A heartfelt thank you to all those who have participated, rest assured your words and support are greatly appreciated. Chas
Photo Travel Review Magazine April, 2011... In the world of nature photography, one name stands above all others — Charles Glatzer. He is recognized worldwide as the absolute master of light. Publisher, writer, mentor, teacher, photo entrepreneur, he is legendary and is one of very few photographers who has earned a Masters of Photography Degree. Shoot the Light Workshops by Charles Glatzer has earned the Photo Travel Review Magazine rating of six stars the highest rating the PTR Team has given any workshop provider. We have done so in view of Glatzer’s contribution to the photographic community over many years, and for his continuing willingness to serve as mentor and teacher to others who strive to improve their photography. Moreover, the testimonials of hundreds of workshop attendees speak loudly about how well his tours have been received. If one wants to attend a photographic workshop that offers adventure, opportunities to learn and improve one’s photographic skills, one cannot go wrong in choosing Shoot the Light — in our view the best of the best. Read the entire review, click HERE
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As a beginning student in nature photography, I have taken workshops from several different instructors and can say that STL is the best by a long shot. If his photographs alone do not indicate Chas's diverse level of skills and his unnatural eye for creativity, his dedication to participants is more than enough to make his workshops the best possible way to study the art. Chas is unique in that his enthusiasm enables participants to transform the most daunting concepts into second-nature within a couple sessions. An instantaneous recognition of metering, flash, visual design, and timing within the field are essentials he will help you excel in.
In addition to his prestige as a photographer, Chas has a background in marine biology and an inherent understanding of animal behavior that sets him above any other wildlife photographer I know. In addition to seeking out the most favorable--often obscure--locations, Chas imparts his knowledge of the subjects in such a way that one learns to predict their behaviors and movements for the perfect shot. He also has a well-developed "naturalist's eye"--rare even among the best-known professionals--that incorporates the ecological settings of the subject to tell a much more powerful and accurate "story" of its natural history.
Most importantly, however, Chas is the type of teacher who enjoys seeing his participants improve their skills. Few instructors are as willing to put down their own gear to coach you through a shoot. He frequently initiates suggestions that a novice might not think to ask about. In poor light or bad weather, Chas makes use of the time to focus on classroom work or hone in on specific skills. Even if the animals don't show up, he is happy to go the extra mile to ensure that you get the most out of the workshop. No matter what you sign up for, I have no doubt that you will discover that the hours you spend at an STL workshop surmount to years of experience.
Owen from California
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Liz Bryce here from your Technical workshop in Florida at the Alligator Farm, May of 2010.
I want to let you know the impact you have had on my life, photography is a passion for me, I spend a huge amount of my spare time with my camera and after your workshop my skill level has been elevated to a point I am ecstatic with.
Your workshop was the 4th I had taken all with different professional photographers and although I learned something from each professional, I also learned that not all workshops are the same and not all professionals have the ability to teach. Now in fairness to those other workshops, I have taken something different from each one; however, your workshop was head and shoulders above all others I have attended. I made huge progress in such a short period of time and above all it was apparent you care about why people are there.
Not only are you a highly skilled photographer but you are a great teacher with an amazing ability to simplify the issues, with a great attitude and down to earth personality, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend your workshops. I will be forever grateful for the knowledge you have shared with me and unfortunately you will have to put up with this crazy Scottish lady a little longer as I’m coming back for more :)
For me, you took the hard work out of photography and made it what it should be, FUN! I no longer stress about the technical issues that been simplified so I actually "get it now," you have given me the greatest gift, the freedom to focus on the creative aspect.
Thanks Chas for allowing that penny to finally drop for me, and I am so looking forward to the Falklands, Botswana, Russia, and Manatee trips.
To sum it up Chas, you've got it right!
Liz
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You are one of the very few workshop instructors that I have observed that doesn't let his own ego get in the way of providing the best instruction and oportunities for the students. After observing Chas teach two students in the field for three days a couple of weeks ago, I would have to agree - probably the best "in the field" instructor I've run across.
E.J. Peiker
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Thanks again for a great STL Technical Workshop, and for taking the time late on the fourth day to review a few pictures - much appreciated. The workshop certainly advanced my technical abilities, but much more importantly has introduced a new (and fundamental) dimension to my photography that was missing before (and I don't think I even realised it was missing): a genuine understanding of the light around me (and that illuminating the subject), how to read the light (quality, direction etc) and apply this knowledge to creative photography. This will change many aspects of my approach - where I stand, waiting for the subject to enter the "zone", how and when I press the shutter and everything in-between!
