!  If you know the important fundamentals of photography, how to best use your cameras and lenses, how to manage light, etc., you will be amazed at what you can create!

In fact, you might find that upgrading your camera is not nearly as important as knowing how to use what you already own!  So, if you have a photographer in your family, consider giving them a gift of a camera class or my book. Or maybe YOU are the photographer! Start dropping hints now that you want to take one of my classes in 2019!

Best gifts of the season and the best discounts of the season!

SAVINGS OF $50, $100, even up to $400!

All of the options below can be given as gifts!

  • Three great options for learning the fundamentals of photography in 2019!
    • Daytime and Evening Weekday Classes, Once a week for 6 weeks
    • Weekend, All day Saturday + Sunday afternoon
      • Photographers Weekend Boot Camp 
        Learn the important fundamentals of photography in one weekend!
        January 26-27, 2019 All day Saturday + Sunday afternoon. 
        Register by December 31st and SAVE $50!!
  • Light & Photography Workshop
    Highly recommended for anyone serious about wanting to improve their photography! 
    This course is a comprehensive look at light in its various forms, both natural and artificial and we look at the many ways we photographers can control and manipulate light to create great photographs! If you have taken Photography 101 or our Photographers Weekend Boot Camp, this is great next step! 
    Daytime class begins February 4, 2019!
    Register by December 31st and SAVE $100!
  • Adobe Photoshop CC for Photographers Workshop
    Begins January 16! Learn this essential powerful tool for editing photographs.  Split into Basics and Advanced options! Total class time is a full 18 hours of very hands-on learning! 
    SOLD OUT! Let us know if you’d like us to add another session soon!
  • Private Instruction 
    Focused on your specific needs!

The Most Perfect Gift You Can Give:
Our 2019 Rocky Mountain Photography Workshop!

(And note spouses/partners can tag along for the entire workshop at no extra workshop charge! See web page for more details.)

My book is NOW AVAILABLE IN PAPERBACK AND KINDLE VERSIONS!

30 Practical Tips for Better Photographs by Kevin Gourley

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Share
Workshop Updates

An “Unforgettable Experience” in the Rocky Mountains

Leave a comment

As one of our recent 2018 Rocky Mountain Photography Workshop participants said, it was “truly an unforgettable experience.” 

We hosted a potluck slideshow last night, where 17 of us all got back together to reminisce about the experiences from this year’s adventures, and we enjoyed looking at everyone’s best photos.  It was great to see everyone again, at least those who could make it. (We also have numerous people participate in the workshop who don’t live near Austin.)   

Sure we went to a lot of excellent photography locations at the best times when the lighting is optimal and when wildlife photo opportunities are most likely, but also a part of the fun is simply being around others who love photography.

We had a great time together!  The shared experience of getting up early and going out into this magnificent Rocky Mountain National Park, hiking together, photographing wildlife, waterfalls, mountains, and sunrises makes the experience truly memorable.

We go as photographers and we come back as good friends.  It happens every time!  Many choose to return and do the workshop a 2nd or 3rd time, or more! 

I have included a few photographs (below) of our 2018 participants.  

I hope you’ll join us for the fun and adventure!   The 2019 Rocky Mountain Photography Workshops are already over half full, so now is the time to be signing up! 

CLICK HERE to learn more about the workshops and to register.

  • “The workshop was outstanding because we had total access to Kevin and Gail’s knowledgeand experience in photography. We were presented with multiple shooting locations and lighting situations from which to learn. Kevin was always available to provide advice and help resolve any problems with camera settings or answer questions. The availability of daily photo reviewspermitted one to make any adjustments to shooting techniques before the next day. This was the most hands-on learning experience I have had and I look forward to more with Kevin.”

“A 5 star experience from beginning to end…”

  • “This workshop provided a broad depth of experiences in the RMNP because Kevin is so knowledgeable about the area and about the best way to photograph it. I really appreciated the care given to maximize each student’s experience, no matter their skill level. I will definitely consider taking other trips with Kevin and Gail.”

  • “Could not be happier with how the workshop turned out. Everyone involved was so nice and easy to get along with. Kevin was an excellent teacher – patient, explained well, relaxed and never felt rushed or that I may be holding others back. It was very rewarding and would highly recommend Kevin’s workshops!!”

  • “Kevin is a natural-born teacher and superbly facilitated the group while providing one-on-one attention. I learned a lot without feeling overwhelmed with technical details and had fun in the process. I highly recommend this workshop!”

