For The Wild Hearts

Real Photography for Real People with 40 years of experience in commercial and from-the-hip photography.

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.

Stories You Can Feel

You will learn through step-by-step training to love your cameras and find your innate creative center with an expert in the photography industry. 

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.

Learn from a Pro!

In my creative life as a Mountain View California commercial photographer, I have savored decades of tech adventures in Silicon Valley. In my photography classes, I have observed how people absorb ever-evolving camera technology. 

I teach how to use manual mode, the way the camera was built. I bring students from literal to visual thinking. Cameras are getting complex, the learning is not difficult; it is natural.  30% of our brain processing is devoted to the visual cortex. I connect some dots; I help beginners parse photo jargon and their new camera’s functions for quality in-person learning. 

I help intermediate photographers quickly tune their camera craft to next level photography in their chosen specialties. The remaining ingredient is practice. 

Fed Up with online learning? So, are you ready for real change? PhotoTrainer is learning that sticks to your ribs and neurons most Saturdays at PhotoTrainer World Headquarters. Everyone has a camera now. Photography is Important; I am delighted to help you. 

Five star reviews for ten years +. –TEU

First thing, I teach new ways to look at the light in order to See the Light. Then, how the camera becomes an instrument in your hands.

Finally, you can make music with the light.

–Tom Upton

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!

Photos For Small Business

This class is for small business owners who would like to learn how to showcase their business using great professional photography.

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!

Classic Still Life

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!

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.

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.

Tom, where do I start?