Here is a bit of a Free Lesson for you to consider. Those of you familiar with me from a photography forum may know my general introductory remarks: “This is offered in a truly friendly tone of voice and with the sole intent to help you.”

That applies to this lesson [...]]]>

Steadman Uhlich

Here is a bit of a Free Lesson for you to consider. Those of you familiar with me from a photography forum may know my general introductory remarks: “This is offered in a truly friendly tone of voice and with the sole intent to help you.”

That applies to this lesson too.

Are you making excuses about your photography?

I ask that because SO many photographers make excuses about why their photos are not very good or memorable.

Excuses you ask?  What excuses?

I hear them all the time. And, to my ears they usually tell me something is missing inside the photographer, not something missing in the camera bag.

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Have you ever used these excuses?

1. “I only had my prime telephoto (e.g. 85mm) with me and could not back up.”

2. “I did not have my flash with me.”

3. “My batteries in my flash were weak/died.”

4. “I did not know they were going to wear that clothing.”

5. “This is just a quick shot, no preparation.”

6. “I need another (more expensive) lens.”

7. “I don’t know why my camera did not focus on these shots. I need to send it to the service center.”

8. “The light in that place was horrible.”

9. “The kid would not sit still.”

10. “My kid has a short attention span…I was lucky to get this one.”

11. “My keeper rate is low.”

12. “The sun was bright outside.”

13. “All I have is a kit lens.”

14. “I only have a Rebel and don’t expect much from it because it is not a full frame sensor.”

15. “I don’t know how to pose people, I just let them do their thing.”

16. “I am a landscape/sports/architecture shooter, I don’t usually take pictures of people.”

17. “I don’t like to be in front of the camera.”

18. “My spouse never lets me take pictures of her/him.”

19. “My kids run when I pick up a camera.”

20. “I did not have much time.”

21. “It pays the bills (buys me gear).”

22. “They liked it. That was their favorite from the session.”

23. “I did what they wanted, it was not my choice.”

24. “It was only TFP (Time For Prints or traded services).”

25. “This is just a test.”

26. “The model is not a pro. It was the model’s first time.”

27. “He/She did not want to be there (to have a picture taken).”

28. “The make-up artist did not show.”

29. “I just got this lens (or camera).”

30. “I know only one eye is in focus, I was shooting at f1.4.”

31. “My camera cannot focus.”

32. “I did not have my Off Camera Flash gear (stands and umbrellas and triggers) with me.”

33. “My flash did not fire. My wireless triggers did not work.”

34. “I wanted the negative space.”

35. “I need more studio flash heads (or more watts of strobe power etc.).”

36. “I don’t have a studio.”

37. “I don’t have a big enough studio.”

38. “I don’t have Photoshop.”

39. “I don’t have a calibrated monitor.”

40. “I can’t afford a Pro Body (or L lenses or  or Flash Packs or Photoshop, etc.).”

41. “I followed the rule…(eg. Rule of Thirds).”

42. “I am just doing this for a friend who asked me to do it. I am not a pro.”

43. “Everyone else is doing it. Nobody got hurt.”

44. “I am not good at retouching.”

45. “I don’t understand fill flash.”

46. “I know the face is overexposed, but I wanted to see some catch-lights in the eyes, so I used fill flash.”

47. “He/she asked for something urban.”

48. “I wanted to show everyone from behind.”

49. “The shoes were cute.”

50. “I like the creamy bokeh.”

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Sound familiar?

Are you using excuses to cover up a lack of knowledge or weak skills?

Let me tell you something very simple and totally sincere and honest: It does not have to be that way! You can LEARN to make wonderful, memorable, stunning photos without excuses!

I can teach you how. It is NOT as difficult as most make it.

My Simple Suggestions for Overcoming Excuses:

1. Take responsibility for your photography! Don’t use excuses!
   

2. LEARN how to make photos with the gear you have with you and with the light you find.

3. Adapt, adjust, and capture something while you can and without waiting for some more gear or some perfect conditions.

4. You can LEARN to make photos and not excuses. It takes an open mind and some focus on YOUR part, not the lens’s part.

5. Start learning and stop buying “more gear” or buying into “more excuses.”

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Testimonials from a Wide Range of Very Satisfied People

These are just a few of the many Testimonials about Steadman Uhlich’s help to others through advice and consulting. There were countless more not shown here.

Art Gallery Visitors

There are 140 Verbatim Testimonial Quotes you can read from Visitors to Steadman Uhlich’s Art Gallery. These quotes are from people who saw his work up close while it was hanging in an art gallery at full size, often at “Life Size.”).

Global Visitors

There are also verbatim comments and impressions from Global Visitors to his Studio website who left their impressions of his work. There you can see literally hundreds of comments from viewers who were impressed, moved, and “stunned” from over 50 countries around the world. To read those comments, go to www.steadmanuhlich.com and look at the comments beside the photos on each of the first 50 pages of that site.

Steadman’s Portrait Clients

There are also testimonials from Steadman’s Studio Clients who have actually hired him to produce artwork or portraits for them. To read those comments, go to www.steadmanuhlich.com and look for the link to that section of that site.

Photographers Steadman has Mentored

There are additional testimonial letters here on this site from photographers that Steadman has mentored. Look for links to a few at the bottom of this page.

Photographers Who Bought from Steadman

There are even testimonials from other photographers who have bought from Steadman in the past: Testimonials from 44 Photographers who bought from Steadman. There are Verbatim Testimonials from 44 photographers who have bought many thousands of dollars of photography equipment from him. If you have any doubts about buying anything from Steadman, you should read what they say about the accuracy of his descriptions of what he sold them and their high satisfaction with the entire transaction process.

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Before You Buy Anything!

“Before you buy anything, you should consider the source and their background.

When buying advice from someone, consider their reputation for helping other people.

I encourage you to read and consider the many Testimonials about my work helping others.

Take a look at the 200+ Testimonials from other photographers.

Read some of the Verbatim Testimonial Letters.

Do this before you spend any money.”

Steadman

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Hundreds of Testimonials from Photographers!

Here is a link to the Testimonials Category page of posts here on this site. There you will find many different posts of Testimonials from real people who have seen real results. Those are all Verbatim Testimonials.

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Verbatim Testimonial Letter from a consultation with Steadman Uhlich

Note: this Mentoring Session was conducted using voice over the internet (via skype) and image file transfers over the internet with the call taking place between the USA and France. The voice quality was crystal clear (it sounded like we were in the same room), the conversation was fun, stimulating, and electric with creativity, humor, and sharing. The only thing we could not share was the bottle of fine French wine.

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“I came across Steadman Uhlich in a photography forum where both of us participate, and I was impressed with his commitment to helping people. From there, we shared some views, and, when he informed me that he was setting up a place where people could learn and improve, I knew I was going to try it out.

As it happens, that day, I had gone out and tried to make the most of the last of the autumn leaves. I love trees, especially when clad in full colour, but, somehow, have not been able to get any tree shots that make me go “WOW.” Out of maybe 300 such shots accumulated over 2 years shots, not one of trees, even though I love them, and shot them hundreds of times.

Now enter Steadman Uhlich. I told him this “story”, and expressed frustration. He didn’t give me any technical tips. I assume that, as he knew I could handle other types of shots/subjects, he also knew that the problem was more in “what to want to do” than in “what to do” or “how to do it”. So he told me what to want to do.

‘Imagine the tree in its permanence. Things come and go, people come and go, weather comes and goes, seasons come and go, trees remain. Go out and shoot the tree in all its varying conditions.’

Within a couple of minutes, I was totally inspired, having understood why I have up to now failed, and having had my mind opened to avenues that I had not even considered in how to deepen my approach to photography.

This part of the conversation lasted but a few minutes.

My experience as a business consultant as well as a personal development coach tells me that Steadman Uhlich is exactly who he claims, a true mentor.

Like a locksmith who can pick locks and open doors in people’s minds that free up capability, creativity and talent about photography.

Such people are rare, I am priviledged to have found one who will deepen the pleasure and richness of my hobby.

Thanks, Steady!

Philippe”

Verbatim Testimonial Letter from a consultation with Steadman Uhlich

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“I just wanted to drop a quick note to relay the experience I had with Steadman Uhlich a couple of days ago. On Sunday, I had the pleasure of meeting Steadman in person and spending over four hours talking (in an onsite, face-to-face Mentoring Session), looking at work I had done and going over a little post processing. The time just flew by.

Steadman opened my eyes to many things including composition, shadows and light. Things I thought I had a grasp on, but no I did not.

He truly showed me a way to look at subjects in a way I have not read in books.

His way of teaching and making me look at myself is relaxed and laid back and very refreshing.

I would encourage anyone interested in bettering their photography skills to take the time and give him a call. You will not be disappointed in the time spent on the phone with Steadman. I am looking forward to our future meetings and learning as much as I can from him.”

Doug

Verbatim Testimonial Letter from a consultation with Steadman Uhlich

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“Hi, my name is Jeffrey and I am from the Philippines. I just had a Free call using Skype with Photomentors and talked to Steadman Uhlich about photography and what I want to create.

When I first heard his voice, I was not nervous at all even though speaking in English, since English is my Third language.

The conversation that we had was worth it, all of the things that needed to be discussed were really clear, from voice to details.

I am also new in photography and after the conversation and my readings in the PhotoMentors website pages, I was inspired and have decided to take a journey with Photomentors.

I think this is way better than a photography workshop that I’ve attended because this will become more of a “Mentor and Student” relationship rather than “Teacher and Group of people Relationship”.

I believe Photomentors can change your life in a better way not just in photography, but also in your life as a person, after the call and the readings in the website.

You’ll never know, One Call could Change your life! “

Jeffrey

Davao, Philippines

Verbatim Testimonial Letter from a consultation with Steadman Uhlich

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Steady,

I just wanted to take a few minutes to again thank you for all that you’ve done for me.

I originally posted on [photography forum], a project that I was trying to accomplish with my Grand Daughter, utilizing Natural Light, of her playing her guitar by the window. I knew that I wanted to do them in B&W, so I posted my 1st try on [photography forum], in the People Photography forum. I was getting a lot of people looking by no one really taking the time to comment.

I really was looking for help in this area, as I really wasn’t just posting shots, I really wanted to learn & improve my results.

Steady, this is where you came along, you presented me with some positive comments, but at the same time, showed me where improvement could be made, or at least explored. You offered to talk to me, for a few minutes, to further discuss some of your comments.

I must admit, that at the beginning I was somewhat hesitant, as I’m “fairly new” into photography & thought that I might easily be overwhelmed, in our talks. How wrong I was!!!

Steady, you immediately made me feel right at home, no intimidation at all.

We were miles apart, yet I felt like you were right there with me, not talking down to me, but to me & where I maybe didn’t understand what you were saying, or what you meant, you took the time to reword things, explain, maybe in more detail, but using another approach. I found myself, even asking for more & more.

Then we started analyzing the pictures that I had posted.

You started pointing out things to me, especially in the facial area, that I never really saw, they were always there, but what a difference in the eyes of the beholder.

We started discussing the limitations that I had in where I was shooting the pictures (in my daughter’s kitchen, table & chairs pulled off to the side, me shooting out in the hall way). You could have very easily said, “well find another spot”, but you didn’t. You sat down & said, “so let’s see what we can do with what we have”.

Ideas, that you mentioned, about positioning, cropping, trying to get the viewers’ eyes to do some of the work for us, showed me so much in a different perspective.

Can’t thank you enough!!

Thanks again,
Bob V.

Verbatim Testimonial Letter from a consultation with Steadman Uhlich

“Enabled me to Unlock..”

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This was the third time I mentored with Steadman Uhlich, or, more accurately, was mentored by him.

Today my issue was that I had taken a picture which I really liked, posted it on a couple of forums, and, uncharacteristically received, no comment or response whatsoever. So I asked Steady why that might be.

He started by looking at my picture, stating that he saw that it had potential, and asking me what I saw in it. I mentioned the straight stem of the flower, and the sphere adorning it, and the contrast with the sideways leaves, like so many brushstrokes in Oriental style.

He agreed with my “take” on my picture, and said that, if that was the case, why did I not do simple things to make that more immediately visible to the viewer?

He suggested darkening the background. That took me all of 30 seconds, and already made a significant impact. Then he suggested different framing and or cropping, and gave me 4 options. Another 4 or 5 minutes maybe.

Simple, once Steady had suggested it.

He made it feel so obvious, yet nobody else had seen the potential of the picture and enabled me to unlock it.

Thanks, Steady! You and I must do this more often.

Philippe Berend

Verbatim Testimonial Letter from a consultation with Steadman Uhlich

“You have restored my self confidence.”

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“Just a short note to say that [our consultation using] Skype yesterday was

the most effective photographic tutorial of any length of time that I have experienced.

Your advice pinpointed for me a couple of areas where I was going astray, especially in the composition of my photos and by helping me identify those areas you have restored my self confidence, which was seriously lagging.

If you can achieve what you did for me in just [that short time], then I would have to say you are a genius.

I cannot thank you enough

I will be back. Many, many thanks”
Timothy Ashton
Sydney, Australia

Verbatim Testimonial Letter from a consultation with Steadman Uhlich

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On Steadman’s Six Minute Solution

“Hi my name is Jeffrey, I am from Davao, Philippines.

I have heard about this new service from Steadman Uhlich at PhotoMentors called the “Six Minute Solution.” As a mentee from PhotoMentors, Steady and I had a talk via Skype from several photos that we take a look at and some of these photos were quickly fixed and improved with Steadman’s “Six Minute Solution.”

I am totally amazed on how Steady made my snapshot photo look great and that you could even do it with a non professional camera in a short period of time.

He could provide some solution on how to improve your photo quickly, and that includes photos possibly taken from your camera such as; DSLR, point and shoot or even with a Mobile phone camera.

Just imagine how your photo will be quickly fixed or improve with a low cost session from a 10 year professional photographer who had his own art gallery exhibit shop.

Yes, only one photo per call but one photo could make a big difference on how you shoot the next hundreds or thousands of pictures in your life.“

Jeffery Wee
Davao, Philippines

A Verbatim Testimonial Letter from a series of Six Minute Solution Sessions with Steadman Uhlich

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“As a hobbyist family photographer, I was a bit anxious about showing
some of my pictures to a pro for feedback.

I can, however, not commend Steadman enough on his skills as a mentor.

He is a natural with how he approaches the areas where improvement can be made, taking his time to really make sure that you understand the points being made in a very easy-going and friendly dialogue.

His suggestions are efficient and to the point, focusing not only on the specifics of a particular photo, but also,

taking care to explain why and how this could apply to many other photos as well.

Highly recommended!”

David, Switzerland

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Steadman’s Notes on the Above Testimonial Letters

Bob is now on the path of making beautiful, Black & White, natural light portraits in a very limited space.

Philippe is finding new ways to look at his fine art photography subjects with renewed enthusiasm and confidence.

Jeffery is learning how to make photos of people that capture attention with compositions that are stronger and “Art Gallery Quality.”

Tim has regained his confidence in his work and is stimulated to try new compositions and new ways of presenting his vision to the viewer.

David now has a new set of conceptual visualization tools to use when composing his photos and working with his model. He is now able to see that there may be hidden beauty in a photo that can be discovered in just a few minutes…in fact, in Six Minutes or less!

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How can I help you?

My Role as Your Mentor

“The most important thing I can do is inspire you to look at your photography differently and to show you how to use your own innate creativity.

I will also challenge you to consider new ways of making photographs.

From this, you will find new creativity inside yourself and new inspirations in the world around you. When that happens, you will feel the Power of WOW as the world becomes a place full of creative possibilities. That is my ultimate goal.

In addition, I can provide you with valuable advice on how to avoid common mistakes and how to make better photographs.

On this site you will find many pages that will tell you about many more ways I may be able to help you. Look for the blue Related Posts links at the bottom of this page for more information.”

Steadman Uhlich

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Insight is the Goal

One of the things I keep in mind when mentoring other people is my goal to make the lesson something that they “own” and understand fully. I want the mentee to understand the reasons and “see” it so clearly that it becomes something they will retain and value. This comes by sharing how I see their images or work and comparing how THEY see the work and THEIR vision. We discuss things. We compare their intent and their preliminary result (such as a raw image).

Then by use of questions the mentee will discover things for themselves. This may then be reinforced by examples and variations.

Choices are discussed.

Options uncovered.

Creativity unlocked.

The result is often an insight for the mentee.

In some cases this takes only a few minutes to “see” and understand a conceptual or visual difference, or to learn a new way of looking at the subject or a new technique.

In many cases this breakthrough can take just a few moments or even seconds!

When that “AHA!” moment occurs, it is stimulating and rewarding for both the mentee and the mentor. This shared discovery moment can be something that helps a photographer or artist break out of a box and make progress in fulfilling THEIR vision.

Steadman’s Simple Truths:

“Gear is easy to replace or change and can be changed in minutes.

Good habits take time and repetition to develop.

Bad habits can stick with you a lifetime IF they are not identified, recognized, and corrected.

Insights can make a difference in seconds!“

Steadman

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How do you value learning?

The value of what you learn may be “priceless.”

Steadman’s guarantee:

“If I can not offer a suggestion that could improve your photography or help you avoid image weaknesses in the future then there is NO charge for the time we spend together.

In short, if I don’t see something I could improve or if I don’t offer you a suggestion for improvement, I will NOT charge you for my time!

You won’t find a better guarantee than that.”

Steadman

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Imagine…

Imagine how valuable that call will be to YOU if we can uncover a solution to your problems.

Imagine what you might learn from having a highly successful professional photographer and fine artist and successful art gallery owner with 25 years experience look at YOUR photo and give you a private discussion of YOUR photo.

Imagine how proud you will be when YOU learn how to make photos that make people say “WOW!”

Imagine how you will feel when you see YOUR Black & White images look like classic B&W photos you have admired all your life.

Imagine how satisfied you will feel when YOU learn how to make your own images look better using simple steps you will remember and be able to use again and again.

Imagine how you will better enjoy YOUR hobby or profession even more if you find ways to overcome obstacles to your skill improvement or your creativity.

Imagine how much more confident YOU will feel in the future when you learn how make better photographs.

Imagine the time you could save and the frustrations you could avoid if you find ways to make better images with simple solutions.

Imagine how your family or clients will respond when they notice the improvement in YOUR photography!

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Steadman’s Method

1. When I teach or mentor or consult with photographers around the world, I use a method I call a Live Voice+Visual Dialog™ on a phone call.

Some people mistakenly think this is just a phone call. It is far from that!

This service is based on both of us sharing a dialog or conversation at the same time as we view your photos together!

We will use BOTH Voice and Visual communication at the same time!

That is not the full story.

You will need to try it to understand and to experience the great difference for yourself!

All communication is by live voice call (a phone call or Skype call).

In short you must call me and speak with me to use this service. No emails. No chat. No PMs. No text messages. No typing. No writing. It is easier and much better this way for many reasons.

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Why does Steadman use Voice calls instead of email or text messages?

Simply because I can tell you many things in a phone call that I will not type and and things I cannot write as effectively.

It is much easier and better and faster as a means of communicating.

It allows us to have a deeper level of communication.

It is more friendly, more natural, and reduces the anxiety or intimidation you might naturally feel when consulting an expert about your photos.

It is more fluid and more immediate in response, so you don’t have to wait and wonder while waiting for an email or text message.

It is a better way of communicating meaning and subtle comments.

It is much more personal and more “human” than email.

It is much more FUN for both you and me!

It is the BEST way to communicate (aside from a real face to face meeting).

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What if this call is international?

I provide a truly global service via this site.

I have clients or mentees and photographers I am helping who are truly located around the world.

I communicate with them all via my special method of Live Voice+Visual Dialog.™

My method helps them all accelerate their learning and quickly improve their photography!

Please read below in this post.

You will find much more information about how I communicate with other photographers around the world in many languages!

If you speak English fluently, I can tell you more information and more clearly and more quickly than I can type. I can tell you more because I will have a “Live and Real Time” dialog or conversation with you. The difference between writing and speaking is considerable. You will see and understand on your first call why this is much better than a written comment or critique on a forum.

If English is NOT your first language or if you are concerned about using English because your use of English is NOT fluent or you may feel inhibited in any way from using English, please read down below in this post. I provide help in 18+ languages in addition to English, so I may be able to help you.

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2. You will not be called by me!

I do NOT call outbound. You will call me when YOU are ready to speak about your photography.

This is so you can be assured that you will NOT be disturbed at a time that is inconvenient for YOU or your family or your work.

You call me by using your phone or Skype.

You may even make a long-distance or international call for FREE if you use a Skype to Skype (VOIP) call so there would be NO long distance phone charge to you.

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Is English a foreign language for you?

If English is not your native language, but is your second language, then you will find it much easier to communicate using my Live Voice+Visual Dialog™ communication method.

There is no need for you to worry about misspelled words or poor grammar or accent.

I will help you and you will find it easier to express yourself clearly.

If there are any questions, it is easier to get clarity because we will be talking in a dialog. If you ever need to ask me a question to clarify something you may not understand, it is very easy because we are in a dialog, with real-time live communication connecting us.

I have Global Operating Hours (Hours of Availability) that fit YOUR schedule around the globe!

You may also call within a wide window of hours. My Global Operating Hours are 9:00AM (0900 hours) to 9:00PM (2100 hours) SEVEN Days a week. Those hours are based on Eastern Standard Time (New York City’s time zone).

I frequently speak with photographers living on the opposite side of the earth from me. It is not unusual nor is it inconvenient for me to speak with photographers in Japan, Australia, Pacific Islands, China, India, Europe, etc. I do this every week and even on weekends!

Don’t let long distances inhibit you from accessing the expertise that can help you improve your photography!

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Global Communications in English or Your Language (when possible)

What if English is not your first language?
What if your use of English is infrequent or limited?
What if you are not fluent in English?
What if your accent is strong?

You must speak some English to communicate with me, but you do NOT have to be fluent or your English could be “limited.”

English does not have to be your first language and you do not need a perfect accent. You do NOT have to be fluent in English. (see the testimonial letter down below).

I have seriously studied 12+ languages other than English (my native language). I truly enjoy speaking with people from other countries, other cultures, and those who speak other languages.

I am accustomed to communicating with people who are using English as a second language. I regularly communicate with people who are from: Europe, the Middle East, Russia, Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

I may be able to help you even IF your use of English is limited or IF you do not consider yourself fluent in speaking English.

Many people understand more English than they feel comfortable speaking. I understand that and why.

Many people who do NOT speak English frequently or fluently may feel inhibited about calling to speak using English.

Do not feel that way.

I am an expert in cross-cultural communication.

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I can help you and will do my best to communicate effectively with you in your language!

I may be able to help you by speaking to you in:

1. French

2. Spanish

3. Portuguese (Brazilian)
   

4. German

5. Dutch

6. Italian

7. Japanese

8. Russian

9. Swahili
   

10. Mandarin Chinese

11. Catalan

12. Norwegian

13. Swedish

14. Danish

15. Polish

16. Romanian

17. Finnish (coming soon)

18. Bahasa Malaysia (coming soon)

19. Bahasa Indonesia (coming soon)

20. Croatian (coming soon)

21. Serbian (coming soon)

22. Slovenian (coming soon)

23. Filipino (Tagalog) (coming soon)

So if you speak or understand one of those languages and some English or if you speak English fluently, we should talk!

I do not claim to be fluent in those languages (except English) and my accent in those languages may make you wince or laugh at times too. But I will try to help you in YOUR language as much as possible. I may be able to tell you (while speaking in one of those languages above) what I see that could be improved in your images/photos and how you could do it.

If you understand one of those languages and speak some English (even if not fluently), OR if you do speak English, you should be able to understand me and what I will be able to tell you about your photos that may help you improve your photography.

I will keep my comments simple, my speaking pace in English at a pace comfortable for you, and I will make Simple Suggestions™ you should be able to understand and apply even IF your use of English is limited. Read more about how this works on the Six Minute Solution page .

Steadman

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Please tell others about this site.

That will help us help and inspire more photographers.

Just click this share button below.

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If this is your first visit to this site,

I encourage you to visit and read the following page

as it will help orient you to this site and some

very special opportunities for you.

Start Here

You should. It could help you.

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If you are outside of the USA,

I encourage you to read the

Global Visitors Page

You should. It could help you.

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Learn About Steadman’s

Six Minute Solution™

You should. It could help you.

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Seven ways you can help other photographers and yourself too!

Have you heard of Karma? Do you believe in the Golden Rule?

Karma is the belief that all deeds can shape the past, present, and future experiences. In the West, this is sometimes expressed by the Christian concept of “you reap what you sow.” In short, do good to others and good may come to you. I truly believe that helping others helps not only them, but also ourselves in ways we often cannot anticipate. Each action of good you do, can make the world a nicer place. Do you believe in the Golden Rule?

1. Tell others about this site.

If you frequent photography forums and see a good opportunity to let people there know about this site, please do. Others who read your favorite forums or blogs may be looking for free lessons and inspiring photographs from which they can learn. Or they may be new to photography forum posting and need some guidance on how to learn more from getting critiques of their photos. Just direct them to www.photomentors.com.

This site is written to inspire photographers of all levels and help them have a better experience in photography.

We even have ten pages devoted to tips on how to have a better experience on a photography forum and those tips may help your favorite forum have better posts and more participation.

2. Please tell at least three of your friends in your community or social network about this site.

If you are on Facebook for example, you could tell your friends.They could be at any level of photography. Anybody who likes photography can benefit from the free lessons or from seeing the thousands of inspiring photographs from some of the world’s best photographers. PhotoMentors has things designed to be of interest to ALL levels of photographers from Beginners to Advanced Professionals.

