TAKE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY + DIGITAL DARKROOM SKILLS TO THE NEXT LEVEL
Photography has been a driving force in my life since the age of 15. I've operated a successful Advertising/Commercial photo studio for 40 years. My personal and comissioned fine art photography is in numerous collections and installations nationwide. In addition, I have 17 years' experience educating graduate students in photography.
Teaching has always been a part of my engagement with photography. I love helping photographers of all levels grow their technical skills and express their creativity with photography. I can help you be a better photographer no matter where you are in your creative journey.
Knowledge Base
I have a wide range of photographic experience in both analog and digital techniques in commercial and fine art photography. I offer instruction in most areas of photography and digital imaging.
Photoshop - Lightroom - Camera Raw - Bridge - Inkjet Printing - Camera Operations- Digital Retouching and Compositing - Studio Lighting - Product and Food Photography - Smart Phone photography - History of Photography - Composition - Portfolio Development - Creative Growth - Apple Photos
Personalized 1 on 1 Sessions
I offer 1 on 1 online sessions. Sessions are 100% tailored to your individual goals and interests and are scheduled at your convenience. I work with all levels from the beginner to the pro. I'll tailor our sessions to start wherever you are.
INTRODUCTORY 30 MINUTE SESSION
I offer 30-minute introductory sessions for new clients. This allows us to get to know one another and review your goals. We will sketch out a course of lessons that meet your needs. During that time, you'll have a chance to evaluate my skills to ensure I'm your best choice.
Use the button below to schedule your introductory session. I look forward to helping you on your creative journey!
Testimonials
"I got accepted and got a $14,000 Scholarship per year. This would, legit, not have been possible without you, your constant faith in me to become a better version of myself, both as an artist and a person, and your guidance through it all! Thank you for recognizing my strengths when I didn’t even know I was doing something right. Thank you for sharing my shortcomings with me and especially for helping me work through them. Thank you for being real. "
N. Patel - MAS Graduate Student 2025
“It’s teachers like you going above and beyond that make this crazy school great. Thanks for making us better photographers, better people and giving us a killer show!”
Tim Redman - Photographer
“After attending your class, I realized the value of learning from an individual, who can inspire students with their past and current work done in the field of photography. Michael West is that individual, who practices what he teaches.”
Juan Montenegro – Photographer
"Michael West brings a unique blend of practical advice, creative inspiration, and artistic insight to instruction. Every lesson, no matter how philosophical, is always grounded by the intent for usefulness."
Morgan Owen - Portfolio Center Graduate - Art Director
“The workshop was GREAT! Instructor was fun. I would recommend this workshop to friends.”
Vintage Process Workshop Participant
“I was thinking, I may not have enough experience… But instructor was very accommodating of all levels of experience.”
Vintage Process Workshop Participant
“Michael is a true master of his craft and a great teacher. During my two years at Portfolio Center he was a consistent source of inspiration. His deep knowledge of the industry and complete dedication to photography are invaluable assets to any student. While being patient, Michaels knows exactly what he wants from his students and he pushes it in a very unique and humble manner.”
Artem Nazarov - Photographer
“Your support and extra effort as a teacher and mentor means the world to me. I can’t thank you enough for everything you have done. You are a true gem to Portfolio Center, and any student who has the opportunity to have you as a teacher is very lucky.”
CJ Issac - Photographer
“Thank you for taking the time to come out and review images last night. I have been a member of the club for a little over a year and have participated in 12 reviews or so. Your review last night was by far and away better than any review I have attended. Most reviews are watered down with not much thought given to the comments. Your comments provided a lot of insight in the time provided. I totally enjoyed your review and comments. Thank you!”
JD - Photography Club Member
“Awesome! Very informative. Michael is a wonderful teacher.”
Vintage Process WorkshopParticipant
“Everything Michael said was of substance and something I could use in the future. His enthusiasm kept us all going, and made it fun, yet educational.”
JK - High School Student
“Exceeded my expectations. Michael provided just the right amount of info and a good level of technical detail.
Vintage Process Workshop Participant
“Wonderful! Good mix of discussion and hands on technique”
Vintage Process Workshop Participant
“I appreciated Michael’s enthusiasm about his work and the knowledge he shared. I loved seeing the color pop out of the picture when I put it in the water bath and fixer.”
RQ - High School Student
Reach out and let me know what your photography hopes and goals are. I can help you grow and be your best.
Thank you!