  • “This exceeded all my expectations!”

  • “The natural beauty of RMNP was enhanced by Kevin’s knowledge of the park and locations that were custom picked for great photographic shots. Kevin’s calm, patient and knowledgeable teaching style meant that everyone, at whatever level they were at, felt comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, learning from them and then getting immeasurably better pictures as a result. The improvement in my photography from Day 1 to Day 4 was unbelievable. I came thinking the auto settings on my camera really took better pictures than I did, and I left seeing and believing that the pictures I now understood how to take were vastly superior to anything the camera could capture in auto mode. It was a 5 star experience from beginning to end.“

  • “This is a workshop you can’t afford to miss! I came to the workshop with a goal of never using Auto settings again… I achieved that and more. Kevin is such a great teacher and is able to work with photographers of all levels. He made everyone comfortable, I am from Virginia and did not know anyone in the group (as were several others) by the end of the work shop I had made a group of new friends! We were able to get so many landscape and wildlife pictures. The whole experience was amazing. I’m ready to sign up for the next workshop! Thank you Kevin” 

  • “The Rocky Mountain Summer Photography Workshop was an amazing experience! The success of the workshop begins with the organization and preparation of the instructor. Kevin and Gail were superbly organized and prepared! It was a treat to be lead to the best spots at the optimum time of the day to photograph the spectacular beauty and wildlife in the park. They demonstrated great flexibility and adaptability in meeting the needs of the group with the ever changing clouds, weather, and wildlife. It was also an incredible learning experience having a photography professional available to coach and instruct on the best methods for creatively composing a scene, capturing stunning images, and the correct use of a wide range of photographic equipment. Not only can I wholeheartedly recommend this workshop, but I’m already scheduled for a Rocky Mountain Fall Photography Workshop with Kevin!”

  • “Thanks for another spectacularly successful workshop in Rocky Mountain National Park! The conditions were even more challenging than last Summer, yet everything progressed flawlessly. We were at the right place at the right time to capture some incredible images. Thanks for everything!”

  • “I am a true beginner to photography. I took Kevin’s Photography 101, which I highly recommend for beginners, which explained a lot of the technical side of photography. I am a hands on/visual learner and being able to apply what I had learned in the 101 class at this workshop really helped me be able to take better/sharper pictures. Kevin is an extremely thorough and patient instructor. This workshop provided fantastic learning opportunities everyday with breathtaking views. I look forward to the next workshop.”

  • “Attending a workshop with Kevin is absolutely wonderful… so wonderful in fact that I did the same workshop twice. Kevin is very knowledgeable of the park as well as techniques to make us capture the best photos we possibly could. Kevin is very patient, kind, funny, passionate about teaching others how to take the best photos, considerate, extremely organized, etc. You won’t find a kinder, patient, and talented person to not only plan an awesome itinerary for the group, but to also be a tour guide of the park and provide facts about the different sights… AND provide constant photographic tips and instructions and reminders that were extremely helpful. Thank you Kevin. The workshop is worth the expense.”

Share
Workshop Updates

Be the Photographer You WANT to Be!

Leave a comment

As many of you know, I am a pro photographer with a full service studio in NW Austin, Texas AND I have years of experience teaching photographers at all skill levels.

I wanted to propose an idea for you to consider.   Of course, you can review all of the various classes I offer throughout the year and benefit from the group class experience.  I always ensure my classes are limited in size so we can focus on your learning.

In this blog post, I wanted to highlight the fact that I also offer customized private instruction on virtually all aspects of photography.

That way, we can focus on a custom plan to help you improve your photographic skills and learn what you need to learn, to help you become the photographer you want to be, all on a time schedule that fits your busy life demands.

We can include use of my studio, equipment, lights, and I can line up models for you to photograph, and we can even design a special custom class around a group of your photographer friend’s if you’d like, to help you work on projects together in my studio or out at some location (anywhere really).

I can “meet you where you are” and take you to where you want to go with your photographic skills.  This includes virtually all aspects of using your camera, lighting, as well as photo editing with Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom Classic.

Want to explore possibilities?  Take that next step…
Let’s talk! Click here or email me,

You might just be amazed and what you can do with your photography!

P.S.  My 2019 Rocky Mountain Photography Workshops are almost halfway to being SOLD OUT for next year!  Now is the time to make your plans to join us.  Some options are already almost full.  Click here to learn more about the 2019 Rocky Mountain Photography Workshops.