More on the Tech Series click Martin's Blog
Cheers, Martin
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Keeping art a side, for me producing technically perfect images is essential in the process of growing as a photographer. I have been working on this for a long time and I believe understanding the basics is more important than walking out with bunch of great reproduction images. I spent my share of time reading tutorials on exposure, metering and composition. For sure, I understood the theory behind it, but putting it into practice was not at all easy.
Chas’s STL series workshop was so wonderful putting me right where I wanted. His exceptional skills as a teacher, photographer and creator are beyond my imagination. The amount of personal attention and guidance I got in this workshop was outstanding. His willingness to walk an extra mile to make sure I understand the technical side of the settings right from basics is amazing. His knowledge and explanation on flash techniques was one of the best lessons I ever learned in photography. A highlight of the class was his technique in producing 3rd dimension in photographs with shadows. I was quite surprised to see a computer science paper discussing similar techniques to produce a 3 dimensional feel for gaming characters. His creative compositions at Bosque are out of this world.
Overall, the STL Tech Series Workshop put my photo career on steroids. I guess it would have taken another 2 years to learn what I did from Chas in 2 days. You might learn what setting to use and how to shoot at any workshop. But, if you really want to understand the fundamentals and what it takes to produce perfect images, I think there is no other workshop like this. I felt it was a privilege being part of such a great program, learning from, and shooting with Chas.
Sid
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If you spend any amount of time on the nature photography forums you will see many fine images but when you see the images by Chas, you will realize that he is in a class by himself. Not only is Chas a world class photographer but his skill and experience in PS brings his images to another level that few can achieve. I have been on several workshops with Chas and discovered that he is also a very good and willing teacher. Chas is an "open book" - whether you want help on composition, exposure, or fine tuning your camera, Chas is very knowledgeable. But that's only half the story - Chas uses the middle of the day when the light is poor to show his PS techniques that make his images so special. He is very happy to share anything that he has learned over the years - and he knows a lot of cool stuff! We spent several hours working on images to make sure I understood how to make them look their best.
If you are serious about your photography and want to get better, Chas can help you in many ways. I also found him to be a nice guy - he's fun in the car as you drive around and during the meals. He sounds so serious on the forums but in person, he's always smiling and having a good time.
Steven Berkowitz, VMD
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Passion for photography is not enough; I need teachers who are both willing and able to explain what they are doing and why they are doing it.With Chas, both of these points are met. Regulars on the web will have seen enough of Chas's images to know his abilities are exceptional. Chas routinely produces images that differ not only from what others are creating, but also from his own work. His images contain both technical and artistic elements that make them unique. By attending one of Chas's workshops, I hoped to gain some insight into his photography so that I could incorporate some of his ideas into my own work. And, I got what I was looking in the New Foundland workshop.
Chas approaches each photographic opportunity with an open mind. Rather then preconceived ideas, each opportunity is evaluated based on the situation. Instead of imposing his vision on the situation, Chas determines how he can produce the best possible image given the current conditions. If the conditions don't fit the idea, the idea is modified to fit the conditions...
Throughout the workshop, Chas worked with each participant to develop their skills
Chris Gamel
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Let me start off by saying that attending your "Loons and More" workshop was one of the highlights of my photographic endeavors. In a very short period, you helped to elevate my photography to the next level. Your instruction and guidance has given me a solid photographic foundation upon which all of my future work will be based. It was truly an honor to shoot beside you. To me, observing you shoot "in-the-field" was as important as the valuable classroom instruction you provided. I got to see first hand what proper technique looks like.
To top it all off, I found out that you're a great guy. I felt a little intimidated before I showed up for the workshop, but you immediately put me at ease. After meeting you, it was obvious that your goal was to help us improve our photography, and that you truly cared about our success. Your generous and humorous teaching style helped to make the learning process fun and effortless. The way you presented the information made everything make sense. For me, you took the mystery and guess work out of many key issues I had. I'll be a much more deliberate and proactive photographer in the future because of you.
Thanks for everything!
Scott Flaherty
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It was a pleasure to spend a bit of time with you at the VS sanctuary last month.
Anyway I just wanted to say “hi” and let you know how much I appreciated meeting you. I have spent a fare amount of time in the bush with photographers and few have impressed me as much as you. Your care for those around you as well as the welfare of the bears was refreshing. I now understand why VS staff speak so highly of you. In my experience most photographers are often testing the limits set by the guide or property owner and are tolerated only because of the revenue they bring in. Folks at the sanctuary trust and respect you and look forward to you arriving. I enjoyed watching how you provided your clients with the best experience they could possibly have. I hope to see you at the sanctuary again but until then, enjoy the blessing each day brings and capture as many of them on film as you can.
