Artist Spotlight - The Webinar

The MPA Artist Spotlight program offers web-based educational opportunities by outstanding speakers and raises money for many Marylanders.

During each webinar, attendees will be asked to make a donation to The Maryland Food Bank or Flashes of Hope, our current recipients of all donations. The webinars will always be free to MPA Members and making donations will always be voluntary.

Be sure to join a member club and take advantage of exclusive MPA member-club opportunities!



Creativity with Your Smart Phone 

with Hazel Meredith, APSA, HonNEC

March 26, 2024

During this webinar Hazel will explore some of her favorite apps for creative processing including Snapseed, DistressedFx+, Image Blender, Retouch, and the JixiPix suite of apps. (Many apps are both iPhone/Android).


Previous Artist Spotlight Events


Learning from the Masters 

with Ted Forbes

February 22, 2024

During the webinar Ted will illuminate lessons to be learned from past and contemporary masters of photography and painting—and maybe even a musician, too. We will consider artists such as Fox Talbot, Graciela Iturbide, Hiroshi Sugimoto, and Gerhard Richter, among others, for the lessons their work, thinking, and practices may inspire.


Creating Dynamic Landscapes and Cityscapes

Lightroom Post-Processing 

with Kenneth Hines, Jr.

January 10, 2024

Kenneth Hines, Jr., teaches you how to combine your keen eye for image composition with the powerful editing tools of today's photography software, utilizing Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop to bring creativity to your travel imagery.


SPINELESS: Portraits of Marine Invertebrates, the Backbone of Life

with Susan Middleton

December 11, 2023

Please join us for a presentation where Susan will introduce us to an array of fascinating creatures that will reveal the elegant natural design, fragility, and resiliency of marine invertebrates. She will share anecdotes about her field work and the process of the making of her stunning images and discuss the essential role of marine invertebrates in the chain of life.


The Fine Art of
Black & White Photography

with Jennifer King

November 9, 2023

There is something quite magical about Black & White photography. The silver-like component that creates a sense of illusion, the dark tones that produce an emotional response, and the light that brings each image to life. Jennifer’s presentation will walk through the creative process of defining your vision to create dramatic images. Jennifer King is an internationally acclaimed landscape and fine art photographer with a passion for teaching and inspiring photographers around the world.


MPA’s 7th Annual Photography Contest Awards Ceremony

A “Live” Webinar to Announce the Winners

Sunday, October 29, 2023 – 7:00 PM ET

SJoin us for the announcement of the award winners from MPA’s 7th Annual Photography Contest.  This unique event will be “live”, and the three judges will provide their commentary on all 1st Place, 2nd Place, 3rd Place and Honorable Mentions.


Curating “Dorothea Lange: Seeing People”

with Sarah Greenough

October 10, 2023

Sarah Greenough is the Senior Curator and Head of the Department of Photography at the National Gallery of Art. Sarah has organized numerous exhibitions including Alfred Stieglitz, On the Art of Fixing a Shadow: 150 Years of Photography, Andre Kertesz, Looking In: Robert Frank’s “The Americans”, and many more.

On November 5, 2023, the “Dorothea Lange: Seeing People” exhibition will open at the National Gallery of Art. The exhibition will feature some 100 photographs and addresses Lange’s innovative approach to picturing people. During her presentation, Sarah Greenough will tell the behind the scenes story of how a major exhibition, of a photography master, originated and was planned.


Learning From the Masters
of the Hudson River School

with Robert Rodriguez Jr.

September 20, 2023

During this presentation Robert Rodriguez Jr. will discuss how the Hudson River School of painters used light and the language of composition to express what they saw and felt in their revered paintings. You’ll learn how to improve your own landscape photography.
Robert Rodriguez Jr is a professional landscape photographer, artist, teacher, and author based in the Hudson Valley region of New York. His focus is conveying the beauty and presence he experiences in nature. Robert is also a Canson Infinity ambassador.


How to Photograph Everyone

with Clay Blackmore

August 15, 2023

Fun and engaging, Clay has developed a new program for those who wish to learn how to create great portraits of everyone. Consistent results are at the heart of this new program with an emphasis on posing, lighting, composition, and expression. You will gain a better understanding of what people like and don’t like in their portraits!


From Minor League to the Olympic Games:
A Journey through the World of Sports Photography

with Ron Wyatt

July 10, 2023

Whether you're an ambitious beginner or a seasoned pro, Ron will cover equipment, camera set-up, and planning an awesome shooting strategy. This is the perfect seminar to learn the basics of sports photography and see images of epic sporting events captured by a true pro.