3. Click on one of the social bookmarking links in this page and let others know about this post or page or this new site.

Tweet your friends. Tell others you DIGG this site. Tell your Facebook friends. Look in the right column of this page and almost all pages on the site for the link that says “SHARE” and click on it to go a pop up list of bookmarking links. It is easy and fast. Or you can send an email to a friend through that link too. Here is another link so you can bookmark this page right now in two clicks of your mouse in three seconds.

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Please take three seconds now to tell others about this site. That will help us help and inspire more photographers.

Just click this share button below.

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4. Add a link to PhotoMentors site to your blog or site.

Or write a post on your blog about what you saw on this site. Did you see a photo that inspired you when you viewed a Masters of Photography Gallery here? Did you learn something about a photographer you had not known about before? Tell others about the thousands of photos by Masters of Photography found here. Remember, our focus is on providing free access to all kinds of photographs and information that will inspire photographers of all levels.

5. Save yourself time while also helping other photographers.

In the future you might come across a newbie or someone new to photography. They may be looking for inspiring examples of great photography or they may want some guidance. This site may help them have a better experience with photography too. You won’t have to type much to help them, all you have to do is simply post a link to this site and that may solve their problem with a couple of clicks of your mouse. Simply tell them to look for the section on Free Lessons and Tips. That helps them, saves you time, and helps me help other photographer learn. So, that is a Win+ Win+ Win.

6. Subscribe to the PhotoMentors mailing list for our FREE Newsletter.

Why? First because the newsletter will be used to tell you about Special Opportunities that may be very valuable to you. Some opportunities may involve substantial discounts on things photographers use. These will be “un-advertised” exclusive offers that may be as much as 50% – 70% OFF retail. Other opportunities are related to activities that may be for publishing images and other opportunities to learn or participate. The more subscribers the newsletter has will help us negotiate special offers and discounts from vendors that can then be passed on to you our readers.

It will only take a moment to add your email to the list. Simply fill in the simple Subscribe Form found on the right column of all pages here on the site. Look in the lower right column. The newsletter will keep you informed when we have special offers and opportunities for our friends around the world. You will also learn about exclusive discounts and other nice things.

Don’t worry about receiving too many newsletters or emails from us. We only send out the newsletter infrequently, but when we do, there will be something of value in it for you. There will be many valuable and exclusive things coming in the future, including great opportunities for photographers, so don’t miss this easy way to hear about it first.

7. Look around this site. Soak it in. Imagine. Be inspired!

You might find something else that interests you or helps you. In 2011 I plan to have hundreds of pages of freely accessible educational content, and 5,000+ inspiring photos by Masters of Photography, and dozens of free educational videos.

I recommend seeing the Site Map (Table of Contents) so you can easily see the long list of articles, posts, and pages listed by topics.

If you would like to see if I can help you as a mentor, then just give me a call using the Skype button or the phone number at the bottom of each Page.

Finally, do what you can to help others post their photos and also get comments and have a good time doing so. That makes the world a nicer place and gives us all more nice photography to see on the net.

Thank you for your help.

Steadman

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Your First Introductory Call is free, but what you might learn later is priceless!™

If you have Skype, simply click on the “Call Me” button below to make a free Skype-to-Skype call. Before you do, make sure the top button says “I’m Online” and is green.
If you don’t have Skype yet, you can download the free Skype software in minutes via the link below the buttons below.

Or, if you want to call using your own land-line phone or cellular phone, simply dial our Direct Dial number:

(646) 233-1511

Our phones are generally answered during our flexible Global Operating hours of 9:00AM (0900) to 9:00PM (2100) EST (New York City Time Zone). Feel free to call anytime within that 12 hour window, 7 days a week.

Call now. It is the first step to a new way of learning and growing in photography.

You will find our service begins with a friendly hello.

If we are not on a call with another photographer, we will be happy to speak with you. If you get our voicemail it means we are on a call with another photographer. In that case, simply leave a detailed message on our voicemail with instructions on how we should contact you. Most voicemail messages receive a call back within two hours, whenever possible. All emails are answered the same day, whenever possible.

If you prefer to send an email you may do that by visiting our Contact Page. Or by using the following email address:

steadman@photomentors.com

Most voicemail messages receive a call back within two hours, whenever possible. All emails are answered the same day, whenever possible.

.

© 2010, Steadman Uhlich. All rights reserved.

Hi,

“I am a mentee of PhotoMentors with Steadman my mentor, and I have been going through this relationship for 9 months now. I have never seen him personally because I am from Asia the Philippines which is [...]]]>

Verbatim Testimonial Letter from a Long Term Mentee with Steadman Uhlich

“Superior Mentor.”

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Hi,

“I am a mentee of PhotoMentors with Steadman my mentor, and I have been going through this relationship for 9 months now. I have never seen him personally because I am from Asia the Philippines which is far from his place and only the use of online calls will be the possibility for us to communicate.

One thing I can say about him is that “Steadman is one Superior Mentor”. I have never met a person who acts and advices like a CEO in a Company and is more knowledgeable in the field of Photography.

If I would have met him earlier when I first started my photography, I could have saved some extra money and invest more on the knowledge from him which everybody else can not simply do.

Now with the help of Steadman, I was able to spend my money wisely on the things that I really need to buy without spending a lot for the photography equipments that will be used for my Studio.

He has also a critical sharp eye which is truly rare for a person to have and is one of the advantages when you show him a photo to critique. He has done it with several of my snap shots photos and turned it into a potential art gallery quality photo.

He can also see the potential in you and not just only the photos that you showed him.

He knows what are the strengths and potentials that you’ve got and can make that as your advantage which could also unlock some possibilities that you have not done it before in your photography and in your life.

Another thing that I like about Steadman as a Mentor is his way of delivering advices in a friendly way and nice tone that make me comfortable to say and express my opinion to him. He is very honest on his advices and is very dedicated in helping you, not only for you to improve in your photography but also for you to become a better person in your life.

Steadman is a good person and one rare person to have as a Mentor, I can see it from him because “Whatever good words comes out from his mouth comes from his heart”. Someday I will come to this person and Thank him by giving back on what he has planted on me, a seed which he planted and nourished that will bear fruit and will be ready to reap the goodness in the future.”

Jeffrey W.
Philippines

Note: English is Jeffery’s third language. We converse using English and some Tagalog.

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Testimonials from a Wide Range of Very Satisfied People

These are just a few of the many Testimonials about Steadman Uhlich’s help to others through advice and consulting. There were countless more not shown here.

Art Gallery Visitors

There are 140 Verbatim Testimonial Quotes you can read from Visitors to Steadman Uhlich’s Art Gallery. These quotes are from people who saw his work up close while it was hanging in an art gallery at full size, often at “Life Size.”).

Global Visitors

There are also verbatim comments and impressions from Global Visitors to his Studio website who left their impressions of his work. There you can see literally hundreds of comments from viewers who were impressed, moved, and “stunned” from over 50 countries around the world. To read those comments, go to www.steadmanuhlich.com and look at the comments beside the photos on each of the first 50 pages of that site.

Steadman’s Portrait Clients

There are also testimonials from Steadman’s Studio Clients who have actually hired him to produce artwork or portraits for them. To read those comments, go to www.steadmanuhlich.com and look for the link to that section of that site.

Photographers Steadman has Mentored

There are additional testimonial letters here on this site from photographers that Steadman has mentored. Look for links to a few at the bottom of this page.

Photographers Who Bought from Steadman

There are even testimonials from other photographers who have bought from Steadman in the past: Testimonials from 44 Photographers who bought from Steadman. There are Verbatim Testimonials from 44 photographers who have bought many thousands of dollars of photography equipment from him. If you have any doubts about buying anything from Steadman, you should read what they say about the accuracy of his descriptions of what he sold them and their high satisfaction with the entire transaction process.

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Before You Buy Anything!

“Before you buy anything, you should consider the source and their background.

When buying advice from someone, consider their reputation for helping other people.

I encourage you to read and consider the many Testimonials about my work helping others.

Take a look at the 200+ Testimonials from other photographers.

Read some of the Verbatim Testimonial Letters.

Do this before you spend any money.”

Steadman

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Hundreds of Testimonials from Photographers!

Here is a link to the Testimonials Category page of posts here on this site. There you will find many different posts of Testimonials from real people who have seen real results. Those are all Verbatim Testimonials.

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Verbatim Testimonial Letter from a consultation with Steadman Uhlich

Note: this Mentoring Session was conducted using voice over the internet (via skype) and image file transfers over the internet with the call taking place between the USA and France. The voice quality was crystal clear (it sounded like we were in the same room), the conversation was fun, stimulating, and electric with creativity, humor, and sharing. The only thing we could not share was the bottle of fine French wine.

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“I came across Steadman Uhlich in a photography forum where both of us participate, and I was impressed with his commitment to helping people. From there, we shared some views, and, when he informed me that he was setting up a place where people could learn and improve, I knew I was going to try it out.

As it happens, that day, I had gone out and tried to make the most of the last of the autumn leaves. I love trees, especially when clad in full colour, but, somehow, have not been able to get any tree shots that make me go “WOW.” Out of maybe 300 such shots accumulated over 2 years shots, not one of trees, even though I love them, and shot them hundreds of times.

Now enter Steadman Uhlich. I told him this “story”, and expressed frustration. He didn’t give me any technical tips. I assume that, as he knew I could handle other types of shots/subjects, he also knew that the problem was more in “what to want to do” than in “what to do” or “how to do it”. So he told me what to want to do.

‘Imagine the tree in its permanence. Things come and go, people come and go, weather comes and goes, seasons come and go, trees remain. Go out and shoot the tree in all its varying conditions.’

Within a couple of minutes, I was totally inspired, having understood why I have up to now failed, and having had my mind opened to avenues that I had not even considered in how to deepen my approach to photography.

This part of the conversation lasted but a few minutes.

My experience as a business consultant as well as a personal development coach tells me that Steadman Uhlich is exactly who he claims, a true mentor.

Like a locksmith who can pick locks and open doors in people’s minds that free up capability, creativity and talent about photography.

Such people are rare, I am priviledged to have found one who will deepen the pleasure and richness of my hobby.

Thanks, Steady!

Philippe”

Verbatim Testimonial Letter from a consultation with Steadman Uhlich

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“I just wanted to drop a quick note to relay the experience I had with Steadman Uhlich a couple of days ago. On Sunday, I had the pleasure of meeting Steadman in person and spending over four hours talking (in an onsite, face-to-face Mentoring Session), looking at work I had done and going over a little post processing. The time just flew by.

Steadman opened my eyes to many things including composition, shadows and light. Things I thought I had a grasp on, but no I did not.

He truly showed me a way to look at subjects in a way I have not read in books.

His way of teaching and making me look at myself is relaxed and laid back and very refreshing.

I would encourage anyone interested in bettering their photography skills to take the time and give him a call. You will not be disappointed in the time spent on the phone with Steadman. I am looking forward to our future meetings and learning as much as I can from him.”

Doug

Verbatim Testimonial Letter from a consultation with Steadman Uhlich

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“Hi, my name is Jeffrey and I am from the Philippines. I just had a Free call using Skype with Photomentors and talked to Steadman Uhlich about photography and what I want to create.

When I first heard his voice, I was not nervous at all even though speaking in English, since English is my Third language.

The conversation that we had was worth it, all of the things that needed to be discussed were really clear, from voice to details.

I am also new in photography and after the conversation and my readings in the PhotoMentors website pages, I was inspired and have decided to take a journey with Photomentors.

I think this is way better than a photography workshop that I’ve attended because this will become more of a “Mentor and Student” relationship rather than “Teacher and Group of people Relationship”.

I believe Photomentors can change your life in a better way not just in photography, but also in your life as a person, after the call and the readings in the website.

You’ll never know, One Call could Change your life! “

Jeffrey

Davao, Philippines

Verbatim Testimonial Letter from a consultation with Steadman Uhlich

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Steady,

I just wanted to take a few minutes to again thank you for all that you’ve done for me.

I originally posted on [photography forum], a project that I was trying to accomplish with my Grand Daughter, utilizing Natural Light, of her playing her guitar by the window. I knew that I wanted to do them in B&W, so I posted my 1st try on [photography forum], in the People Photography forum. I was getting a lot of people looking by no one really taking the time to comment.

I really was looking for help in this area, as I really wasn’t just posting shots, I really wanted to learn & improve my results.

Steady, this is where you came along, you presented me with some positive comments, but at the same time, showed me where improvement could be made, or at least explored. You offered to talk to me, for a few minutes, to further discuss some of your comments.

I must admit, that at the beginning I was somewhat hesitant, as I’m “fairly new” into photography & thought that I might easily be overwhelmed, in our talks. How wrong I was!!!

Steady, you immediately made me feel right at home, no intimidation at all.

We were miles apart, yet I felt like you were right there with me, not talking down to me, but to me & where I maybe didn’t understand what you were saying, or what you meant, you took the time to reword things, explain, maybe in more detail, but using another approach. I found myself, even asking for more & more.

Then we started analyzing the pictures that I had posted.

You started pointing out things to me, especially in the facial area, that I never really saw, they were always there, but what a difference in the eyes of the beholder.

We started discussing the limitations that I had in where I was shooting the pictures (in my daughter’s kitchen, table & chairs pulled off to the side, me shooting out in the hall way). You could have very easily said, “well find another spot”, but you didn’t. You sat down & said, “so let’s see what we can do with what we have”.

Ideas, that you mentioned, about positioning, cropping, trying to get the viewers’ eyes to do some of the work for us, showed me so much in a different perspective.

Can’t thank you enough!!

Thanks again,
Bob V.

Verbatim Testimonial Letter from a consultation with Steadman Uhlich

“Enabled me to Unlock..”

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This was the third time I mentored with Steadman Uhlich, or, more accurately, was mentored by him.

Today my issue was that I had taken a picture which I really liked, posted it on a couple of forums, and, uncharacteristically received, no comment or response whatsoever. So I asked Steady why that might be.

He started by looking at my picture, stating that he saw that it had potential, and asking me what I saw in it. I mentioned the straight stem of the flower, and the sphere adorning it, and the contrast with the sideways leaves, like so many brushstrokes in Oriental style.

He agreed with my “take” on my picture, and said that, if that was the case, why did I not do simple things to make that more immediately visible to the viewer?

He suggested darkening the background. That took me all of 30 seconds, and already made a significant impact. Then he suggested different framing and or cropping, and gave me 4 options. Another 4 or 5 minutes maybe.

Simple, once Steady had suggested it.

He made it feel so obvious, yet nobody else had seen the potential of the picture and enabled me to unlock it.

Thanks, Steady! You and I must do this more often.

Philippe Berend

Verbatim Testimonial Letter from a consultation with Steadman Uhlich

“You have restored my self confidence.”

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“Just a short note to say that [our consultation using] Skype yesterday was

the most effective photographic tutorial of any length of time that I have experienced.

Your advice pinpointed for me a couple of areas where I was going astray, especially in the composition of my photos and by helping me identify those areas you have restored my self confidence, which was seriously lagging.

If you can achieve what you did for me in just [that short time], then I would have to say you are a genius.

I cannot thank you enough

I will be back. Many, many thanks”
Timothy Ashton
Sydney, Australia

Verbatim Testimonial Letter from a consultation with Steadman Uhlich

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On Steadman’s Six Minute Solution

“Hi my name is Jeffrey, I am from Davao, Philippines.

I have heard about this new service from Steadman Uhlich at PhotoMentors called the “Six Minute Solution.” As a mentee from PhotoMentors, Steady and I had a talk via Skype from several photos that we take a look at and some of these photos were quickly fixed and improved with Steadman’s “Six Minute Solution.”

I am totally amazed on how Steady made my snapshot photo look great and that you could even do it with a non professional camera in a short period of time.

He could provide some solution on how to improve your photo quickly, and that includes photos possibly taken from your camera such as; DSLR, point and shoot or even with a Mobile phone camera.

Just imagine how your photo will be quickly fixed or improve with a low cost session from a 10 year professional photographer who had his own art gallery exhibit shop.

Yes, only one photo per call but one photo could make a big difference on how you shoot the next hundreds or thousands of pictures in your life.“

Jeffery Wee
Davao, Philippines

A Verbatim Testimonial Letter from a series of Six Minute Solution Sessions with Steadman Uhlich

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“As a hobbyist family photographer, I was a bit anxious about showing
some of my pictures to a pro for feedback.

I can, however, not commend Steadman enough on his skills as a mentor.

He is a natural with how he approaches the areas where improvement can be made, taking his time to really make sure that you understand the points being made in a very easy-going and friendly dialogue.

His suggestions are efficient and to the point, focusing not only on the specifics of a particular photo, but also,

taking care to explain why and how this could apply to many other photos as well.

Highly recommended!”

David, Switzerland

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Steadman’s Notes on the Above Testimonial Letters

Bob is now on the path of making beautiful, Black & White, natural light portraits in a very limited space.

Philippe is finding new ways to look at his fine art photography subjects with renewed enthusiasm and confidence.

Jeffery is learning how to make photos of people that capture attention with compositions that are stronger and “Art Gallery Quality.”

Tim has regained his confidence in his work and is stimulated to try new compositions and new ways of presenting his vision to the viewer.

David now has a new set of conceptual visualization tools to use when composing his photos and working with his model. He is now able to see that there may be hidden beauty in a photo that can be discovered in just a few minutes…in fact, in Six Minutes or less!

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How can I help you?

My Role as Your Mentor

“The most important thing I can do is inspire you to look at your photography differently and to show you how to use your own innate creativity.

I will also challenge you to consider new ways of making photographs.

From this, you will find new creativity inside yourself and new inspirations in the world around you. When that happens, you will feel the Power of WOW as the world becomes a place full of creative possibilities. That is my ultimate goal.

In addition, I can provide you with valuable advice on how to avoid common mistakes and how to make better photographs.

On this site you will find many pages that will tell you about many more ways I may be able to help you. Look for the blue Related Posts links at the bottom of this page for more information.”

Steadman Uhlich

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Insight is the Goal

One of the things I keep in mind when mentoring other people is my goal to make the lesson something that they “own” and understand fully. I want the mentee to understand the reasons and “see” it so clearly that it becomes something they will retain and value. This comes by sharing how I see their images or work and comparing how THEY see the work and THEIR vision. We discuss things. We compare their intent and their preliminary result (such as a raw image).

Then by use of questions the mentee will discover things for themselves. This may then be reinforced by examples and variations.

Choices are discussed.

Options uncovered.

Creativity unlocked.

The result is often an insight for the mentee.

In some cases this takes only a few minutes to “see” and understand a conceptual or visual difference, or to learn a new way of looking at the subject or a new technique.

In many cases this breakthrough can take just a few moments or even seconds!

When that “AHA!” moment occurs, it is stimulating and rewarding for both the mentee and the mentor. This shared discovery moment can be something that helps a photographer or artist break out of a box and make progress in fulfilling THEIR vision.

Steadman’s Simple Truths:

“Gear is easy to replace or change and can be changed in minutes.

Good habits take time and repetition to develop.

Bad habits can stick with you a lifetime IF they are not identified, recognized, and corrected.

Insights can make a difference in seconds!“

Steadman

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How do you value learning?

The value of what you learn may be “priceless.”

Steadman’s guarantee:

“If I can not offer a suggestion that could improve your photography or help you avoid image weaknesses in the future then there is NO charge for the time we spend together.

In short, if I don’t see something I could improve or if I don’t offer you a suggestion for improvement, I will NOT charge you for my time!

You won’t find a better guarantee than that.”

Steadman

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Imagine…

Imagine how valuable that call will be to YOU if we can uncover a solution to your problems.

Imagine what you might learn from having a highly successful professional photographer and fine artist and successful art gallery owner with 25 years experience look at YOUR photo and give you a private discussion of YOUR photo.

Imagine how proud you will be when YOU learn how to make photos that make people say “WOW!”

Imagine how you will feel when you see YOUR Black & White images look like classic B&W photos you have admired all your life.

Imagine how satisfied you will feel when YOU learn how to make your own images look better using simple steps you will remember and be able to use again and again.

Imagine how you will better enjoy YOUR hobby or profession even more if you find ways to overcome obstacles to your skill improvement or your creativity.

Imagine how much more confident YOU will feel in the future when you learn how make better photographs.

Imagine the time you could save and the frustrations you could avoid if you find ways to make better images with simple solutions.

Imagine how your family or clients will respond when they notice the improvement in YOUR photography!

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Steadman’s Method

1. When I teach or mentor or consult with photographers around the world, I use a method I call a Live Voice+Visual Dialog™ on a phone call.

Some people mistakenly think this is just a phone call. It is far from that!

This service is based on both of us sharing a dialog or conversation at the same time as we view your photos together!

We will use BOTH Voice and Visual communication at the same time!

That is not the full story.

You will need to try it to understand and to experience the great difference for yourself!

All communication is by live voice call (a phone call or Skype call).

In short you must call me and speak with me to use this service. No emails. No chat. No PMs. No text messages. No typing. No writing. It is easier and much better this way for many reasons.

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Why does Steadman use Voice calls instead of email or text messages?

Simply because I can tell you many things in a phone call that I will not type and and things I cannot write as effectively.

It is much easier and better and faster as a means of communicating.

It allows us to have a deeper level of communication.

It is more friendly, more natural, and reduces the anxiety or intimidation you might naturally feel when consulting an expert about your photos.

It is more fluid and more immediate in response, so you don’t have to wait and wonder while waiting for an email or text message.

It is a better way of communicating meaning and subtle comments.

It is much more personal and more “human” than email.

It is much more FUN for both you and me!

It is the BEST way to communicate (aside from a real face to face meeting).

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What if this call is international?

I provide a truly global service via this site.

I have clients or mentees and photographers I am helping who are truly located around the world.

I communicate with them all via my special method of Live Voice+Visual Dialog.™

My method helps them all accelerate their learning and quickly improve their photography!

Please read below in this post.

You will find much more information about how I communicate with other photographers around the world in many languages!

If you speak English fluently, I can tell you more information and more clearly and more quickly than I can type. I can tell you more because I will have a “Live and Real Time” dialog or conversation with you. The difference between writing and speaking is considerable. You will see and understand on your first call why this is much better than a written comment or critique on a forum.

If English is NOT your first language or if you are concerned about using English because your use of English is NOT fluent or you may feel inhibited in any way from using English, please read down below in this post. I provide help in 18+ languages in addition to English, so I may be able to help you.

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2. You will not be called by me!

I do NOT call outbound. You will call me when YOU are ready to speak about your photography.

This is so you can be assured that you will NOT be disturbed at a time that is inconvenient for YOU or your family or your work.

You call me by using your phone or Skype.

You may even make a long-distance or international call for FREE if you use a Skype to Skype (VOIP) call so there would be NO long distance phone charge to you.

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Is English a foreign language for you?

If English is not your native language, but is your second language, then you will find it much easier to communicate using my Live Voice+Visual Dialog™ communication method.

There is no need for you to worry about misspelled words or poor grammar or accent.

I will help you and you will find it easier to express yourself clearly.

If there are any questions, it is easier to get clarity because we will be talking in a dialog. If you ever need to ask me a question to clarify something you may not understand, it is very easy because we are in a dialog, with real-time live communication connecting us.

I have Global Operating Hours (Hours of Availability) that fit YOUR schedule around the globe!

You may also call within a wide window of hours. My Global Operating Hours are 9:00AM (0900 hours) to 9:00PM (2100 hours) SEVEN Days a week. Those hours are based on Eastern Standard Time (New York City’s time zone).

I frequently speak with photographers living on the opposite side of the earth from me. It is not unusual nor is it inconvenient for me to speak with photographers in Japan, Australia, Pacific Islands, China, India, Europe, etc. I do this every week and even on weekends!

Don’t let long distances inhibit you from accessing the expertise that can help you improve your photography!

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Global Communications in English or Your Language (when possible)

What if English is not your first language?
What if your use of English is infrequent or limited?
What if you are not fluent in English?
What if your accent is strong?

You must speak some English to communicate with me, but you do NOT have to be fluent or your English could be “limited.”

English does not have to be your first language and you do not need a perfect accent. You do NOT have to be fluent in English. (see the testimonial letter down below).

I have seriously studied 12+ languages other than English (my native language). I truly enjoy speaking with people from other countries, other cultures, and those who speak other languages.

I am accustomed to communicating with people who are using English as a second language. I regularly communicate with people who are from: Europe, the Middle East, Russia, Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

I may be able to help you even IF your use of English is limited or IF you do not consider yourself fluent in speaking English.

Many people understand more English than they feel comfortable speaking. I understand that and why.

Many people who do NOT speak English frequently or fluently may feel inhibited about calling to speak using English.

Do not feel that way.

I am an expert in cross-cultural communication.

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I can help you and will do my best to communicate effectively with you in your language!

I may be able to help you by speaking to you in:

1. French

2. Spanish

3. Portuguese (Brazilian)
   

4. German

5. Dutch

6. Italian

7. Japanese

8. Russian

9. Swahili
   

10. Mandarin Chinese

11. Catalan

12. Norwegian

13. Swedish

14. Danish

15. Polish

16. Romanian

17. Finnish (coming soon)

18. Bahasa Malaysia (coming soon)

19. Bahasa Indonesia (coming soon)

20. Croatian (coming soon)

21. Serbian (coming soon)

22. Slovenian (coming soon)

23. Filipino (Tagalog) (coming soon)

So if you speak or understand one of those languages and some English or if you speak English fluently, we should talk!

