I wasn't sure what to expect going into having my portrait taken for some work-related paperwork. Based on experiences from many years ago, I thought there would be lots of me looking at a blank wall in the distance and having to keep my eye from twitching as the photographer says things like "Hold that!" Luckily, my one hour session was nothing like that. Jason greeted me warmly, we chatted for a bit to figure out my goal with the photos, and he even helped me figure out outfits from the selection of tops I'd brought. Although I have a tendency to plaster a smile on my face and make deer-in-the-headlights eyes when confronted with a stranger holding a camera, there was none of that. He carefully adjusted the lights at the beginning of each outfit's photo time and took some test photos to double-check. It's clear he pays attention to not just the subject in the photo but the lighting and background as well. His attention to detail and friendly, not-even-remotely sketchy personality really made me trust him and give him real smiles. He felt like a professional cousin, if you know what I mean. As for the photos, they are some of the best photos I've ever had taken of me. As part of the package, he retouches the photos before sending them out. Since he carefully set up the studio and also gave me great suggestions (from letting me know to adjust my collar to suggesting I fix massively errant hair) during the shoot, there were only minor retouches necessary. He also let me see the photos as we went along and we chatted about what worked and what didn't (from my perspective too, not just his). It's amazing we got so many good photos in just an hour! I really think it would have taken at least two, if not three times as long to get so many good pictures with any other photographer. I can't say enough good things about Jason and my experience. I felt comfortable at the shoot, even had fun with it, Jason turned around the photos lightening fast to help me meet a deadline, and even welcomed any requests for slightly different picture tweaks after sending me the final versions. I signed up for the portrait session not knowing what to expect but had what I thought were realistic expectations. Jason blew those expectations out of the water. I see now why he is so highly rated. read more

I wanted to go back to a favorite hobby of mine when I was back in high school: photography! Sick of my point and shoot camera, I finally caved and bought a DSLR. So much has changed since I used my old school Minolta SLR when I did black and white photography during my good old dark room days, so signing up for Jason's class was going to get me up to speed on all the bells & whistles DSLR's have today. I'm thankful I have two years of photography under my belt, so knowing the fundamentals of ISO, aperture settings, F-stops, depth of field, etc hasn't changed, nor will it. Learning all the other stuff a fancy digital camera has the capacity of doing is another story. I attended the 101 class from 10:00 to noon and the speed of content of that class was okay. There were about twenty of us in the class and Jason's focus was primarily on composition. Stuff I knew already, but good to highlight on that once again. We spent the last thirty minutes of the class taking pictures of fruits and veggies. It was interesting to see how creative other students got from the pics they posted on the MeetUp page for this group. The afternoon 102 "Getting to Know Your Camera" was very informative. I'm glad he keeps the class size to under 15 attendees so he can answer all our questions and give us his undivided attention when needed. There's so much you need to learn about a camera and three hours seems like too long for a class, but it's really not. We didn't have any breaks, he just crammed through the topics, walked around the room to show us where to find certain features on our cameras and took some practice shots. Overall, the classes were informative. I want to sign up for more classes, primarily taking low light pics. He knows his stuff and doesn't get too deep with the information because I know how overwhelming it can be; some folks in the room had blank looks on their faces, that was pretty funny but they eventually understood what settings to put their camera on by the time class ended. Oh yeah Jason, buy a dry erase board! Your PowerPoint presentation was cool, but even you admitted you need a dry erase board...haha! read more

I took one of Jason's photography workshop/class this past Saturday and I am really glad I did. I got to learn a lot about cameras in general, different ways to shoot without having to change my lens and ways to improve ISO without doing much. I also learned about white balance and how to improve shots when there's little to no lighting. The class was very helpful and a lot cheaper than most workshops offer, but it doesn't mean that the class wasn't informative. The price just means it's doable for anyone who really wants to learn more about DSLR shooting. I already RSVPed for next Saturday for his next class and I'm really excited to learn more about low light photography. read more

