PHOTOGRAPHY | EDUCATION | COMMUNITY | NEW ENGLAND
Knowledge and networking for photographers.
Scott Robert Lim, Keynote
Scott Robert Lim is an accomplished and certified Sony Ambassador and international master photographer with over 70 international awards. His work has been published and admired globally, and he is a sought-after speaker at conferences and events worldwide. With a passion for photography and a commitment to excellence, Scott has dedicated his career to developing world-class photographers and teaching students of all levels. His energetic and charismatic speaking style has made him an industry leader in photography and business education. If you’re looking for a passionate and knowledgeable mentor to take your photography skills to the next level, Scott Robert Lim is the perfect choice.
Joe McNally, Nikon Ambassador
Acclaimed, award-winning photographer Joe McNally is known worldwide as the quintessential “pro’s pro;” an extremely versatile, deeply experienced assignment photographer whose jobs have brought him to over 70 countries and counting. McNally is often described as: Authentic, empathetic and articulate, an exceptionally skilled technical photographer who pairs extraordinary camera know-how with a vivid imagination and an ongoing, vibrant creativity.
Always curious, always adapting to the conditions at hand and the relentless advances in camera technology, he has photographed five cover stories for the National Geographic (amongst an overall fifteen coverages), and seven covers of LIFE Magazine. He photographed the very first all-digital coverage for National Geographic, which was considered such a significant, watershed moment in the history of that venerable publication that the entire coverage has been incorporated into the archives of the U.S Library of Congress. In addition to inspiring editorial work, McNally has covered four Olympics (with number five looming in Paris in 2024) for such diverse clients as ABC Television, Sports Illustrated and TIME magazine.
McNally is known for his penchant to get his camera in “a different place” and has twice climbed the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, in addition to climbing the Empire State Building four times. He is that rare photographer who has successfully made the bridge between the commercial world and the editorial world, and is highly regarded by clients for his versatility, and willingness to be a team player. Joe McNally, a proud Nikon Ambassador, has an extraordinary ability to photograph simple assignments with intimacy and grace, as well as master movie-scale productions with large crews, tremendous pressure and countless moving parts.
Justin & Mary Marantz, Worldwide Destination Wedding Photographers
Justin & Mary Marantz are a world renowned husband and wife photography team who have traveled the globe photographing weddings and editorial shoots & teaching their signature lighting approach to thousands of photographers worldwide. They are two of the most popular industry educators and have gone on to build a successful online education platform for tens of thousands of creative entrepreneurs, as well as being named Profoto “Legends of Light.” Justin is a graduate of the prestigious Rochester Institute of Technology with a BFA in Advertising Photography. He is now primarily a black & white film photographer and printmaker, and has recently leaned back into his analog roots of hand printing silver gelatin prints in his darkroom.
Mary grew up in a trailer in rural West Virginia. The first of her immediate family to go to college, she went on to earn a master’s degree in moral philosophy and a law degree from Yale. She is now a national bestselling author of two books: Dirt, a 2020 finalist for memoir of the year about her story of growing up in WV, and Slow Growth Equals Strong Roots. Her third book is set to be released in Spring 2025. Mary is also the host of the highly ranked podcast The Mary Marantz Show, which has featured guests such as country super star Lauren Alaina, Duck Dynasty’s Korie & Willie Robertson, and tv’s own Kathie Lee Gifford. Justin & Mary’s work has been featured on CNN, MSN, Business Insider, Bustle, Thrive Global, Southern Living, Hallmark Home & Family, Martha Stewart Weddings, Inside Weddings and more. They live in an 1880s fixer-upper by the sea in New Haven, Connecticut, with their two very fluffy golden retrievers, Goodspeed and Atticus.
Alicia Daw, Luxury Destination Wedding Photographer
Alicia Daw is an international wedding photographer that has spent over 2 decades of her life globetrotting and seeing the world through the lens of her camera. She has photographed in 36 countries, and draws from her experience of observing and living in other cultures to document your wedding day that is representative of your values, and preserves forever the authentic and emotional moments that will tell the story of the start of your heritage in a way that will leave you in awe for years to come.