Share
Workshop Updates

We’re Back From Our Rocky Mountain Fall Photography Workshop!

Leave a comment

We have returned from our Rocky Mountain Fall Photography Workshop!  The weather was fabulous and we had a great time!

Scroll down to see photos from our most recent trip!

If you love:

  • Photography
  • Wildlife
  • Waterfalls
  • Landscapes
  • Mountains
  • Nature
  • and having fun

then you need to join us in 2019 for either our Summer or Fall Rocky Mountain Photography Workshop!  We offer both 4-day and 9-day options.  Register early and save up to $400!

The advantages of joining us on this fun photographic adventure are many!

  • Pre-trip meetings to prepare you for the experience (including online info if you can’t attend the pre-trip meetings)
  • Photography assistance to help you know the best settings to use and more effectively use your camera
  • We try to arrange our trip to optimize being at the right places at the right times to get the best light, weather conditions, and wildlife photo opportunities
  • Kevin has years of experience leading photographers on these adventures in Rocky Mountain National Park
  • This is a great opportunity for photographers of all skill levels and regardless of your skill level, Kevin is always ready to help.  All questions are invited and welcome. Kevin will never “speak down to you”.
  • This is a FUN experience to share with other photographers
  • You’ll experience Rocky Mountain National Park in ways typical vacationers will never experience it
  • Small group sizes
  • You can bring along a non-photographer spouse-partner on our adventures in the park for no additional charge!  (They can use an iPhone, but if they use a fancy camera, they’d need to register as a participant.)

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO AND TO REGISTER

NOTE: We already have 10 photographers registered for 2019! Register soon to get the best lodging options and ensure you can sign up for the dates that work best for you (some options are almost full)!

Here are a few photos from the trip:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“A 5 star experience from beginning to end…”

Student Comments: 

  • “The workshop was outstanding because we had total access to Kevin and Gail’s knowledge and experience in photography. We were presented with multiple shooting locations and lighting situations from which to learn. Kevin was always available to provide advice and help resolve any problems with camera settings or answer questions. The availability of daily photo reviews permitted one to make any adjustments to shooting techniques before the next day. This was the most hands-on learning experience I have had and I look forward to more with Kevin.”
  • “This workshop provided a broad depth of experiences in the RMNP because Kevin is so knowledgeable about the area and about the best way to photograph it. I really appreciated the care given to maximize each student’s experience, no matter their skill level. I will definitely consider taking other trips with Kevin and Gail.”
  • “Could not be happier with how the workshop turned out. Everyone involved was so nice and easy to get along with. Kevin was an excellent teacher – patient, explained well, relaxed and never felt rushed or that I may be holding others back. It was very rewarding and would highly recommend Kevin’s workshops!!”
  • “Kevin is a natural-born teacher and superbly facilitated the group while providing one-on-one attention. I learned a lot without feeling overwhelmed with technical details and had fun in the process. I highly recommend this workshop!”
  • “This exceeded all my expectations!”
Share
Workshop Updates

2019 Rocky Mountain Photography Workshops!

2 Comments

We just completed our 2018 Rocky Mountain Summer Photography Workshop in Rocky Mountain National Park.  The weather up there was magnificent!

Some participant comments:

  • What did you like best? There are many bests…the location, shooting awesome locations, being in awesome locations, shooting images to my heart’s content with no one rushing me, learning the best settings to use to improve my images and getting know know great people.
  • Kevin is a natural-born teacher and superbly facilitated the group while providing one-on-one attention. I learned a lot without feeling overwhelmed with technical details and had fun in the process. I highly recommend this workshop!
  • Kevin’s Rocky Mountain workshop was a incredible opportunity to not only learn but to experience the magnificent scenery at the Rocky mountains.
  • Could not be happier with how the workshop turned out. Everyone involved was so nice and easy to get along with. Kevin was an excellent teacher – patient, explained well, relaxed and never felt rushed or that I may be holding others back. It was very rewarding and would highly recommend Kevin’s workshops!!

All options are sold out for  2018 but we will soon be announcing our 2019 Rocky Mountain Photography Workshops!

If you would like to be FIRST on the list to be notified as we announce the new dates, please CLICK HERE!

We would love to have you join us!