I do not claim to be fluent in those languages (except English) and my accent in those languages may make you wince or laugh at times too. But I will try to help you in YOUR language as much as possible. I may be able to tell you (while speaking in one of those languages above) what I see that could be improved in your images/photos and how you could do it.

If you understand one of those languages and speak some English (even if not fluently), OR if you do speak English, you should be able to understand me and what I will be able to tell you about your photos that may help you improve your photography.

I will keep my comments simple, my speaking pace in English at a pace comfortable for you, and I will make Simple Suggestions™ you should be able to understand and apply even IF your use of English is limited. Read more about how this works on the Six Minute Solution page .

Steadman

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Please tell others about this site.

That will help us help and inspire more photographers.

Just click this share button below.

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If this is your first visit to this site,

I encourage you to visit and read the following page

as it will help orient you to this site and some

very special opportunities for you.

Start Here

You should. It could help you.

_________________

If you are outside of the USA,

I encourage you to read the

Global Visitors Page

You should. It could help you.

_________________

Learn About Steadman’s

Six Minute Solution™

You should. It could help you.

________________

Seven ways you can help other photographers and yourself too!

Have you heard of Karma? Do you believe in the Golden Rule?

Karma is the belief that all deeds can shape the past, present, and future experiences. In the West, this is sometimes expressed by the Christian concept of “you reap what you sow.” In short, do good to others and good may come to you. I truly believe that helping others helps not only them, but also ourselves in ways we often cannot anticipate. Each action of good you do, can make the world a nicer place. Do you believe in the Golden Rule?

1. Tell others about this site.

If you frequent photography forums and see a good opportunity to let people there know about this site, please do. Others who read your favorite forums or blogs may be looking for free lessons and inspiring photographs from which they can learn. Or they may be new to photography forum posting and need some guidance on how to learn more from getting critiques of their photos. Just direct them to www.photomentors.com.

This site is written to inspire photographers of all levels and help them have a better experience in photography.

We even have ten pages devoted to tips on how to have a better experience on a photography forum and those tips may help your favorite forum have better posts and more participation.

2. Please tell at least three of your friends in your community or social network about this site.

If you are on Facebook for example, you could tell your friends.They could be at any level of photography. Anybody who likes photography can benefit from the free lessons or from seeing the thousands of inspiring photographs from some of the world’s best photographers. PhotoMentors has things designed to be of interest to ALL levels of photographers from Beginners to Advanced Professionals.

3. Click on one of the social bookmarking links in this page and let others know about this post or page or this new site.

Tweet your friends. Tell others you DIGG this site. Tell your Facebook friends. Look in the right column of this page and almost all pages on the site for the link that says “SHARE” and click on it to go a pop up list of bookmarking links. It is easy and fast. Or you can send an email to a friend through that link too. Here is another link so you can bookmark this page right now in two clicks of your mouse in three seconds.

_____________

Please take three seconds now to tell others about this site. That will help us help and inspire more photographers.

Just click this share button below.

______________________

4. Add a link to PhotoMentors site to your blog or site.

Or write a post on your blog about what you saw on this site. Did you see a photo that inspired you when you viewed a Masters of Photography Gallery here? Did you learn something about a photographer you had not known about before? Tell others about the thousands of photos by Masters of Photography found here. Remember, our focus is on providing free access to all kinds of photographs and information that will inspire photographers of all levels.

5. Save yourself time while also helping other photographers.

In the future you might come across a newbie or someone new to photography. They may be looking for inspiring examples of great photography or they may want some guidance. This site may help them have a better experience with photography too. You won’t have to type much to help them, all you have to do is simply post a link to this site and that may solve their problem with a couple of clicks of your mouse. Simply tell them to look for the section on Free Lessons and Tips. That helps them, saves you time, and helps me help other photographer learn. So, that is a Win+ Win+ Win.

6. Subscribe to the PhotoMentors mailing list for our FREE Newsletter.

Why? First because the newsletter will be used to tell you about Special Opportunities that may be very valuable to you. Some opportunities may involve substantial discounts on things photographers use. These will be “un-advertised” exclusive offers that may be as much as 50% – 70% OFF retail. Other opportunities are related to activities that may be for publishing images and other opportunities to learn or participate. The more subscribers the newsletter has will help us negotiate special offers and discounts from vendors that can then be passed on to you our readers.

It will only take a moment to add your email to the list. Simply fill in the simple Subscribe Form found on the right column of all pages here on the site. Look in the lower right column. The newsletter will keep you informed when we have special offers and opportunities for our friends around the world. You will also learn about exclusive discounts and other nice things.

Don’t worry about receiving too many newsletters or emails from us. We only send out the newsletter infrequently, but when we do, there will be something of value in it for you. There will be many valuable and exclusive things coming in the future, including great opportunities for photographers, so don’t miss this easy way to hear about it first.

7. Look around this site. Soak it in. Imagine. Be inspired!

You might find something else that interests you or helps you. In 2011 I plan to have hundreds of pages of freely accessible educational content, and 5,000+ inspiring photos by Masters of Photography, and dozens of free educational videos.

I recommend seeing the Site Map (Table of Contents) so you can easily see the long list of articles, posts, and pages listed by topics.

If you would like to see if I can help you as a mentor, then just give me a call using the Skype button or the phone number at the bottom of each Page.

Finally, do what you can to help others post their photos and also get comments and have a good time doing so. That makes the world a nicer place and gives us all more nice photography to see on the net.

Thank you for your help.

Steadman

________________

Your First Introductory Call is free, but what you might learn later is priceless!™

If you have Skype, simply click on the “Call Me” button below to make a free Skype-to-Skype call. Before you do, make sure the top button says “I’m Online” and is green.
If you don’t have Skype yet, you can download the free Skype software in minutes via the link below the buttons below.

Or, if you want to call using your own land-line phone or cellular phone, simply dial our Direct Dial number:

(646) 233-1511

Our phones are generally answered during our flexible Global Operating hours of 9:00AM (0900) to 9:00PM (2100) EST (New York City Time Zone). Feel free to call anytime within that 12 hour window, 7 days a week.

Call now. It is the first step to a new way of learning and growing in photography.

You will find our service begins with a friendly hello.

If we are not on a call with another photographer, we will be happy to speak with you. If you get our voicemail it means we are on a call with another photographer. In that case, simply leave a detailed message on our voicemail with instructions on how we should contact you. Most voicemail messages receive a call back within two hours, whenever possible. All emails are answered the same day, whenever possible.

If you prefer to send an email you may do that by visiting our Contact Page. Or by using the following email address:

steadman@photomentors.com

Most voicemail messages receive a call back within two hours, whenever possible. All emails are answered the same day, whenever possible.

.

© 2010, Steadman Uhlich. All rights reserved.

Hello Reader,

I am excited about this latest special arrangement!

Why?

Because I believe most digital or DSLR photographers will be able to benefit from this NOW and in the future, [...]]]>

Steadman Uhlich

Hello Reader,

I have negotiated another Exclusive Discount for my students, mentees, and contacts (including the subscribers to the PhotoMentors FREE Newsletter).

I am excited about this latest special arrangement!

Why?

Because I believe most digital or DSLR photographers will be able to benefit from this NOW and in the future, even IF you have already spent money on studio flash or speedlights!

This is an outstanding opportunity for you to get some special “Professional Level” studio lighting at prices so low they are lower than the lowest price I could find on this same gear (new gear) anywhere on the internet and even lower than the lowest price on Ebay (for same new product)!

This outstanding and “leading edge” gear is great for a professional studio or a home studio.

These products can be useful to Professionals or Amateurs or Newbies!

I recommend that EVERY digital photographer get this kind of gear even IF you have already spent thousands of dollars on studio flash or speedlight systems or even “strobist” gear.

You could use this gear even if you have bought the most expensive Studio Flash Packs and spent thousands of dollars on softboxes, umbrellas, and flash accessories!

This is different!

This Special and Exclusive PhotoMentors Discount means you could be saving hundreds of dollars compared to comparable gear from other internet lighting vendors.

When looking at a typical studio purchase, it could mean hundreds or even over a thousand dollars saved by you!

I use this type of product myself when I need to supplement or replace ambient light, or when I am not using natural light (e.g. the sun).

More details on this Special Offer will be made available in the future as there are many products and a wide range of possibilities for you.  I am in the process of writing articles about this gear and the ways to use it. These will become parts/chapters of my future books.

_____

Something You Should Know

I am recommending this gear because I know a LOT about it and I have purchased (at full price) and I have used this kind of gear myself for years!

Let me save you some time and effort and guide you to prevent some possible pitfalls and poor purchases!

I have spent MANY hours researching, evaluating, learning about arcane technical details, sourcing, negotiating, buying, testing, evaluating again, comparing to comparable gear,  and considering these products for use by Professionals, Amateurs, and Newbies.

All of this was done as part of my research and evaluation work for my future book series on photography.  You can benefit from that knowledge, expertise, connection and now a Exclusive PhotoMentors Discount.

I can save you time and effort and money!

I am writing this to you to GUIDE YOU to something I believe will help you and something that may become one of your essential things to have and use in the future.

I know I consider this one of MY ESSENTIALS and I believe you will feel that way too in the future.

______________

Steadman’s Unique Private Lessons on Lighting

The How, When, Where and Why of Using Lighting for WOW Photos.

I am in the process of helping my students and mentees learn this kind of lighting gear and there are also UNIQUE PRIVATE LESSONS available from me on use of this gear.

I am not teaching my students or mentees how to turn on a switch or trigger a flash!

I am teaching my students and mentees how to use LIGHT to make BETTER photographs!

You can learn too with Private Lessons for YOU!

In other words, what I can offer you goes FAR beyond and ABOVE typical instruction.  I am able to offer you creative insights on how to use the light produced by this gear to make your photographs better.

Those Private Lessons are available to you too.  In other words, you can purchase gear from one source (the vendor I am recommending) but you can also buy some PRIVATE and INTENSE and VALUABLE coaching, guidance, and mentoring on HOW to use the gear, WHERE to use the gear, and WHY you would or should use this gear instead of other lighting gear.

Call me to find out more about these Unique Private Lessons!

___________

Do you want to learn more about more PhotoMentors Exclusive Discounts in the future?

To learn more about this Exclusive Discount and other PhotoMentors discounts, simply subscribe to the PhotoMentors FREE email newsletter.

This is so easy and only takes about 5 seconds for you to do!

Yes, the newsletter is FREE.  Yes, it comes to you via email. Just be aware that the Exclusive Discounts are valuable and are on GEAR and THINGS and SERVICES I believe you could use.

For many of these Exclusive Discounts, you simply need to SUBSCRIBE to the FREE PhotoMentors email newsletter.

That is all it takes to learn about these special and Exclusive Discounts and Opportunities.

It costs you NOTHING to subscribe to my FREE newsletter,  yet you might learn about special deals that could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars!

_____________

How do you subscribe to the My Free Newsletter?

To subscribe, look in the RIGHT COLUMN of any page on this site for the “Subscribe” form.  You will see it just below the BLUE TAGS and above the rotating globe.

It only takes a few seconds for you to subscribe.

Read the instructions though, as it is an automated subscribe form designed to eliminate or reduce SPAM so it requires you to REPLY to an automated email it will send you to confirm you want to be on the list. Don’t skip that step (the REPLY) or you will not receive the newsletter.

_____________

What are the PhotoMentors Exclusive Discounts?

Some of the PhotoMentors Exclusive Discounts give you significant savings opportunities with some discounts saving you as much as 50% OFF retail price on top quality new items you can use whether you are a professional or amateur photographer.

Some of the other PhotoMentors Exclusive Discounts have presented opportunities for PhotoMentors Subscribers to save from $500 to $1,250 on a single purchase of a single item!

_______

30 Exclusive Discount Items in 3 Months!

In the last 3 months, I have sent my FREE Newsletter Subscribers three Newsletters and within those were 30 different unique items at substantial discounts.

Some items were priced LOWER than the LOWEST PRICE I could find anywhere  (including extensive searches for low priced discount vendors on the internet).

Some were priced LOWER THAN THE LOWEST price I could find for the same item at ANY SELLER.  (full stop, period!)

Some of these deals are so special and with PRICES SO LOW, you will NOT find them advertised ANYWHERE on the internet!

_____________

What kinds of things are in the PhotoMentors Exclusive Discounts?

All items are BRAND NEW PRODUCT.

Most items are available for shipping worldwide.

Most are items or products I have tested and purchased for my own use and now I am recommending them to others. You don’t get to buy mine, you get BRAND NEW PRODUCT.

You do get my guidance on what I consider the best value, the best or optimum design and the best source to buy too!

Most are items I believe can HELP others improve their photography!

Most are “High Quality” items. Some are the Highest Quality I could find!

Most are available at VERY low prices and some with “unadvertised” special prices with these PhotoMentors Exclusive Discounts.

Most accept easy credit card payment via Paypal or bank transfers (if that is easier for you).

Some are LIMITED TIME OFFERS so you have to act quickly to get them while they are available.

Some are LIMITED QUANTITY OFFERS so you need to act quickly to get one from the limited number that are available at the Special Price.

_____________

_____________

How can I help you?

My Role as Your Mentor

The most important thing I can do is inspire you to look at your photography differently and to challenge you to consider new ways of making photographs.

From this, you will find new creativity inside yourself and new inspirations in the world around you. When that happens, you will feel the Power of WOW as the world becomes a place full of creative possibilities. That is my ultimate goal.

In addition, I can provide you with valuable advice on how to avoid common mistakes and how to make better photographs.

On this site you will find many pages that will tell you about many more ways I may be able to help you. Look for the blue Related Posts links at the bottom of this page for more information.

Steadman Uhlich

_________

Insight is the Goal

One of the things I keep in mind when mentoring other people is my goal to make the lesson something that they “own” and understand fully. I want the mentee to understand the reasons and “see” it so clearly that it becomes something they will retain and value. This comes by sharing how I see their images or work and comparing how THEY see the work and THEIR vision. We discuss things. We compare their intent and their preliminary result (such as a raw image).

Then by use of questions the mentee will discover things for themselves. This may then be reinforced by examples and variations.

Choices are discussed.

Options uncovered.

Creativity unlocked.

The result is often an insight for the mentee.

In some cases this takes only a few minutes to “see” and understand a conceptual or visual difference, or to learn a new way of looking at the subject or a new technique.

In many cases this breakthrough can take just a few moments or even seconds!

When that “AHA!” moment occurs, it is stimulating and rewarding for both the mentee and the mentor. This shared discovery moment can be something that helps a photographer or artist break out of a box and make progress in fulfilling THEIR vision.

Steadman’s Simple Truths:

“Gear is easy to replace or change and can be changed in minutes.

Good habits take time and repetition to develop.

Bad habits can stick with you a lifetime IF they are not identified, recognized, and corrected.

Insights can make a difference in seconds!”

Steadman

_____________
_____________

How do you value learning?

The value of what you learn may be “priceless.”

Steadman’s guarantee:

If I can not offer a suggestion that could improve your photography or help you avoid image weaknesses in the future then there is no charge for the time we spend together.

In short, if I don’t see something I could improve or if I don’t offer you a suggestion for improvement, I will not charge you for my time!

You won’t find a better guarantee than that.

Steadman

________

Imagine.

Imagine how valuable that call will be to YOU if we can uncover a solution to your problems.

Imagine what you might learn from having a highly successful professional photographer and fine artist and successful art gallery owner with 25 years experience look at YOUR photo and give you a private discussion of YOUR photo.

Imagine how proud you will be when YOU learn how to make photos that make people say “WOW!”

Imagine how you will feel when you see YOUR Black & White images look like classic B&W photos you have admired all your life.

Imagine how satisfied you will feel when YOU learn how to make your own images look better using simple steps you will remember and be able to use again and again.

Imagine how you will better enjoy YOUR hobby or profession even more if you find ways to overcome obstacles to your skill improvement or your creativity.

Imagine how much more confident YOU will feel in the future when you learn how make better photographs.

Imagine the time you could save and the frustrations you could avoid if you find ways to make better images with simple solutions.

Imagine how your family or clients will respond when they notice the improvement in YOUR photography!

_____________

Steadman’s Method

1. When I teach or mentor or consult with photographers around the world, I use a method I call a Live Voice+Visual Dialog™ on a phone call.

Some people mistakenly think this is just a phone call. It is far from that!

This service is based on both of us sharing a dialog or conversation at the same time as we view your photos together!

We will use BOTH Voice and Visual communication at the same time!

That is not the full story.

You will need to try it to understand and to experience the great difference for yourself!

All communication is by live voice call (a phone call or Skype call).

In short you must call me and speak with me to use this service. No emails. No chat. No PMs. No text messages. No typing. No writing. It is easier and much better this way for many reasons.

_______________

Why does Steadman use Voice calls instead of email or text messages?

Simply because I can tell you many things in a phone call that I will not type and and things I cannot write as effectively.

It is much easier and better and faster as a means of communicating.

It allows us to have a deeper level of communication.

It is more friendly, more natural, and reduces the anxiety or intimidation you might naturally feel when consulting an expert about your photos.

It is more fluid and more immediate in response, so you don’t have to wait and wonder while waiting for an email or text message.

It is a better way of communicating meaning and subtle comments.

It is much more personal and more “human” than email.

It is much more FUN for both you and me!

It is the BEST way to communicate (aside from a real face to face meeting).

_______

What if this call is international?

I provide a truly global service via this site.

I have clients or mentees and photographers I am helping who are truly located around the world.

I communicate with them all via my special method of Live Voice+Visual Dialog.™

My method helps them all accelerate their learning and quickly improve their photography!

Please read below in this post.

You will find much more information about how I communicate with other photographers around the world in many languages!

If you speak English fluently, I can tell you more information and more clearly and more quickly than I can type. I can tell you more because I will have a “Live and Real Time” dialog or conversation with you. The difference between writing and speaking is considerable. You will see and understand on your first call why this is much better than a written comment or critique on a forum.

If English is NOT your first language or if you are concerned about using English because your use of English is NOT fluent or you may feel inhibited in any way from using English, please read down below in this post. I provide help in 18+ languages in addition to English, so I may be able to help you.

_____________
_____________

2. You will not be called by me!

I do NOT call outbound. You will call me when YOU are ready to speak about your photography.

This is so you can be assured that you will NOT be disturbed at a time that is inconvenient for YOU or your family or your work.

You call me by using your phone or Skype.

You may even make a long-distance or international call for FREE if you use a Skype to Skype (VOIP) call so there would be NO long distance phone charge to you.

_______________
________________

Is English a foreign language for you?

If English is not your native language, but is your second language, then you will find it much easier to communicate using my Live Voice+Visual Dialog™ communication method.

There is no need for you to worry about misspelled words or poor grammar or accent.

I will help you and you will find it easier to express yourself clearly.

If there are any questions, it is easier to get clarity because we will be talking in a dialog. If you ever need to ask me a question to clarify something you may not understand, it is very easy because we are in a dialog, with real-time live communication connecting us.

I have Global Operating Hours (Hours of Availability) that fit YOUR schedule around the globe!

You may also call within a wide window of hours. My Global Operating Hours are 9:00AM (0900 hours) to 9:00PM (2100 hours) SEVEN Days a week. Those hours are based on Eastern Standard Time (New York City’s time zone).

I frequently speak with photographers living on the opposite side of the earth from me. It is not unusual nor is it inconvenient for me to speak with photographers in Japan, Australia, Pacific Islands, China, India, Europe, etc. I do this every week and even on weekends!

Don’t let long distances inhibit you from accessing the expertise that can help you improve your photography!

__________
__________

Global Communications in English or Your Language (when possible)

What if English is not your first language?
What if your use of English is infrequent or limited?
What if you are not fluent in English?
What if your accent is strong?

You must speak some English to communicate with me, but you do NOT have to be fluent or your English could be “limited.”

English does not have to be your first language and you do not need a perfect accent. You do NOT have to be fluent in English. (see the testimonial letter down below).

I have studied 12+ languages other than English (my native language). I truly enjoy speaking with people from other countries, other cultures, and those who speak other languages.

I am accustomed to communicating with people who are using English as a second language. I regularly communicate with people who are from: Europe, the Middle East, Russia, Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

I may be able to help you even IF your use of English is limited or IF you do not consider yourself fluent in speaking English.

Many people understand more English than they feel comfortable speaking. I understand that and why.

Many people who do NOT speak English frequently or fluently may feel inhibited about calling to speak using English.

Do not feel that way.

I am an expert in cross-cultural communication.

______________

I can help you and will do my best to communicate effectively with you in your language!

I may be able to help you by speaking to you in:

1. French

2. Spanish

3. Portuguese (Brazilian)
   

4. German

5. Dutch

6. Italian

7. Japanese

8. Russian

9. Swahili
   

10. Mandarin Chinese

11. Catalan

12. Norwegian

13. Swedish

14. Danish

15. Polish

16. Romanian

17. Finnish (coming soon)

18. Bahasa Malaysia (coming soon)

19. Bahasa Indonesia (coming soon)

20. Croatian (coming soon)

21. Serbian (coming soon)

22. Slovenian (coming soon)

23. Tagalog (coming soon)

So if you speak or understand one of those languages and some English or if you speak English fluently, we should talk!

I do not claim to be fluent in those languages (except English) and my accent in those languages may make you wince or laugh at times too. But I will try to help you in YOUR language as much as possible. I may be able to tell you (while speaking in one of those languages above) what I see that could be improved in your images/photos and how you could do it.

If you understand one of those languages and speak some English (even if not fluently), OR if you do speak English, you should be able to understand me and what I will be able to tell you about your photos that may help you improve your photography.

I will keep my comments simple, my speaking pace in English at a pace comfortable for you, and I will make Simple Suggestions™ you should be able to understand and apply even IF your use of English is limited. Read more about how this works on the Six Minute Solution page .

Steadman

___________

Please tell others about this site.

That will help us help and inspire more photographers.

Just click this share button below.

________________

If this is your first visit to this site,

I encourage you to visit and read the following page

as it will help orient you to this site and some

very special opportunities for you.

Start Here

You should. It could help you.

_________________

If you are outside of the USA,

I encourage you to read the

Global Visitors Page

You should. It could help you.

_________________

Learn About Steadman’s

Six Minute Solution™

You should. It could help you.

________________

Seven ways you can help other photographers and yourself too!

Have you heard of Karma? Do you believe in the Golden Rule?

Karma is the belief that all deeds can shape the past, present, and future experiences. In the West, this is sometimes expressed by the Christian concept of “you reap what you sow.” In short, do good to others and good may come to you. I truly believe that helping others helps not only them, but also ourselves in ways we often cannot anticipate. Each action of good you do, can make the world a nicer place. Do you believe in the Golden Rule?

1. Tell others about this site.

If you frequent photography forums and see a good opportunity to let people there know about this site, please do. Others who read your favorite forums or blogs may be looking for free lessons and inspiring photographs from which they can learn. Or they may be new to photography forum posting and need some guidance on how to learn more from getting critiques of their photos. Just direct them to www.photomentors.com.

This site is written to inspire photographers of all levels and help them have a better experience in photography.

We even have ten pages devoted to tips on how to have a better experience on a photography forum and those tips may help your favorite forum have better posts and more participation.

2. Please tell at least three of your friends in your community or social network about this site.

If you are on Facebook for example, you could tell your friends.They could be at any level of photography. Anybody who likes photography can benefit from the free lessons or from seeing the thousands of inspiring photographs from some of the world’s best photographers. PhotoMentors has things designed to be of interest to ALL levels of photographers from Beginners to Advanced Professionals.

3. Click on one of the social bookmarking links in this page and let others know about this post or page or this new site.

Tweet your friends. Tell others you DIGG this site. Tell your Facebook friends. Look in the right column of this page and almost all pages on the site for the link that says “SHARE” and click on it to go a pop up list of bookmarking links. It is easy and fast. Or you can send an email to a friend through that link too. Here is another link so you can bookmark this page right now in two clicks of your mouse in three seconds.

_____________

Please take three seconds now to tell others about this site. That will help us help and inspire more photographers.

Just click this share button below.

______________________

4. Add a link to PhotoMentors site to your blog or site.

Or write a post on your blog about what you saw on this site. Did you see a photo that inspired you when you viewed a Masters of Photography Gallery here? Did you learn something about a photographer you had not known about before? Tell others about the thousands of photos by Masters of Photography found here. Remember, our focus is on providing free access to all kinds of photographs and information that will inspire photographers of all levels.

5. Save yourself time while also helping other photographers.

In the future you might come across a newbie or someone new to photography. They may be looking for inspiring examples of great photography or they may want some guidance. This site may help them have a better experience with photography too. You won’t have to type much to help them, all you have to do is simply post a link to this site and that may solve their problem with a couple of clicks of your mouse. Simply tell them to look for the section on Free Lessons and Tips. That helps them, saves you time, and helps me help other photographer learn. So, that is a Win+ Win+ Win.

6. Subscribe to the PhotoMentors mailing list for our FREE Newsletter.

Why? First because the newsletter will be used to tell you about Special Opportunities that may be very valuable to you. Some opportunities may involve substantial discounts on things photographers use. These will be “un-advertised” exclusive offers that may be as much as 50% – 70% OFF retail. Other opportunities are related to activities that may be for publishing images and other opportunities to learn or participate. The more subscribers the newsletter has will help us negotiate special offers and discounts from vendors that can then be passed on to you our readers.

It will only take a moment to add your email to the list. Simply fill in the simple Subscribe Form found on the right column of all pages here on the site. Look in the lower right column. The newsletter will keep you informed when we have special offers and opportunities for our friends around the world. You will also learn about exclusive discounts and other nice things.

