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3 reviews
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Regarding the course, I feel that there are always new skills to be learnt, and different ways to do things. As I went with an open mind, it paid off quickly, as I was shown new lighting techniques, then did hands on practice, and was able to see the end result, which was very satisfying. The photo editing then enabled me to tweak my images, and Mike guided me each step of the way. Looking back on the course now, I realise just how much we covered in the time set aside. It's definitely value for money in my opinion.
I would definitely recommend Mike Lester Photographer to photographers of all levels. Mike is very friendly and his studio is inviting and is there to create fantastic results. I feel that the course structure was aimed at the right level for me, and Mike tailored it to suit my purpose. I did plenty of research into course providers, and with limited offerings in Ireland, I checked out in great detail Mike's course, and I was not disappointed, as it fulfilled my expectations. And afterall, it's not that far to the Leeds area.← | → -
I thoroughly enjoyed the course from the outset. Mike and his model Laura helped create a fun yet informative experience, and from it I was able to learn new techniques. I plan to practice the elements of the course, and hopefully achieve the results Mike has had, as seen on his website.
I would highly recommend Mike Lester Photography to anyone wanting to learn new skills, or brush up on existing ones.
← | →
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Before actually describing Mike Lester’s studio lighting & image editing training day, the first thing to be pointed out is what happens before.
Mike is happy to exchange several emails to gain an understanding of the requirements of the individual. This allows him to customise the day for your own requirements & unlike other training days, tutorials are always delivered on a one-to-one basis.
Mike & Diane’s numerous years of experience are consistently demonstrated throughout the day. Explanations about lighting are delivered simply, with things being built up from a basic start through to more creative options.
Mike is happy to answer all questions fired at him & Diane’s input as the model is also invaluable as she is more than able to contribute to the learning of the photographer by continually explaining the situation from the model’s perspective.
Although only so much can be explained in 2 hours, the Photoshop Elements tutorial takes you from an unedited image, through different editing techniques to a completed image, which can be included in your new portfolio.
The final thing to point out is that you don’t just leave knowing what to do, you also leave knowing how to go about putting your new skills into practice. The advice given by Mike & Diane also includes practical advice in how to start out operating on your own as an amateur photographer.
A very worthwhile day for anyone looking at studio training & image editing.
Paul, York
← | →
Mike Lester Photography
- Course
- Leeds
- 1 Day
...get some great shots for your portfolio and gain experience in the studio setting. 2 hours in the afternoon, learning photoshop techniques.developing...
£ 135
VAT inc.
...get some great shots for your portfolio and gain experience in the studio setting. 2 hours in the afternoon, learning photoshop techniques.developing...
-
Regarding the course, I feel that there are always new skills to be learnt, and different ways to do things. As I went with an open mind, it paid off quickly, as I was shown new lighting techniques, then did hands on practice, and was able to see the end result, which was very satisfying. The photo editing then enabled me to tweak my images, and Mike guided me each step of the way. Looking back on the course now, I realise just how much we covered in the time set aside. It's definitely value for money in my opinion.
I would definitely recommend Mike Lester Photographer to photographers of all levels. Mike is very friendly and his studio is inviting and is there to create fantastic results. I feel that the course structure was aimed at the right level for me, and Mike tailored it to suit my purpose. I did plenty of research into course providers, and with limited offerings in Ireland, I checked out in great detail Mike's course, and I was not disappointed, as it fulfilled my expectations. And afterall, it's not that far to the Leeds area.← | → see all -
I thoroughly enjoyed the course from the outset. Mike and his model Laura helped create a fun yet informative experience, and from it I was able to learn new techniques. I plan to practice the elements of the course, and hopefully achieve the results Mike has had, as seen on his website.
I would highly recommend Mike Lester Photography to anyone wanting to learn new skills, or brush up on existing ones.
← | → see all
-
Before actually describing Mike Lester’s studio lighting & image editing training day, the first thing to be pointed out is what happens before.
Mike is happy to exchange several emails to gain an understanding of the requirements of the individual. This allows him to customise the day for your own requirements & unlike other training days, tutorials are always delivered on a one-to-one basis.
