PRIVATE ONE-ON-ONE WORKSHOPS WITH JOHN FREE In Los Angeles
Available year-round for a full day working on the street with John while he demonstrates, and you practice, his techniques for getting in close without disturbing the subject, or even being noticed. You will also learn how he makes photographs at the speed of life, how to increase speed in camera handling and mental calculations to make an effective photograph. He will also discuss and demonstrate the various ways to find or build subject.
You will:
• Understand the discipline of manual focus, full frame, available light and candid subject and why adhering to a set discipline allows greater freedom and ability to notice and seize the moment
• Observe and practice my unique approach to in-the-street encounters and his ability to find and deal with subject
• Hear firsthand how some of my most famous photographs were made
Cost: $400
If you join one of John’s street photography workshops you will participate in a photographic celebration, dedicated to improving your abilities to make meaningful and powerful images. You will be offered an assignment that John will critique at the end of the day.- How to develop your own unique personal vision in street photography and stick out from the crowd
- How to master composition in street photography and develop your visual literacy
- How to create a memorable body of work and the secrets of unforgettable images
- How to focus on a project rather than just single images
- One-on-one counseling on what to look for when shooting on the streets
- How to identify your weakest images and effectively edit and sequence your work
- An in-depth study of famous historical and contemporary street photographers
- Personalized street photography assignments to push you to the next level
- How to develop a visual consistency in your work
- Advanced techniques on shooting on the street
MATERIALS: A camera with manual settings is suggested. Digital photographs can be reviewed each day. If using a film camera you can send me scans of your photos after the workshop. Critiques are optional and are offered free of charge for one year after the workshop.
I took the Paris workshop with John because I wanted to push myself to a new level that I couldn’t have reached on my own. I was blown away by John’s knowledge and enthusiasm about photography and the simple, philosophical way he got his message across. I knew I would gain something from the course but I never expected to learn as much as I did and be given so much. His skills are amazing and he shows you how to do it…..how to get real close without disturbing the subject, how to frame, what to include and what to leave out.
I took my best pictures in Paris and I will be doing another course with John as soon as I can because I know he will take me up another level. David B.
Your inspiring methods of teaching, wit and insightful techniques are invaluable to any photographer. I will definitely ‘put in the work’ as you encourage me to improve my images and share what I’ve learnt with others. – Linda Wisdom
Just a fantastic one-on-one workshop with John today. John’s ability to explain how to put elements together to create an effective photograph is second to none. It is true most of the time people do not even know John is there allowing us to get close and create those wonderful images. If someone did notice us we had a smile and John’s hilarious verbal judo made everyone laugh! – Gary T., Los Angeles
As we walked John showed us how he disarms his subjects and avoids conflict while getting very close and most often not even being noticed. It was amazing to watch. I can honestly say it has changed how I approach all my photography. – Claire W., Dublin
You taught us way more than just the secrets of taking great snapshot of life. I learned how to be way more confident, aware and mainly to just be you! I will always be thankful for that. – T. Sweeney
Two full days of street shooting in LA with John Free and other wonderful photographers…loved every minute! Excited to edit and see the candy! Thank you for sharing the practice. D. Arlook, Los Angeles
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
“I recommend that my students study the works the photographers who have inspired me, of Henri Cartier-Bresson, Robert Frank and W. Eugene Smith and the book the Tao of Photography: Seeing Beyond Seeing by Gross and Shapiro. I also recommend the book The Family of Man.This book is the permanent embodiment of Edward Steichen’s monumental exhibition at the 1955 Museum of Modern Art in New York.
I recommend that you carry one digital or film camera, including smart phones. I use a “normal” lens on a 35mm SLR film camera. I also do not carry a camera bag so I can better blend in.
I do not require photographers to submit images for evaluation but I hope you will take advantage of this opportunity since it’s a good way for us to learn together. For those using digital cameras we can either look at them on your camera or on your laptop. Alternatively, students using film can email me their images up to one year after the workshop and I will critique them online.
We do a lot of walking during the workshop so comfortable shoes and clothes are a must. This also helps you blend in and nothing wrong with people thinking you’re just a tourist out taking pictures. Sunscreen and bottled water is also strongly suggested! What is most important is that you bring with you the excitement and willingness to learn how to take great pictures.
We are all students when it comes to our photography and anyone and everyone who wants to improve their photography is welcome to take the workshop. Many of John’s students have found that they met a group of fellow street photographers that will be your life-long contacts and friends who share a passion for street photography.
No one will be placed in any uncomfortable situations. Remember most of my techniques involve people not even noticing we are even there. I will be demonstrating these techniques and you can participate in them when you feel ready. My goal is to make you invisible.