• the way people learn. At Seacoast Photography School students learn by doing to build their skills as a photographer. By experiencing new methods and techniques we will take beginner and advanced photographers beyond their current comfort level encouraging growth and development.

  • in order for someone’s photography to improve they must physically practice what they learn. Although reading, watching and listening is informative, there is no feedback to improve without interaction. We will help students learn to look at errors and mistakes as data and information to create new levels of performance.

  • to effectively learn photography people need to experience it. Every lesson we teach provides core concepts that are practiced in easy-to-understand language with methods.

  • that learning about photography can be a rewarding and challenging experience. There are many ways to develop someone’s style and skills. This can sometimes seem confusing and overwhelming. At Seacoast Photography School we provide a simple and common-sense approach to help people become better photographers.

Passionate about Photography?

Robert Akers

Nikon

 

Based in Kennebunk, Robert Akers passion for photography emerged early in his life and evolved into a distinguished career spanning over two decades. With a unique blend of technical expertise and artistic flair, Robert has garnered acclaim for his striking compositions that evoke emotions and narratives within each frame. His dedication to the craft is evident through his commitment to exploring new perspectives, lighting techniques, and cutting-edge technologies, ensuring his work remains at the forefront of visual storytelling.

Beyond his artistic pursuits, Robert Akers is also a mentor, sharing his knowledge and passion for photography through workshops and educational initiatives. His commitment to fostering the next generation of photographers reflects his belief in the power of imagery to inspire, provoke thought, and evoke powerful emotions.

Robert's work has been featured in various exhibitions, publications, and galleries, earning him recognition and admiration within the photography community.  As former President of the Maine Professional Photographers Association and named Photographer of the year.  He went on to become a Certified Professional Photographer and earned a Master of Photography Degree and a Photographic Craftsman Degree.

https://robertakersphotography.com/

Lauren Bodwell

Nikon

 

Lauren, is a talented photographer based in York, Maine, and has established herself as a respected figure in the field. Her focus lies primarily in documentary, portrait and lifestyle photography, capturing authentic moments that reveal the essence of her subjects. With a passion for her craft that dates back to 2014, she has consistently produced stunning imagery for businesses and people.

Motivated by the interplay of light and her keen observations of the world, through her artistic lens, she strives to evoke a range of emotions, provoke wonder, and inspire profound thought in viewers. Every photograph she creates is a testament to her ability to craft visual stories that resonate deeply with others.

At the core of Lauren's approach is her dedication to storytelling. She believes that capturing and sharing stories is a powerful way to connect with others on a meaningful level. It is this passion for narrating unique tales that ignites a fire within her and drives her artistic pursuits. In each frame she captures, Lauren strives to uncover the essence of her subjects and find innovative ways to convey their stories, leaving a lasting impact on the hearts and minds of those who view her work.

http://laurenbodwellphotography.com/

Russ Caron

Canon

 

Russell Caron, an esteemed photographer based in Southern Maine, dedicates himself fully to his craft as a professional photographer. With a deep-rooted passion for mentoring and teaching, he finds immense fulfillment in nurturing and guiding the next generation of aspiring photographers who possess an unwavering eagerness to learn and grow.

In January 2022, Russell achieved a remarkable feat by becoming one of only 16 individuals worldwide to be honored with the prestigious Master of Wedding Photography degree from the Professional Photographers of America, the world's oldest and largest photography organization. This notable accomplishment adds to his already distinguished credentials, including his original Master Photographer Degree, Certified Professional Photographer designation, Certified Drone Photographer certification, and the esteemed title of Maine Wedding Photographer of the Year, which he has earned twice.

Having skillfully photographed close to 1,000 weddings throughout his career, Russell's expertise extends far and wide. He has embarked on captivating journeys across the globe, capturing love stories in enchanting destinations such as Italy, Belize, and the Caribbean, to name a few. His ability to encapsulate the essence of each couple's special day, regardless of the location, has solidified his reputation as an acclaimed wedding photographer.