Don’t worry about receiving too many newsletters or emails from us. We only send out the newsletter infrequently, but when we do, there will be something of value in it for you. There will be many valuable and exclusive things coming in the future, including great opportunities for photographers, so don’t miss this easy way to hear about it first.

7. Look around this site. Soak it in. Imagine. Be inspired!

You might find something else that interests you or helps you. In 2011 I plan to have hundreds of pages of freely accessible educational content, and 5,000+ inspiring photos by Masters of Photography, and dozens of free educational videos.

I recommend seeing the Site Map (Table of Contents) so you can easily see the long list of articles, posts, and pages listed by topics.

If you would like to see if I can help you as a mentor, then just give me a call using the Skype button or the phone number at the bottom of each Page.

Finally, do what you can to help others post their photos and also get comments and have a good time doing so. That makes the world a nicer place and gives us all more nice photography to see on the net.

Thank you for your help.

Steadman

________________

Your First Introductory Call is free, but what you might learn later is priceless!™

If you have Skype, simply click on the “Call Me” button below to make a free Skype-to-Skype call. Before you do, make sure the top button says “I’m Online” and is green.
If you don’t have Skype yet, you can download the free Skype software in minutes via the link below the buttons below.

Or, if you want to call using your own land-line phone or cellular phone, simply dial our Direct Dial number:

(646) 233-1511

Our phones are generally answered during our flexible Global Operating hours of 9:00AM (0900) to 9:00PM (2100) EST (New York City Time Zone). Feel free to call anytime within that 12 hour window, 7 days a week.

Call now. It is the first step to a new way of learning and growing in photography.

You will find our service begins with a friendly hello.

If we are not on a call with another photographer, we will be happy to speak with you. If you get our voicemail it means we are on a call with another photographer. In that case, simply leave a detailed message on our voicemail with instructions on how we should contact you. Most voicemail messages receive a call back within two hours, whenever possible. All emails are answered the same day, whenever possible.

If you prefer to send an email you may do that by visiting our Contact Page. Or by using the following email address:

steadman@photomentors.com

Most voicemail messages receive a call back within two hours, whenever possible. All emails are answered the same day, whenever possible.

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© 2010, Steadman Uhlich. All rights reserved.

Here is a warm welcome to all of the photographers visiting this site from Africa!

I was very pleased to notice that many photographers from Africa (North Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa) have visited my new website.

To learn more about this special service (e.g. cost, method, what you should prepare), please see the related detailed post titled: Steadman’s Six Minute Solution.™

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This post will explain the better communication method that Steadman Uhlich prefers and how you can use it to learn photography faster and better and more easily.

This post outlines the reasons and tools Steadman uses and provides links to the Free software and examples of tools (some free, some [...]]]>

Steadman Uhlich

This post will explain the better communication method that Steadman Uhlich prefers and how you can use it to learn photography faster and better and more easily.

This post outlines the reasons and tools Steadman uses and provides links to the Free software and examples of tools (some free, some not free) he recommends you use when working with him via PhotoMentors.

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How are you learning now?

How do you communicate with others on the internet about your photographs and your photography?

If you are like many of the photographers who are visiting this site, you may have learned about this site and me by visiting a photography forum on the internet.

Forums can be a good place to learn some things about photography and a good place to share some things related to photography.

Are you limiting yourself and your progress?

If you are depending on Photography Forums for “feedback” or comments on your photography, you may be seriously limiting your progress, your ability to learn, and your opportunities to improve your photography because of the inherent limitations of typical forum communications.

It has been my experience (over 10 years+) that most photography forums have serious limitations regarding communication and understanding. In most forums, there is an inherent limitation because the communication is only via short text messages (forum member comments in posted “threads”).  These are usually terse, short, and sometimes cryptic text messages.  Most are so short they lack depth or balance.

Another shortcoming is that many people misinterpret or misunderstand the meaning of these messages on forums.  This can lead to lack of understanding, hostility, hurt feelings, and generally a minimal amount of real communication and learning.

You should not limit yourself to forum comments.

There is a much better way to communicate about photography!

There is a much better way to learn about photography!

There is a much better way improve your photography!

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Steadman’s Method

1.  When I teach or mentor or consult with photographers around the world, I use a method I call  a Live Voice+Visual Dialog™ on a phone call.

Some people mistakenly think this is just a phone call.  It is far from that!

This service is based on both of us sharing a dialog or conversation at the same time as we view your photos together!

We will use BOTH Voice and Visual communication at the same time!

That is not the full story.

You will need to try it to understand and to experience the great difference for yourself!

All communication is by live voice call (a phone call or Skype call).

In short you must call me and speak with me to use this service. No emails. No chat. No PMs. No text messages. No typing. No writing.   It is easier and much better this way for many reasons.

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Why does Steadman use Voice calls instead of email or text messages?

Simply because I can tell you many things in a phone call that I will not type and and things I cannot write as effectively.

It is much easier and better and faster as a means of communicating.

It allows us to have a deeper level of communication.

It is more friendly, more natural, and reduces the anxiety or intimidation you might naturally feel when consulting an expert about your photos.

It is more fluid and more immediate in response, so you don’t have to wait and wonder while waiting for an email or text message.

It is a better way of communicating meaning and subtle comments.

It is much more personal and more “human” than email.

It is much more FUN for both you and me!

It is the BEST way to communicate (aside from a real face to face meeting).

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What if this call is international?

I provide a truly global service via this site.

I have clients or mentees and photographers I am helping who are truly located around the world.

I communicate with them all via my special method of  Live Voice+Visual Dialog.™

My method helps them all accelerate their learning and quickly improve their photography!

Please read below in this post.

You will find much more information about how I communicate with other photographers around the world in many languages!

If you speak English fluently, I can tell you more information and more clearly and more quickly than I can type. I can tell you more because I will have a “Live and Real Time” dialog or conversation with you. The difference between writing and speaking is considerable. You will see and understand on your first call why this is much better than a written comment or critique on a forum.

If English is NOT your first language or if you are concerned about using English because your use of English is NOT fluent or you may feel inhibited in any way from using English, please read down below in this post.  I provide help in 18+ languages in addition to English, so I may be able to help you.

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2. You will not be called by me!

I do NOT call outbound. You will call me when YOU are ready to speak about your photography.

This is so you can be assured that you will NOT be disturbed at a time that is inconvenient for YOU or your family or your work.

You call me by using your phone or Skype.

You may even make a long-distance or international call for FREE if you use a Skype to Skype (VOIP) call so there would be NO long distance phone charge to you.

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What is Skype?

Why is Skype so highly recommended by Steadman?

I use Skype to speak with my clients and mentees in Australia, the Philippines, Canada, and Europe and every call is totally FREE because we both used Skype. We have had 90 minute sessions that did not cost us any money for the phone call.

You might think I am recommending Skype because I get some kind of payment from them or a kickback or some kind of money from Skype.  On the contrary, I get nothing from Skype except FREE service just like you will.  I do not make money recommending Skype.  I am not paid by them.  I only recommend it because I SAVE money by using Skype and I find it very useful for my students/mentees around the world to use too.  You do NOT have to use Skype.

I use Skype every day with great success.

It is FREE software you can use too and is very EASY to use.

All you need is the free Skype software (you can download it in 5 minutes or less) and a microphone and speakers (or headset) attached to your computer!

About 20,000,000 people are using Skype at any hour, every day!  It is very popular and dependable.

Skype calls are usually “Crystal Clear” sound quality.

They sound better than typical long-distance phone calls and MUCH better than cell phone calls.

The sound quality, when using a headset and Skype to Skype, is unbelievably CLEAR and “LIVE” sounding.

You MAY use Skype.

You do NOT have to use Skype.

You may use your own phone or cell phone if you prefer.

You may call using your own phone service by calling my phone number (shown at the bottom of this page and every page of this site.

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How do YOU get Skype and use it?

You can download the free Skype software and be using it in about five minutes.

It is VERY easy to use and while it may sound “too good to be true” it is something that is remarkably good and free. Here is the link to the Skype site where you can learn more about it. Of course, be aware that Skype has many possible features and various services you CAN buy IF you want to do so.  But, you can use the basic service and software absolutely FREE and at no cost to you.

You only need to have a microphone on your computer (or laptop) with speakers. Or you can use a headset that has a microphone.

I recommend using a Skype certified headset, and those can be purchased at many local electronics stores around the world or via the Skype website (for about $28). Here is a Skype headset at the official Skype site that sells for just $29 with free shipping. You can also buy that same brand of headset from Amazon.com too.

I highly recommend getting a headset that has TWO ear speakers and a mute button and a volume control and USB connection. This typically costs about $25 for a nice headset.

Remember…

You MAY use Skype.

You do NOT have to use Skype.

You may use your own phone or cell phone if you prefer.

You may call using your own phone service by calling my phone number (shown at the bottom of this page and every page of this site.

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Is English a foreign language for you?

If English is not your native language, but is your second language, then you will find it much easier to communicate using my Live Voice+Visual Dialog™ communication method.

There is no need for you to worry about misspelled words or poor grammar or accent.

I will help you and you will find it easier to express yourself clearly.

If there are any questions, it is easier to get clarity because we will be talking in a dialog. If you ever need to ask me a question to clarify something you may not understand, it is very easy because we are in a dialog, with real-time live communication connecting us.

I have Global Operating Hours (Hours of Availability) that fit YOUR schedule around the globe!

You may also call within a wide window of hours. My Global Operating Hours are 9:00AM (0900 hours) to 9:00PM (2100 hours) SEVEN Days a week. Those hours are based on Eastern Standard Time (New York City’s time zone).

I frequently speak with photographers living on the opposite side of the earth from me. It is not unusual nor is it inconvenient for me to speak with photographers in Japan, Australia, Pacific Islands, China, India, Europe, etc. I do this every week and even on weekends!

Don’t let long distances inhibit you from accessing the expertise that can help you improve your photography!

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Global Communications in English or Your Language (when possible)

What if English is not your first language?
What if your use of English is infrequent or limited?
What if you are not fluent in English?
What if your accent is strong?

You must speak some English to communicate with me, but you do NOT have to be fluent or your English could be “limited.”

English does not have to be your first language and you do not need a perfect accent. You do NOT have to be fluent in English. (see the testimonial letter down below).

I have studied 12+ languages other than English (my native language). I truly enjoy speaking with people from other countries, other cultures, and those who speak other languages.

I am accustomed to communicating with people who are using English as a second language. I regularly communicate with people who are from: Europe, the Middle East, Russia, Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

I may be able to help you even IF your use of English is limited or IF you do not consider yourself fluent in speaking English.

Many people understand more English than they feel comfortable speaking. I understand that and why.

Many people who do NOT speak English frequently or fluently may feel inhibited about calling to speak using English.

Do not feel that way.

I am an expert in cross-cultural communication.

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I can help you and will do my best to communicate effectively with you in your language!

I may be able to help you by speaking to you in:

1. French

2. Spanish

3. Portuguese (Brazilian)
   

4. German

5. Dutch

6. Italian

7. Japanese

8. Russian

9. Swahili
   

10. Mandarin Chinese

11. Catalan

12. Norwegian

13. Swedish

14. Danish

15. Polish

16. Romanian

17. Finnish (coming soon)

18. Bahasa Malaysia (coming soon)

19. Bahasa Indonesia (coming soon)

20. Croatian (coming soon)

21. Serbian (coming soon)

22. Slovenian (coming soon)

23. Tagalog (coming soon)

So if you speak or understand one of those languages and some English or if you speak English fluently, we should talk!

I do not claim to be fluent in those languages (except English) and my accent in those languages may make you wince or laugh at times too. But I will try to help you in YOUR language as much as possible. I may be able to tell you (while speaking in one of those languages above) what I see that could be improved in your images/photos and how you could do it.

If you understand one of those languages and speak some English (even if not fluently), OR if you do speak English, you should be able to understand me and what I will be able to tell you about your photos that may help you improve your photography.

I will keep my comments simple, my speaking pace in English at a pace comfortable for you, and I will make Simple Suggestions™ you should be able to understand and apply even IF your use of English is limited. Read more about how this works on the Six Minute Solution page .

Steadman

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4. Show me your photos!

You must be able to show your photograph to me in a quick manner, such as sending me a link (this is very easy to do and very fast using Skype) to the specific photograph in your online portfolio or e-mailing the photograph to me while we speak or before your call.

IF you want to discuss more than one photo, please have those photos ready to view in a folder together or together and apart from other photos in your portfolio or website.

We need to view them together.

We both need quick and easy access to the files/images.

For example you might want to have me review and help you with a group of photos from a single important photo session of yours. Or you might want me to review your “Pitch Book” prior to an important commercial pitch. Or you might want me to review your website images and see if I see things that may show weaknesses you should not show in marketing materials or websites.

If you want me to look over your entire portfolio and discuss it with you, that can also be arranged.

I call that “Steadman’s Deep Portfolio Review” session.

I highly recommend it too.

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Prepare Your Photo for Viewing

This is important:

The jpg photo must be ready to show to me (not in the “RAW” file format) and should be no larger than 900w x 700h pixel dimensions at screen resolution.

I also recommend having quick access to the ORIGINAL image file (at low resolution) or “original shot” as well as the final edited version.  Seeing both will allow me to better understand your work process or how you may have changed or edited the original image/shot.

This is so I can see the entire image on my monitor without scrolling. We should both be able to see the entire image on ONE screen without scrolling. That is important.

Prepare your photo PRIOR to calling me and have your links ready to send me if you have your photos on a website.

IF you host your photo on a photo sharing site (like SmugMug or Flickr or Zenfolio) your photo will probably already be sized to a screen size so you may not need to do anything special for me to see it completely on one screen.

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5. You should use a calibrated monitor when we talk and as we view your photos together during our conversation.

This is important because when viewing your photo, one of the first things we will discuss is the exposure of the photo you show me.

In order for YOU to get benefit from my comments and suggestions, it will be important that both of us are viewing the photo using calibrated monitors so we can know we are seeing the same exposure or appearance of the image. For example, if I see that your photo can benefit from more contrast, it is important to know that you are looking at the image on a calibrated monitor so you can see the difference.

If your monitor is NOT calibrated yet, you can purchase a monitor calibrator for about $70 and it is very easy to calibrate your monitor. This can usually be done by anyone (it is VERY easy now and can be done by people with very limited computer skills or knowledge) and it only takes about 5 minutes to calibrate. The calibrator I recommend (see link below) comes with VERY simple software that is easy to use and almost works entirely by itself with you only required to install it and occasionally click on a “yes” button on the screen. Here is a link to a calibrator I recommend: Monitor Calibrator Devices

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How do you value learning?

The value of what you learn may be “priceless.”

Steadman’s guarantee:

If I can not offer a suggestion that could improve your photography or help you avoid image weaknesses in the future then there is no charge for the time we spend together.

In short, if I don’t see something I could improve or if I don’t offer you a suggestion for improvement, I will not charge you for my time!

You won’t find a better guarantee than that.

Steadman

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Imagine.

Imagine how valuable that call will be to YOU if we can uncover a solution to your problems.

Imagine what you might learn from having a highly successful professional photographer and fine artist and successful art gallery owner with 25 years experience look at YOUR photo and give you a private discussion of YOUR photo.

Imagine how proud you will be when YOU learn how to make photos that make people say “WOW!”

Imagine how you will feel when you see YOUR Black & White images look like classic B&W photos you have admired all your life.

Imagine how satisfied you will feel when YOU learn how to make your own images look better using simple steps you will remember and be able to use again and again.

Imagine how you will better enjoy YOUR hobby or profession even more if you find ways to overcome obstacles to your skill improvement or your creativity.

Imagine how much more confident YOU will feel in the future when you learn how make better photographs.

Imagine the time you could save and the frustrations you could avoid if you find ways to make better images with simple solutions.

Imagine how your family or clients will respond when they notice the improvement in YOUR photography!

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Ready to Start?

Ready to Learn?

Ready to Improve?

Here are the few simple steps to take for a Six Minute Solution session:

1. Select the photo you want to discuss. Make sure it is in a jpg form. Have a two more photos ready, just in case.

2. Use a calibrated monitor during the session call.

3. IF this is your First Introduction Call with Steadman, it is totally FREE (no fee, no cost).

4. Contact Steadman during the PhotoMentors Global Operating Hours (shown below) using either Skype or your own phone. First, look at the PhotoMentors website and look at the Skype Online status buttons (upper right corner) to make sure Steadman is available at that time.

5. IF you are using Skype, you can send Steadman the link to your photo or the photo file using the Skype Chat box. IF you are using your own phone, you can send him the photo via email (address shown below).

6. Get ready to take notes and more importantly get ready to learn.

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What if you want or need more time?

No problem! No worries! You can always extend your Session or arrange to have a longer session or you may elect to have a different kind of help involving longer term mentoring. Many things are possible. I am flexible.

I do not want to limit your growth.

That said, this Six Minute Solution™ Session is designed to be fast, easy, and helpful to YOU. It is short but also long enough to allow me to look at your photo and make some Simple Suggestions that may help you improve that photo and other photos in the future.

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Before You Buy Anything!

“Before you buy anything, you should consider the source and their background.

When buying advice from someone, consider their reputation for helping other people.

I encourage you to read and consider the many Testimonials about my work helping others.

Take a look at the 200+ Testimonials from other photographers.

Read some of the Verbatim Testimonial Letters.

Do this before you spend any money. “

Steadman

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Hundreds of Testimonials from Photographers!

Here is a link to the Testimonials Category page of posts here on this site. There you will find many different posts of Testimonials from real people who have seen real results. Those are all Verbatim Testimonials.

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A Verbatim Testimonial Letter from a Mentor Session with Steadman Uhlich

Note: this Mentoring Session was conducted using voice over the internet (via skype) and image file transfers over the internet with the call taking place between the USA and France. The voice quality was crystal clear (it sounded like they were in the same room), the conversation was fun, stimulating, and electric with creativity, humor, and sharing. The only thing they could not share was the bottle of wine.

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“I came across Steadman Uhlich in a photography forum where both of us participate, and I was impressed with his commitment to helping people. From there, we shared some views, and, when he informed me that he was setting up a place where people could learn and improve, I knew I was going to try it out.

As it happens, that day, I had gone out and tried to make the most of the last of the autumn leaves. I love trees, especially when clad in full colour, but, somehow, have not been able to get any tree shots that make me go “WOW.” Out of maybe 300 such shots accumulated over 2 years shots, not one of trees, even though I love them, and shot them hundreds of times.

Now enter Steadman Uhlich. I told him this “story”, and expressed frustration. He didn’t give me any technical tips. I assume that, as he knew I could handle other types of shots/subjects, he also knew that the problem was more in “what to want to do” than in “what to do” or “how to do it”. So he told me what to want to do.

‘Imagine the tree in its permanence. Things come and go, people come and go, weather comes and goes, seasons come and go, trees remain. Go out and shoot the tree in all its varying conditions.’

Within a couple of minutes, I was totally inspired, having understood why I have up to now failed, and having had my mind opened to avenues that I had not even considered in how to deepen my approach to photography.

This part of the conversation lasted but a few minutes.

My experience as a business consultant as well as a personal development coach tells me that Steadman Uhlich is exactly who he claims, a true mentor.

Like a locksmith who can pick locks and open doors in people’s minds that free up capability, creativity and talent about photography.

Such people are rare, I am priviledged to have found one who will deepen the pleasure and richness of my hobby.

Thanks, Steady!

Philippe”

A Verbatim Testimonial Letter from a Mentor Session with Steadman Uhlich

“I just wanted to drop a quick note to relay the experience I had with Steadman Uhlich a couple of days ago. On Sunday, I had the pleasure of meeting Steadman in person and spending over four hours talking (in an onsite, face-to-face Mentoring Session), looking at work I had done and going over a little post processing. The time just flew by.

Steadman opened my eyes to many things including composition, shadows and light. Things I thought I had a grasp on, but no I did not.

He truly showed me a way to look at subjects in a way I have not read in books.

His way of teaching and making me look at myself is relaxed and laid back and very refreshing.

I would encourage anyone interested in bettering their photography skills to take the time and give him a call. You will not be disappointed in the time spent on the phone with Steadman. I am looking forward to our future meetings and learning as much as I can from him.”

Doug

Verbatim Testimonial Quote from a Mentor Session with Steadman Uhlich

“Hi, my name is Jeffrey and I am from the Philippines. I just had a Free call using Skype with Photomentors and talked to Steadman Uhlich about photography and what I want to create.

When I first heard his voice, I was not nervous at all even though speaking in English, since English is my Third language.

The conversation that we had was worth it, all of the things that needed to be discussed were really clear, from voice to details.

I am also new in photography and after the conversation and my readings in the PhotoMentors website pages, I was inspired and have decided to take a journey with Photomentors.

I think this is way better than a photography workshop that I’ve attended because this will become more of a “Mentor and Student” relationship rather than “Teacher and Group of people Relationship”.

I believe Photomentors can change your life in a better way not just in photography, but also in your life as a person, after the call and the readings in the website.

You’ll never know, One Call could Change your life! “

Jeffrey

Davao, Philippines

Verbatim Testimonial Quote from a consultation with Steadman Uhlich

Steady,

I just wanted to take a few minutes to again thank you for all that you’ve done for me.

I originally posted on [photography forum], a project that I was trying to accomplish with my Grand Daughter, utilizing Natural Light, of her playing her guitar by the window. I knew that I wanted to do them in B&W, so I posted my 1st try on [photography forum], in the People Photography forum. I was getting a lot of people looking by no one really taking the time to comment.

I really was looking for help in this area, as I really wasn’t just posting shots, I really wanted to learn & improve my results.

Steady, this is where you came along, you presented me with some positive comments, but at the same time, showed me where improvement could be made, or at least explored. You offered to talk to me, for a few minutes, to further discuss some of your comments.

I must admit, that at the beginning I was somewhat hesitant, as I’m “fairly new” into photography & thought that I might easily be overwhelmed, in our talks. How wrong I was!!!

Steady, you immediately made me feel right at home, no intimidation at all.

We were miles apart, yet I felt like you were right there with me, not talking down to me, but to me & where I maybe didn’t understand what you were saying, or what you meant, you took the time to reword things, explain, maybe in more detail, but using another approach. I found myself, even asking for more & more.

Then we started analyzing the pictures that I had posted.

You started pointing out things to me, especially in the facial area, that I never really saw, they were always there, but what a difference in the eyes of the beholder.

We started discussing the limitations that I had in where I was shooting the pictures (in my daughter’s kitchen, table & chairs pulled off to the side, me shooting out in the hall way). You could have very easily said, “well find another spot”, but you didn’t. You sat down & said, “so let’s see what we can do with what we have”.

Ideas, that you mentioned, about positioning, cropping, trying to get the viewers’ eyes to do some of the work for us, showed me so much in a different perspective.

Can’t thank you enough!!

Thanks again,
Bob V.

Verbatim Testimonial Quote from a consultation with Steadman Uhlich

“Enabled me to Unlock..”

This was the third time I mentored with Steadman Uhlich, or, more accurately, was mentored by him.

Today my issue was that I had taken a picture which I really liked, posted it on a couple of forums, and, uncharacteristically received, no comment or response whatsoever. So I asked Steady why that might be.

He started by looking at my picture, stating that he saw that it had potential, and asking me what I saw in it. I mentioned the straight stem of the flower, and the sphere adorning it, and the contrast with the sideways leaves, like so many brushstrokes in Oriental style.

He agreed with my “take” on my picture, and said that, if that was the case, why did I not do simple things to make that more immediately visible to the viewer?

He suggested darkening the background. That took me all of 30 seconds, and already made a significant impact. Then he suggested different framing and or cropping, and gave me 4 options. Another 4 or 5 minutes maybe.

Simple, once Steady had suggested it.

He made it feel so obvious, yet nobody else had seen the potential of the picture and enabled me to unlock it.

Thanks, Steady! You and I must do this more often.

Philippe Berend

Verbatim Testimonial Quote from a consultation with Steadman Uhlich

“You have restored my self confidence.”

“Just a short note to say that [our consultation using] Skype yesterday was

the most effective photographic tutorial of any length of time that I have experienced.

Your advice pinpointed for me a couple of areas where I was going astray, especially in the composition of my photos and by helping me identify those areas you have restored my self confidence, which was seriously lagging.

If you can achieve what you did for me in just [that short time], then I would have to say you are a genius.

I cannot thank you enough

I will be back. Many, many thanks”
Timothy Ashton
Sydney, Australia

Verbatim Testimonial Quote from a consultation with Steadman Uhlich

On Steadman’s Six Minute Solution

“Hi my name is Jeffrey, I am from Davao, Philippines.

I have heard about this new service from Steadman Uhlich at PhotoMentors called the “Six Minute Solution.” As a mentee from PhotoMentors, Steady and I had a talk via Skype from several photos that we take a look at and some of these photos were quickly fixed and improved with Steadman’s “Six Minute Solution.”

I am totally amazed on how Steady made my snapshot photo look great and that you could even do it with a non professional camera in a short period of time.

He could provide some solution on how to improve your photo quickly, and that includes photos possibly taken from your camera such as; DSLR, point and shoot or even with a Mobile phone camera.

Just imagine how your photo will be quickly fixed or improve with a low cost session from a 10 year professional photographer who had his own art gallery exhibit shop.

Yes, only one photo per call but one photo could make a big difference on how you shoot the next hundreds or thousands of pictures in your life.“

Jeffery Wee
Davao, Philippines

A Verbatim Testimonial Letter from a series of Six Minute Solution Sessions with Steadman Uhlich

“As a hobbyist family photographer, I was a bit anxious about showing
some of my pictures to a pro for feedback.

I can, however, not commend Steadman enough on his skills as a mentor.

