I just got back from the Captivated by the Light San Jose seminar today. And while it didn’t blow me away, it was okey.
The “workshop” was given by 33 year photography veteran Ed Pierce. Over a course of three hours, he gave short mini-lectures, interspersed with several short video presentations illustrating the topics discussed. There was a little studio set-up on stage but since the area was too small and the time limit short, the videos provided adequate visual for the basic concepts he tried to go over. The videos were actually pretty concise and had good production and education value. So good, that I decided to subscribe to his Photo Vision DVD magazine, promo price of $39 for workshop goers.
The main meat of the workshop was understanding light: quality, quantity and direction. He went over various possible lighting scenarios for both studio and location set-ups. He also discussed ways and tools to modify light. Of course, a basic book on studio lighting could tell you the same thing. However, if you are an amateur or beginning photographer and have never taken a lighting workshop in your life, this seminar could provide you with the fundamentals.
The pace of the workshop was well-timed. The topics were organized well and it flowed. Ed was an engaging and humorous speaker. And oh, there was a little mini-raffle which was kinda cool. Uncool was not winning anything. Darn.
Oh, and don’t get misled by the seminar website. Many photographers were mistaken in thinking that the seminar would feature other leading industries photographer “hotties” Sandy Puc, Jeff and Julia Woods, Parker Pfister, among others. Well in fact, these other quote-unquote participants are actually featured in a free DVD that comes with the seminar registration. Since the video presentations were so well made, I’m actually looking forward to watching the DVD freebie tonight.
All in all, not too shabby for 4 hours of my time and $19 (with PPA discount). The Captivated by the Light workshop is touring 68 cities nationwide. Check and see if there’s a city near your hometown.
I attended Ed’s seminar. If those folks had read the website, they wouldn’t have been mistaken about the attendance of any other photographers, it’s clearly stated. Shame on those who don’t read details. I enjoyed the video presentations by Sandy Puc’, and PJ Pfister. I’ve been a photovision subscriber for several years, and Ed’s never let me down with quality work/advise/features. The bi-monthly DVDs will be a well spent 35.00, I find myself going back and watching them over and over. I’ve been to tons of these seminars over the last couple of years, and some, I’ve walked away truly aggravated at the b.s. and waste of time. Ed’s seminar was not a waste of time, there was much to learn and find inspiring! :O)
nina
Actually, the ads in PPA magazine read that he is “Joining Forces with 9 other photographers”
I too thought the other photogs would be there.
Additionally, some people, such as myself, a PPA member, did not get the $19 entry. Rather, $49 entry. When contacting them, they basically said the $19 was for “new” PPA sign ups.
Hi! I was surfing and found your blog post… nice! I love your blog. 🙂 Cheers! Sandra. R.
Couldn’t have said it better myself. Thank You for the great post. I have been meaning to write a similar story on my site. Looks like you got there first. Cheers.