Russell Caron's commitment to his craft, combined with his wealth of experience and accolades, make him an exceptional mentor and an invaluable asset to the world of photography.

www.wed-pix.com

Amy Kelly

Smartphone

 

Having amassed a vast collection of seacoast photographs, my artistic journey has been marked by constant iteration, seeking feedback, and engaging in artist gatherings. Throughout this process, my distinctive digital mixed media approach to capturing lobster tails has garnered the attention and appreciation of a growing audience. The lobster, with its remarkable characteristics, has become a captivating subject to photograph. Its intricate and dynamic nature, expressed through a myriad of colors, behaviors, sizes, and shapes, presents a wealth of possibilities for artistic exploration.

When I delve into working with a single photograph, I find myself immersed in a world of endless artistic potential. Each image becomes a catalyst for my creative process, igniting my imagination and leading me on a path of deep meditation. This journey, as I develop and refine my artistic vision, fills my soul with profound joy and satisfaction.

The transformative experience of translating a lobster's unique features into art is truly transformative. It allows me to connect intimately with the subject, capturing its essence and inviting others to appreciate its beauty in new and unexpected ways. With each creation, I strive to evoke a sense of wonder and evoke emotions that resonate deeply within the viewer

Jen Lippe

Sony

 

Having called York, Maine home for more than two decades, Jen has discovered solace and inspiration in capturing the ever-changing beauty of the seacoast through her lens. Immersed in the serene embrace of nature, she has been captivated by the harmonious convergence of the ocean, mountains, and woods, which have become her muse. Through her photography, Jen endeavors to weave narratives that offer fresh perspectives and invite others to see the world through a new lens.

With a deep-rooted passion for landscape, extensive expertise in both long exposure and macro photography, Jen has found a harmonious balance of joy and aesthetic allure in her craft. Each click of her camera shutter serves as an invitation to explore and appreciate the intricate details that lie within the natural world.

Eager to share her profound love for photography, Jen eagerly anticipates the opportunity to reveal the wonders of this art form to others. Whether capturing grand landscapes or the delicate intricacies of a tiny subject, she aims to ignite a sense of awe and inspire others to embark on their own photographic journeys

https://jenniferlippe.smugmug.com/browse

David Mazur SPS Founder

Canon

As a student of photography, David attended numerous workshops from Boston to Portland. Despite being led by some of New England’s finest photographers he realized that the best photographers don’t always make the best teachers. This realization inspired the creation of a student-centered learning environment like Seacoast Photography School. Drawing on his experience as a college professor and certified performance coach for over 15 years, David recognized a more effective way for people to learn photography. He has developed an experiential teaching style that empowers aspiring photographers to elevate their skills, as evidenced by testimonials from SPS where he consistently enables students to unlock their true potential.

David believes that photography is best learned through firsthand experiences. He emphasizes a learn-by-doing methodology, encouraging learners to actively engage with the concepts being taught, step outside their comfort zones, and explore new dimensions of their craft. Through workshops, tours, and private lessons, David adeptly guides students in training their eyes and utilizing their cameras in innovative ways, ultimately enabling them to achieve their desired outcomes. His effective methods are evident in the growth and improvement his students continue to achieve in their photographic journey.

Having lived in York, Maine for over a quarter-century, David possesses an intimate connection to the seacoast, which is beautifully reflected in his photography. His profound appreciation for the coastal region permeates his work, capturing the essence of its splendor and preserving it for posterity.

https://davidmazurphotography.com/

Mike Sheets

Nikon

Michael developed a profound fascination for night photography from a young age. Even in his early teens, he eagerly captured various nocturnal scenes using film, experimenting with different lighting perspectives. However, it was in 2018 that he stumbled upon the transformative capabilities of digital photography, which sparked his passion even further. It was during this time that he managed to capture a breathtaking image of the Nubble Light adorned by the ethereal Milky Way, forever cementing his devotion to the craft.

Since then, Mike has traversed the scenic landscapes from York to Lubec to Acadia, tirelessly seeking the ideal nocturnal backdrop to capture the mesmerizing night sky. Throughout his photographic journey, he has never ceased to find joy in his art, always embracing the thrilling experiences that accompany it.

Mike's teaching approach is characterized by interactivity and hands-on engagement. He firmly believes in providing immersive learning experiences to his students. You can join him on his captivating night workshops or opt for one-on-one lessons, where he imparts his knowledge of the enchanting world of photographing the night sky. Embark on this educational journey with him and discover the awe-inspiring wonders that await those who delve into the realm of night photography.