He is a natural with how he approaches the areas where improvement can be made, taking his time to really make sure that you understand the points being made in a very easy-going and friendly dialogue.

His suggestions are efficient and to the point, focusing not only on the specifics of a particular photo, but also,

taking care to explain why and how this could apply to many other photos as well.

Highly recommended!”

David, Switzerland

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Steadman’s Notes:

Bob is now on the path of making beautiful, Black & White, natural light portraits in a very limited space.

Philippe is finding new ways to look at his fine art photography subjects with renewed enthusiasm and confidence.

Jeffery is learning how to make photos of people that capture attention with compositions that are stronger and “Art Gallery Quality.”

Tim has regained his confidence in his work and is stimulated to try new compositions and new ways of presenting his vision to the viewer.

David now has a new set of conceptual visualization tools to use when composing his photos and working with his model. He is now able to see that there may be hidden beauty in a photo that can be discovered in just a few minutes…in fact, in Six Minutes or less!

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How can I help you?

My Role as Your Mentor

The most important thing I can do is inspire you to look at your photography differently and to challenge you to consider new ways of making photographs.

From this, you will find new creativity inside yourself and new inspirations in the world around you. When that happens, you will feel the Power of WOW as the world becomes a place full of creative possibilities. That is my ultimate goal.

In addition, I can provide you with valuable advice on how to avoid common mistakes and how to make better photographs.

On this site you will find many pages that will tell you about many more ways I may be able to help you. Look for the blue Related Posts links at the bottom of this page for more information.

Steadman Uhlich

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Insight is the Goal

One of the things I keep in mind when mentoring other people is my goal to make the lesson something that they “own” and understand fully. I want the mentee to understand the reasons and “see” it so clearly that it becomes something they will retain and value. This comes by sharing how I see their images or work and comparing how THEY see the work and THEIR vision. We discuss things. We compare their intent and their preliminary result (such as a raw image).

Then by use of questions the mentee will discover things for themselves. This may then be reinforced by examples and variations.

Choices are discussed.

Options uncovered.

Creativity unlocked.

The result is often an insight for the mentee.

In some cases this takes only a few minutes to “see” and understand a conceptual or visual difference, or to learn a new way of looking at the subject or a new technique.

In many cases this breakthrough can take just a few moments or even seconds!

When that “AHA!” moment occurs, it is stimulating and rewarding for both the mentee and the mentor. This shared discovery moment can be something that helps a photographer or artist break out of a box and make progress in fulfilling THEIR vision.

Steadman’s Simple Truths:

“Gear is easy to replace or change and can be changed in minutes.

Good habits take time and repetition to develop.

Bad habits can stick with you a lifetime IF they are not identified, recognized, and corrected.

Insights can make a difference in seconds!”

Steadman

________________

Is English a foreign language for you?

If English is not your native language, but is your second language, then you will find it much easier to communicate using my Live Voice+Visual Dialog™ communication method.

There is no need for you to worry about misspelled words or poor grammar or accent.

I will help you and you will find it easier to express yourself clearly.

If there are any questions, it is easier to get clarity because we will be talking in a dialog. If you ever need to ask me a question to clarify something you may not understand, it is very easy because we are in a dialog, with real-time live communication connecting us.

I have Global Operating Hours (Hours of Availability) that fit YOUR schedule around the globe!

You may also call within a wide window of hours. My Global Operating Hours are 9:00AM (0900 hours) to 9:00PM (2100 hours) SEVEN Days a week. Those hours are based on Eastern Standard Time (New York City’s time zone).

I frequently speak with photographers living on the opposite side of the earth from me. It is not unusual nor is it inconvenient for me to speak with photographers in Japan, Australia, Pacific Islands, China, India, Europe, etc. I do this every week and even on weekends!

Don’t let long distances inhibit you from accessing the expertise that can help you improve your photography!

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Global Communications in English or Your Language (when possible)

What if English is not your first language?
What if your use of English is infrequent or limited?
What if you are not fluent in English?
What if your accent is strong?

You must speak some English to communicate with me, but you do NOT have to be fluent or your English could be “limited.”

English does not have to be your first language and you do not need a perfect accent. You do NOT have to be fluent in English. (see the testimonial letter down below).

I have studied 12+ languages other than English (my native language). I truly enjoy speaking with people from other countries, other cultures, and those who speak other languages.

I am accustomed to communicating with people who are using English as a second language. I regularly communicate with people who are from: Europe, the Middle East, Russia, Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

I may be able to help you even IF your use of English is limited or IF you do not consider yourself fluent in speaking English.

Many people understand more English than they feel comfortable speaking. I understand that and why.

Many people who do NOT speak English frequently or fluently may feel inhibited about calling to speak using English.

Do not feel that way.

I am an expert in cross-cultural communication.

______________

I can help you and will do my best to communicate effectively with you in your language!

I may be able to help you by speaking to you in:

1. French

2. Spanish

3. Portuguese (Brazilian)
   

4. German

5. Dutch

6. Italian

7. Japanese

8. Russian

9. Swahili
   

10. Mandarin Chinese

11. Catalan

12. Norwegian

13. Swedish

14. Danish

15. Polish

16. Romanian

17. Finnish (coming soon)

18. Bahasa Malaysia (coming soon)

19. Bahasa Indonesia (coming soon)

20. Croatian (coming soon)

21. Serbian (coming soon)

22. Slovenian (coming soon)

23. Tagalog (coming soon)

So if you speak or understand one of those languages and some English or if you speak English fluently, we should talk!

I do not claim to be fluent in those languages (except English) and my accent in those languages may make you wince or laugh at times too. But I will try to help you in YOUR language as much as possible. I may be able to tell you (while speaking in one of those languages above) what I see that could be improved in your images/photos and how you could do it.

If you understand one of those languages and speak some English (even if not fluently), OR if you do speak English, you should be able to understand me and what I will be able to tell you about your photos that may help you improve your photography.

I will keep my comments simple, my speaking pace in English at a pace comfortable for you, and I will make Simple Suggestions™ you should be able to understand and apply even IF your use of English is limited. Read more about how this works on the Six Minute Solution page .

Steadman

___________

Please tell others about this site.

That will help us help and inspire more photographers.

Just click this share button below.

________________

If this is your first visit to this site,

I encourage you to visit and read the following page

as it will help orient you to this site and some

very special opportunities for you.

Start Here

You should. It could help you.

_________________

If you are outside of the USA,

I encourage you to read the

Global Visitors Page

You should. It could help you.

_________________

Learn About Steadman’s

Six Minute Solution™

You should. It could help you.

________________

Seven ways you can help other photographers and yourself too!

Have you heard of Karma? Do you believe in the Golden Rule?

Karma is the belief that all deeds can shape the past, present, and future experiences. In the West, this is sometimes expressed by the Christian concept of “you reap what you sow.” In short, do good to others and good may come to you. I truly believe that helping others helps not only them, but also ourselves in ways we often cannot anticipate. Each action of good you do, can make the world a nicer place. Do you believe in the Golden Rule?

1. Tell others about this site.

If you frequent photography forums and see a good opportunity to let people there know about this site, please do. Others who read your favorite forums or blogs may be looking for free lessons and inspiring photographs from which they can learn. Or they may be new to photography forum posting and need some guidance on how to learn more from getting critiques of their photos. Just direct them to www.photomentors.com.

This site is written to inspire photographers of all levels and help them have a better experience in photography.

We even have ten pages devoted to tips on how to have a better experience on a photography forum and those tips may help your favorite forum have better posts and more participation.

2. Please tell at least three of your friends in your community or social network about this site.

If you are on Facebook for example, you could tell your friends.They could be at any level of photography. Anybody who likes photography can benefit from the free lessons or from seeing the thousands of inspiring photographs from some of the world’s best photographers. PhotoMentors has things designed to be of interest to ALL levels of photographers from Beginners to Advanced Professionals.

3. Click on one of the social bookmarking links in this page and let others know about this post or page or this new site.

Tweet your friends. Tell others you DIGG this site. Tell your Facebook friends. Look in the right column of this page and almost all pages on the site for the link that says “SHARE” and click on it to go a pop up list of bookmarking links. It is easy and fast. Or you can send an email to a friend through that link too. Here is another link so you can bookmark this page right now in two clicks of your mouse in three seconds.

_____________

Please take three seconds now to tell others about this site. That will help us help and inspire more photographers.

Just click this share button below.

______________________

4. Add a link to PhotoMentors site to your blog or site.

Or write a post on your blog about what you saw on this site. Did you see a photo that inspired you when you viewed a Masters of Photography Gallery here? Did you learn something about a photographer you had not known about before? Tell others about the thousands of photos by Masters of Photography found here. Remember, our focus is on providing free access to all kinds of photographs and information that will inspire photographers of all levels.

5. Save yourself time while also helping other photographers.

In the future you might come across a newbie or someone new to photography. They may be looking for inspiring examples of great photography or they may want some guidance. This site may help them have a better experience with photography too. You won’t have to type much to help them, all you have to do is simply post a link to this site and that may solve their problem with a couple of clicks of your mouse. Simply tell them to look for the section on Free Lessons and Tips. That helps them, saves you time, and helps me help other photographer learn. So, that is a Win+ Win+ Win.

6. Subscribe to the PhotoMentors mailing list for our FREE Newsletter.

Why? First because the newsletter will be used to tell you about Special Opportunities that may be very valuable to you. Some opportunities may involve substantial discounts on things photographers use. These will be “un-advertised” exclusive offers that may be as much as 50% – 70% OFF retail. Other opportunities are related to activities that may be for publishing images and other opportunities to learn or participate. The more subscribers the newsletter has will help us negotiate special offers and discounts from vendors that can then be passed on to you our readers.

It will only take a moment to add your email to the list. Simply fill in the simple Subscribe Form found on the right column of all pages here on the site. Look in the lower right column. The newsletter will keep you informed when we have special offers and opportunities for our friends around the world. You will also learn about exclusive discounts and other nice things.

Don’t worry about receiving too many newsletters or emails from us. We only send out the newsletter infrequently, but when we do, there will be something of value in it for you. There will be many valuable and exclusive things coming in the future, including great opportunities for photographers, so don’t miss this easy way to hear about it first.

7. Look around this site. Soak it in. Imagine. Be inspired!

You might find something else that interests you or helps you. In 2011 I plan to have hundreds of pages of freely accessible educational content, and 5,000+ inspiring photos by Masters of Photography, and dozens of free educational videos.

I recommend seeing the Site Map (Table of Contents) so you can easily see the long list of articles, posts, and pages listed by topics.

If you would like to see if I can help you as a mentor, then just give me a call using the Skype button or the phone number at the bottom of each Page.

Finally, do what you can to help others post their photos and also get comments and have a good time doing so. That makes the world a nicer place and gives us all more nice photography to see on the net.

Thank you for your help.

Steadman

________________

Your First Introductory Call is free, but what you might learn later is priceless!™

If you have Skype, simply click on the “Call Me” button below to make a free Skype-to-Skype call. Before you do, make sure the top button says “I’m Online” and is green.
If you don’t have Skype yet, you can download the free Skype software in minutes via the link below the buttons below.

Or, if you want to call using your own land-line phone or cellular phone, simply dial our Direct Dial number:

(646) 233-1511

Our phones are generally answered during our flexible Global Operating hours of 9:00AM (0900) to 9:00PM (2100) EST (New York City Time Zone). Feel free to call anytime within that 12 hour window, 7 days a week.

Call now. It is the first step to a new way of learning and growing in photography.

You will find our service begins with a friendly hello.

If we are not on a call with another photographer, we will be happy to speak with you. If you get our voicemail it means we are on a call with another photographer. In that case, simply leave a detailed message on our voicemail with instructions on how we should contact you. Most voicemail messages receive a call back within two hours, whenever possible. All emails are answered the same day, whenever possible.

If you prefer to send an email you may do that by visiting our Contact Page. Or by using the following email address:

steadman@photomentors.com

Most voicemail messages receive a call back within two hours, whenever possible. All emails are answered the same day, whenever possible.

.

© 2010, Steadman Uhlich. All rights reserved.

This post is about the value of having an objective discussion of your photos. To many photographers, this is called a “critique.”

Often, they depend on uninformed friends, or possibly on the internet photography forums (which may be [...]]]>

Steadman Uhlich

This post is about the value of having an objective discussion of your photos. To many photographers, this is called a “critique.”

Unfortunately, most photographers never get a balanced or “true critique” of their photos.

Often, they depend on uninformed friends, or possibly on the internet photography forums (which may be biased, misleading, harsh, discouraging, and offer little in the way of helpful advice).

Through PhotoMentors, you can go beyond a poorly made critique, to something much more valuable and helpful. PhotoMentors can help you learn to improve dramatically and may transform your own perspective about your work (in a more positive manner) and in how an image critique can truly help you.

___________

Why do you want to have comments or a critique of your photographs?

Obviously, there could be many reasons why you want to get someone else to give you an honest critique of your image or work.

_________________________

Are you looking for praise?

Are you looking for ways to improve?

Are you looking for objective opinions?

Are you looking for confirmation of your own choices and direction?

Are you considering a possible career as a Professional photographer?

Are you preparing an important photo for exhibition or sale or portfolio marketing?

Are you unsure of which of several images is the “best one?”

Are you concerned that your current income as a professional photographer is not where it should be?

Are you really being honest with yourself as to why you want a critique?

_________________________

We all want to know…

“As photographers and artists, we all want to know how our work affects others.

We all want to know if it’s any good.

We all want to know, which is our best work.

We all want to know how others see our work and so we can use that to improve our work.”

Steadman Uhlich

_________

“It’s my Art.”

If you consider yourself an “Artist” then you will probably look for something besides just the market value of your work.

Your motivation may not include “making money.” You may really want to know if your images or work affects people. Does it mean anything to anyone else? does it make a difference? Does it say something? Does it move someone? We all want to know how others feel when they see our photos. This is entirely natural, if you are an artist, it may be the MOST important aspect of criticism or commentary from others.

_______

“It’s my Business.”

Of course, not everyone in photography considers themselves an artist or desires to be an “Artist.” For some photographers, the business of photography is “a business.” For them, the goal is to be a successful business owner.

If you don’t consider yourself an artist, your view may lean more to wondering how your skills can make you more money.

I understand that POV too.

So you might be wondering which style or what “look” is going to be most marketable, or easier to sell, or more likely to help you pay your bills.

But dealing with people you don’t know or complete strangers can be difficult. At some times, you may receive criticism from strangers. This can be very difficult for most people to accept.

____________

The Long-Term Negative Effect of Harsh Criticism

If the criticism you receive is harsh or mysterious or personal or anonymous, it can cause resentment, and discourage photographers and artists.

History is full of true and tragic stories of artists whose careers and personalities were subjected to the long-term negative effects of harsh criticism.

For most, the harsh criticism caused them to question their own value or the worth of their art.  For some, the harsh criticism ended their art careers.

History Shows Harsh Criticism is Often Wrong

In many documented and famous cases, the harsh criticism was later seen as narrow minded or short sighted, or just biased,  as some of these photographers and artists became world famous and were later considered some of the best in the history of Art or Photography.

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Five things you should know about Harsh Criticism:

Criticism does NOT have to be “harsh” in order to be effective.

Most “harsh criticism” is one-sided or “False Negative.”

Most “harsh criticism” is based on bias and usually on limited understanding of the artist and their goals.

Most “harsh critics” have little advice to offer for positive change and most fail to offer possible solutions.

Many “harsh critics” on internet photography forums may not know what they are talking about and may be voicing criticism for the fun of it, out of spite, out of ignorance, or because of their own insecurities.

Steadman Uhlich

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The Give and Take of Criticism

One bit of advice you may hear is this: be able to defend your image and your choices. Be able to tell people how you made it and why you make it look the way it does. Be able to tell people what it means to you and what you see in it and what you feel.

On the other hand, it is very common for people to get defensive when their images or their artwork is criticized to any degree on the Internet.

Oddly enough, sometimes the critics snap back when their criticism or comments are questioned. To paraphrase one photographer, “Sometimes the critics themselves are more thin-skinned than the people who post the photos on a forum.”

________

“One of the key things you’ll have to confront in order to make progress as a photographer or artist, is whether you are truly willing to engage in an honest critique of your work.

An honest critique is NOT the same as ‘Harsh Criticism.’”

Steadman Uhlich

________

If you are willing to listen to others and gain something from their comments, it can be very beneficial to you and your growth.

Notice carefully that I use the word “can” when saying “can be beneficial.”

________

“The wrong kind of critique or criticism can be detrimental to some, discouraging to most, and useless to many.”

Steadman Uhlich

____________

That is why PhotoMentors has a different Way.

Our Way (or method) is based on the unique and proprietary approach taken by Steadman Uhlich. His approach is a more balanced view of photography critique and commentary. He calls it “The Balanced Critique.” Others call it “Steadman’s Way.”

Through PhotoMentors, you can have Steadman Uhlich give you a critique of a single image, several images, images from a recent photo session, or an entire portfolio review.

You can also have Steadman help you decide which image is the best from a set of images.

You can also have Steadman review your website images or discuss special images you may want to use in contests or self-promotion.

You will have to experience it yourself to understand that significant difference, a difference that makes “all the difference.”

It can transform the way you see your own photography and help you get more clarity on your own vision for your future.

To give you just a little bit of an idea of how Steadman’s Way of Critique has affected others in positive ways, take a look at the Testimonials page here on this site.

On that Testimonials page, you will find the verbatim written comments from over 200+ photographers who have seen the benefit and the difference in Steadman’s method and approach. Those comments were unsolicited remarks from people who saw the benefit as it applied to them even if the photos were not theirs.

Here are just a few quotes from those testimonials. We invite you to read the Testimonials Page because it may open your eyes to another dimension of what an Image Critique can be:

Testimonials from Photographers About Steadman Uhlich’s Critiques

“His thoughtful and well composed comments and critique are wonderful to read as well as being instructional and inspirational for many like me…”

“He provides positive and insightful critique to help others improve. He does it with a polite, caring and helpful attitude and imparts his vast knowledge of photography and technique.”

“I am always astounded by your awesome critiques.”

“Your critique is simply amazing.”

“Your thoughts are well organized, comments well written and advice given in the most non-offensive and constructive terms possible.”

_

But as you read those testimonials, remember that what they experienced is just a small aspect of what Steadman’s True Balanced Critique can really be.

They only saw one facet of what is possible.

You see, they only got a short critique via email or posted on a forum and without the benefit of some of the most important aspects of Steadman’s Way.

There is much more depth and much more value to a True Balanced Critique that is not revealed in a short, free, critique via a forum or email.

To see that difference Steadman’s Balanced Critique can make for you, you will just need to experience it for yourself.

It can be liberating, invigorating, stimulating, transformational, and inspirational. It may help you in ways you cannot anticipate now. It could make the difference in your success or satisfaction too. Call today to find out how Steadman can help you.

After reading this post, I suggest reading the following post that gives more information about the four different types of image critiques available and the key differences in a good balanced critique versus a False Positive critique or False Negative critique.

I strongly encourage you to read the additional page “Image Critique by Steadman Uhlich.”

Steadman Uhlich

________________

________________

How can I help you?

My Role as Your Mentor

The most important thing I can do is inspire you to look at your photography differently and to challenge you to consider new ways of making photographs.

From this, you will find new creativity inside yourself and new inspirations in the world around you. When that happens, you will feel the Power of WOW as the world becomes a place full of creative possibilities. That is my ultimate goal.

In addition, I can provide you with valuable advice on how to avoid common mistakes and how to make better photographs.

On this site you will find many pages that will tell you about many more ways I may be able to help you. Look for the blue Related Posts links at the bottom of this page for more information.

Steadman Uhlich

_________

Insight is the Goal

One of the things I keep in mind when mentoring other people is my goal to make the lesson something that they “own” and understand fully. I want the mentee to understand the reasons and “see” it so clearly that it becomes something they will retain and value. This comes by sharing how I see their images or work and comparing how THEY see the work and THEIR vision. We discuss things. We compare their intent and their preliminary result (such as a raw image).

Then by use of questions the mentee will discover things for themselves. This may then be reinforced by examples and variations.

Choices are discussed.

Options uncovered.

Creativity unlocked.

The result is often an insight for the mentee.

In some cases this takes only a few minutes to “see” and understand a conceptual or visual difference, or to learn a new way of looking at the subject or a new technique.

In many cases this breakthrough can take just a few moments or even seconds!

When that “AHA!” moment occurs, it is stimulating and rewarding for both the mentee and the mentor. This shared discovery moment can be something that helps a photographer or artist break out of a box and make progress in fulfilling THEIR vision.

Steadman’s Simple Truths:

“Gear is easy to replace or change and can be changed in minutes.

Good habits take time and repetition to develop.

Bad habits can stick with you a lifetime IF they are not identified, recognized, and corrected.

Insights can make a difference in seconds!”

Steadman

_____________
_____________

How do you value learning?

The value of what you learn may be “priceless.”

Steadman’s guarantee:

If I can not offer a suggestion that could improve your photography or help you avoid image weaknesses in the future then there is no charge for the time we spend together.

In short, if I don’t see something I could improve or if I don’t offer you a suggestion for improvement, I will not charge you for my time!

You won’t find a better guarantee than that.

Steadman

________

Imagine.

Imagine how valuable that call will be to YOU if we can uncover a solution to your problems.

Imagine what you might learn from having a highly successful professional photographer and fine artist and successful art gallery owner with 25 years experience look at YOUR photo and give you a private discussion of YOUR photo.

Imagine how proud you will be when YOU learn how to make photos that make people say “WOW!”

Imagine how you will feel when you see YOUR Black & White images look like classic B&W photos you have admired all your life.

Imagine how satisfied you will feel when YOU learn how to make your own images look better using simple steps you will remember and be able to use again and again.

Imagine how you will better enjoy YOUR hobby or profession even more if you find ways to overcome obstacles to your skill improvement or your creativity.

Imagine how much more confident YOU will feel in the future when you learn how make better photographs.

Imagine the time you could save and the frustrations you could avoid if you find ways to make better images with simple solutions.

Imagine how your family or clients will respond when they notice the improvement in YOUR photography!

_____________

Steadman’s Method

1. When I teach or mentor or consult with photographers around the world, I use a method I call a Live Voice+Visual Dialog™ on a phone call.

Some people mistakenly think this is just a phone call. It is far from that!

This service is based on both of us sharing a dialog or conversation at the same time as we view your photos together!

We will use BOTH Voice and Visual communication at the same time!

That is not the full story.

You will need to try it to understand and to experience the great difference for yourself!

All communication is by live voice call (a phone call or Skype call).

In short you must call me and speak with me to use this service. No emails. No chat. No PMs. No text messages. No typing. No writing. It is easier and much better this way for many reasons.

_______________

Why does Steadman use Voice calls instead of email or text messages?

Simply because I can tell you many things in a phone call that I will not type and and things I cannot write as effectively.

It is much easier and better and faster as a means of communicating.

It allows us to have a deeper level of communication.

It is more friendly, more natural, and reduces the anxiety or intimidation you might naturally feel when consulting an expert about your photos.

It is more fluid and more immediate in response, so you don’t have to wait and wonder while waiting for an email or text message.

It is a better way of communicating meaning and subtle comments.

It is much more personal and more “human” than email.

It is much more FUN for both you and me!

It is the BEST way to communicate (aside from a real face to face meeting).

_______

What if this call is international?

I provide a truly global service via this site.

I have clients or mentees and photographers I am helping who are truly located around the world.

I communicate with them all via my special method of Live Voice+Visual Dialog.™

My method helps them all accelerate their learning and quickly improve their photography!

Please read below in this post.

You will find much more information about how I communicate with other photographers around the world in many languages!

If you speak English fluently, I can tell you more information and more clearly and more quickly than I can type. I can tell you more because I will have a “Live and Real Time” dialog or conversation with you. The difference between writing and speaking is considerable. You will see and understand on your first call why this is much better than a written comment or critique on a forum.

If English is NOT your first language or if you are concerned about using English because your use of English is NOT fluent or you may feel inhibited in any way from using English, please read down below in this post. I provide help in 18+ languages in addition to English, so I may be able to help you.

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_____________

2. You will not be called by me!

I do NOT call outbound. You will call me when YOU are ready to speak about your photography.

This is so you can be assured that you will NOT be disturbed at a time that is inconvenient for YOU or your family or your work.

You call me by using your phone or Skype.

You may even make a long-distance or international call for FREE if you use a Skype to Skype (VOIP) call so there would be NO long distance phone charge to you.

_______________
________________

Is English a foreign language for you?

If English is not your native language, but is your second language, then you will find it much easier to communicate using my Live Voice+Visual Dialog™ communication method.

There is no need for you to worry about misspelled words or poor grammar or accent.

I will help you and you will find it easier to express yourself clearly.

If there are any questions, it is easier to get clarity because we will be talking in a dialog. If you ever need to ask me a question to clarify something you may not understand, it is very easy because we are in a dialog, with real-time live communication connecting us.

I have Global Operating Hours (Hours of Availability) that fit YOUR schedule around the globe!

You may also call within a wide window of hours. My Global Operating Hours are 9:00AM (0900 hours) to 9:00PM (2100 hours) SEVEN Days a week. Those hours are based on Eastern Standard Time (New York City’s time zone).

I frequently speak with photographers living on the opposite side of the earth from me. It is not unusual nor is it inconvenient for me to speak with photographers in Japan, Australia, Pacific Islands, China, India, Europe, etc. I do this every week and even on weekends!

Don’t let long distances inhibit you from accessing the expertise that can help you improve your photography!