Here are a few images created over the past few days.  I have taken so many photos up here, I have not had time to go through them all! 🙂

Share
Workshop Updates

The Rekindle Workshop: Find YOUR Unique Artistic Expression Through Photography

Leave a comment

Hi Photographers!

I have added another Rekindle Photography Workshop!

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE AND SIGN UP

EXPLORE YOUR CREATIVITY IN PHOTOGRAPHY! Sometimes the best thing you can do is step back and rethink how you are doing “photography” … and discover new ways to express your creativity!

Join us for the Rekindle Photography Creativity Workshop.  Here’s what previous students have said about it:

  • “I have been on a number of workshops with Kevin, which were all amazing, but this was exceptionally different.”
  • “a chance to consider new ideas and approaches, a chance to try new things”
  • “I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for new sparks or wanting to push yourself in new ways creatively and technically.”
  • “really helped me to look at my photography in a more emotional way rather that being so concerned about technical aspects”
  • “I loved the projects and homework we were given to apply the information after leaving the workshop”
  • “The idea was to rekindle your creativity, try new things and just enjoy the world around us. It was a fantastic experience.”
  • “Kevin’s creative ideas for sparking photographic enthusiasm and the opportunity to think about project ideas, and go out and photograph with that new philosophy, made holding a camera in my hand new and exciting again.”

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE AND SIGN UP

Share
Workshop Updates

Photography 101 June Class -Want us to add an afternoon or evening class? Tell Us Now!

1 Comment

Photography 101 June 2018 Class Survey

Want us to add another Photography 101 Class for June 2018 in the afternoon or evening?


Please indicate NOW which options will work for you.  Based on your input, we will might add another class!  🙂


(Want to learn more about the class? CLICK HERE)
Note we already have a MORNING class on the dates below!
If you want us to add another class, complete the form below.

Your Name

Your Email Address

Any other comments?

THANK YOU for responding!

Share
Workshop Updates

Learn Lightroom and Photoshop!

Leave a comment

This is your chance to learn Adobe Lightroom Classic CC or Photoshop CC in these very hands-on classes, designed for small group learning.

  • Adobe Lightroom Classic CC Workshop
    Tues/Thurs 10am-1pm May 8, 10, 15, 17 2018
    Learn Adobe Lightroom! This is an excellent tool for helping photographers organize and create outstanding photographs!
    Register by April 15th and SAVE $20!

  • Adobe Photoshop CC for Photographers Workshop
    April 23-May 9, 2018 Learn this essential powerful tool for editing photographs.  Split into Basics and Advanced options! Total class time is a full 18 hours of very hands-on learning!
    Register by April 10th and SAVE UP TO $50!

If you don’t know either program, we recommend you start with learning Adobe Lightroom first.   Click on the links above for more information!

Student Comments:

  • “I just finished a Lightroom class with Kevin. It was fabulous! Kevin presented Lightroom in an organized, easy to understand, and enjoyable way. He is a an absolute professional with his presentations. All attendees in this class were beginners with the program. Kevin’s curriculum is organized in a logical manner that takes the students through all the basics and beyond. He is hands on and took questions through out, including coming around when needed to help the students by providing individual assistance. He would direct the students to the correct tabs and get them on track again. I am thrilled with my new skills in Lightroom! I plan to take many more classes with Kevin.”
  • “Kevin does a fantastic job of leading you through Lightroom! The hands-on class is the only way to learn! I’m looking forward to putting all this new knowledge to work!”
  • “This was an excellent class and I’d highly recommend it to others. Kevin’s class was well organized, well paced, and left me with the ability to use the program effectively.”
  • “As I expected, having taken other classes with Kevin, the “Adobe Lightroom” class was extremely informative and well organized. I learned so much, and am excited to apply the knowledge I learned to begin editing my photos. The learning atmosphere that Kevin establishes is one of extreme comfort. His presentation is done logically and without intimidation. He takes the time to answer any and all questions, and does so in a very patient manner. I also really appreciate his great sense of humor. He always makes me laugh!” – Edward Pagliai
  • “I really enjoyed the Photoshop class with Kevin. He was so patient with all of our questions and goof ups. He really wanted us to understand how much Photoshop can take our photography that much further and that it is a lot of fun to take creative leaps with it. I left his class with a much clearer understanding of how to use the tools and layers which were very confusing at first. Also, I know that if I hit a snag practicing with my new skills he would be happy to answer my questions.” – A. Moates

 

Share