Featured in prestigious publications like Grace Ormonde, Style Me Pretty, Wedding Chicks, The Knot, Alicia offers over 14 years of wedding photography experience and delivers images that are effortlessly romantic and breathtakingly chic. You can count on Alicia to wow you not only with stunning photos but also to add to your experience by sharing her secrets of where to find the best hot chocolate in Paris, best fresh baked cookies in New York City, or best Licorice in Copenhagen during your engagement experience.
Alicia knows how to capture the joy and love for the life you have because she is passionate about finding joy and adventure in the everyday and ordinary moments in her life with the people she loves most.
Myrna Daramy, Organic Growth Marketing
Myrna Daramy is the heart and brains behind Myrna & Co, your go-to destination for all things Organic Growth Marketing. With over two decades of navigating the ever-evolving landscape of marketing and technology, Myrna brings a unique blend of seasoned wisdom and vibrant creativity to the table.
As an Organic Growth Marketing Strategist, she’s on a mission to help businesses thrive in the digital realm. Whether it’s crafting ingenious digital media marketing strategies, deciphering analytics mysteries, ensuring everyone feels included in the digital conversation, or making sure your digital presence is ADA compliant – Myrna’s got you covered.
Hannah Rachael, Boudoir
Hannah Rachael is an award-winning, published, luxury boudoir photographer and international educator located in the foothills of Litchfield, Connecticut.
She opened Hannah Rachael Photography at the age of 21 and over the last 10 years she has built a brand on unapologetic self-love, inclusivity, acceptance, and healing. The cornerstone of her brand is creating empowering images and words from her heart that she shares across social media, which has impacted thousands of women’s lives across the world.
As a true entrepreneur, she is also cofounder of ‘The Boudoir Class,’ bringing together photographers, makeup artists, marketing teams, and body activists to educate students on all things boudoir and how to create an experience like no other for their clients. In addition, she also has created a series of luxury women’s retreats, providing her clients with a unique and inspiring experience, surrounded by beautiful scenery, and powerful women aimed at creating a deeper connection with themselves all while being photographed in extraordinary locations.
In 2023, Hannah expanded and rebranded her business, adding her sister Heather as an associate shooter, launching more online education, entering the world of interior decorating, and taking her work worldwide under her new brand Hannah&Co.
Join Hannah Rachael in her next exclusive class at Light and Lens 2025.
Cait Fletcher, Fine Art Wedding Photographer
Esteban Gil, Wedding Photographer & Educator
Over the decades, Esteban has honed his raw creative abilities into a talent that is undeniable. Esteban places importance in capturing emotion first and art second, but consistently succeeds in turning most every moment into artistry. His work is easily recognized by his well thought out framing, out-of-the-box creativity, and even more so his imaginative use of light – be it natural or flash.
Esteban has never forgotten his roots or the communities that embraced him. It is clear that he keeps a love of community at the heart of everything he does and he strives to educate and empower photographers at every level. This firm belief in “community over competition” led to the founding of the creative community, Steel & Flint Society, in 2018.
Through the Steel & Flint workshops and corresponding community, Esteban has cultivated an environment that fosters growth through education, group discussions, artistic challenges, unlimited access to guidance and advice, and friendships. As he continually strives to grow in his own abilities and career, he never hesitates to advise, encourage, and help others to grow. It is clear to those that have had the opportunity to meet and learn from him. He chooses to put just as much value into the people he creates for and the people he creates with as he does his own profession – and for that he has become not just a leader in the industry, but a mentor, and – to many – a friend.
Brandi Nicole, Self Portraiture
Brandi Nicole, originally from Kansas City, has spent the past decade honing her artistic voice in the vibrant art scene of New York City. Driven by a desire to inspire and increase access to creativity, she fearlessly explores innovative expression and human connection through her art.
