cut straight to the chase & focus on what you need to learn with personalized one on one photography classes or coaching for all skill levels
Personalized education
1 on 1 training sessions give you learning opportunities with a flexible schedule.
20+ years of experience allows me to customize our session to best fit your needs
We can “meet” virtually if you can't find photography classes near you or in-person within the Little Rock, Arkansas metro area.
Upon booking, you'll receive a brief initial survey to get a better understanding of your continuing education needs before our first session.
a few Available Topics (but not limited to)
CAMERA OVERVIEW AND FUNCTION
Got a new camera? Or just don't want to read the manual? Learn your camera's specific functions, tools, settings, and customizations to become a more efficient photographer. I am proficient in Sony, Canon, Nikon, and Fuji systems as well as familiar with others such as Pentax, Panasonic Lumix, and OM (Olympus).
DIGITAL IMAGE PROCESSING
Most software can be daunting when first approached. Develop a clear understanding and simple approach to workflow, image enhancements, archiving, and more through software such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Lightroom and Lightroom Classic, Apple Photos, Topaz, and others. I've been using Adobe Photoshop since 2002, Adobe Lightroom (Classic) since 2007, and started teaching both of them in 2010, so I have a great deal of real world experience to share with you.
Lens Choice
Lens choice can dramatically affect the look of your images and at times can be an important factor overlooked by many. We’ll delve into different types of lenses, their functions, use, and overall style they can achieve across your choice of subject matter. This is an indispensable lesson that can take your photography skills to the next level.
Digital Photography Technique
Learn what it takes to become a photographer by building a strong foundation of the principles of photography. We can cover from the most beginner basics to highly advanced. I'll send a pre-survey before our session to get an idea of what level you desire.
Creativity and Inspiration
Let's dive into the creative process and make something amazing. We can do a collaborative project or design something self guided for you. We're all creative (regardless what some may think) and creativity is a skill that can improved upon with practice and guidance. I've spent a lifetime thinking about and exploring creativity, so t's a pleasure to share some insights and techniques to enhance your photographic artistry.
ALL THINGS MAC
Being able to use your computer and iPhones more efficiently will translate into a better workflow for your photography and overall joy of using those devices. Plus it can simply lessen the day to day stress in life and potentially open up channels of creativity. With nearly 25 years Apple Mac experience I can help you with MacBook, iMac, and iPhone setup and usage.
I hear often from students "wait, what did you just do?" while I'm teaching some other topic. Their questions is directed toward some time-saving Mac function I did. People are often amazed at the simple "tricks" on their devices that can make their lives so much easier.
Portfolio Review
One of the most effective ways to grow as a photographer is to have your work reviewed by a seasoned professional. With over two decades of experience (2001–present) participating on both sides of the table in portfolio reviews and image critiques, I’ve seen firsthand how valuable thoughtful feedback can be. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine an established style, a well-guided critique can offer fresh perspective, clarity, and direction.
EQUIPMENT CONSULTATION
20+ years technical photography experience and 11 years (2005-2016) working in retail equipment sales, repair consultation, and education at Bedford Camera and Video.
I can provide guidance on what gear will best suit your needs based on your experience level and photographic needs. I can likely find you the best available price as well.
Use code: ALEXKENT
...at Bedfords.com to receive a 5% discount off your next purchase and to help support my work. Thank you!
Professional Development
Best business practices, tech skills, website development, etc. For more information reach me through he contact page if you are interested in a mentorship program.
Image Archiving and File Management
You're not the only one who struggles with keeping your images organized. Or maybe even worse you're one of the unfortunate ones who have lost images. With a great deal of trial and error and working with photographers on all levels, I've developed a keen sense on how to efficiently organize images and guide others to do the same.
Video Foundations
Let's build a strong a foundation towards becoming a videographer by covering all the essential basics.
1-on-1 Lessons can always be A customizable COMBINATION OF the ABOVE options and more
"Not only did he tailor our discussion for my skill level -- he gave me valuable information to apply directly to my field."
– Josephy hardy
Looking for a specific topic not listed?
Don't worry I've got you covered!Since 2006, I've taught a variety of topics in and outside the creative realm. Besides the photography related options above I've taught canoe/kayaking, wilderness camp skills, Leave No Trace Ethics, disc golf, presentation building, public speaking, and others. Shoot me an idea what you're wanting to learn, and I'll let you know if that's something I can cover. If it's a topic I'm unfamiliar then I likely can find the right learning opportunity or another suitable educator for you.
Why would a 1 on 1 class be best for you?
