Testimonials

“Mike is one of the best outdoor-location-action-adventure photographers I know. And in his ‘Speedlights, camera, action lighting workshop’ I took, he taught and demonstrated his successful techniques for us all to learn. I came away with new knowledge I could put to practical use right away. He and his wife Lauri make a great teaching team.”

– Jeff Schultz Official Photographer of the Iditarod since 1982 (Anchorage, AK) – Jeff Schultz Photography

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“I was hoping for adventure and you delivered! I can’t wait to practice all I learned in the last week. I feel I have better tools and a better eye to see landscapes through a camera. I feel like I will be able to make more impactful landscape photos thanks to the guidance and knowledge you passed on to me.

But really, this workshop (and you!) went way beyond technique. Working with you let me see scenes how you see them and then somehow render that into my own seeing. I feel that takes a gentle hand and that you allowed it to happen rather than forced it.”

– Tammy Andie (Missoula, MT) – Tammy Andie Photography

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“I asked Michael to by my guide and mentor in Zion. Michael adjusted to my goals and skill level as an accomplished mentor should. Michael personalized content, location and style that was very effective for me. Not only did I return home with high quality images, but more importantly, the ability to apply what I learned immediately.

After working with Michael, I have a working knowledge of more advanced exposure techniques, composition guidelines and shooting in different kinds of weather.

Michael is a great mentor, but I respect Michael as a friend..”

– Christopher Fitch (TX) – C Fitch Foto

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“Having done landscape photography for a long period, I was well aware of the challenges it brings to photographer. During my recent workshop at Zion National Park with Michael, I found him highly skilled and knowledgeable to address various questions I had from framing, composition, camera placement, to temperature adjustment. He taught me some techniques for focusing which were quite invaluable.

Small size of the group was very important, giving Michael time to check with everyone, even if one did not have any question. The locations which were chosen for sunrise and sunset photography were just amazing with a diverse potential for wide angle and telephoto.

Michael’s background is in meteorology which was very helpful for anticipating upcoming changes, in particular regarding clouds. Until this workshop, I never thought understanding the type of clouds and their movements is a major asset for a landscape photographer.

Living in New Mexico, I am looking forward to join Michael and Lauri in other workshops. ”

– Naser Mojtahed – Naser Mojtahed on Facebook

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“This workshop gave me everything that I needed to jazz up my photography – adventure, camaraderie, new friends, new accomplishments, a challenge to my physical being and my creative being. Each time we did a critique, I could see how much I grew as a landscape photographer. Each time I’ve shot since the workshop, I’ve found myself delving deeper into my composition and thinking, “How would Michael shoot this?” Thank you Michael and Lauri! I’m looking forward to the next workshop!”

– Donna Bush Donna Bush Photography

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“Working with Michael for a private workshop took my photography skills to the next level. Michael opened my eyes to creative, new compositions, he taught me how to read the changing light, and he shared new techniques for achieving tack-sharp images. In addition to the wonderful photography learnings, Michael was an entertaining and experienced companion for exploring the canyons of Zion allowing me to see places I had not yet seen or explored.”

– Ali Curtis (Long Beach, CA) – Ali Curtis Photography

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“Landscape photography is my passion in life so when deciding on our next vacation destination, my husband and I wanted something unique. Taos was a place that excited both of us and it was indelibly engraved in our minds and imagination before we even took our first step. Everything about it sounded intriguing: its amazing New Mexican culture, unusual architecture and legendary light and vistas. And so, our mission became finding a photographer who would help us paint these digital “portraits.” We read about Michael DeYoung, a Taos adventure, lifestyle and landscape photographer and figured it was a no brainer.

Our vision was very much on target both with the extraordinary beauty of Taos and our experience with Michael. He knew and understood the landscape, felt passion for the architecture, and was familiar with weather patterns (as a former Air Force meteorologist) which proved to be most helpful.

The most important thing that Michael taught us was no matter what the weather conditions, there are no excuses; you just come back with the shot. Our day turned out to be amazing even with all the earlier weather challenges. It snowed the night before and little did we realize that this would be a gift. We returned home to Charlotte, North Carolina with images we had dreamed about! The Land of Enchantment … it’s that and much more. Our adventure ended with some delightful New Mexican cuisine with Michael and his lovely wife, Lauri (and partner in crime). Our experience in Taos is one we will not soon forget!”

– Elle & Craig Kriser (Charlotte, NC) – Elle Creative | CDK Photo

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“Michael is an accomplished photographer and instructor and has the ability to teach to a group with vary experience levels. I would recommend his workshops for those who want to improve their photography skills. The quality and creativity of my photography has definitely improved through the lessons I’ve learned in his workshops.”

– Lynn Wegener (Anchorage, AK)

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“Michael knows how to work with models and plan and execute killer shots in outdoor environments using available and artificial light to the best advantage. He provides a fun, informal, yet challenging learning environment. Michael has a deep passion for his photography and this provides inspiration and motivation for others to take their photography to the next level. He uses a great mix of classroom lectures, slide shows, critiques of student work, and field demonstrations that provides a great learning experience.”

– John DeLapp (Anchorage, AK) – John DeLapp Photography

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“In New Mexico? Want to refine your photography skills? Do a photo tour with Michael @michaeldeyoung Learn from an expert. I did!”

– Sherry McKeown (Toronto, Ontario) – Sherry McKeown (via twitter)

DeYoung Photo Workshops, LLC