For The Magic Makers

Learn to use your camera like a Pro, see where the art and craft in photography is hiding behind all those buttons, dials, and switches.

In Your Hands

Learn to love your cameras and find your innate creative center with a professional (me!). 

For The Tender Hearts

Through small in-person classes you will get the real hands on and eye-to-eye experience for you and your nice camera.

“Amazing class! I could not have asked for more! Tom was welcoming, knowledgeable and fun. He explored many areas that a beginner needs to know. He was patient and presented the material in an engaging way. On top of that, the class is small enough to have meaningful exchanges while learning. I highly recommend it! I’m going back for composition next!”
– Ilona Kelvet

Learn from a Pro!

In-Person Photography classes in Mountain View, CA
Learn from a Pro!
Most classes are 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM, with a 1-hour lunch break

I get booked by busy people who love their new cameras, are frustrated with online videos, their bad photos, do not have the a lot of time. Yet they yearn to make great photos. Think of PhotoTrainer as couple’s counselling for your and your camera.

My unique photography classes bring students from literal to visual thinking in one day. Beginners get a solid start the right way and photographers can tune their craft in their chosen specialties. The time saved learning in-person with me is paid back in more fun behind the camera. Class Size is limited, ensuring you receive personalized attention and ample opportunities to ask questions and refine your technique

PhotoTrainer is couple’s counselling for your and your camera.

General Class Overview:
• I teach in my Live/Work in Mountain View CA.
• Most classes are from 9am to 4pm with a lunch break.
• I can take up to five people, that’s it!
• In person, hands-on. Lots of attention. Yum!
• You and your camera.

“Light makes photography. Embrace light. Admire it. Love it. But above all, know light.

Know it for all you are worth, and you will know the key to photography.”
— George Eastman

Jumpstart Your Inner Photographer . . .

With my experience as a commercial photographer and trainer, I can awaken your inner photographer through manual mode. See how the camera really works and how all the really nice controls are there to help you. Let me introduce you to your camera and its charisma and power.

DSLR/M Jumpstart Class

DSLR & Mirrorless Jumpstart class for those who have had enough of “smart” phones and full auto mode. Learn manual mode in one day, with a Pro. (me!)

Better iPhone Photos

Finally! The iPhone has a creative center and so do you. I will personally introduce the two of you; then teach you how to use this camera to create way Better iPhone Photos!

Private Training

2.5 hour Personal one-on-one training session. Tailored to you, when you are really ready for better, This is a great gift for a camera lover in your life. You will be in good hands.

Photographic Composition

Great photos do not just happen. Learn the language of camerawork. It is quite simple if you are observant. We explore the classics: Rule of Thirds, Geometry, Notan and way more.

Portraiture Lighting

Join an experienced model (included) and me for a day of portrait lighting. This is a workshop for people who want to dramatically improve their portrait photography. Person to Person!

Mentorship with a Pro

Explore the worlds of objects, light, and arrangement through your camera! Try your hand at this timeless craft yourself with me as your guide.

Lightroom Training

Learn Lightroom with one of my private Lightroom classes: LR101 or If you have been bad LR911. I can help you get organized, get started and get out of trouble. Person to Person!

Photo Walks come and EXPLORE!

Macro lenses and their exposure quirks, depth of field and exposure issues with magnification. Practice looking at flowers at close range and discuss abstract composition.