__________
__________

Global Communications in English or Your Language (when possible)

What if English is not your first language?
What if your use of English is infrequent or limited?
What if you are not fluent in English?
What if your accent is strong?

You must speak some English to communicate with me, but you do NOT have to be fluent or your English could be “limited.”

English does not have to be your first language and you do not need a perfect accent. You do NOT have to be fluent in English. (see the testimonial letter down below).

I have studied 12+ languages other than English (my native language). I truly enjoy speaking with people from other countries, other cultures, and those who speak other languages.

I am accustomed to communicating with people who are using English as a second language. I regularly communicate with people who are from: Europe, the Middle East, Russia, Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

I may be able to help you even IF your use of English is limited or IF you do not consider yourself fluent in speaking English.

Many people understand more English than they feel comfortable speaking. I understand that and why.

Many people who do NOT speak English frequently or fluently may feel inhibited about calling to speak using English.

Do not feel that way.

I am an expert in cross-cultural communication.

______________

I can help you and will do my best to communicate effectively with you in your language!

I may be able to help you by speaking to you in:

1. French

2. Spanish

3. Portuguese (Brazilian)
   

4. German

5. Dutch

6. Italian

7. Japanese

8. Russian

9. Swahili
   

10. Mandarin Chinese

11. Catalan

12. Norwegian

13. Swedish

14. Danish

15. Polish

16. Romanian

17. Finnish (coming soon)

18. Bahasa Malaysia (coming soon)

19. Bahasa Indonesia (coming soon)

20. Croatian (coming soon)

21. Serbian (coming soon)

22. Slovenian (coming soon)

23. Tagalog (coming soon)

So if you speak or understand one of those languages and some English or if you speak English fluently, we should talk!

I do not claim to be fluent in those languages (except English) and my accent in those languages may make you wince or laugh at times too. But I will try to help you in YOUR language as much as possible. I may be able to tell you (while speaking in one of those languages above) what I see that could be improved in your images/photos and how you could do it.

If you understand one of those languages and speak some English (even if not fluently), OR if you do speak English, you should be able to understand me and what I will be able to tell you about your photos that may help you improve your photography.

I will keep my comments simple, my speaking pace in English at a pace comfortable for you, and I will make Simple Suggestions™ you should be able to understand and apply even IF your use of English is limited. Read more about how this works on the Six Minute Solution page .

Steadman

___________

Please tell others about this site.

That will help us help and inspire more photographers.

Just click this share button below.

________________

If this is your first visit to this site,

I encourage you to visit and read the following page

as it will help orient you to this site and some

very special opportunities for you.

Start Here

You should. It could help you.

_________________

If you are outside of the USA,

I encourage you to read the

Global Visitors Page

You should. It could help you.

_________________

Learn About Steadman’s

Six Minute Solution™

You should. It could help you.

________________

Seven ways you can help other photographers and yourself too!

Have you heard of Karma? Do you believe in the Golden Rule?

Karma is the belief that all deeds can shape the past, present, and future experiences. In the West, this is sometimes expressed by the Christian concept of “you reap what you sow.” In short, do good to others and good may come to you. I truly believe that helping others helps not only them, but also ourselves in ways we often cannot anticipate. Each action of good you do, can make the world a nicer place. Do you believe in the Golden Rule?

1. Tell others about this site.

If you frequent photography forums and see a good opportunity to let people there know about this site, please do. Others who read your favorite forums or blogs may be looking for free lessons and inspiring photographs from which they can learn. Or they may be new to photography forum posting and need some guidance on how to learn more from getting critiques of their photos. Just direct them to www.photomentors.com.

This site is written to inspire photographers of all levels and help them have a better experience in photography.

We even have ten pages devoted to tips on how to have a better experience on a photography forum and those tips may help your favorite forum have better posts and more participation.

2. Please tell at least three of your friends in your community or social network about this site.

If you are on Facebook for example, you could tell your friends.They could be at any level of photography. Anybody who likes photography can benefit from the free lessons or from seeing the thousands of inspiring photographs from some of the world’s best photographers. PhotoMentors has things designed to be of interest to ALL levels of photographers from Beginners to Advanced Professionals.

3. Click on one of the social bookmarking links in this page and let others know about this post or page or this new site.

Tweet your friends. Tell others you DIGG this site. Tell your Facebook friends. Look in the right column of this page and almost all pages on the site for the link that says “SHARE” and click on it to go a pop up list of bookmarking links. It is easy and fast. Or you can send an email to a friend through that link too. Here is another link so you can bookmark this page right now in two clicks of your mouse in three seconds.

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Please take three seconds now to tell others about this site. That will help us help and inspire more photographers.

Just click this share button below.

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4. Add a link to PhotoMentors site to your blog or site.

Or write a post on your blog about what you saw on this site. Did you see a photo that inspired you when you viewed a Masters of Photography Gallery here? Did you learn something about a photographer you had not known about before? Tell others about the thousands of photos by Masters of Photography found here. Remember, our focus is on providing free access to all kinds of photographs and information that will inspire photographers of all levels.

5. Save yourself time while also helping other photographers.

In the future you might come across a newbie or someone new to photography. They may be looking for inspiring examples of great photography or they may want some guidance. This site may help them have a better experience with photography too. You won’t have to type much to help them, all you have to do is simply post a link to this site and that may solve their problem with a couple of clicks of your mouse. Simply tell them to look for the section on Free Lessons and Tips. That helps them, saves you time, and helps me help other photographer learn. So, that is a Win+ Win+ Win.

6. Subscribe to the PhotoMentors mailing list for our FREE Newsletter.

Why? First because the newsletter will be used to tell you about Special Opportunities that may be very valuable to you. Some opportunities may involve substantial discounts on things photographers use. These will be “un-advertised” exclusive offers that may be as much as 50% – 70% OFF retail. Other opportunities are related to activities that may be for publishing images and other opportunities to learn or participate. The more subscribers the newsletter has will help us negotiate special offers and discounts from vendors that can then be passed on to you our readers.

It will only take a moment to add your email to the list. Simply fill in the simple Subscribe Form found on the right column of all pages here on the site. Look in the lower right column. The newsletter will keep you informed when we have special offers and opportunities for our friends around the world. You will also learn about exclusive discounts and other nice things.

Don’t worry about receiving too many newsletters or emails from us. We only send out the newsletter infrequently, but when we do, there will be something of value in it for you. There will be many valuable and exclusive things coming in the future, including great opportunities for photographers, so don’t miss this easy way to hear about it first.

7. Look around this site. Soak it in. Imagine. Be inspired!

You might find something else that interests you or helps you. In 2011 I plan to have hundreds of pages of freely accessible educational content, and 5,000+ inspiring photos by Masters of Photography, and dozens of free educational videos.

I recommend seeing the Site Map (Table of Contents) so you can easily see the long list of articles, posts, and pages listed by topics.

If you would like to see if I can help you as a mentor, then just give me a call using the Skype button or the phone number at the bottom of each Page.

Finally, do what you can to help others post their photos and also get comments and have a good time doing so. That makes the world a nicer place and gives us all more nice photography to see on the net.

Thank you for your help.

Steadman

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Your First Introductory Call is free, but what you might learn later is priceless!™

If you have Skype, simply click on the “Call Me” button below to make a free Skype-to-Skype call. Before you do, make sure the top button says “I’m Online” and is green.
If you don’t have Skype yet, you can download the free Skype software in minutes via the link below the buttons below.

Or, if you want to call using your own land-line phone or cellular phone, simply dial our Direct Dial number:

(646) 233-1511

Our phones are generally answered during our flexible Global Operating hours of 9:00AM (0900) to 9:00PM (2100) EST (New York City Time Zone). Feel free to call anytime within that 12 hour window, 7 days a week.

Call now. It is the first step to a new way of learning and growing in photography.

You will find our service begins with a friendly hello.

If we are not on a call with another photographer, we will be happy to speak with you. If you get our voicemail it means we are on a call with another photographer. In that case, simply leave a detailed message on our voicemail with instructions on how we should contact you. Most voicemail messages receive a call back within two hours, whenever possible. All emails are answered the same day, whenever possible.

If you prefer to send an email you may do that by visiting our Contact Page. Or by using the following email address:

steadman@photomentors.com

Most voicemail messages receive a call back within two hours, whenever possible. All emails are answered the same day, whenever possible.

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© 2010, Steadman Uhlich. All rights reserved.

Steadman Uhlich

This one PhotoMentors Session could be the most important single step you take on your path to discovery, learning, greater success, and even happiness with photography.

That may sound like hyperbole, exaggeration, or simply sales hype to you.

In short, you may find it hard to believe. I understand. [...]]]>

Steadman Uhlich

This one PhotoMentors Session could be the most important single step you take on your path to discovery, learning, greater success, and even happiness with photography.

That may sound like hyperbole, exaggeration, or simply sales hype to you.

In short, you may find it hard to believe. I understand.

Most people never have or avoid having a comprehensive and honest review of their work.

This can limit your growth as an artist or photographer!

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Your Opportunity

Have you ever had a highly successful professional photographer review your entire portfolio with you?

Have you ever had the owner of a high-end fine art gallery devoted to photography review your entire portfolio with you?

You can get that kind of professional image critique or review here at PhotoMentors with an Image Critique or Deep Portfolio Review by Steadman Uhlich.

First, let me explain that there are four different ways or types of image critique services available to you here at PhotoMentors.

You can choose any of them and try them all at one time or another.

There is flexibility, but there is also a suggested path for you to take.

This page/post is about ONE of the FOUR ways.
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The Best Path

The truly best path is the Deep Portfolio Review first, followed by additional shorter individual image or small set critiques later.

If you want me to look over your entire portfolio and discuss it with you, I call this “Steadman’s Deep Portfolio Review” session.

I highly recommend it too.

Why? After performing a Deep Portfolio Review, the following Individual Image Critiques can be done more quickly (See the Six Minute Solution™ page for details) and with more relevant commentary and suggestions that fit YOU and your process and style and your chosen path to reach your goals.

My reason is this: It is important to know where you are now, where you have been, and where you want to go on your Learning Journey with PhotoMentors.

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Why do people avoid a review of their work?

They may have difficulty finding a qualified “critic” to look at their work.

They may not fully understand how a balanced critique may help them.

They may have only seen superficial and perhaps harsh critiques on photography forums.

They may work in a style that is different from the local photo club’s favorites.

They may depend on “friends and family” and unfortunately, those can be some of the least effective and least honest people to ask about photography.

They are usually afraid of hearing criticism. Or they are afraid their work may not “measure up” with their own expectations.

I understand all of these reasons. They are natural and only human. We all want to have a good self-image and we can all be sensitive to any criticism of our work, creativity, or selves. This is only human.

In my opinion, the problem with typical portfolio reviews and image critiques lies in how and where most “critiques” are given and by whom and for what purpose.

In short, most people are not prepared to accept a critique or may have the wrong expectations (and consequently fears).  They may have been “burned” before in a harsh critique of their work by someone they know, or even by a stranger on the internet.

At the same time, most of the people they ask to give, perform, or deliver a critique, are ill prepared, possibly poorly informed, or perhaps, not willing to take the time to give a critique of substance.

Or if the Family and Friends are asked “their opinion,”  one can expect that because of their relationship as “friends and family” there are possible reasons the “critique” may not be fully honest (as the friends or family are afraid to hurt feelings or offend) or that they may only say what the photographer is expecting or is thought to “want” to hear.

In the end, what usually happens is the artist (or photographer) is given a superficial, harsh, weak, inaccurate, and perhaps even biased bunch of criticism that is neither fitting the goals or style or creative interests of the artist (or photographer).

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There is a better way. The PhotoMentors Way.

I know that there is a better way to deliver a substantial and meaningful critique for either a single image or an entire portfolio. In fact, it is one of the things I consider “liberating” and “empowering” for an artist or photographer!

I have very good reasons for encouraging you to take this step.

In my honest opinion, it is the single step most likely to make the biggest difference in how you see your own work, and your past achievements.

It will most likely point you in the right direction for further progress and help you reach your goals.

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Go Deep!

Avoid Superficial Comments!

So many amateur and professional photographers never have a real, deep, and insightful portfolio review. While they may have friends and family and customers look over a portfolio, they don’t get the value of having a thorough review by a professional who can look at your images from both an artistic POV and also from a practical marketing POV. While they may have had a portfolio review when in art school or in a class, they are missing the understanding of what a mature review can offer. This is going to give you a balanced review based on years of experience.

At PhotoMentors, we offer the solution.

This portfolio review will be unlike anything you have ever experienced before!

It is focused on your goals, your photography, and your needs. It is a Personal Session with Steadman Uhlich, a widely regarded critic of photography, professional artist, professional photographer, and former art gallery owner.

Read the Testimonials

Note: See Steadman’s Testimonials Pages on this site for over 200 actual testimonials from photographers around the world who have learned from his individual image critiques done in the past via email.

Just be aware, that many of those testimonials are based on critiques that only scratched the surface of what can be done because they were limited by the nature of being done over the internet using short text messages.

The new PhotoMentors Way (method) developed by Steadman Uhlich is very different and much more beneficial to a photographer!

Many of the past image critiques were very limited in time and did not have the benefit of a Live Dialog with Steadman.

More Testimonials about Steadman’s consulting skills and honesty in descriptions are linked at the bottom of this page.

There is a significant positive difference and benefit to you from the Deep Portfolio Review, compared to any email review of a single image, even one done by Steadman in the past.

What is so different about the Deep Portfolio Review?

Your photographs in your entire portfolio or a subset of it will be reviewed with you in a Live Voice+Visual Dialog™. That means real, live, dialog or conversation about YOUR photography  with an expert whose opinions are respected by thousands of photographers around the world.

Steadman is someone who can quickly tell you what you could do to improve your portfolio or your photography.

This is NOT a typical quick and superficial review you might get in a photography group workshop.

It generally takes one hour or more!

This is not a dry email. This is not a five minute superficial look by someone who doesn’t have a clue about you or your goals. This is not a rushed process taking place at the beginning or end of a workshop. This is not a burden and onerous task that bores a teacher.

This is a real and live voice dialog (conversation) with questions and answers in real-time. Most importantly, it is done in a manner and with a proven proprietary method that is not threatening, not belittling, and not insensitive. This will provide you with constructive comments and practical suggestions you can use to improve.

“In my completely honest, professional opinion, based on years of experience, this is one of the very best things you can do for yourself and your future as an artist or photographer.

There are few things you can buy that will make as significant a difference in helping you discover how to improve, as this Deep Portfolio Review Session will.

More than any lens, camera, or gear, this will make a difference in your future photography!”

Steadman Uhlich

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How can it do that?

Think about it for a moment. Regardless of which camera you buy, or which lens you use, the image you make has to first be conceived or seen by you. What you think, what you look for, what you see, how you compose, and the other choices you make, influence every single photo you make.

Be prepared for something that may truly change how you see your own photography!

What can you learn during a PhotoMentors Deep Portfolio Review with Steadman Uhlich?

• Learn how to see more creatively and critically.
• Learn how to see your images through another person’s eyes.
• Learn how to improve your own technical and aesthetic judgment.
• Learn what works, what doesn’t, and why.
• Learn how to recognize the weaknesses and strengths.
• Learn how to articulate what you see in your own portfolio.
• Learn how to make your portfolio create a powerful impression.
• Learn how to critique and edit your current portfolio.
• Learn how to identify or select a theme to present.
• Learn what to avoid when making your portfolio or presenting it.
• Learn how to improve the appearance of your Internet portfolio.
• Learn how to improve the appearance of your physical portfolio.
• Learn about archival methods for maximizing print life.
• Learn how to properly show your work.
• Learn how to properly store your work.
• Learn how to present your work in person and remotely.
• Learn how to market your work.
• Learn how to make money with your best images.

The list could go on and on and is only limited by your time investment.

This is truly an opportunity for you to get direct, honest, and constructive advice based on YOUR photography, not the photography made by an instructor in a workshop or by someone who does not understand what YOU want to achieve with photography.

This is unlike anything you may have experienced in art school, college classes, peer reviews at photo clubs, or even with your colleagues if you are a professional!
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Everyone has an opinion.

But, not all opinions are the same.

Consider the source of the opinion.

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Before You Buy Anything

“Before you buy anything, you should consider the source and their background.

When buying advice from someone, consider their reputation for helping other people.

I encourage you to read and consider the many Testimonials about my work helping others.

Take a look at the 200+ Testimonials from other photographers.

Read some of the Verbatim Testimonial Letters.

Do this before you spend any money. “

Steadman

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Opinions are Common

Balanced Critiques are Rare!

When we look at images or art, each of us will have an opinion. Some are stunning. Some grip us. Some will move us emotionally. Some will look interesting or hold our interest. Some will look unusual. Some will challenge our thinking. Some will bore us.

It is easy to say that one likes or dislikes an image.

It is usually difficult for most people to say why.

I will help you understand why your images have strength or weaknesses and beyond that, what kind of impression they give me.

My critique is based on multiple considerations. One of the most important is looking at the intent or goal for the image.

I will help you see the technique used and how it succeeds or needs more work.

I will give you an honest and True Critique opinion of your work based on what you intend to do with it.

I will help you with constructive comments and Simple Suggestions that you can apply to that image or others in the future to improve.

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I look at images in the Context of Use and consider the Intent (goal) of the Image

If the image is just for your family, it may be a wonderful image.

If it is something you wish to promote as something you will do for a commercial market, the image may be held to another level of scrutiny.

You need to be able to see this and that is one of the value points for a Deep Portfolio Review or an Image Critique.

I will help you get a sense of the marketability of the images too.

Honesty does not mean Harshness!

You must be prepared for honest comments, but don’t fear, because there won’t be any harsh language, harsh criticism, or unfounded remarks.

There will be honest comments, honest impressions, and real constructive advice on what you can do to improve the image or others in the future!

You must not take the comments about the image elements personally.

I do not criticize people, I critique photos.

At all times, you will be given real assistance and guidance on how you can improve.

My critiques are always given using Live Voice+Visual Dialog™ communication, in other words, the critique is part of a friendly conversation we have about YOUR photos.

I consider this important because written communication via an email or forum post can be difficult to understand, lacking in tone, missing non-verbal signals, and easily misunderstood. It can be very hard to communicate feelings and impressions in writing, yet they come much more naturally and are better understood by voice. You know that, I know that, now let’s put it into action to show you the benefit, regardless of where you are on the planet!

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What’s wrong with a critique via email or a forum?

Written communications such as email and forum postings are notorious for being misunderstood because the tone of the message is missing.

Most photography forum “Critiques” or “Comments” (C&C) use a very weak and limited form of communication.

Most of the posts you see on a forum are generally rushed, typed quickly, composed without much thought or care, and written in a monologue POV that removes the balance of another person. When that happens, bad feelings can rapidly take over and prevent good communication. I have seen this happen countless times on every forum I have ever seen. They are limited by the very means of communication used.

There is a better way, the PhotoMentors Way.

We will use a Live Voice+Visual Dialog™ to prevent those errors in communication.

We will have a real, friendly and helpful dialog or conversation.

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How does this critique differ from a free critique you may get on a photography forum?

What does Steadman Uhlich offer that is different?

There are several differences that you should bear in mind and fully understand. There is a world of difference and this is why people are willing to pay for this service and consider it worth much more to them than a free critique by an anonymous forum visitor.

1. Reputation for Balance and Helpfulness.

The PhotoMentors critique is given by someone who has a well established international reputation for producing very high quality work as a professional photographer and artist. His work has been acclaimed by thousands of people from around the world, and people pay him thousands of dollars for a single image, print, or painting. With that comes an understanding of not only techniques for lighting and technical aspects, but also an understanding of content, emotional impact, and market appeal. His critiques are regularly praised for their helpfulness, balance, and insights. His image analysis reveals things that go deeper than most people look and uncovers the hidden messages that make one image more memorable and marketable than another.

2. Highly Successful Experience in High-End Sales.

The critique is given by someone who knows what sells. He regularly sells photos for fees that are at levels many times that of other professionals. He has sold at multiples of 5x to 10x what other photographers would sell their services for, and his clients are thrilled with the value of the purchase.

3. Experience as a Critic and Consultant.

The critique is given by someone with 35 years of experience, study and production of both photography and art. Someone who has been paid as a professional consultant for 25 years to make suggestions on how someone can improve. Someone who has already spent 10 years as a full-time professional artist and photographer and years of success as a high-end art gallery owner. This means your image critique will be by someone who looks at the image from the artistic and commercial values and considerations.

4. Unique Balance of Art and Portraits and Commercial Photography Experience.

The critique comes from the experience of an owner of an acclaimed photography art gallery. He well understands how images make impressions, careers, and can be marketed. He understands what sells at a high-end retail level with individual sales of single images for thousands of dollars. He understands the fickle nature of the Art world, the occasional demands of a retail buyer, the expectations of a photography studio client, the needs of a commercial photography client, the dreams of a bride, and the desire of art collectors looking for art or willing to invest in commissioned artwork. His experience with magazine editors, publishers of various glossy magazines, advertising, promotion, and marketing, give him a wealth of experience that will assist you.

5. Professional Experience and Unique Perspective.

The critique is given by someone who is doing this critique professionally and for the purpose of helping you improve. Steadman has over 25 years experience being paid to consult, critique, and help others improve. Steadman started getting paid for written critiques in 1980 when working as a newspaper critic.  With that experience comes an understanding of the power of a good critique, the need for positive suggestions for improvement, and the potential damage of a poor critique.

6. Honesty and Balance.

Steadman can give you an honest assessment of your work that may be very different from what you get from your friends and family.  Steadman also has no axe to grind, no ego to feed, and no professional jealousy. There will be no personal attack, no belittling, no ridicule, and no harsh language. Praise will not be withheld because of petty envy or insecurities you might find on a forum or from a stranger. You won’t be the subject of a troll or some stranger who wants to bash someone that day on a public forum. You won’t suffer from the defensiveness or subterfuge of a local photographer who may see you as competition in their market.

7. Steadman’s critique is in depth.

It is not just a short one word comment like “weak” or “great.” You will learn more about your images. Also, as your own images are discussed in depth, you will learn more about yourself as a photographer and what these images mean to you. The depth is important for your real growth. Superficial fixes using fads and the latest trendy gimmicks will only mask underlying weaknesses that you should address in order to grow and advance.

8. Custom Fit to You and Your Goals.

Steadman’s critique takes into account your goals, your current levels of skill and knowledge, and your chosen style. This is not a “cookie-cutter” “mail it in” and “cut and paste” email critique from an anonymous instructor with dubious credentials. This is tailored to fit your amateur or professional goals. It fits you because it is about you. You are not just a number.

9. Credentials.

Aside from years of very successful experience on multiple levels, you should determine for yourself if this critic has a good eye for imagery or art. You can quickly get a feel for Steadman’s work, attention to quality, and skill when you view 350 photos made by Steadman and read what hundreds of others (mostly photographers like you, both professional and amateur) from over 50 countries around the world have written about his work. This is easy to do prior to committing yourself to a critique. You don’t have to spend anything to consider this.

You are encouraged to weigh his experience and credentials against those of any other photographer willing to help you in depth and with such time.

Simply visit Steadman’s Studio Website or his online Portfolio Website of 180 Favorite Works by Steadman.

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10. Focus on this proprietary process as a personalized professional service to artists and photographers, whether amateurs or professionals.

Many photographers make beautiful images. But how many can give you a real, deep, and meaningful critique that is not only honest, but also balanced, instructive, supportive?

How many can do it in a way that fosters learning, good communication, better understanding, and real personal growth? Furthermore, will their critique help you based on years of experience in not only creating and selling photography, but also years of guiding other professionals to improve their skills in a way they enjoy and highly value?

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What you see on this website is only one facet of Steadman’s work as a Photographer and Artist.

Only a small number (40) of his portraits are shown on this PhotoMentors site in a Gallery for Steadman Uhlich’s portraits. This should give you some confidence in his understanding of how images can be created to move or affect people.

Be aware that what Steadman shows within his online Portrait Portfolios is not the entire range of his past work or current work.

Steadman’s commercial photography sells for thousands of dollars per assignment.

Steadman’s commercial, landscape, macro, and still-life work is NOT shown on his portrait oriented websites and some of his best work is NOT shown on the internet at all or anywhere on the internet.

Steadman’s still life photos sell for thousands of dollars per print, have been the cover and featured article of a national art magazine, but you won’t see them here or on his website.

Some things are just not shown on the public sites. Those that are shown are selected for reasons. In short, there is much more than meets the eye via the internet.

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See what other photographers say about Steadman’s critiques and advice regarding photography.

Simply look at the left column of any of the pages on this site to see a few of the hundreds of Testimonial Quotes by other photographers (both amateur and pros).

You can also learn something very important about Steadman’s methods and the effectiveness of his image critiques by reading what other many professional and amateur photographers from around the world have written about his method and skill as a photography critic.

You should read the many testimonials from other photographers who he has helped with his critiques and comments on their work.

Just visit the Testimonials category listing page here at this site where you will find more than 200 comments attesting to his helpfulness, the insights gained, and the positive influence his critiques have been for other photographers.

Consider their words, but understand that those critiques were based on the poorest form of communication (short emails or text messages over the internet) and without the benefit of a Live Voice Dialog.

The critique of your images via PhotoMentors will have the added benefit of a Live Voice+Visual Dialog™ with Steadman and will be in depth.

There is a significant advantage for you. The difference of what you can learn using Steadman’s Live Voice+Visual Dialog™ method will be immediately apparent. Compared to what can be learned in a short email or a short text message on a typical photography forum post, you will be amazed at what you were missing before.

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Two things you should consider in a typical free forum image critique.

