PRESENTATIONS

THE ART OF BLACK AND WHITE PHOTOGRAPHY

The black and white presentation is a unique combination of the “how to” with the “why and when” which sets it apart from other classes in regards to black and white photography. The class begins with a brief look at images created by some of the “masters” with topics such as pattern, texture, shape and light demonstrated, A brief discussion of color theory and its importance in creating dramatic black and white conversions. I then convert some personal images using both Lightroom as well as Nik software with the emphasis being on the emotional impact.

PERSPECTIVE AND PERCEPTION : THE MYTH OF STYLE

This presentation delves into the subject of how we as photographers perceive the composition in our viewfinder and how by altering our perspective, even slightly, the image will become more emotional, dramatic and powerful, both to the viewer as well as the photographer. Minor White was once quoted as saying “Every image is a self portrait.” I believe that to be true especially in cases of the photographer having a strong emotional connection to the subject. However this shift in perspective is quite different from developing your own personal “style” of photography. In this presentation I will discuss and demonstrate the myth of style and how searching for it is actually hindering your own creative process.

ABSTRACT PHOTOGRAPHY : A Personal Journey

What is abstract photography? Just an out of focus image - hardly! Abstract photography can take on so many different forms its hard to pin down an exact definition. That is what makes it so fascinating. In this presentation I will cover and discuss the many forms of abstract photography and the techniques used to create them. Simplicity, composition, angle of view, lighting, harmony and most importantly mystery. I discuss how to create effective abstract images using everyday objects, using design elements, using macro lenses, shooting through objects, capturing motion, playing with lighting and how to create a home studio to create and capture abstract images.

All three presentations run for approximately 75 to 90 minutes with time for input and questions from your members. There is a nominal fee of $125.00 USD for either presentation which is a very competitive rate, Please use the contact form on the website to contact me to check for available dates and to reserve one, or both, of these presentations for your club.

A new offering is entitled Club Critique. All photographers like to have their work critiqued in a non competitive setting. In this program a Dropbox link will be sent to all members of a camera club - through their administrator - and will be given the opportunity to hear constructive criticism and support “live” using Lightroom settings and tools. Due to the extra work involved in this program my honorarium is 150.00

I have presented one or both of these presentations to the Bronx Photographic Society, Schenectady Photo Society, Hamilton Camera Club of Canada, Lancaster Camera Club, Manassas Warrenton Camera Club, McLean Photo Club, Baltimore Camera Club, NIH Camera Club, South Jersey Camera Club, Litchfield Hills Camera Club, Don Mills Camera Club of Canada and at least 40 other camera clubs in the US and Canada.

I am teaching a new course for the Capital Photography Center located in Washington, D.C. The course will be virtual via Zoom.

The course is the FUNDAMENTALS OF DIGITAL PRINTING. The dates of this course are January 29, February 5 and February 12 from 7:00PM to 9:00PM. Do your prints match what you see on your monitor? This course will cover all of the fundamentals of digital printing to ensure that your prints and monitor do match. Topics include color management, monitor calibration, ICC profiles, color space, soft proofing, the importance of cropping, aspect ratio and its relationship with printing, print resolution, black and white printing. Although I use an Epson printer Canon and HP users will gain knowledge that is germane to all printer brands and digital printing in general. The cost of the course is $125.00. The link for more information and to register is:

https://online.capitalphotographycenter.com/courses/fundamentals-digital-printing-jan-feb-2024

TESTIMONIALS

These are random comments taken from my Survey Monkey surveys which are distributed after every presentation.

“Thank you. What a terrific presentation! I love the way you took us on a journey through black and white tonight. It was informative, inspirational. You are a great teacher!” Holly from a Florida camera club.

“Lewis Katz is very knowledgeable and his ability to clearly take us through his photography journey was extraordinary, refreshing and inspiring. I loved it and learned a lot.” John from a Maryland camera club.

“I was introduced to a whole new way to think about black and white and photography in general.” Betty from an Ohio camera club.

“Great presentation, very informative and I learned many new things. Thank you so much - you are a great photography instructor.” Steve from a Pennsylvania camera club.

PRIVATE INSTRUCTION

Once the covid crisis has passed I will once again be offering private instruction in the field at a rate of $60.00 per hour. Until that time all private instruction will be via Zoom at a rate of $50.00 per hour. Private Zoom lessons are a very effective way to learn photography and a program like Lightroom as “on the fly” editing is possible which enhances the learning process. You may also add a one hour zoom session approximately one week after our shoot for image review for an additional $35.00. Please use the Contact form to inquire and schedule private lessons.