Still Life – Beyond Fruit Bowls and Flowers

with Betsy Wilson

June 15, 2023

Betsy's unique perspective of still lifes are studies in composition and lighting. In this webinar you will learn the ability to take something mundane and everyday out of its normal habitat and transform it into something of beauty by using your skills as photographers.


Exploring the World
of Wildlife Photography

“We’re Not at the Zoo Anymore!”

with Mitch Stringer

May 10, 2023

In this thought-provoking webinar, Mitch discusses the photographic potential of wildlife travel photography and accentuates specific techniques to enhance your skills.


Obstacles to the Creative Life

with Brooks Jensen

March 7, 2023

In this inspiring seminar, Brooks discusses numerous obstacles of being an artist and the hard-won strategies to deal with these obstacles. Brooks Jensen is a fine-art photographer, publisher, workshop teacher, and writer. He is the owner, co-founder (in 1993, with his late wife, Maureen), editor, and publisher of the award winning LensWork. With subscribers in more than 70 countries, Brooks’ impact on fine art photography is truly worldwide.


Artistic Flower & Garden Photography

with Charles Needle

February 13, 2023

In this inspiring and educational webinar, Charles Needle will cover many aspects of good flower/garden photography, including hyperfocal focusing, creative macro, abstract and Impressionistic photography.


Making a Complete Picture

with Luke and David Edmonson

January 12, 2023

In this inspiring webinar, Luke and David discuss why so many photos are "Incomplete" and how to combine Impact with other essential elements to create photographs that not only stand the test of time, but they also have something to say!


MPA’s 6th Annual Photography Contest

A “Live” Webinar to Announce the Award Winners

November 20, 2022 7:00 p.m. ET

Join us for the announcement of the award winners from MPA’s 6th Annual Photography Contest.  This unique event will be “live” and the judges will provide their commentary on all 1st Place, 2nd Place, 3rd Place and Honorable Mentions.


Inside the Head of a Travel Photographer

with Michael Chinnici

November 16, 2022

In his presentation, Michael Chinnici will analyze his images for composition, framing, exposure, focus, depth of field, lighting, filters, lenses chosen, camera movements, and he will also discuss post-production decisions.


How to Optimize for Printing

with Tom Schell

October 27, 2022

There are many reasons why your printed images do not look as good as they do on your monitor, but most come back to the fact that you’ve failed to prepare the image for printing. Tom Schell, Director of Color Management for Nations Photo Lab, will show you how to improve your printed images!


The Passionate Photographer:
Dream It; Be It.

with Steve Simon

October 12, 2022

In this innovative seminar, Steve shares his shooting philosophies gleaned from a lifetime of wandering with his cameras. Steve will encourage you to shoot a little more, take chances, try new approaches and push past photographic boundaries and cliches well beyond your comfort zone.


Technique, Vision and Processing of Nature Scenes

with Nic Stover

September 12, 2022

There are 5 types of scenes that are most commonly encountered by Nature Photographers.  This presentation focuses on the techniques used to capture these images, what the vision was for the scene, and processing these images taking into account the variables that make each scene a little different than another.


How to Be Respectful When Photographing
in Unfamiliar Cultural Settings

with Jon Kolkin

August 02, 2022

This presentation is intended to provide insights into how one can have richer, more meaningful experiences, when interacting with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. It is also hoped that the information shared will increase the probability of capturing intimate and impactful photographs when in unique cultural settings in the USA or overseas.


Alternative Visual Artistry
Creative Post-Processing

with Hazel Meredith

July 07, 2022

In this educational and inspiring presentation, Hazel will take you through her unique post-processing workflow utilizing Textures, Nik, Luminar and more!


Portrait Fast Tips From Capture Through Editing

with Lisa Carney

June 07, 2022

Good portrait photographers are able to capture the personality, identity, attitude and emotion of people around them. And good portrait photographers know how to put the finishing touches on an image. Join Lisa Carney as she takes you through inspirational tips on how to photograph a portrait through post processing editing. Lisa will work her magic using Lightroom Mobile.


The Joy of Symmetry in Photography

with Rick Hulbert

May 04, 2022

Rick will explore photographic compositions that embrace “natural” symmetry as well as “creatively re-imagined” symmetry. Symmetrical objects have been historically appreciated by both the arts and sciences. Rick’s presentation is designed to be of interest to everyone, regardless of their level of experience and expertise.


Street Photography
and the Decisive Moment

with Essdras Suarez

March 14, 2022

During this presentation, Essdras will explore the proper structuring and the use of all the right elements needed to create successful street photos. You will look at the most basic of compositions i.e. one person in an urban landscape to the more complex compositions.

This will be a visual journey through dozens of images while we analyze these photos and the Decisive Moments that make them extraordinary.