PICTURE PERFECT... I have taken 3 classes with Jason (about to take my 4th one in 2 weeks) and he know his stuff! I have learned a lot about photography with the help of Jason's San Diego Photography Classes (http://www.meetup.com/San-Diego-Photography-Classes/) and he teaches in a way that is easy for everyone to understand. If you are getting into photography or just want a new way at looking at it, you should take one of his classes! He keeps his class sizes pretty small so you can get that one-on-one attention which is VERY helpful and worth the money! I have taken a few other photography classes and none of them are as good as Jason's! (Trust me, I don't work for him, I just appreciate taking his classes!) read more

I took Jason's 102, Taking Better Photos Outdoors, and most recently Mastering Your Camera and Photo Walking Tour (Groupon deal). All three classes were well organized, informative, easy to follow (especially for a beginner like me!), and so valuable. I'm so glad that I found Jason and The Right Light! I took the 102 and Outdoors class to prepare for a trip to Africa with my hubby and new Canon Rebel t2i. I couldn't risk taking sub par photos over there and I had absolutely NO idea what I was doing with that new and complicated camera. So...with a year to learn and practice, I took the classes. I'm incredibly happy with the pics I took while on safari and SO glad I took the classes to prepare! I took the Mastering Your Camera class as a refresher. Totally worthwhile! Jason's teaching style (a mix of lecture, helpful examples and hands-on practice with immediate constructive feedback) provides a quality and relevant experience. Add to all of that his extreme patience with beginners and you have an incredible learning experience. I leave his classes motivated to practice what I've learned and inspired to create better images. Now part of The Right Light community, I read Jason's Facebook page and newsletters which include helpful equipment recommendations. As a result, I now have a new macro lens (thrilling!) and regular communication from my teacher. It's great to keep learning even when the classes end. I appreciate Jason's dedication to improving his students! I will definitely continue to take classes with Jason (and Rob). And if you haven't taken one yet, do it. You won't be disappointed! read more

I had been waiting and waiting for a chance to attend one of Jason's classes. I finally got the chance yesterday and so thankful I did! I found the studio pretty quickly, there was plenty of parking on the street and Jason had signs outside so I wasn't confused for long on where to go. When class started he introduced himself and gave some background on his experience with photography. Each one of us did the same, we introduced ourselves and the reason behind our attending the class. The class went on and he started going over the curriculum. Jason made the class fun and entertaining. He thoroughly explained different "rules" and allowed for question/answer portion. Then we were able to practice what we learned which was my favorite part! We were able to wander the studio with camera in hand and our minds open. I soaked it in. I know it was only an intro class but I left feeling more confident in my shooting and with a new understanding. He reminds you to "think outside the box" but doesn't make it seem overwhelming. I will be attending his 102 class and hope to attend more of his classes. Thanks Jason! Note to Reader: If you have a camera, sign up for this class! You owe it to the camera. Learn how to use it! http://www.sandiegophotographyclass.com/ read more

Fun, Energetic and an overall thrill. Those are the words I would use to describe the right light photography class I took. I'm actually a photographer so I'm in no means a rookie but these guys taught me a thing or two that I've overlooked in my previous experience. I'm of the thought that you can learn from everyone, and I did learn from these guys. One thing I can tell you for certain is they know a lot about lighting techniques. That's my weakest point in photo and they immensely in this regard. Check these guys out if you're a rookie, or a professional looking to up your game, I'm sure you'll find it a fun, worthwhile experience. read more

TRL is pretty flipping amazing! As an avid photographer wanting to move to the next level, TRL has helped me develop new skills, master already known techniques and build a better photography business. I attended the 'PIT' program (photographer in training) and i was honestly worried I was wasting my money... Low and behold, I am so happy with the outcome of the program. I am smarter, wiser and a better person because of this course. Money spent well!! My business is growing because of PIT. I also now have friends for life from this course. Jason and his crew are pretty flippin awesome. THANK YOU! read more

My experience at Right Light Photography was beyond my expectations. They were professional and make the whole thing fun. The portraits and head shots came out stunningly clear. I almost didn't think some of the photos were even of me they looked so good. The process was easy and the value for the money was outstanding. I will be brining my family here for holiday pictures for sure. I would highly recommend The Right Light Photography crew. read more

I just attended my 3rd class with Jason. This last class was about flash photography. I have enjoyed all three classes I have taken and am hoping to take more. Jason is very personable and he does a great job covering lots of information while still being hands on and helping everyone understand the content of the class. This most recent class was at his studio in Little Italy. I had no problem finding the studio and I found it very comfortable, with an open feeling. I highly recommend anyone looking to learn more about photography to attend one of Jason's classes. read more