Mike & Diane’s numerous years of experience are consistently demonstrated throughout the day. Explanations about lighting are delivered simply, with things being built up from a basic start through to more creative options.
Mike is happy to answer all questions fired at him & Diane’s input as the model is also invaluable as she is more than able to contribute to the learning of the photographer by continually explaining the situation from the model’s perspective.
Although only so much can be explained in 2 hours, the Photoshop Elements tutorial takes you from an unedited image, through different editing techniques to a completed image, which can be included in your new portfolio.
The final thing to point out is that you don’t just leave knowing what to do, you also leave knowing how to go about putting your new skills into practice. The advice given by Mike & Diane also includes practical advice in how to start out operating on your own as an amateur photographer.
A very worthwhile day for anyone looking at studio training & image editing.
Paul, York
← | → see all
1 review
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Mike Lester’s Location Photography Workshop allows for the advancement of a photographer’s knowledge & skills, this time dealing with situations & lighting outside of a studio environment.
Mike cleverly starts the session by simply asking the photographer to take a photo & explain what they are doing & why they are doing it.
Having assessed the photographer’s current level of understanding, Mike instantly customises the rest of the evening to expand on your own existing knowledge. He doesn’t repeat things he has established you already know, but instead begins to explain different lighting techniques for outdoor composition & your learning of new skills begins straight away.
Mike’s knowledge of the local area means that in the 3 hours of the tutorial you will have shot in 4 different locations (admittedly, one of them is his garden!). Each area provides a different environment, different challenges & different techniques for lighting your subject (in this case, Mike’s wonderful model, Diane).
Mike will provide explanations regarding not only use of different equipment, but use of different locations and available light. You will realise that by employing different techniques you can get very different photos with the model not having moved an inch.
The picturesque rural scenery used means you will come away with photos that will truly complement your portfolio.
Paul, York
← | →
Mike Lester Photography
- Course
- Leeds
- 1 Day
...we are now able to offer a small number of practical teaching sessions on photographing models on location. You will also be given a chance to edit...
£ 135
VAT inc.
...we are now able to offer a small number of practical teaching sessions on photographing models on location. You will also be given a chance to edit...
-
Mike Lester’s Location Photography Workshop allows for the advancement of a photographer’s knowledge & skills, this time dealing with situations & lighting outside of a studio environment.
Mike cleverly starts the session by simply asking the photographer to take a photo & explain what they are doing & why they are doing it.
Having assessed the photographer’s current level of understanding, Mike instantly customises the rest of the evening to expand on your own existing knowledge. He doesn’t repeat things he has established you already know, but instead begins to explain different lighting techniques for outdoor composition & your learning of new skills begins straight away.
Mike’s knowledge of the local area means that in the 3 hours of the tutorial you will have shot in 4 different locations (admittedly, one of them is his garden!). Each area provides a different environment, different challenges & different techniques for lighting your subject (in this case, Mike’s wonderful model, Diane).
Mike will provide explanations regarding not only use of different equipment, but use of different locations and available light. You will realise that by employing different techniques you can get very different photos with the model not having moved an inch.
The picturesque rural scenery used means you will come away with photos that will truly complement your portfolio.
Paul, York
← | →
2 reviews
-
Great afternoon course with Mike,covered all the topics promised & a few more besides.The practical sessions included helped me see what was being talked about. Throughout the course Mike was very patient with as I tended to dive off on tangents,explained each aspect clearly in simple terms.I shall be going back for another class,probably the Macro workshop.100% recommended
← | →
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I requested an uncommon workshop with Mike Lester, covering the grounds of Black and White photography, and yet it was very well prepared and structured. It was taught at a great pace, and it was repeated where necessary to guarantee a thorough understanding of photography in detail. His easy going nature creates a comfortable environment where I did not hesitate to ask him to go over anything again.
The skills I have learnt were highly valuable and inspired me to peruse my photography interest. I recommend Mike Lester for any area of photography you require assistance in.
← | →
Mike Lester Photography
- Course
- Leeds
- 2h
...lenses. How they relate to each other and why. This will involve a reasonable bit of theory, but interspersed with an equal amount of practical work...