15 Ways to Improve Your Photography

with Tom Bol

February 17, 2022

Looking for tips to improve your photography? Feeling like you are in a creative rut and want to take the next step? Join Tom to be inspired and learn new approaches in your photography. National Geographic Adventure listed Tom as one of “50 of America’s Top Visionaries” for his photography, and he is a member of the Sandisk Extreme Team.  He is an instructor at Kelby One and a frequent speaker for Nikon.


Sports and Action Photography

with Billie Weiss

January 06, 2022

Billie Weiss will discuss and illustrate the day-to-day responsibilities of his role as the official team photographer for the Boston Red Sox. He will also offer tips and tricks for capturing moving subjects, and discuss the mentality and mindset involved with making a great sports photograph. Billie Weiss is an award-winning Boston based commercial and editorial photographer, as well as a videographer.


Conservation Photography
"Wild for Salmon"

with Amy Gulick

December 08, 2021

A firm believer in the power of visual stories to shape public opinion, Amy Gulick uses her work to help people understand how nature benefits humanity and all life on Earth. Join Amy on her journeys to photograph the salmon, their home streams, and the salmon people of Alaska as she shares stories and photographs from her experiences in the salmon state.


MPA’s 5th Annual Photography Contest

 A “Live” Webinar to

Announce the Award Winners

November 14, 2021

Join us for the announcement of the award winners from MPA’s 5th Annual Photography Contest.  This unique event will be “live” and the judges will provide their commentary on all 1st Place, 2nd Place, 3rd Place and Honorable Mentions.


Visual Storytelling
"A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words"

with Susan Borowitz

November 09, 2021

In this hour-long presentation, fine art photographer Susan Borowitz will discuss what it takes to create a photograph that asks the questions which lead the viewer to see the story behind the picture. Examples will include portraiture, photojournalism, and conceptual work, including her own. A picture can be worth a thousand words if you know how to do it!


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Color First Aid...
Easing the Pain of Color and Exposure

with Brenda Hipsher

October 06, 2021

This informative presentation will enlighten you on why you need to control color management. It will demystify your understanding of color, contrast, and luminance. You’ll learn what you need to do to keep your color management predictable, accurate and how to achieve consistent results!


Compositing

with Jim Zuckerman

August 18, 2021

Having the ability to combine photographs gives you the skill set to solve all kinds of photographic problems, to think outside the box, to be super creative, and to transform photos into true art.  This 90-minute presentation will teach you the secrets of making believable composites and how to truly take your photography to the next level.

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Improve Your Photography By “Getting Out of the Way”

with Ibarionex Perello

July 21, 2021

In this special presentation, photographer Ibarionex Perello discusses his approach to nurture and maintain his creativity as a photographer and a writer. He will talk about the common pitfalls shared by any creative and shares tips and tricks he uses to overcome those obstacles and maximize his creativity.


How to Get the Most Out of Your
Travel Photography

with Michael Cinnici

June 14, 2021

Mixing travel and photography can be beautiful and fulfilling, yet very challenging when it comes to planning and logistics. In this presentation you will learn how to maximize your photographic opportunities while enjoying the cultural, culinary and sensory experiences throughout your journey.

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Photographing Wildlife…From Portraits to Flight

with Roman Kurywczak

May 26, 2021

This webinar is an exciting educational program covering everything you will need to know about photographing wildlife in the field. It will include gear tips, camera settings, an in-depth segment on photographing birds in flight…and more!


How to Make a Night Photograph in any Lighting Situation

with Lance Keimig

May 11, 2021

Night photography is a broad genre of photography with specialized niches. Lance will share his system of simple steps to help you focus on what is important in each niche. Different conditions require different tactics and require prioritizing different exposure variables to get the best results. Learn a methodical process to the technical aspects of photography so you can concentrate on creativity.

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Sculpting With Light

with Harold Ross

March 24, 2021

Harold Ross’s 40-year photographic career has led him to use a technique of light painting that can transform the ordinary into the remarkable. During this presentation Harold will share his work, and he will explain the lighting tools he uses, and the Six Principles of Light that he feels are essential to mastering lighting. This will be an information-packed program. Be prepared to be inspired!


Lightroom Classic and Photoshop Hidden Gems

with Julieanne Kost

February 17, 2021

Join Julieanne Kost, Digital Imaging Evangelist at Adobe, who will share her favorite tips for quickly organizing and culling photographs and demonstrate how to use the global and local adjustment tools in Lightroom Classic. Then, she will move to Photoshop to demonstrate how to remove unwanted artifacts and distracting elements, create seamless composites, and simplify images to achieve your creative vision.

