New Instructor at the Photographer's Lounge - Hal Schmitt



Photo courtesy of Hal Schmitt

I have wanted to work with Hal since I was first introduced to his work and his workshops by my friend, Rick Sammon. Hal is a fantastic photographer and runs top notch workshops.

Hal is the Director and Lead Instructor of LIGHT Photographic Workshops in Los Osos, California. Hal instructs all levels of photography, Lightroom, and Photoshop with a incredibly approachable and easy to understand method.  His workshops and photo tours are recognized around the world as incredible learning experiences.

Most people know the word TOPGUN because of the 1980s action movie of the same name.  In reality, TOPGUN or the Navy Fighter Weapons School is one of the most intense, professional, and demanding schools found anywhere.  The preparation, knowledge, execution, and standards of performance of the staff are without equal.  Hal served two tours as a TOPGUN instructor.

After the crucible of the “murderboard” process Hal became the Navy’s air-to-air training expert, completely revamped the tactics to meet current threats, and delivered hundreds of hours of training and discussion worldwide.  When life and death are involved, the training better be good.

As Director of Light Workshops, Hal was fortunate to train with photography and Photoshop’s best and brightest and is now an expert in all aspects of the digital workflow.  Although the subject matter is a little slower and safer, Hal teaches his digital courses using the same techniques he mastered at TOPGUN.  Polished and confident but down to earth and approachable, Hal delivers an incredible workshop experience.

Hal’s teaching style delivers results.  He believes in teaching the theory and basics of everything necessary in the digital workflow.  More importantly, he takes the mystery and technical complexity out of a subject allowing access for everyone.  Hal will ensure you know the basics, teaching the why in addition to the how.  With a strong foundation, it is amazing how quickly you can learn and improve.

Check out Hal's photography company and some awesome images at http://lightworkshops.com/

The first workshops Hal and I will be working on are our new aviation workshops.