1. You Should Balance The False Positive Critique

If you frequent photography forums you’ll often find that most comments posted about photographs are short comments such as “great.”

Comments like these can be very encouraging and of course everyone wants to receive comments like that.

If you know something about a person’s background, level of photography experience, level of training, or their taste, it can make a difference in how you see or value those comments they give on your photos or work.

If you know who the person is that is making the comment, and know their level of skill and success, and know something about their style preferences or range or experience, you can make better decisions on how those comments will have meaning and value for you.

Praise from a total stranger, whose level of skill or experience is unknown is one thing. It can be more valuable in some ways, than the praise one might get from a close friend or family member. It can be uplifting and it can be encouraging. After all, this is the “public” speaking. There is value in that boost, no doubt about that.

Praise (or criticism) from someone you trust and can trust because of their experience and skills and the nature of their relationship with you, is a completely different level and a much higher value.

This is where the value of a long-term relationship with a true mentor shows a significant difference.

My advice? Do not be misled by False Positive critiques.

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2. You Should Balance The False Negative Critique

If you have been on photography forums for any length of time, you will no doubt see that some visitors to forums go about the forum giving highly critical or mostly negative comments on many photographs.

In some cases the criticism or parts of it, may be valid.

In my experience on the forums, I have seen just as many critical comments that I considered invalid.

Usually these negative comments are very short. Sometimes they are very hostile. Sometimes they are dismissive. Sometimes they are lengthy. Often times they cause discouragement for the photographer who posted the photo. In some cases, they lead to arguments and name-calling and bitter feelings.

Here is a big problem for most forums. Anonymity of most Internet forum groups allows some people to say negative things that they would not say face-to-face or in person. In short, there can be some rude jerks or unpleasant people on the Internet forums. There are also some people who obviously enjoy creating chaos, diminishing others, or harassing others. Some try to use sarcasm to poke fun at others who may not even realize they are the butt of an inside joke recognized by the cronies of the sarcastic joker. They do this because there is no risk to them. They can make a forum a very unpleasant place, and intimidate people who have just begun learning photography or people who may not have full confidence in their skills.

I call these types of critiques a False Negative critique.

I do not think these False Negative critiques are helpful in the long run for the photographer. I don’t think that they help the photographer improve. In many cases, I think they miss the point of a critique and should not even be considered as a true balanced critique.

My advice to you: Don’t be discouraged by False-Negative Critiques.

There is hope.

I can show you how to avoid this problem and how to grow and get to the point where you look forward to a True Critique. I will show you how to better present yourself in a forum environment too. I will also show you how to critique your own work, so that over time, your ability to see your own work with a different POV will grow.

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I think most photography forums are a poor place and method to get a photo critique.

I think most photography forums are generally poor places for photo critiques. It has been my experience over the years, observing literally thousands of online critiques, that few people offer in-depth or balanced critiques. Most comments or what most forum members call “critiques” are usually nothing more than superficial short comments.

This is not the way to do it!

This is not the best way to learn!

It takes time, consideration and effort to make a good, detailed, balanced, and thoughtful critique, or what I call a TrueCritique.

When it comes to artistic photos it takes even more time as they generally require more thought and offer deeper concepts.

Most people on forums won’t spend the time to do that for you.

Yet, that is what you really need in order to make significant progress in your development and to break out of bad habits or boxes.

Call us today to arrange to have a TrueCritique by Steadman.

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FAQ

Question: can a review be arranged that focuses on a single photo session rather than my entire portfolio?

Answer: Yes, of course. A “Session Review” can be arranged, and while it will help you, it will miss some of the deep benefits of the Deep Portfolio Review because the Deep Portfolio Review is designed to uncover some weaknesses and strengths you might miss or may not show in a limited review of just a few shots. Of course, it is your choice, but the recommendation is to start with a Deep Portfolio Review and then have additional Session Reviews on future sessions as you progress.

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How can I help you?

My Role as Your Mentor

The most important thing I can do is inspire you to look at your photography differently and to challenge you to consider new ways of making photographs.

From this, you will find new creativity inside yourself and new inspirations in the world around you. When that happens, you will feel the Power of WOW as the world becomes a place full of creative possibilities. That is my ultimate goal.

In addition, I can provide you with valuable advice on how to avoid common mistakes and how to make better photographs.

On this site you will find many pages that will tell you about many more ways I may be able to help you. Look for the blue Related Posts links at the bottom of this page for more information.

Steadman Uhlich

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Insight is the Goal

One of the things I keep in mind when mentoring other people is my goal to make the lesson something that they “own” and understand fully. I want the mentee to understand the reasons and “see” it so clearly that it becomes something they will retain and value. This comes by sharing how I see their images or work and comparing how THEY see the work and THEIR vision. We discuss things. We compare their intent and their preliminary result (such as a raw image).

Then by use of questions the mentee will discover things for themselves. This may then be reinforced by examples and variations.

Choices are discussed.

Options uncovered.

Creativity unlocked.

The result is often an insight for the mentee.

In some cases this takes only a few minutes to “see” and understand a conceptual or visual difference, or to learn a new way of looking at the subject or a new technique.

In many cases this breakthrough can take just a few moments or even seconds!

When that “AHA!” moment occurs, it is stimulating and rewarding for both the mentee and the mentor. This shared discovery moment can be something that helps a photographer or artist break out of a box and make progress in fulfilling THEIR vision.

Steadman’s Simple Truths:

“Gear is easy to replace or change and can be changed in minutes.

Good habits take time and repetition to develop.

Bad habits can stick with you a lifetime IF they are not identified, recognized, and corrected.

Insights can make a difference in seconds!”

Steadman

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How do you value learning?

The value of what you learn may be “priceless.”

Steadman’s guarantee:

If I can not offer a suggestion that could improve your photography or help you avoid image weaknesses in the future then there is no charge for the time we spend together.

In short, if I don’t see something I could improve or if I don’t offer you a suggestion for improvement, I will not charge you for my time!

You won’t find a better guarantee than that.

Steadman

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Imagine.

Imagine how valuable that call will be to YOU if we can uncover a solution to your problems.

Imagine what you might learn from having a highly successful professional photographer and fine artist and successful art gallery owner with 25 years experience look at YOUR photo and give you a private discussion of YOUR photo.

Imagine how proud you will be when YOU learn how to make photos that make people say “WOW!”

Imagine how you will feel when you see YOUR Black & White images look like classic B&W photos you have admired all your life.

Imagine how satisfied you will feel when YOU learn how to make your own images look better using simple steps you will remember and be able to use again and again.

Imagine how you will better enjoy YOUR hobby or profession even more if you find ways to overcome obstacles to your skill improvement or your creativity.

Imagine how much more confident YOU will feel in the future when you learn how make better photographs.

Imagine the time you could save and the frustrations you could avoid if you find ways to make better images with simple solutions.

Imagine how your family or clients will respond when they notice the improvement in YOUR photography!

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Hundreds of Testimonials from Photographers!

Here is a link to the Testimonials Category page of posts here on this site. There you will find many different posts of Testimonials from real people who have seen real results. Those are all Verbatim Testimonials.

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A Verbatim Testimonial Letter from a Mentor Session with Steadman Uhlich

Note: this Mentoring Session was conducted using voice over the internet (via skype) and image file transfers over the internet with the call taking place between the USA and France. The voice quality was crystal clear (it sounded like they were in the same room), the conversation was fun, stimulating, and electric with creativity, humor, and sharing. The only thing they could not share was the bottle of wine.

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“I came across Steadman Uhlich in a photography forum where both of us participate, and I was impressed with his commitment to helping people. From there, we shared some views, and, when he informed me that he was setting up a place where people could learn and improve, I knew I was going to try it out.

As it happens, that day, I had gone out and tried to make the most of the last of the autumn leaves. I love trees, especially when clad in full colour, but, somehow, have not been able to get any tree shots that make me go “WOW.” Out of maybe 300 such shots accumulated over 2 years shots, not one of trees, even though I love them, and shot them hundreds of times.

Now enter Steadman Uhlich. I told him this “story”, and expressed frustration. He didn’t give me any technical tips. I assume that, as he knew I could handle other types of shots/subjects, he also knew that the problem was more in “what to want to do” than in “what to do” or “how to do it”. So he told me what to want to do.

‘Imagine the tree in its permanence. Things come and go, people come and go, weather comes and goes, seasons come and go, trees remain. Go out and shoot the tree in all its varying conditions.’

Within a couple of minutes, I was totally inspired, having understood why I have up to now failed, and having had my mind opened to avenues that I had not even considered in how to deepen my approach to photography.

This part of the conversation lasted but a few minutes.

My experience as a business consultant as well as a personal development coach tells me that Steadman Uhlich is exactly who he claims, a true mentor.

Like a locksmith who can pick locks and open doors in people’s minds that free up capability, creativity and talent about photography.

Such people are rare, I am priviledged to have found one who will deepen the pleasure and richness of my hobby.

Thanks, Steady!

Philippe”

A Verbatim Testimonial Letter from a Mentor Session with Steadman Uhlich

“I just wanted to drop a quick note to relay the experience I had with Steadman Uhlich a couple of days ago. On Sunday, I had the pleasure of meeting Steadman in person and spending over four hours talking (in an onsite, face-to-face Mentoring Session), looking at work I had done and going over a little post processing. The time just flew by.

Steadman opened my eyes to many things including composition, shadows and light. Things I thought I had a grasp on, but no I did not.

He truly showed me a way to look at subjects in a way I have not read in books.

His way of teaching and making me look at myself is relaxed and laid back and very refreshing.

I would encourage anyone interested in bettering their photography skills to take the time and give him a call. You will not be disappointed in the time spent on the phone with Steadman. I am looking forward to our future meetings and learning as much as I can from him.”

Doug

Verbatim Testimonial Quote from a Mentor Session with Steadman Uhlich

“Hi, my name is Jeffrey and I am from the Philippines. I just had a Free call using Skype with Photomentors and talked to Steadman Uhlich about photography and what I want to create.

When I first heard his voice, I was not nervous at all even though speaking in English, since English is my Third language.

The conversation that we had was worth it, all of the things that needed to be discussed were really clear, from voice to details.

I am also new in photography and after the conversation and my readings in the PhotoMentors website pages, I was inspired and have decided to take a journey with Photomentors.

I think this is way better than a photography workshop that I’ve attended because this will become more of a “Mentor and Student” relationship rather than “Teacher and Group of people Relationship”.

I believe Photomentors can change your life in a better way not just in photography, but also in your life as a person, after the call and the readings in the website.

You’ll never know, One Call could Change your life! “

Jeffrey

Davao, Philippines

Verbatim Testimonial Quote from a consultation with Steadman Uhlich

Steady,

I just wanted to take a few minutes to again thank you for all that you’ve done for me.

I originally posted on [photography forum], a project that I was trying to accomplish with my Grand Daughter, utilizing Natural Light, of her playing her guitar by the window. I knew that I wanted to do them in B&W, so I posted my 1st try on [photography forum], in the People Photography forum. I was getting a lot of people looking by no one really taking the time to comment.

I really was looking for help in this area, as I really wasn’t just posting shots, I really wanted to learn & improve my results.

Steady, this is where you came along, you presented me with some positive comments, but at the same time, showed me where improvement could be made, or at least explored. You offered to talk to me, for a few minutes, to further discuss some of your comments.

I must admit, that at the beginning I was somewhat hesitant, as I’m “fairly new” into photography & thought that I might easily be overwhelmed, in our talks. How wrong I was!!!

Steady, you immediately made me feel right at home, no intimidation at all.

We were miles apart, yet I felt like you were right there with me, not talking down to me, but to me & where I maybe didn’t understand what you were saying, or what you meant, you took the time to reword things, explain, maybe in more detail, but using another approach. I found myself, even asking for more & more.

Then we started analyzing the pictures that I had posted.

You started pointing out things to me, especially in the facial area, that I never really saw, they were always there, but what a difference in the eyes of the beholder.

We started discussing the limitations that I had in where I was shooting the pictures (in my daughter’s kitchen, table & chairs pulled off to the side, me shooting out in the hall way). You could have very easily said, “well find another spot”, but you didn’t. You sat down & said, “so let’s see what we can do with what we have”.

Ideas, that you mentioned, about positioning, cropping, trying to get the viewers’ eyes to do some of the work for us, showed me so much in a different perspective.

Can’t thank you enough!!

Thanks again,
Bob V.

Verbatim Testimonial Quote from a consultation with Steadman Uhlich

“Enabled me to Unlock..”

This was the third time I mentored with Steadman Uhlich, or, more accurately, was mentored by him.

Today my issue was that I had taken a picture which I really liked, posted it on a couple of forums, and, uncharacteristically received, no comment or response whatsoever. So I asked Steady why that might be.

He started by looking at my picture, stating that he saw that it had potential, and asking me what I saw in it. I mentioned the straight stem of the flower, and the sphere adorning it, and the contrast with the sideways leaves, like so many brushstrokes in Oriental style.

He agreed with my “take” on my picture, and said that, if that was the case, why did I not do simple things to make that more immediately visible to the viewer?

He suggested darkening the background. That took me all of 30 seconds, and already made a significant impact. Then he suggested different framing and or cropping, and gave me 4 options. Another 4 or 5 minutes maybe.

Simple, once Steady had suggested it.

He made it feel so obvious, yet nobody else had seen the potential of the picture and enabled me to unlock it.

Thanks, Steady! You and I must do this more often.

Philippe Berend

Verbatim Testimonial Quote from a consultation with Steadman Uhlich

“You have restored my self confidence.”

“Just a short note to say that [our consultation using] Skype yesterday was

the most effective photographic tutorial of any length of time that I have experienced.

Your advice pinpointed for me a couple of areas where I was going astray, especially in the composition of my photos and by helping me identify those areas you have restored my self confidence, which was seriously lagging.

If you can achieve what you did for me in just [that short time], then I would have to say you are a genius.

I cannot thank you enough

I will be back. Many, many thanks”
Timothy Ashton
Sydney, Australia

Verbatim Testimonial Quote from a consultation with Steadman Uhlich

On Steadman’s Six Minute Solution

“Hi my name is Jeffrey, I am from Davao, Philippines.

I have heard about this new service from Steadman Uhlich at PhotoMentors called the “Six Minute Solution.” As a mentee from PhotoMentors, Steady and I had a talk via Skype from several photos that we take a look at and some of these photos were quickly fixed and improved with Steadman’s “Six Minute Solution.”

I am totally amazed on how Steady made my snapshot photo look great and that you could even do it with a non professional camera in a short period of time.

He could provide some solution on how to improve your photo quickly, and that includes photos possibly taken from your camera such as; DSLR, point and shoot or even with a Mobile phone camera.

Just imagine how your photo will be quickly fixed or improve with a low cost session from a 10 year professional photographer who had his own art gallery exhibit shop.

Yes, only one photo per call but one photo could make a big difference on how you shoot the next hundreds or thousands of pictures in your life.“

Jeffery Wee
Davao, Philippines

A Verbatim Testimonial Letter from a series of Six Minute Solution Sessions with Steadman Uhlich

“As a hobbyist family photographer, I was a bit anxious about showing
some of my pictures to a pro for feedback.

I can, however, not commend Steadman enough on his skills as a mentor.

He is a natural with how he approaches the areas where improvement can be made, taking his time to really make sure that you understand the points being made in a very easy-going and friendly dialogue.

His suggestions are efficient and to the point, focusing not only on the specifics of a particular photo, but also,

taking care to explain why and how this could apply to many other photos as well.

Highly recommended!”

David, Switzerland

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Steadman’s Notes:

Bob is now on the path of making beautiful, Black & White, natural light portraits in a very limited space.

Philippe is finding new ways to look at his fine art photography subjects with renewed enthusiasm and confidence.

Jeffery is learning how to make photos of people that capture attention with compositions that are stronger and “Art Gallery Quality.”

Tim has regained his confidence in his work and is stimulated to try new compositions and new ways of presenting his vision to the viewer.

David now has a new set of conceptual visualization tools to use when composing his photos and working with his model. He is now able to see that there may be hidden beauty in a photo that can be discovered in just a few minutes…in fact, in Six Minutes or less!

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Steadman’s Method

1. When I teach or mentor or consult with photographers around the world, I use a method I call a Live Voice+Visual Dialog™ on a phone call.

Some people mistakenly think this is just a phone call. It is far from that!

This service is based on both of us sharing a dialog or conversation at the same time as we view your photos together!

We will use BOTH Voice and Visual communication at the same time!

That is not the full story.

You will need to try it to understand and to experience the great difference for yourself!

All communication is by live voice call (a phone call or Skype call).

In short you must call me and speak with me to use this service. No emails. No chat. No PMs. No text messages. No typing. No writing. It is easier and much better this way for many reasons.

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Why does Steadman use Voice calls instead of email or text messages?

Simply because I can tell you many things in a phone call that I will not type and and things I cannot write as effectively.

It is much easier and better and faster as a means of communicating.

It allows us to have a deeper level of communication.

It is more friendly, more natural, and reduces the anxiety or intimidation you might naturally feel when consulting an expert about your photos.

It is more fluid and more immediate in response, so you don’t have to wait and wonder while waiting for an email or text message.

It is a better way of communicating meaning and subtle comments.

It is much more personal and more “human” than email.

It is much more FUN for both you and me!

It is the BEST way to communicate (aside from a real face to face meeting).

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What if this call is international?

I provide a truly global service via this site.

I have clients or mentees and photographers I am helping who are truly located around the world.

I communicate with them all via my special method of Live Voice+Visual Dialog.™

My method helps them all accelerate their learning and quickly improve their photography!

Please read below in this post.

You will find much more information about how I communicate with other photographers around the world in many languages!

If you speak English fluently, I can tell you more information and more clearly and more quickly than I can type. I can tell you more because I will have a “Live and Real Time” dialog or conversation with you. The difference between writing and speaking is considerable. You will see and understand on your first call why this is much better than a written comment or critique on a forum.

If English is NOT your first language or if you are concerned about using English because your use of English is NOT fluent or you may feel inhibited in any way from using English, please read down below in this post. I provide help in 18+ languages in addition to English, so I may be able to help you.

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2. You will not be called by me!

I do NOT call outbound. You will call me when YOU are ready to speak about your photography.

This is so you can be assured that you will NOT be disturbed at a time that is inconvenient for YOU or your family or your work.

You call me by using your phone or Skype.

You may even make a long-distance or international call for FREE if you use a Skype to Skype (VOIP) call so there would be NO long distance phone charge to you.

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Is English a foreign language for you?

If English is not your native language, but is your second language, then you will find it much easier to communicate using my Live Voice+Visual Dialog™ communication method.

There is no need for you to worry about misspelled words or poor grammar or accent.

I will help you and you will find it easier to express yourself clearly.

If there are any questions, it is easier to get clarity because we will be talking in a dialog. If you ever need to ask me a question to clarify something you may not understand, it is very easy because we are in a dialog, with real-time live communication connecting us.

I have Global Operating Hours (Hours of Availability) that fit YOUR schedule around the globe!

You may also call within a wide window of hours. My Global Operating Hours are 9:00AM (0900 hours) to 9:00PM (2100 hours) SEVEN Days a week. Those hours are based on Eastern Standard Time (New York City’s time zone).

I frequently speak with photographers living on the opposite side of the earth from me. It is not unusual nor is it inconvenient for me to speak with photographers in Japan, Australia, Pacific Islands, China, India, Europe, etc. I do this every week and even on weekends!

Don’t let long distances inhibit you from accessing the expertise that can help you improve your photography!

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Global Communications in English or Your Language (when possible)

What if English is not your first language?
What if your use of English is infrequent or limited?
What if you are not fluent in English?
What if your accent is strong?

You must speak some English to communicate with me, but you do NOT have to be fluent or your English could be “limited.”

English does not have to be your first language and you do not need a perfect accent. You do NOT have to be fluent in English. (see the testimonial letter down below).

I have studied 12+ languages other than English (my native language). I truly enjoy speaking with people from other countries, other cultures, and those who speak other languages.

I am accustomed to communicating with people who are using English as a second language. I regularly communicate with people who are from: Europe, the Middle East, Russia, Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

I may be able to help you even IF your use of English is limited or IF you do not consider yourself fluent in speaking English.

Many people understand more English than they feel comfortable speaking. I understand that and why.

Many people who do NOT speak English frequently or fluently may feel inhibited about calling to speak using English.

Do not feel that way.

I am an expert in cross-cultural communication.

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I can help you and will do my best to communicate effectively with you in your language!

I may be able to help you by speaking to you in:

1. French

2. Spanish

3. Portuguese (Brazilian)
   

4. German

5. Dutch

6. Italian

7. Japanese

8. Russian

9. Swahili
   

10. Mandarin Chinese

11. Catalan

12. Norwegian

13. Swedish

14. Danish

15. Polish

16. Romanian

17. Finnish (coming soon)

18. Bahasa Malaysia (coming soon)

19. Bahasa Indonesia (coming soon)

20. Croatian (coming soon)

21. Serbian (coming soon)

22. Slovenian (coming soon)

23. Tagalog (coming soon)

So if you speak or understand one of those languages and some English or if you speak English fluently, we should talk!

I do not claim to be fluent in those languages (except English) and my accent in those languages may make you wince or laugh at times too. But I will try to help you in YOUR language as much as possible. I may be able to tell you (while speaking in one of those languages above) what I see that could be improved in your images/photos and how you could do it.

If you understand one of those languages and speak some English (even if not fluently), OR if you do speak English, you should be able to understand me and what I will be able to tell you about your photos that may help you improve your photography.

I will keep my comments simple, my speaking pace in English at a pace comfortable for you, and I will make Simple Suggestions™ you should be able to understand and apply even IF your use of English is limited. Read more about how this works on the Six Minute Solution page .

Steadman

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Please tell others about this site.

That will help us help and inspire more photographers.

Just click this share button below.

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If this is your first visit to this site,

I encourage you to visit and read the following page

as it will help orient you to this site and some

very special opportunities for you.

Start Here

You should. It could help you.

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If you are outside of the USA,

I encourage you to read the

Global Visitors Page

You should. It could help you.

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Learn About Steadman’s

Six Minute Solution™

You should. It could help you.

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Seven ways you can help other photographers and yourself too!

Have you heard of Karma? Do you believe in the Golden Rule?

Karma is the belief that all deeds can shape the past, present, and future experiences. In the West, this is sometimes expressed by the Christian concept of “you reap what you sow.” In short, do good to others and good may come to you. I truly believe that helping others helps not only them, but also ourselves in ways we often cannot anticipate. Each action of good you do, can make the world a nicer place. Do you believe in the Golden Rule?

1. Tell others about this site.

If you frequent photography forums and see a good opportunity to let people there know about this site, please do. Others who read your favorite forums or blogs may be looking for free lessons and inspiring photographs from which they can learn. Or they may be new to photography forum posting and need some guidance on how to learn more from getting critiques of their photos. Just direct them to www.photomentors.com.

This site is written to inspire photographers of all levels and help them have a better experience in photography.

We even have ten pages devoted to tips on how to have a better experience on a photography forum and those tips may help your favorite forum have better posts and more participation.

2. Please tell at least three of your friends in your community or social network about this site.

If you are on Facebook for example, you could tell your friends.They could be at any level of photography. Anybody who likes photography can benefit from the free lessons or from seeing the thousands of inspiring photographs from some of the world’s best photographers. PhotoMentors has things designed to be of interest to ALL levels of photographers from Beginners to Advanced Professionals.

3. Click on one of the social bookmarking links in this page and let others know about this post or page or this new site.

Tweet your friends. Tell others you DIGG this site. Tell your Facebook friends. Look in the right column of this page and almost all pages on the site for the link that says “SHARE” and click on it to go a pop up list of bookmarking links. It is easy and fast. Or you can send an email to a friend through that link too. Here is another link so you can bookmark this page right now in two clicks of your mouse in three seconds.

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Please take three seconds now to tell others about this site. That will help us help and inspire more photographers.

Just click this share button below.

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4. Add a link to PhotoMentors site to your blog or site.

Or write a post on your blog about what you saw on this site. Did you see a photo that inspired you when you viewed a Masters of Photography Gallery here? Did you learn something about a photographer you had not known about before? Tell others about the thousands of photos by Masters of Photography found here. Remember, our focus is on providing free access to all kinds of photographs and information that will inspire photographers of all levels.

5. Save yourself time while also helping other photographers.

In the future you might come across a newbie or someone new to photography. They may be looking for inspiring examples of great photography or they may want some guidance. This site may help them have a better experience with photography too. You won’t have to type much to help them, all you have to do is simply post a link to this site and that may solve their problem with a couple of clicks of your mouse. Simply tell them to look for the section on Free Lessons and Tips. That helps them, saves you time, and helps me help other photographer learn. So, that is a Win+ Win+ Win.

6. Subscribe to the PhotoMentors mailing list for our FREE Newsletter.

Why? First because the newsletter will be used to tell you about Special Opportunities that may be very valuable to you. Some opportunities may involve substantial discounts on things photographers use. These will be “un-advertised” exclusive offers that may be as much as 50% – 70% OFF retail. Other opportunities are related to activities that may be for publishing images and other opportunities to learn or participate. The more subscribers the newsletter has will help us negotiate special offers and discounts from vendors that can then be passed on to you our readers.

It will only take a moment to add your email to the list. Simply fill in the simple Subscribe Form found on the right column of all pages here on the site. Look in the lower right column. The newsletter will keep you informed when we have special offers and opportunities for our friends around the world. You will also learn about exclusive discounts and other nice things.

