FAQs
Does it matter what kind of camera I have?
You can turn “snapshots” into “photographs” with any camera: SLR, dSLR, and Point & Shoot. However, the Fundamentals of Photography and Experience Booster classes both focus on dSLRs (digital Single Lens Reflex Cameras). We’ve taught students with cameras from Canon, Nikon, Olympus, Sony and many others.
I’m a hands-on learner. Is this going to be another classroom setting with no hands-on experience?
We’re kinesthetic learners too!! Lessons are very interactive and keep you focused on your camera the entire time. It’s a lot easier to learn by doing!
What should I wear?
Casual! A laid-back atmosphere is what we’re all about.
How long are the class sessions?
1 night a week for a month! Each meeting is about 2 hours long.
Do you have a physical building location?
Nope! Classes are held outside or in unique locations for a number of reasons:
- The best hands-on experience environment is outside!
- Not paying rent on office space keeps our classes so inexpensive
- Overhead-fluorescent lighting is horrible. Period.
- Indianapolis has some of the best city parks in the nation.
- If it rains or it's cold, the alternative is just as good... (see next question...)
What happens if it's cold or rains?
Fortunately, Indianapolis also has some of the best coffee houses & libraries. We have "alliances" set up with different locations around the city including Mo Joe's Coffee House and several Starbuck's. Students greatly enjoy the coffee shops for their food, drinks and relaxed atmosphere during class. If it looks like rain, a decision will be made the day before class and an email will be sent out.
Where do you hold private lessons?
Wherever is convenient! We’ve used coffee shops, restaurants, bakeries, personal residences, etc. For example, one customer is a dog breeder. Her primary goal was to improve the photos of her puppies which are sold on the internet. These private sessions were held at her home to use the dogs for hands-on experience.
What camera shop do you associate with?
We have been fully endorsed by Robert’s Distributors as their choice for Indianapolis photography classes. Coincidentally, they’re the Indy Photo Coach choice for photography retail equipment.
Do you have plans for any other locations?
Carmel / Fishers! We understand how difficult it is to get downtown, so if you are interested in a class in Carmel or Fishers, send us a note and we’ll keep you in the loop!
Do you offer gift certificates?
Yes. In any amount good toward any class or lesson. Click here for more details.
Do you teach unique groups?
YES! We’ve taught groups of coworkers, dog breeders, high-school yearbook photojournalists, amateur wedding photographers and many others! Contact us and we’ll arrange something for you.
What happens if I can’t make one of the sessions?
We’ll try to meet you for a few minutes before or after the next session to catch up on missed material. We regret we cannot offer refunds for missed sessions.
What if I don’t like the class?
Your satisfaction is the most important aspect of these lessons. If you are not completely satisfied, the cost of any unused sessions will be refunded.
How can I pay for the class?
All registrations are handled online by the Active Network.
What is the "registration fee" for?
In order to process your registration in an organized, safe and secure fashion, we have contracted the Active Network to handle all of our registrations. The small registration fee helps cover the costs associated with this service.
How is a typical class structured?
Review of previous week including Q&A
Presentation, critique and discussion of previous week’s “homework” assignment photos
Lesson
Hands-on experience and practice of lesson concepts
On top of instruction, what student benefits come with the classes?
Availability of an instructor between classes for mid-week help via phone or email
A full-color course manual at the 1st class
Access to future Indy Photo Coach student shoots (periodically scheduled)
What should I bring to class?
A pen, your manual (handed out at 1st class), camera, and water (if it’s hot outside).