Fueled by a lifelong search for whimsy in the everyday, Brandi’s work primarily focuses on creative portraits and even self-portraiture. Through these mediums, she showcases her mastery of lighting, illustration-influenced editing, and multimedia art skills. Ultimately, Brandi strives to bring more beauty into the world, one impactful piece at a time.
John Branch IV, Wedding Photographer & YouTube Content Creator
John Branch IV is a Wedding Photographer and YouTube Content Creator. After nearly 10 years of wedding photography in the NYC and Raleigh, NC area, John quickly began teaching what he’s learned to newer wedding photographers to overall help the caliber of photographers in the wedding industry. A Fujifilm X-Photographer and RF 30 Rising Star winner, John looks to take his years of experience and use it to help grow others’ businesses and show them they can have life-changing results with their photography.
Rob Grimm, Commercial & Educational Instructor
Rob Grimm is a commercial photographer and educational instructor. He works exclusively in food and beverage photography with a specialty in glass and liquids. His bold and graphic style has been employed by a client list of international brands as long as your left arm including the likes of Jack Daniel’s, Bacardi, Woodford Reserve, Brown Forman, Kraft and Panera to name just a few.
With experience running full service studios in both Chicago and St. Louis, he has a unique perspective on the business of commercial photography. In 2014 he co-founded the company PRO EDU, an educational company that produces tutorials for every photography genre. Rob now delivers training on an international level through online video and leads a community of elite photographers around the world as they share their trade secrets to future generations of visual artists.
When Rob’s not shooting in his studio or building furniture in his workshop you can find him cooking in the kitchen, working in the yard, rowing on the lake with his team or running about town with his wife and two daughters. He also has 5 cats.
Emily Teague, Photographer & Director
Emily Teague is a photographer & director based in Brooklyn, New York. Her style is a unique fusion of fashion, cinema, photojournalism, nostalgia, and the delicate beauty found within the unnerving. Emily’s art is driven by a deep curiosity. She balances her passion for creating stories with telling the stories of others through her work with non-profits and NGOs. Her work has taken her to over 30 countries across the globe. As an educator, Emily delights in sharing her knowledge with others, inspiring and nurturing the curiosity of those she teaches.
Thomas Nguyen, High School Senior Photography
Thomas Nguyen lives in Cincinnati, OH., but travels around the country as his High School senior photography allows him to do so. He has a unique approach at what he does. As one of the country’s leading industry leaders, he believes in keeping things fun and fresh, while pushing his creative boundaries! He genuinely cares about every senior he works with. His intention is unwavering: to create a unique and memorable experience that not only each high school senior will fall in love with, but to stand out amongst the crowd.
Ashley Caroline, Newborn & Family Photographer/Videographer
Ashley Caroline is a newborn and family photographer and videographer based in Connecticut. She uses play, light, and intentional interaction to create authentic and poetic short films and photographs for families during all stages of their lives. Her two sweet and silly boys, born 20 months apart, inspire her playful approach and ability to capture the liveliness of little ones.
Steve Walter, Art Direction & Motion Design
Steve Walter has made a significant impact in the world of visual arts while fostering creative communities. With a solid background in art direction and motion design, Steve began his creative journey as a designer for nearly a decade before transitioning into a photographic career spanning over 15 illustrious years. His unique combination of expertise in art direction, motion design, and photography has allowed him to create compelling and visually striking imagery that seamlessly blends the best of all worlds. Adept in both studio and on-location work, Steve is an accomplished and multifaceted practitioner, well-versed in a range of mediums and methodologies.
David Zapatka, Lighthouse Astrophotographer
David Zapatka is the Director of Photography for the United States Lighthouse Society and has been working the past decade on “USA Stars & Lights,” photographing our nations’ iconic beacons strictly at night. His images are striking, and his lecture/workshop will help other photographers find the right balance of bright lighthouse beacons juxtaposed against dark star-filled skies.
Pratik Naik, High-End Retoucher
Pratik Naik is a high-end retoucher based out of the United States, specializing in commercial and editorial work. With over 15 years of experience, he retains a deep passion for mastering the art of retouching in Photoshop.
