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I try and hunt down as many photography lighting tutorials as I can since I am learning from scratch and I don’t have extra money for real classes (This is how I learn most things actually…online video tutorials. It’s how I learned all the graphic design programs.). In my search, I came across a great instructional DVD called “One Light” by Zack Arias. If you’re just starting out and getting into strobe photography, I highly recommend the DVD. In it, he shows all the things you can do with just one light, hence the name. For me it really put into perspective the minimal amount of equipment you need to make a nice picture. Although it’s nice to have a ton of the best and most expensive gear, fortunately and unfortunately for me, talent plays a majority in obtaining a great photo. If you’ve got some extra cash, Zack also holds a workshop by the same title so you can get instruction in person.


Every year in Dubai there is an event called “Gulf Photo Plus” where professional and amateur photographers gather for workshops and seminars. This year, a few professional photographers were asked to participate in a shoot-out. Zack Arias, David Hobby and Joey Lawrence were given two models, any lights they wanted and 25 minutes to shoot. In the end they would pick one photo. Here is a fun video of what took place. It’s like a reversed version of America’s Next Top Model, instead of the models being challenged you get to see the photographers in action. These are my favorite types of videos. Professional photographers talk you through their thought process while showing you the technical requirements to pull off the photo. It always says a ton to me about a photographer who is willing to share their knowledge. It always tells me they’re not afraid of people stealing their ideas because they’re confident they have even better ones to come. Real progressive thinkers…


That said, I’ve followed David Hobby and Zack Arias for quite some time now and they deserve a GIGANTIC thanks for sharing their knowledge. As they say, “A rising tide lifts all boats.” And these guys are definitely making every one step up their game.