£ 69
VAT inc.
...lenses. How they relate to each other and why. This will involve a reasonable bit of theory, but interspersed with an equal amount of practical work...
-
Great afternoon course with Mike,covered all the topics promised & a few more besides.The practical sessions included helped me see what was being talked about. Throughout the course Mike was very patient with as I tended to dive off on tangents,explained each aspect clearly in simple terms.I shall be going back for another class,probably the Macro workshop.100% recommended
← | → see all
-
I requested an uncommon workshop with Mike Lester, covering the grounds of Black and White photography, and yet it was very well prepared and structured. It was taught at a great pace, and it was repeated where necessary to guarantee a thorough understanding of photography in detail. His easy going nature creates a comfortable environment where I did not hesitate to ask him to go over anything again.
The skills I have learnt were highly valuable and inspired me to peruse my photography interest. I recommend Mike Lester for any area of photography you require assistance in.
← | → see all
Mike Lester Photography
- Course
- Leeds
- 2h
...Using digital editng software to create superb images-. Create stunning images. Remove imperfections. Edit and publish for the web or email...
£ 69
VAT inc.
Mike Lester Photography
- Course
- Leeds
- Beginner
- 2h
...Diane,our model, has many years experience. Personal feedback from shoots has been highly positive.so I am sure that you'll find her very helpful and photogenic...
£ 69
VAT inc.
Mike Lester Photography
- Course
- Leeds
- 1 Day
...You'll have the opportunity to learn how to use lighting to full effect, get some great shots for your portfolio and gain experience in the studio setting...
£ 219
VAT inc.
Reviews on Mike Lester Photography (6)
6
100%
Reviews
Centre rating
Recommended
Have you studied here?
Photography - Studio Lighting and Image Editing
Nigel Colmer
What I would highlight:
Regarding the course, I feel that there are always new skills to be learnt, and different ways to do things. As I went with an open mind, it paid off quickly, as I was shown new lighting techniques, then did hands on practice, and was able to see the end result, which was very satisfying. The photo editing then enabled me to tweak my images, and Mike guided me each step of the way. Looking back on the course now, I realise just how much we covered in the time set aside. It's definitely value for money in my opinion.
I would definitely recommend Mike Lester Photographer to photographers of all levels. Mike is very friendly and his studio is inviting and is there to create fantastic results. I feel that the course structure was aimed at the right level for me, and Mike tailored it to suit my purpose. I did plenty of research into course providers, and with limited offerings in Ireland, I checked out in great detail Mike's course, and I was not disappointed, as it fulfilled my expectations. And afterall, it's not that far to the Leeds area.
I would definitely recommend Mike Lester Photographer to photographers of all levels. Mike is very friendly and his studio is inviting and is there to create fantastic results. I feel that the course structure was aimed at the right level for me, and Mike tailored it to suit my purpose. I did plenty of research into course providers, and with limited offerings in Ireland, I checked out in great detail Mike's course, and I was not disappointed, as it fulfilled my expectations. And afterall, it's not that far to the Leeds area.
What could be improved:
Having to finish and head back home, would be what I liked least. I felt I was really getting to grips with the hands on lighting and photo editing, and if I had more time I would have stayed on.
Course taken:
October 2010
Would you recommend this course?:
Yes
Photography - Studio Lighting and Image Editing
Nigel Colmer
What I would highlight:
I thoroughly enjoyed the course from the outset. Mike and his model Laura helped create a fun yet informative experience, and from it I was able to learn new techniques. I plan to practice the elements of the course, and hopefully achieve the results Mike has had, as seen on his website.
I would highly recommend Mike Lester Photography to anyone wanting to learn new skills, or brush up on existing ones.
Course taken:
October 2010
Would you recommend this course?:
Yes
Photography - Serious Amateur - Learn to use your DSLR
Lynne Luxon-Jones
What I would highlight:
Great afternoon course with Mike,covered all the topics promised & a few more besides.The practical sessions included helped me see what was being talked about. Throughout the course Mike was very patient with as I tended to dive off on tangents,explained each aspect clearly in simple terms.I shall be going back for another class,probably the Macro workshop.100% recommended
Course taken:
September 2010
Would you recommend this course?:
Yes
Location Photography
Paul Meier
What I would highlight:
Mike Lester’s Location Photography Workshop allows for the advancement of a photographer’s knowledge & skills, this time dealing with situations & lighting outside of a studio environment.
