"Hi there! I’m Michael, a commercial photographer with over a decade of experience working with national and international brands. I studied photography at Kent State University with additional coursework in fine art and education, which shaped both my creative approach and my interest in teaching. Throughout my career, I’ve worked across food, product, lifestyle, interiors, portraiture, and fashion, on productions ranging from small studio shoots to large commercial sets. These experiences have given me a deep understanding of cameras, lighting, composition, workflow, and the day-to-day realities of professional image-making, knowledge I love passing on to students.

My teaching style is friendly, patient, and practical. I focus on breaking concepts down in clear, intuitive ways, whether we’re talking about exposure, shaping light, building a shot, or developing a creative process that feels natural. I’ve worked with beginners learning the basics, students preparing portfolios, and working creatives who want to strengthen technical or artistic skills. No matter your level, I tailor my approach to your goals and help you build confidence through meaningful practice and clear guidance.

What I enjoy most about tutoring is seeing students have those “aha” moments when something finally clicks. Photography is both technical and expressive, and understanding that balance can open the door to real growth. I aim to create a learning environment where you feel supported, curious, and excited to keep improving. Whether you want to master your camera, understand lighting more deeply, build stronger images, or gain insight into the commercial photography world, I’m here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence." less...