Before and during the Iceland trip he was excellent at keeping us informed and provided details of what to expect upon our arrival. He is very patient and when asked a question he took the time to show us the answer and then make us actually do the task while he watched. We had participants of varying levels of expertise, equipment, and physical capabilities, and he never left anyone out. We were all free to do as much or as little as we wished without criticism. I totally recommend him as a photo trip leader and a teacher.
This is not my first workshop with STL and Mike nor will it be my last. Mike has a way of making you aware of the many possibilities in taking pictures, he's always got you thinking about backgrounds, proximity, angles. He is incredibly patient and knowledgeable and non-intrusive. He won't force you into shooting like him although, that would be ok with me but opens your eyes and mind to subtle changes that make a big difference. Mike is a fabulous teacher - I also highly recommend his Mastering Exposure class.
By the end of the workshop, I felt comfortable tracking, composing and shooting flying birds. The workshop was pleasant and noncompetitive, and we all had a great time while improving our skills.
It was truly a great learning experience for me while having fun doing it. Through his intimate knowledge of the island, the people, the conditions and subject matter, he is able to offer a proposition that positions you to shoot in the best locations for the wind, weather, time of day and light. He offers as much or as little help as you need or want and is available at any time. They all made a huge difference in my resulting images. The group is small, the subjects numerous making competition and jostling for a prime position a non-issue.
I loved every minute of the trip and our interaction. Overall, a wonderful experience. Turns out to have been an awesome motherlode of luck! What an enjoyable packed week!! When Mike said we were rooming with an Icelandic family, I wondered how would this go.