Mike cleverly starts the session by simply asking the photographer to take a photo & explain what they are doing & why they are doing it.
Having assessed the photographer’s current level of understanding, Mike instantly customises the rest of the evening to expand on your own existing knowledge. He doesn’t repeat things he has established you already know, but instead begins to explain different lighting techniques for outdoor composition & your learning of new skills begins straight away.
Mike’s knowledge of the local area means that in the 3 hours of the tutorial you will have shot in 4 different locations (admittedly, one of them is his garden!). Each area provides a different environment, different challenges & different techniques for lighting your subject (in this case, Mike’s wonderful model, Diane).
Mike will provide explanations regarding not only use of different equipment, but use of different locations and available light. You will realise that by employing different techniques you can get very different photos with the model not having moved an inch.
The picturesque rural scenery used means you will come away with photos that will truly complement your portfolio.
Paul, York
Course taken:
June 2010
Would you recommend this course?:
Yes
Photography - Studio Lighting and Image Editing
Paul Meier
What I would highlight:
Before actually describing Mike Lester’s studio lighting & image editing training day, the first thing to be pointed out is what happens before.
Mike is happy to exchange several emails to gain an understanding of the requirements of the individual. This allows him to customise the day for your own requirements & unlike other training days, tutorials are always delivered on a one-to-one basis.
Mike & Diane’s numerous years of experience are consistently demonstrated throughout the day. Explanations about lighting are delivered simply, with things being built up from a basic start through to more creative options.
Mike is happy to answer all questions fired at him & Diane’s input as the model is also invaluable as she is more than able to contribute to the learning of the photographer by continually explaining the situation from the model’s perspective.
Although only so much can be explained in 2 hours, the Photoshop Elements tutorial takes you from an unedited image, through different editing techniques to a completed image, which can be included in your new portfolio.
The final thing to point out is that you don’t just leave knowing what to do, you also leave knowing how to go about putting your new skills into practice. The advice given by Mike & Diane also includes practical advice in how to start out operating on your own as an amateur photographer.
A very worthwhile day for anyone looking at studio training & image editing.
Paul, York
Course taken:
June 2010
Would you recommend this course?:
Yes
Photography - Serious Amateur - Learn to use your DSLR
Nathalie Cummings
What I would highlight:
I requested an uncommon workshop with Mike Lester, covering the grounds of Black and White photography, and yet it was very well prepared and structured. It was taught at a great pace, and it was repeated where necessary to guarantee a thorough understanding of photography in detail. His easy going nature creates a comfortable environment where I did not hesitate to ask him to go over anything again.
The skills I have learnt were highly valuable and inspired me to peruse my photography interest. I recommend Mike Lester for any area of photography you require assistance in.
Course taken:
June 2010
Would you recommend this course?:
Yes
More information
History
Mike is a very experienced trainer and photographer, able to develop your skills and help you get the best from your shoots. A fully qualified trainer and NVQ Assessor, Mike holds an honours degree in Professional Training and Development backed up with 30 years experience, including work with local colleges and Leeds Met University.
Advantages of studying here
All workshops are delivered on a a 1:1 basis with every course tailored to your individual learning requirements. We follow a basic structure.......which is then moulded to your specific needs
Areas of specialisation
Studio lighting
Digital Editing
1:1 training and support
Description
Based in Leeds, West Yorkshire, I specialise in photographing people and providing Training and Development for photographers and models.I shoot in a range of styles....including: * Portfolio work for models, * Portraits and Family shoots, * Boudoir photography * Location work * Commercial and entertainmentMy fully equipped studio in north Leeds is perfect for shoots of all styles and levels. My Photographic workshops cover a range of skills and offer a perfect opportunity to photographers wishing to develop their studio, location and editing skills.