A more private learning environment, flexibility in scheduling, or maybe you want to learn something I'm not currently offering as a full course, these one-on-one private lessons are structured to meet your specific needs so that you receive personalized support and efficient learning opportunities.
Other Common reasons photographers book one-on-one coaching:
- You want personalized, in-depth feedback on your photos
- You're stuck in a creative rut and need direction
- You want to fast-track your learning without wasting time on YouTube rabbit holes
- You're transitioning from hobbyist to professional and want a guide or mentor
- You want to master specific topics (lighting, editing, composition, color theory, posing, etc.)
- You prefer learning at your own pace with focused support
- You’re prepping for a photo competition, exhibit, or a portfolio review and want professional advice
- You want to improve your technical or business skills (pricing, marketing, client workflow)
- You simply love continuing education and want to better yourself in a creative way
"Thank you for providing such great info, education, and inspiration."
– Johnathan Wallace
Any skill level welcome
Whether you’re a seasoned photographer with years of experience or a (brand-new-know-absolutely-nothing) beginner, these one-on-one sessions are designed to meet you exactly where you are — with patient guidance, personalized feedback, and practical steps to help you grow with confidence. I have taught age ranges from six to eighty-six year olds and from hobbyists to professionals, so I'll set up a learning experience best suited to your needs.
WHY hire me as your educator?
Photo by Marcus Rachard
Experience
Teaching quickly became a passion of mine around 2004 during college while assisting and guiding fellow peer students as the photography darkroom's "lab monitor" in film developing and fine art photo printing . Shortly after in 2006, I began teaching formal photography classes for Bedford Camera & Video. Over the past nearly two decades I've taught hundreds of classes and workshops to thousands of students for various businesses, schools, clubs, private organizations, non-profits, and families across 9 states and counting.
Student applying Alex's lesson.
patience
We all start somewhere and learn at our own pace. My experience teaching across broad demographics, from six- year-old kids to nearly 90-year-old seniors and never-held-a-camera beginners to working professionals, has strengthened my ability to adapt to my audience, be patient with my students, and teach at an effective pace for the group. Photography itself is a craft that teaches patience. Fortunately for me that skill has led to becoming a better educator as well.
Image by Tyler Beck
honesty
Being a teacher is often a humbling experience, and I am not shy or embarrassed to admit when I don’t know the answer or when I'm wrong. You won’t get iffy infomation based on ego in my classes. If I can’t provide the answer, I am resourceful and will get you what you need. I'm a forever student myself and try to learn something new everyday, so if there's a new concept to us all then let's learn together. I value continuing education myself, so I guarantee to do my best in serving your needs.
Selfie with Arkansas A+ Students
fun factor
Teaching is one of my greatest passions and it will show! I love for my group classes to be dynamic interactive conversations to create the most engaging learning environment possible. One of my many goals is to continue to facilitate strengthening the photo community and inspire others to live a creatively fulfilled, engaging, and as-fun-as-possible life. Let's go!!!
satisfaction GUARANTEed!
I stand behind the quality of my 1-on-1 sessions. If you’re not satisfied with your first session, you may request a full refund within 48 hours of the session's completion. All I ask, is if you are unhappy with my services please reach out to me first with your feedback so I have the opportunity to improve and make it right.
The "fine print" made clear
- Guarantee applies to first-time clients / first sessions only
- You must attend the full session to be eligible
- A refund request must be made in writing (email or text) within 48 hours of the sessions ending and provide brief feedback on the reason for your request.
- Refunds do not apply to no-shows, late cancellations, group workshops/classes/tours, and downloadable materials
- Requests made in bad faith may be declined
- Refunds are issued to the original payment method (except cash which in that case will be refunded by check or other agreed upon electronic method) within 3–7 business days of the request once approved.
What if there's a Conflict with our schedules?
Message me and we'll figure out what works best for both of us.
Photography Education Made Fun!
Photography and education have both been lifelong passions.
In 2003-2004, as UCA's photography lab monitor in the Fine Art department, I started informally assisting student peers with hand processing their own film and printing photographs in the darkroom. Seeing my peers eyes light up with joy and their appreciation for what they were doing was such a reward and the initial spark that ignited my desire to have education as a significant part of my life and career.
Through that experience I realized teaching would always be a part of my life God willing. In 2006 that goal quickly became a reality when I taught my first "digital crash course" at Bedford Camera and Video and the rest was history. Since then I've taught hundreds (possibly over a thousand at this point!) of photography classes, workshop, and one on ones to thousands of students for businesses, non-profits, schools, private groups, and individuals across 10 states and counting.
Thank you for taking time to learn a bit about my journey