Mentoring
Over the last few years I have helped over 100 students! It’s very rewarding doing mentoring sessions with people eager to learn different aspects of photography. Having one on one time to learn is so valuable.
I have helped beginners with camera settings (how to use the camera) and more experienced photographers with incorporating off camera flash lighting. These sessions are tuned to what you are interested in or need help with.
If you want some one on one help, please reach out and we will set something up !
Here is what past students are saying about their mentoring experience.
In wanting to improve my photography skills, I reached out to Darren to see if he could assist me. In a 3-hour private lesson, Darren took me through his instruction in moving from semi-manual to manual mode. He provided me with clear information, as well as examples and practical scenarios. Our lesson was exactly what I needed. Darren is a well experienced, extremely talented photographer, and his passion for his interest and passing on his knowledge to others is inspiring. Thank you, Darren. I’ll be looking to continue to learn from you! Lynne P
Darren was friendly and taught me a LOT about how to use my camera properly. The provided booklet and the example photographs he showed really helped. I would highly recommend Darren for photography mentoring. Mercedes Killeen
I had the opportunity to do some one on one learning with Darren. I couldn’t be happier. After spending just a couple hours with Darren, I feel like a new world has opened up. Professional, funny and very personable. Thanks Darren. Chris de Laat
I got a gift for my anniversary to have a one on one course with Darren. I was so excited. I couldn’t have asked for a better teacher/mentor….He went through every detail but didn’t make it too overwhelming 😊 The only thing I would say that is upsetting is that we live over three hours apart….I can not wait until I have another opportunity again to take a course from him. Thank you so much Darren Jodi Crosetta-Latimer
Thank you so much for taking the time to mentor me in flash photography. Your experiences and the information you shared is invaluable! I’ve taken online courses and researched lighting, but nothing compares to what you were able to teach me. It was so helpful to have you demonstrate different lighting setups, and to see how to play with different lights to achieve the look you’re aiming for – from starting with one light and adding on, to different placement of lights and how it can impact your subject, it was all great! I feel like it clicked now and I have an understanding of what I should be doing and looking for as I use OCF in my photography. I can’t wait to practice what we worked on together, and look forward to more sessions with you in the future! Thanks again! Cathy Minor
Private Photography Mentoring – Frequently Asked Questions
What is private photography mentoring?
Private mentoring is a one-on-one session designed around your specific goals as a photographer. Instead of a group setting, everything is tailored to where you are now and what you want to improve — whether that’s technical skills, lighting, or refining your overall style.
Who is private mentoring for?
This is ideal for photographers who Want personalized guidance, Feel stuck or unsure how to improve, Are looking to refine their style or direction, Want focused, hands-on learning without a group setting
What can I learn during a mentoring session?
Each session is customized, but common areas include, Camera Workshop topics like:
Aperture, shutter speed, and ISO
How to properly expose an image
How to control depth of field
Basic focusing techniques
Lighting techniques (including studio-style setups)
We focus on what will make the biggest difference for you.
Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes, If you’re just starting out, we can build a strong foundation. If you already have experience, we can focus on refining your work and pushing it further.
How is this different from a workshop?
Workshops follow a structured format and are designed for groups.
Private mentoring is fully customized, one-on-one, focused on your specific challenges and goals. It’s a much more direct and efficient way to improve.
Will this include hands-on shooting?
Yes, it can if that’s what you’re looking for. Sessions can include hands-on shooting, lighting setups, or a mix of practical work and discussion — depending on what will benefit you most.
Can we focus specifically on lighting?
Absolutely. If your goal is to learn studio or cinematic lighting, we can build the entire session around that and go deeper than a typical workshop allows.
How long is a mentoring session?
Session length can vary depending on your needs, but typically about 3 hours.
Where does the mentoring take place?
Sessions can take place in the Niagara region, I usually come to you, unless its is specifically about studio lighting. Those sessions will be in my studio.
How much does private mentoring cost?
These sessions are booked at a 3 hour minimum for $300. additional time is $100 / hr
How do I book a mentoring session?
You can reach out here dropdcreighton@gmail.com , We can set up a phone call to see what kind of mentoring you are looking for and come up with a plan. We will talk through your goals and design a session that’s tailored specifically to you. Payment is done by e-transfer to that address prior to the session.
What kind of results can I expect?
The goal is for you to leave with a clearer understanding of what to improve, practical skills you can apply right away, more confidence in your approach. Private mentoring is designed to create meaningful progress in a short amount of time.