Tom Klingbiel
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I recently returned from a four day Technical Workshop with Shoot the Light – wow!! I had no idea how little I knew until Chas started explaining metering, flash, postproduction and visualization. We worked both in the classroom and in the field from dawn to dark and I learned more in four days than I would have on my own in years.
Metering – Chas went through the basics of five different metering methods and explained when to use each. He thoroughly explained the difference between incident and reflective metering and why you use your camera’s reflective meter sometimes and your incident meter other times. He really helped me get my head around the whole metering concept.
Flash – Good golly, who knew how versatile that little item, could be outdoors. Chas showed us six different situations where flash would enhance a photo or enable you to shoot when you otherwise wouldn’t. I was amazed at the versatility of flash as an extra tool in the bag. It allows you to shoot much earlier, much later, and much more in the middle of the day than I would have ever imagined.
Post Processing – Chas introduced us to various programs that greatly expedite workflow and he showed us tons of shortcuts. It would have taken me forever to figure all that out. Chas’ background as a former lab owner and commercial photographer enables him to see colors and tones better than most and he understands the nuances of post processing in an amazing way. He’s fearless about exploring the possibilities of PhotoShop and it’s obvious from his vast amount of knowledge that he has spent hours working with this program.
Visualization – What can I say; you can just look at Chas’ photos and see someone on a plane above. Chas sees artistically and thinks technically and his photos show mastery of both. Looking at his work and listening to his thoughts on lighting and composition was extremely helpful.
Chas is a great teacher with endless enthusiasm who makes every situation fun. I would highly recommend this workshop to anyone who wants to increase his or her technical knowledge and have a good time in the process.
D. S.
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I recently attended two STL workshops…to Jasper National Park and to Churchill for polar bears. On both trips, Chas was a walking encyclopedia of photographic knowledge. He stresses the importance of students becoming comfortable with fundamental technical skills so that they can then concentrate on the more artistic and creative aspects of creating truly outstanding images. He teaches in a “stream of consciousness” manner while in the field as well as presenting organized lectures on topics such as exposure, flash, composition and Photoshop. He is a natural teacher who enthusiastically individualizes his instruction to clients at any level of skill or experience. One of his trademark themes is the development of a greater appreciation regarding the quality and direction of light in order to create images with a three dimensional appearance.
His large base of repeat customers serves as a testimonial to the fact that he inspires workshop participants and meets the needs of clients at any skill level.
Each of the two trips I attended provided wonderful wildlife encounters with memories (and photos) that I will cherish forever. Chas is a world-class photographer who displays the relaxed and fun-loving personality of an old friend. I eagerly anticipate signing-on for another trip in the coming year.
Jim Conley
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Oh my gosh, where do I begin? It is phenomenal the wealth of information Chas possesses and shares at his workshops. It’s true; the man is as nice as they say. Not once was he impatient with any of us for asking the same question two or three times.
I have struggled the last two or so years with my photography. I love photography, knew it had to be easier than I was making it. I read the books, manuals and asked questions of friends, but still I struggled. The problem, I wasn’t getting my information from the correct sources. I now use what Chas taught me both in field and indoors. And it works! As my first photography workshop, I thought the tech stuff was the way to go (STL Technical Workshop Series in Venice, Florida). I’m so glad I did! You don’t have to be a beginner either to benefit from Chas’ tech workshops. There were others there with more skill and experience than I was. Chas somehow can explain beginning and advance techniques all without making you feel left out or overwhelmed. The workshop was written up as a 9-5 but he was available at 7 for a morning shoot even if it rained. When five o’clock rolled around, we kept shooting until the sun was well past the horizon. We had as much time in the classroom as we did in the field; I never thought he would cover as much information as he did. We were also given a written packet of information to augment our learning experience (which is good since I am not one to take a lot of notes). I now achieve consistent exposure along with a better composition and he has taken the mystery out of flash. When it comes to image processing with software, his talent continues there as well.
Also, I would like to note that in a male dominated field I was concerned I would be the only female at the workshops. Not true; it was 50-50, but it wouldn’t have mattered anyway since everyone was so nice. There were other photographers at the rookery that also knew Chas; one evening we all got together for dinner. I enjoyed meeting them and listening to their stories. The workshop was a great experience: the participants, the other photographers and all the learning. Chas is a unique individual and an excellent teacher, and it shows in the company he keeps.
See you again, Chas.
Kate Montague
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Although I had considered myself a proficient photographer I decided to join one of Chas’ workshops to a location that I knew that I’d never be able to reach on my own, Churchill, Manitoba. I don’t know that I’ve ever been so fortunate as to have had a group of talented and mutually supportive photographers with little if any ego. Chas set the tone as an ever-present mentor forever ready to give appropriate support or specific recommendations about shooting or post processing in any number of different applications. He is truly gifted with the ability to read the needs of both the group and the individual under all conditions. It was an outstanding learning experience and overall good (great) time. My only caution to potential first time participants is that having taken one workshop, you’ll likely sign up for another. I did. See you in Homer!
