Whether you've just picked up your first camera or you've been fumbling through auto mode for years, my private photography tutoring is designed to meet you exactly where you are. In one-on-one sessions tailored to teens and adults, you'll learn the fundamentals in a relaxed, judgment-free environment. No crowded classrooms, no rushing ahead. Just real progress, at your pace.
Photography tutor in Chicago
Private Photography Lessons By Tina Smothers
LEARN THE ART OF PHOTOGRAPHY FROM A WORKING PROFESSIONAL
Now enrolling a small selection of students for 2026
All photography lessons are one-on-one in order to give you the individual attention and feedback you need in order to grow
Every great photographer started somewhere — usually confused, overwhelmed, and stuck on auto mode. My private tutoring classes for beginner teens and adults are built around that truth. I'll walk you through the fundamentals of photography in a way that's clear, practical, and actually fun, so you can go from uncertain to unstoppable with a camera in your hands.
INTRO TO PHOTOGRAPHY: $300
A series of 3 one hour private lessons teaching you how to start shooting in manual mode on your DSLR or Mirrorless camera. Learn the exposure triangle (shutter speed, F stop, and ISO) to start using your camera to create art. Lessons can be done over Zoom or in person.
INTRO TO PORTRAIT LIGHTING: $300
A series of 3 one hour private lessons teaching you how to use professional strobe lights to create lighting patterns for a portrait.
INTRO TO ON-CAMERA FLASH: $300
A series of 3 one hour private lessons teaching you how to use your on-camera hot shoe flash in order to capture parties indoors. On Zoom or in person.
PHOTO WALKS IN PILSEN: $300
A series of three 45 minute photo walks exploring the art and beauty of Pilsen followed by critiques and pointers to improve your photos
CUSTOM PRIVATE PHOTOGRAPHY LESSONS
Let me know what you’d like to learn
Is there something you’d like to learn that’s not on this list? Send me an email and let’s get a conversation going.
Based in Chicago, IL
Photography tutoring online or in person
Stop guessing and start shooting with confidence. My private photography tutoring gives beginner teens and adults a direct path from 'I don't know what I'm doing' to capturing images they're genuinely proud of. Sessions are fully personalized to your goals, your gear, and your schedule — so every minute you spend learning is a minute that actually moves the needle.