Don’t worry about receiving too many newsletters or emails from us. We only send out the newsletter infrequently, but when we do, there will be something of value in it for you. There will be many valuable and exclusive things coming in the future, including great opportunities for photographers, so don’t miss this easy way to hear about it first.

7. Look around this site. Soak it in. Imagine. Be inspired!

You might find something else that interests you or helps you. In 2011 I plan to have hundreds of pages of freely accessible educational content, and 5,000+ inspiring photos by Masters of Photography, and dozens of free educational videos.

I recommend seeing the Site Map (Table of Contents) so you can easily see the long list of articles, posts, and pages listed by topics.

If you would like to see if I can help you as a mentor, then just give me a call using the Skype button or the phone number at the bottom of each Page.

Finally, do what you can to help others post their photos and also get comments and have a good time doing so. That makes the world a nicer place and gives us all more nice photography to see on the net.

Thank you for your help.

Steadman

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Your First Introductory Call is free, but what you might learn later is priceless!™

If you have Skype, simply click on the “Call Me” button below to make a free Skype-to-Skype call. Before you do, make sure the top button says “I’m Online” and is green.
If you don’t have Skype yet, you can download the free Skype software in minutes via the link below the buttons below.

Or, if you want to call using your own land-line phone or cellular phone, simply dial our Direct Dial number:

(646) 233-1511

Our phones are generally answered during our flexible Global Operating hours of 9:00AM (0900) to 9:00PM (2100) EST (New York City Time Zone). Feel free to call anytime within that 12 hour window, 7 days a week.

Call now. It is the first step to a new way of learning and growing in photography.

You will find our service begins with a friendly hello.

If we are not on a call with another photographer, we will be happy to speak with you. If you get our voicemail it means we are on a call with another photographer. In that case, simply leave a detailed message on our voicemail with instructions on how we should contact you. Most voicemail messages receive a call back within two hours, whenever possible. All emails are answered the same day, whenever possible.

If you prefer to send an email you may do that by visiting our Contact Page. Or by using the following email address:

steadman@photomentors.com

Most voicemail messages receive a call back within two hours, whenever possible. All emails are answered the same day, whenever possible.

.

© 2010, Steadman Uhlich. All rights reserved.

This post will show you some important advantages that PhotoMentors has over a typical photography group workshop.

I am NOT against workshops.  Or group meetings. Or group classes.

I DO recognize that there are some inherent [...]]]>

Steadman Uhlich

This post will show you some important advantages that PhotoMentors has over a typical photography group workshop.

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I anticipate that some people will mistake my intent and meaning of this post.

I am NOT against workshops.  Or group meetings. Or group classes.

I DO recognize that there are some inherent limitations to learning photography through a typical group workshop method.

This post is written to get you to think outside of the box.  Why?  Because many photographers assume the only way or the best way to learn photography is to read a book, watch a DVD, and then attend a class or attend a group workshop.

There is a better way to learn!

It is a way or teaching and learning method that is focused on YOU and what YOU need to learn to progress and improve.

It is also tailored to fit the pace at which you learn and is designed to challenge you to become more creative and more confident in your skills as a photographer.

That is the PhotoMentors Way!

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Workshops can be fun and have good aspects.

I like the idea of a stimulating workshop.

I have nothing against traveling to exotic or picturesque locations.

I support and encourage photographers to meet, socialize, and learn together.

I like the fun of group gatherings.

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Workshops can have inherent and severe limitations and may not be the best way to learn.

You may think this is a slam against workshops.

It is not.

In fact, these limitations would apply to ANY workshop taught by ANYONE (including me).

They are “inherent” limitations to the Group Workshop method of teaching photography.

I also realize that group workshops are not for everyone.

They may be fun, they may be different, and they may take you to places you have never been before.

They may not fit your schedule, your life-style, your vacation or holiday plans, your family commitments, your budget, your needs, or your best method of learning.

While they may teach you how to be “part of the masses” or show you a “cookie cutter approach” to something, they may not teach you anything about becoming more creative for yourself as a unique individual.

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A Few Inherent Disadvantages to Group Workshops

As I see it, there are several disadvantages that are inherent in a photography workshop. These may severely limit the growth of a photographer and impede their progress as a professional, as a creative person, or as an artist.

Again, these limitations would apply to ANY workshop taught by ANYONE (including me). They are “inherent” limitations to the Group Workshop method of teaching photography.

Here  are a few clear disadvantages to the Workshop model of instruction:

A Few Inherent Disadvantages to Group Workshops

1. Lack of personalization to your needs. You have to fit the workshop, instead of having the instruction fit YOU.

2. Lack of private and focused personal time with the instructor.

3. Emphasis on “Group Think” or “copying the instructor” rather than exploring “Individual Creativity.”

4. Generalizations that don’t fit you.

5. “Lowest Common Denominator” teaching to the level of the average student.

6. Students are generally inhibited from asking questions in a group setting.

7. Students tend to copy the instructor or one another.

8. Students leave with something that is not unique to them.

9. The pace of the typical photography group workshop will probably NOT match your ability to learn, unless you are “average.”

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More on that last point shown above (#9).

Consider the following two learning scenarios.  These are based on typical “group learning” situations (like workshops and formal classes).

Group Workshop Scenario One

Imagine you attend a workshop and you are the smartest or best or the most advanced student in the workshop. You probably hope so.  Is that best?

Now imagine that the instructor has to teach the rest of the students in the workshop at the “average” level.  That means they may spend time teaching the concepts in ways that are not truly stimulating or challenging to you.  They may have to slow the instruction down to keep it a  level of those who do not “get it” or understand as much as you do or for those that do not have your experience or knowledge.

In a Group will you…

Will you get maximum value while the instructor is having to teach at a level that is below your skill or ability or knowledge level?

Will that stimulate your creativity or creative thinking?

Will you “shut off” while in the class because it is focused on stuff you already know?

Will you get bored because the class is going too slow?

Will you feel you are being held back because of the others?

Is that the best way for you to learn?

Is that good for you?

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Group Workshop Scenario Two

Imagine you attend a workshop and you are NOT the smartest, NOT the best in the class, NOT the most advanced in the class, and perhaps NOT understanding all the concepts discussed because you may NOT have the knowledge level that is being taught to the others who may be more experienced than you. In a situation like this, most students are reluctant to speak up about their lack of understanding for fear of being seen by the group as “slow” or “stupid” or “ignorant.”   It is human nature to feel that way and we have ALL probably felt that way at some time in our past.

In a Group will you…

Will you get maximum value while the instructor is teaching above your level?

Will you “shut off” while in the class?

Will you feel inhibited from asking questions because you assume everyone else already knows the answer?

Will you get discouraged?

Will you feel pressure because you cannot “keep up” with the others?

Will you feel anxious about possibly “not knowing enough to keep up?”

Is that good for you?

Is that the best way for you to learn?

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This is why PhotoMentors provides a distinctive alternative and advantage for you.

Compare these two very different approaches to teaching:

At a group workshop…

At a group workshop, there is the undeniable  limitation of time and focus on you because of the GROUP focus.

At a group workshop, the instructor delivers the lessons at a level that will be understood by most of the group. This often leads to the “lowest common denominator” or “average” level instruction.

At a group workshop, the instructor is focused on the group, not the individual!

At PhotoMentors…

At PhotoMentors, the focus is on YOU and giving YOU private, confidential, personal, and professional advice and help that is tailored to YOU and YOUR goals and needs.

To get maximum personal growth, you need a personal guide or coach or mentor to work with YOU as an individual, not as an “average.”

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Another Limitation of Workshops

One of the shortcomings of a short workshop is that you may be attending a workshop taught by an experienced professional, but your ability to have them look at your work and learn about you as a photographer, and your unique vision, is extremely limited.

Even in relatively small workshops that last two or three days, most workshop attendees may only get at most a few minutes alone with the instructor, if they are that lucky.  In the larger group workshops, you may just be a face in the crowd.

How much private, one-to-one time with your workshop instructor will you get at a typical workshop?

Answer: Very little,  if any!

Seriously, think about how much time and devotion the workshop instructor can give you personally when you are one of twenty or forty or more people in the one day, or three day workshop.  The very nature of a large workshop  demands that the instructor keep on a schedule and present for the entire group, not for the individual, not for you.

Sometimes there is little or no time for reviewing portfolios brought by the students or attendees at a workshop.  This is because the emphasis is on what has been shot during the workshop. The time pressure of the workshop and the need for the workshop instructor to split their time over many students or attendees means less attention and less potential for you to truly grow by a thorough portfolio review.

If you want undivided attention from the instructor, and you want teaching that is truly tailored to your specific needs.  Then you need to consider One-on-One study with a Tutor or Mentor via PhotoMentors.

PhotoMentors provides focus on the individual, on you!

Through One-on-One tutoring or mentoring with PhotoMentors, you can focus your time and attention on the aspects of your photography that fit YOU.

That will have the most significant positive effect on your growth and development.

Together we can look at various aspects of photography and identify what can be done to help you reach a new level or to overcome obstacles.

The PhotoMentors approach to learning is adapted to your specific and unique needs.

Our goal is to provide you with effective solutions and help you overcome the obstacles you face.  Whether the obstacles you face are technical in nature, or creative, or business related.  Even if you have just lost motivation or direction, or feel frustrated with your own photography, we can help you.

Flexibility for Full Time Professionals on Busy Schedules

If you are a Professional photographer (Emerging or Established), the PhotoMentors Consultant or Mentor will help you also consider how you are marketing your work.  We can take a look at how you sell, price, and market your images.

We can also help you outline a marketing strategy that meets your goals.  Depending upon which direction you choose to take, it may be one of the smartest investments you make in your success as a professional photographer.

Individual Attention for Amateurs and Beginners

If you are an amateur or just want to learn so you can make better photographs of the most important people in the world, your family, we can help you there too.

Workshops Can Have Hidden Expenses

Finally, there is the expense of attending a remote workshop (outside of your home town).  It may be fun to be in a new location, but it can also add significantly to your expenses and may have nothing to do with your learning.  In short, you may be spending hundreds or thousands of dollars on airfare, lodging, and meals that could have been applied to more personal, more meaningful  learning via a Tutor or Mentor relationship through PhotoMentors.

Your Time is Our Time

At PhotoMentors, we fit your schedule.  This is the true beauty of this contact between you and your Tutor or Mentor.

Imagine the possibilities!

You can contact us when:

• you are waiting at the airport,
• while you are waiting to pick up your kids after school,
• while you are between classes,
• while you are on location for business or pleasure,
• while you are on vacation,
• while you are stuck in traffic.

As long as you have access to a phone or the internet, you can connect to a live person, your PhotoMentors Tutor or Mentor.

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Think about it.

Do you have the time in your busy life to travel to a workshop?

Do you have the time to take off the days needed to attend?

Are you delaying learning because you are waiting for a workshop that fits your needs?

Are you delaying learning because you don’t have the time to attend a formal workshop?

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If your time for traveling is limited, or your budget is tight, or if you want to devote more of your hard-earned money for new gear or important investments in your photography business, or saving for your kids’ college fund, you should consider the alternatives, including learning via a  Tutor or Mentor relationship through PhotoMentors.
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How can I help you?

My Role as Your Mentor

The most important thing I can do is inspire you to look at your photography differently and to challenge you to consider new ways of making photographs.

From this, you will find new creativity inside yourself and new inspirations in the world around you. When that happens, you will feel the Power of WOW as the world becomes a place full of creative possibilities. That is my ultimate goal.

In addition, I can provide you with valuable advice on how to avoid common mistakes and how to make better photographs.

On this site you will find many pages that will tell you about many more ways I may be able to help you. Look for the blue Related Posts links at the bottom of this page for more information.

Steadman Uhlich

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Insight is the Goal

One of the things I keep in mind when mentoring other people is my goal to make the lesson something that they “own” and understand fully. I want the mentee to understand the reasons and “see” it so clearly that it becomes something they will retain and value. This comes by sharing how I see their images or work and comparing how THEY see the work and THEIR vision. We discuss things. We compare their intent and their preliminary result (such as a raw image).

Then by use of questions the mentee will discover things for themselves. This may then be reinforced by examples and variations.

Choices are discussed.

Options uncovered.

Creativity unlocked.

The result is often an insight for the mentee.

In some cases this takes only a few minutes to “see” and understand a conceptual or visual difference, or to learn a new way of looking at the subject or a new technique.

In many cases this breakthrough can take just a few moments or even seconds!

When that “AHA!” moment occurs, it is stimulating and rewarding for both the mentee and the mentor. This shared discovery moment can be something that helps a photographer or artist break out of a box and make progress in fulfilling THEIR vision.

Steadman’s Simple Truths:

“Gear is easy to replace or change and can be changed in minutes.

Good habits take time and repetition to develop.

Bad habits can stick with you a lifetime IF they are not identified, recognized, and corrected.

Insights can make a difference in seconds!”

Steadman

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How do you value learning?

The value of what you learn may be “priceless.”

Steadman’s guarantee:

If I can not offer a suggestion that could improve your photography or help you avoid image weaknesses in the future then there is no charge for the time we spend together.

In short, if I don’t see something I could improve or if I don’t offer you a suggestion for improvement, I will not charge you for my time!

You won’t find a better guarantee than that.

Steadman

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Imagine…

Imagine how valuable that call will be to YOU if we can uncover a solution to your problems.

Imagine what you might learn from having a highly successful professional photographer and fine artist and successful art gallery owner with 25 years experience look at YOUR photo and give you a private discussion of YOUR photo.

Imagine how proud you will be when YOU learn how to make photos that make people say “WOW!”

Imagine how you will feel when you see YOUR Black & White images look like classic B&W photos you have admired all your life.

Imagine how satisfied you will feel when YOU learn how to make your own images look better using simple steps you will remember and be able to use again and again.

Imagine how you will better enjoy YOUR hobby or profession even more if you find ways to overcome obstacles to your skill improvement or your creativity.

Imagine how much more confident YOU will feel in the future when you learn how make better photographs.

Imagine the time you could save and the frustrations you could avoid if you find ways to make better images with simple solutions.

Imagine how your family or clients will respond when they notice the improvement in YOUR photography!

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Steadman’s Method

1. When I teach or mentor or consult with photographers around the world, I use a method I call a Live Voice+Visual Dialog™ on a phone call.

Some people mistakenly think this is just a phone call. It is far from that!

This service is based on both of us sharing a dialog or conversation at the same time as we view your photos together!

We will use BOTH Voice and Visual communication at the same time!

That is not the full story.

You will need to try it to understand and to experience the great difference for yourself!

All communication is by live voice call (a phone call or Skype call).

In short you must call me and speak with me to use this service. No emails. No chat. No PMs. No text messages. No typing. No writing. It is easier and much better this way for many reasons.

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Why does Steadman use Voice calls instead of email or text messages?

Simply because I can tell you many things in a phone call that I will not type and and things I cannot write as effectively.

It is much easier and better and faster as a means of communicating.

It allows us to have a deeper level of communication.

It is more friendly, more natural, and reduces the anxiety or intimidation you might naturally feel when consulting an expert about your photos.

It is more fluid and more immediate in response, so you don’t have to wait and wonder while waiting for an email or text message.

It is a better way of communicating meaning and subtle comments.

It is much more personal and more “human” than email.

It is much more FUN for both you and me!

It is the BEST way to communicate (aside from a real face to face meeting).

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What if this call is international?

I provide a truly global service via this site.

I have clients or mentees and photographers I am helping who are truly located around the world.

I communicate with them all via my special method of Live Voice+Visual Dialog.™

My method helps them all accelerate their learning and quickly improve their photography!

Please read below in this post.

You will find much more information about how I communicate with other photographers around the world in many languages!

If you speak English fluently, I can tell you more information and more clearly and more quickly than I can type. I can tell you more because I will have a “Live and Real Time” dialog or conversation with you. The difference between writing and speaking is considerable. You will see and understand on your first call why this is much better than a written comment or critique on a forum.

If English is NOT your first language or if you are concerned about using English because your use of English is NOT fluent or you may feel inhibited in any way from using English, please read down below in this post. I provide help in 18+ languages in addition to English, so I may be able to help you.

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2. You will not be called by me!

I do NOT call outbound. You will call me when YOU are ready to speak about your photography.

This is so you can be assured that you will NOT be disturbed at a time that is inconvenient for YOU or your family or your work.

You call me by using your phone or Skype.

You may even make a long-distance or international call for FREE if you use a Skype to Skype (VOIP) call so there would be NO long distance phone charge to you.

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Is English a foreign language for you?

If English is not your native language, but is your second language, then you will find it much easier to communicate using my Live Voice+Visual Dialog™ communication method.

There is no need for you to worry about misspelled words or poor grammar or accent.

I will help you and you will find it easier to express yourself clearly.

If there are any questions, it is easier to get clarity because we will be talking in a dialog. If you ever need to ask me a question to clarify something you may not understand, it is very easy because we are in a dialog, with real-time live communication connecting us.

I have Global Operating Hours (Hours of Availability) that fit YOUR schedule around the globe!

You may also call within a wide window of hours. My Global Operating Hours are 9:00AM (0900 hours) to 9:00PM (2100 hours) SEVEN Days a week. Those hours are based on Eastern Standard Time (New York City’s time zone).

I frequently speak with photographers living on the opposite side of the earth from me. It is not unusual nor is it inconvenient for me to speak with photographers in Japan, Australia, Pacific Islands, China, India, Europe, etc. I do this every week and even on weekends!

Don’t let long distances inhibit you from accessing the expertise that can help you improve your photography!

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Global Communications in English or Your Language (when possible)

What if English is not your first language?
What if your use of English is infrequent or limited?
What if you are not fluent in English?
What if your accent is strong?

You must speak some English to communicate with me, but you do NOT have to be fluent or your English could be “limited.”

English does not have to be your first language and you do not need a perfect accent. You do NOT have to be fluent in English. (see the testimonial letter down below).

I have studied 12+ languages other than English (my native language). I truly enjoy speaking with people from other countries, other cultures, and those who speak other languages.

I am accustomed to communicating with people who are using English as a second language. I regularly communicate with people who are from: Europe, the Middle East, Russia, Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

I may be able to help you even IF your use of English is limited or IF you do not consider yourself fluent in speaking English.

Many people understand more English than they feel comfortable speaking. I understand that and why.

Many people who do NOT speak English frequently or fluently may feel inhibited about calling to speak using English.

Do not feel that way.

I am an expert in cross-cultural communication.

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I can help you and will do my best to communicate effectively with you in your language!

I may be able to help you by speaking to you in:

1. French

2. Spanish

3. Portuguese (Brazilian)
   

4. German

5. Dutch

6. Italian

7. Japanese

8. Russian

9. Swahili
   

10. Mandarin Chinese

11. Catalan

12. Norwegian

13. Swedish

14. Danish

15. Polish

16. Romanian

17. Finnish (coming soon)

18. Bahasa Malaysia (coming soon)

19. Bahasa Indonesia (coming soon)

20. Croatian (coming soon)

21. Serbian (coming soon)

22. Slovenian (coming soon)

23. Tagalog (coming soon)

So if you speak or understand one of those languages and some English or if you speak English fluently, we should talk!

I do not claim to be fluent in those languages (except English) and my accent in those languages may make you wince or laugh at times too. But I will try to help you in YOUR language as much as possible. I may be able to tell you (while speaking in one of those languages above) what I see that could be improved in your images/photos and how you could do it.

If you understand one of those languages and speak some English (even if not fluently), OR if you do speak English, you should be able to understand me and what I will be able to tell you about your photos that may help you improve your photography.

I will keep my comments simple, my speaking pace in English at a pace comfortable for you, and I will make Simple Suggestions™ you should be able to understand and apply even IF your use of English is limited. Read more about how this works on the Six Minute Solution page .

Steadman

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Please tell others about this site.

That will help us help and inspire more photographers.

Just click this share button below.

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If this is your first visit to this site,

I encourage you to visit and read the following page

as it will help orient you to this site and some

very special opportunities for you.

Start Here

You should. It could help you.

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If you are outside of the USA,

I encourage you to read the

Global Visitors Page

You should. It could help you.

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Learn About Steadman’s

Six Minute Solution™

You should. It could help you.

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Seven ways you can help other photographers and yourself too!

Have you heard of Karma? Do you believe in the Golden Rule?

Karma is the belief that all deeds can shape the past, present, and future experiences. In the West, this is sometimes expressed by the Christian concept of “you reap what you sow.” In short, do good to others and good may come to you. I truly believe that helping others helps not only them, but also ourselves in ways we often cannot anticipate. Each action of good you do, can make the world a nicer place. Do you believe in the Golden Rule?

1. Tell others about this site.

If you frequent photography forums and see a good opportunity to let people there know about this site, please do. Others who read your favorite forums or blogs may be looking for free lessons and inspiring photographs from which they can learn. Or they may be new to photography forum posting and need some guidance on how to learn more from getting critiques of their photos. Just direct them to www.photomentors.com.

This site is written to inspire photographers of all levels and help them have a better experience in photography.

We even have ten pages devoted to tips on how to have a better experience on a photography forum and those tips may help your favorite forum have better posts and more participation.

2. Please tell at least three of your friends in your community or social network about this site.

If you are on Facebook for example, you could tell your friends.They could be at any level of photography. Anybody who likes photography can benefit from the free lessons or from seeing the thousands of inspiring photographs from some of the world’s best photographers. PhotoMentors has things designed to be of interest to ALL levels of photographers from Beginners to Advanced Professionals.

3. Click on one of the social bookmarking links in this page and let others know about this post or page or this new site.

Tweet your friends. Tell others you DIGG this site. Tell your Facebook friends. Look in the right column of this page and almost all pages on the site for the link that says “SHARE” and click on it to go a pop up list of bookmarking links. It is easy and fast. Or you can send an email to a friend through that link too. Here is another link so you can bookmark this page right now in two clicks of your mouse in three seconds.

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Please take three seconds now to tell others about this site. That will help us help and inspire more photographers.

Just click this share button below.

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4. Add a link to PhotoMentors site to your blog or site.

Or write a post on your blog about what you saw on this site. Did you see a photo that inspired you when you viewed a Masters of Photography Gallery here? Did you learn something about a photographer you had not known about before? Tell others about the thousands of photos by Masters of Photography found here. Remember, our focus is on providing free access to all kinds of photographs and information that will inspire photographers of all levels.

5. Save yourself time while also helping other photographers.

In the future you might come across a newbie or someone new to photography. They may be looking for inspiring examples of great photography or they may want some guidance. This site may help them have a better experience with photography too. You won’t have to type much to help them, all you have to do is simply post a link to this site and that may solve their problem with a couple of clicks of your mouse. Simply tell them to look for the section on Free Lessons and Tips. That helps them, saves you time, and helps me help other photographer learn. So, that is a Win+ Win+ Win.

6. Subscribe to the PhotoMentors mailing list for our FREE Newsletter.

Why? First because the newsletter will be used to tell you about Special Opportunities that may be very valuable to you. Some opportunities may involve substantial discounts on things photographers use. These will be “un-advertised” exclusive offers that may be as much as 50% – 70% OFF retail. Other opportunities are related to activities that may be for publishing images and other opportunities to learn or participate. The more subscribers the newsletter has will help us negotiate special offers and discounts from vendors that can then be passed on to you our readers.

It will only take a moment to add your email to the list. Simply fill in the simple Subscribe Form found on the right column of all pages here on the site. Look in the lower right column. The newsletter will keep you informed when we have special offers and opportunities for our friends around the world. You will also learn about exclusive discounts and other nice things.

Don’t worry about receiving too many newsletters or emails from us. We only send out the newsletter infrequently, but when we do, there will be something of value in it for you. There will be many valuable and exclusive things coming in the future, including great opportunities for photographers, so don’t miss this easy way to hear about it first.

7. Look around this site. Soak it in. Imagine. Be inspired!

You might find something else that interests you or helps you. In 2011 I plan to have hundreds of pages of freely accessible educational content, and 5,000+ inspiring photos by Masters of Photography, and dozens of free educational videos.

I recommend seeing the Site Map (Table of Contents) so you can easily see the long list of articles, posts, and pages listed by topics.

If you would like to see if I can help you as a mentor, then just give me a call using the Skype button or the phone number at the bottom of each Page.

Finally, do what you can to help others post their photos and also get comments and have a good time doing so. That makes the world a nicer place and gives us all more nice photography to see on the net.

Thank you for your help.

Steadman

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Your First Introductory Call is free, but what you might learn later is priceless!™

If you have Skype, simply click on the “Call Me” button below to make a free Skype-to-Skype call. Before you do, make sure the top button says “I’m Online” and is green.
If you don’t have Skype yet, you can download the free Skype software in minutes via the link below the buttons below.

Or, if you want to call using your own land-line phone or cellular phone, simply dial our Direct Dial number:

(646) 233-1511

Our phones are generally answered during our flexible Global Operating hours of 9:00AM (0900) to 9:00PM (2100) EST (New York City Time Zone). Feel free to call anytime within that 12 hour window, 7 days a week.

Call now. It is the first step to a new way of learning and growing in photography.

You will find our service begins with a friendly hello.

If we are not on a call with another photographer, we will be happy to speak with you. If you get our voicemail it means we are on a call with another photographer. In that case, simply leave a detailed message on our voicemail with instructions on how we should contact you. Most voicemail messages receive a call back within two hours, whenever possible. All emails are answered the same day, whenever possible.

If you prefer to send an email you may do that by visiting our Contact Page. Or by using the following email address:

steadman@photomentors.com

Most voicemail messages receive a call back within two hours, whenever possible. All emails are answered the same day, whenever possible.

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© 2010, Steadman Uhlich. All rights reserved.