Perhaps it would be better to let one of my students say it all for me....
"I had been contemplating spending some 'hard-earned cash' on a fast Nikon lens to bolster my arsenal of existing gear in the hope of improving my images and earning potential. I then read a reminder from the SWPP about a mentoring programme run by Martin Grahame-Dunn. The name didn't mean that much to me at the time but the alphabet of letters trailing after his name sure impressed.
I decided to take a gamble. The lens could wait. I decided to invest the cash to see what could be learnt in a week. I was one of 4 photographers accepted onto the “Fast-track to Licentiateship” course in October 07, held at Martin's villa near Seville. Think orchards of olives, lemons, limes and the like, add in a splash in a swimming pool, a dip in a hot tub and a week of first class catering provided by Martin and his lovely wife Elaine.
The week was over before we knew it. We had 'shot' the ancient city of Cordoba, an ex-pat family who were great and so patient, local Spanish children and even each other. We had learnt the hard way where we were, what we needed to work on, where we should be going and some great practical tips on lighting, business & marketing tips, Photoshop, printing and how to work more effectively with people.
I am going to save you some money here! I gambled my extra lens that a week with one of the best photographers you will ever meet would be better than a heavier kit bag. You don't have to gamble. Put that catalogue down, close that webpage and invest in what matters most, you, your knowledge and what a master of his craft can teach you given a willingness to learn and a love of photography. The lens or upgrade will still be available later and it will be cheaper then anyway!"
Darcy Brown LSWPP, LBPPA
Following a career spanning nearly 30 years covering many aspects of Professional Photography including Industrial, Commercial, Automotive, Advertising, Fashion, Editorial, Weddings & Portraiture, Martin is still a Photographer with a mission. His latest venture is into the world of ‘Fine Art’ images for publication and exhibition. The founder of the International Academy of Professional Photography, he is retained as a consultant by several key companies in the UK photographic sector and sponsored by many as an endorsement of his skills, achievements and abilities as a professional trainer.
He is the author and administrator of the ‘Mentor Me’ programme for the SWPP & BPPA - the world’s fastest growing representative organisation for current and aspiring professionals. In addition Martin has also designed and delivered specialist ‘hands on’ social photographic training programmes for the SWPP as an extension of his Academy’s Curriculum.
Martin Grahame-Dunn FMPA, FRSA, FSWPP, FBPPA, QEP, Hon.FMPA, Photographer and Fine Artist
Past National President United Kingdom Master Photographers Association
Past Chairman of the Admissions and Qualifications Board
Course Director of the International Academy of Professional Photography
International Lecturer and Judge, Consultant and Educator of Professional Photographers Worldwide
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