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How to Get Over the Fear of Photographing Strangers

with Valerie Jardin

January 05, 2021

 

The fear of photographing strangers is a very normal feeling, and most street photographers feel uneasy at first. It is a matter of getting to the point when the desire to document life in the streets becomes stronger than the fear of doing it. During this webinar you will learn the tips of the trade from one of the Street’s Best!


The Blood, Sweat and Tears of Capturing the Image

with Mitch Dobrowner

December 08, 2020

Mitch Dobrowner says “I can't count how many times I've been caught in rain, the snow, or have stumbled around lost in a remote landscape (in the dark) with my camera and said to myself: “You’re an idiot. You’re not gonna get anything. You could be sleeping in a warm bed and relaxing. What are you even doing?” Mitch’s presentation will explain his journey where he now feels he can accomplish anything he sets his mind to.

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Black & White Post Processing

with Eileen Rafferty

November 19, 2020

Join Eileen Rafferty, fresh from her appearance at the “Odyssey of Light Webinar.  Eileen’s presentation is on Black and White post-processing in Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop. You’ll learn creative ways to create dynamic black and white images through global and local adjustments. As well as toning, diffusion, and adding grain, texture and borders. 


Dear Photographer: Use Your Words

with Alan Shapiro

September 10, 2020

As more and more people are adding "photographer" to their titles and the world becomes flooded with images, what will make your images stand out? Perhaps, its your voice on top of (or next to, or just behind) your image.  Perhaps, your words are just as important as your pictures. What is the worth of words and pictures together? Might it be exponentially more? Alan believes so and will share his views on why photographers should seriously consider honing/practicing/perfecting their writing skills.


The Odyssey of a United Nations Photographer

with John Isaac

September 1, 2020

John Isaac began his career at the UN as a messenger, then a photojournalist, eventually rising to the post of chief of the photo unit.  He is also known for his independent freelance work photographing celebrities, including Audrey Hepburn and Michael Jackson. More recently, he has been working mainly in wildlife and travel photography.  Hear the stories of a Legend!


Why Black and White

with Cole Thompson

August 18, 2020

In his presentation Cole will jokingly attempt to convert color photographers to Black and White. He will recount his journey, illustrate why he loves the medium, and reveal his most important secrets and tips. Cole will also explain his photographic philosophies and share several of his portfolios.

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The Properly Equipped Macro Photographer

with Mike Moats

August 4, 2020

Being a properly equipped macro photographer is not just about the equipment, but also equipping yourself with the how-to knowledge of macro photography. Mike will cover a little on the most important equipment for macro photography, a little on depth of field, a little about composition, and little about subject matter.


Impressionistic Photography: How to Use Your Camera as a Paintbrush

with Charles Needle

July 23, 2020

Unlock your creative potential and discover how to craft painterly photographs using nothing but your digital camera (or smartphone).  You’ll learn how to see in new ways and take your photography to an entirely new, mind-blowing level!

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How to Get Motivated and Stay Inspired

with Rick Sammon

July 14, 2020

Rick will share his “Top Ten” list of how to get inspired and how to stay motivated. You don’t want to miss Rick’s motivational talk.


The Intrinsic Landscape in Black and White

with Chuck Kimmerle

July 7, 2020

Learn why Chuck chooses specific subjects to photograph, how he creatively approaches those subjects and how he works with those images in post processing.

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Understanding Color

with Bryan Peterson

June 29, 2020

This webinar is comprised of more than 300 before and after, good/better/best examples and at that end of this one-hour talk, you will be inspired and motivated to go out and shoot the wonderful world of COLOR, now that you’ll know where to look!


MPA’s 4th Annual Photography Contest

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A Live Webinar to Announce the Award Winners

Join us for the announcement of the award winners of MPA’s 4th Annual Photography Contest.  This unique event will be “live” and the judges will provide their commentary on all 1st Place, 2nd Place, 3rd Place and Honorable Mentions.

June 24, 2020

7:00 PM


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Turn Ho-Hum into a Work of Art

with Hazel Meredith

June 9, 2020

Learn from Hazel as she demonstrates her creative process taking ordinary images and turning them into a work of art.


Lightroom Unleashed

with Mollie Isaacs

May 28, 2020

Learn Lightroom from this 14-time Kodak Gallery Award winner!  The Webinar covers many of Mollie’s secrets for getting results quickly. You will see a variety of before and after images, how the transitions were done, and so much more!

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Wildlife Photography Seminar

with Sean Lo

May 16, 2020

Learn from New York-based photographer Sean Lo. How to: Make an aesthetic wildlife picture, use the environment to your advantage, camera timing, creating a story and suspense, gear and more!