His background in fine art fuels his passion for retouching. Naik believes in a streamlined, seamless approach that respects the photographer’s original vision while striving for flawless results. His ultimate goal is to preserve the natural essence of an image while elevating it to the photographer’s exacting standards.
Alongside his retouching work, Naik finds great satisfaction in teaching. He enjoys simplifying complex techniques, making them accessible for aspiring retouchers. Witnessing the “aha!” moment when concepts become clear for a student brings him immense fulfillment.
Additionally, Naik is the founder of Infinite Color, a leading Photoshop color grading extension, and their suite of other powerful Infinite tools.
Bella Kotak, Fine Art & Fashion Photographer
Bella Kotak is a fine art, fashion, and portrait photographer known for her ethereal, feminine, and whimsical style. Grown in Kenya and currently based in both the US and UK, Kotak’s work is deeply influenced by the natural world, fairy tales, and strong feminine characters. She often incorporates elements of nature, such as flowers and natural light, to create dreamlike and vibrant images that celebrate beauty, strength, and resilience.
Bella’s journey into photography began as a creative outlet while studying architecture. Her transition from architecture to photography allowed her to blend her love for design and storytelling with her fascination for nature’s beauty and the human form. Bella’s work has gained international recognition, featuring in various exhibitions, magazines, and art publications. She is also known for her educational workshops and speaking engagements, where she shares her expertise in creative photography and post-processing techniques.
Her photography is not just a display of technical skill, but a reflection of her personal experiences and emotions, inviting viewers into a magical and thought-provoking world. Bella’s storytelling pictures lift the veil of the overlooked and reminds us that there’s magic in the most ordinary of spaces and beauty in every face.
Bella Kotak is an ambassador for Phase One, SmugMug, Canson Paper, and Vanguard.
Her work has been featured in exhibitions in New York, London, Paris, and Seoul.
In 2022 she was featured in BBC1’s Extraordinary Portraits.
In 2021 Bella’s piece, “The Kiss” won the Beautiful Bizarre Art Prize INPRNT Photography Award.
Jeff Tisman, Wedding Photographer
Have you ever wondered what separates a good composite from a truly exceptional one?
Creating dynamic composite portraits starts with refining your off-camera flash skills—but that’s just the foundation. The real magic happens when you hone your ability to pose and coach your clients, transforming your photography into art.
In this 2-hour masterclass, I’ll guide you through advanced techniques for crafting striking couple and wedding party portraits that stand out from the rest.
We’ll begin with simple, effective poses for a single subject, then build up to couples and larger groups. You’ll learn how to direct clients with confidence, creating award-winning photographs that go beyond technical mastery.
This hands-on class gives you the chance to shoot and practice the techniques in real time. I’ll also walk you through my post-processing workflow, demonstrating how to craft polished, professional composites that truly elevate your work.
Leave with the skills, confidence, and creativity to take your off-camera flash portraits to new heights—and wow your clients like never before.
Shaun Gordon, Kiss Books CEO
Shaun Austin Gordon is witty, loves deep conversations, and loves to dream of the future. He is married to his beautiful wife, and has 3 kids. His favorite thing to do for work is helping photographers go from starving artists to successful creative entrepreneurs that impact the world with their art and their hearts. In Shaun’s free time you can find him headed to Nashville to see his favorite daughter, hitting the gym with one of his kids, or playing tennis, and now Pickleball, with friends. Shaun photographed around 500 wedding over his 15 year career. He is the founder and Visionary at Kiss Books, but if he had any other job he would be doing events to help people become the best version of themself. His wife refers to him as Shaun 2.0 now that he is dedicated to growth in his many roles such as a husband, dad, son, leader, and friend. Shaun is committed to becoming the best version of himself and if you want a good laugh ask him about his cartwheel experience.
Samantha Schannon, Headshot & Branding
Samantha Schannon is a modern headshot and branding photographer, dedicated to showcasing the unique identities of entrepreneurs, professionals, and creatives throughout New England. With her personalized approach and full-service experiences, she crafts custom images that elevate and amplify her clients’ personal brands.