JB Goessman
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Chas Glatzer’s STL De Soto Workshop – A Wrap Up
All in all this was the best technical workshop that I have ever attended. I saw an immediate improvement in my shooting technique that translated to improved images both compositionally and technically.
The flash and Photoshop instruction were my favorites, but each day’s instruction was invaluable. Besides the expert instruction, Chas’ personable manner made the workshop a pleasurable learning and social environment for all. I did not hear one word of disapproval from any of the participants.
Of particular importance to me were all the little tidbits of info Chas told us about marketing your photos. Like his 4x6 business card portfolio and when you shoot a subject, shot a horizontal, a vertical, a tight shot and a wide shot. That makes it more sellable then 20 shots of the birds head moved ever so slightly in each.
Chas’ passion for the bears makes me look forward to taking a bear workshop with him in the future. I give a hearty recommendation to anyone considering one of Chas’ workshops.
Robert Amoruso - Winner Nature's Best '06, Bird Image
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I have attended numerous workshops over the years. Every one of them taught me something. Some were good for the package deal on the location and setups we were shooting. Some were good on Photoshop. Some were good on photo in the field. My latest one was with Glatzer. Here is a guy who has done nothing but photography all his life. He has been in the studio and he has been in the field. He has had formal training and education. And he truly loves his wildlife and nature.
I can tell you that if you want to master exposure and flash using manual mode for complete control (believe it when I say its easier than auto anything-- by a mile) you'll learn it from Chas. You will learn the latest and greatest Photoshop techniques from someone who grew up on it and the digital age. He spends all his time on the student. He gets you asking questions. You will see a lot of his stupendous photography, which he will unselfishly share the insights and techniques that went into creating it (mono y mono if you just ask), with me at least, a picture teaches faster and more thorough, then a lot of words.
I met Chas in Florida at about 5:30 in the morning at the Venice rookery. I was light painting a great horned owl in a tree when he pulled up. We introduced and talked. Right off, he applauded my experimenting and supported my efforts. I was impressed with his infectious enthusiasm and boundless energy. Just to be around him brings you more into the photographic realm. You just get into it more. We shot that day, and the next day at Cape Coral with the burrowing owls. So, before any workshops I was learning a lot from this guy. He just sheds information and creativeness---a natural teacher, and an artist.
Paul A Leverington
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Chas, I just returned from a workshop. I have to tell you...because you may question yourself sometimes...you are the BEST workshop leader out there!!
You guide people in the field..."wait until you see both heads...wait until it turns its head into the light...check your meter". Believe it or not, that is not always done by other leaders. You have a gift of gab that is funny and interesting during our down time...not in the field when you are trying to photograph. You are a good leader man...you have the GIFT. Why I go with anyone else is beyond me. I have found you and I will be with you as often as I can. I wish I could think of a way to market this skill of yours to other people so they know you are the best. Just keep doing what you are doing.
Joe Barranco
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I recently attended Chas’ STL Technical Series at Ft. De Soto Park. What impressed me immediately was that he has the rare ability to take very complicated subjects, distill them down to just what you need and get you using those concepts to make great shots of your own. I went with the intent just to learn flash techniques and came away with a wealth of information and improvements in my shooting techniques, in addition to mastering my flash. In short just take one of his workshops, you will be amazed at what you learn and how much you will improve your abilities under his instruction.
Jason Hahn www.jasonhahn.com
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I want to thank you again for all the time, effort, and personal attention you gave us during the Technical Workshop. The amount of information, tips, and techniques you presented in such a short time was truly amazing. Thank you again so much for the loan of your 300MM lens and 2X teleconverter.
I recently attended the STL Technical Workshop and was pleasantly rewarded with Chas's willingness to share his wealth of photography experience. Chas's teaching style is a mixture of teaching, with lots of examples, and encouraging any and all questions, putting the class at ease. The participants obviously had a wide range of experience. No question was too simple and all were answered with professionalism, the knowledge of years of experience with every type of photography, and humor. I was particularly interested in the day on metering as I had been having considerable trouble with consistent exposures. The day on flash exposures cleared up much of the mystery of balancing flash and ambient light. Photoshop - well, lets just say I've read several books and taken courses and Chas showed us things I've never seen anywhere. The time in the field was invaluable with Chas giving much individual instruction and attention. There's something in Chas's Technical Series for photographers of most every experience level and I would recommend a STL workshop to anyone who wants to take it to the next level and have some fun and a great experience at the same time.
Alan Bourne