You can tell how popular these courses are just by how fast the Meetup spots fill up. I've only taken 1 course so far, and it was great. The class was small enough so he could answer questions and helped everyone from smaller point & shoot cameras to the fancy DSLRs. Very good deal with quality instructors. I look forward to checking out the new location in Mission Valley. read more

I just attended my first class with Jason Kirby yesterday - the 21st of Sept. I have to say that I learned more in those 2 hours than a year of fumbling around the internet looking for answers on how to improve my technique. As founder and owner of a local startup, Beltair Industries Imaging (BAII), I was pleased that my instincts were independantly verified in believing there is a call for elevated photography. I would give 5 out of 5 stars but our relationship of student and teacher has just begun with a high expectation that I will learn so much more to give my photos that coveted, polished and professional look. In a business climate where value is paramount - this was the best $25 that I've spent in a long time. read more

I was recently working on a marketing project for Isola Pizza Bar in Little Italy, San Diego. Our goal was to brand the staff at Isola since they are well known to neighborhood locals. We did not want traditional head shots or poses seen in other restaurants, but to bring out the individual personalities of each of the servers. Jason came out a few days before the shoot to get review the exact angles I was thinking of, do a rundown of each person's personality traits and offer his advice on how to build from that. The results were fantastic! Because he came out ahead of time and did a rundown of each shot, we were able to get an incredible amount of shots done in a short evening. He had everything well thought out ahead of time and it went so smooth. Shots turned out with the exact results we were looking for. Fun & incredibly clear. I will definitely be using TRL Photography for future projects and would highly recommend them to anyone. read more

I really enjoyed the class on product photography. It was perfect for me and my needs. It not only gave me answers to questions I had but also really sparked my interest in photography again. Rob was great, very kind and patient. The studio was a little hard to find so make sure you get directions. read more

I was able to attend Photography 101 class through a free certificate with George's camera shop. When you make a big investment through them, they offer you a free class. Although the class did not focus on what I was expecting, I still felt that the instructor was very knowledgeable, through, personable, and did not rush us through class. We ended the class with a hands on practice portion and the critique session which was helpful. The class focused on composition and apperture, which are great learing points to being with. Also, after speaking with a camera nerd, he says if you start with teaching about all the buttons, what they do and how to use them, that you will bore most people to death and they won't be as inspired about photography. I will definitely be taking the 102 class in the near future. read more

I haven't visited the new location, but I loved the many classes I took in little Italy. I look forward to taking more specialized classes in the future! read more

I took the 102 class and left there with mixed thoughts. It seemed that almost all the people in our class didn't know the basic controls of their cameras. Seems we spent too much time showing these people what they should known before taking 102. I thought we would be talking more on what conditions you would change settings etc, and more learning why its better not to use "auto". I believe Rob who taught the class has the knowledge but didnt get it across to everyone. read more

I have attended 4 classes with Jason and I really like the pricing of the classes and the small class sizes. I also like how they keep everyone engaged and make sure everyone is getting they can out of the classes. read more

Jason is a Great Photographer! I had a great experience with my Photoshoot. Very focused, detail oriented, friendly, responsible, creative, and great on what he does! Also a good price and good quality of pictures, so i highly recommend him to anyone! I will be back again! M. M :) read more

The 2014 Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network annual ThinkTank meeting was recently held at The Rancho Bernardo Inn. Our ThinkTank gathers the leading scientists, physicians, survivors, and advocates to further the conversation and research on Bladder Cancer. This year, we secured the services of The Right Light Photography as our meeting photographer! What an incredible job Jason did! His work is absolutely amazing. From start to finish Jason and Arek documented our kick-off session and actually captured every person in the group shot! We could not be more pleased. I highly recommend the services of The Right Light Photography! read more

I took Photography 102- Getting to know your camera. And Im SO glad I did. I will definitely be taking more classes from Jason, because he does an amazing job of explaining complex concepts (like ISO and white balance) in a way that makes sense. I've read my camera's instruction manual and introductory digital photography books - but hearing Jason explain the concept, demonstrate them, and then try it out for myself - its finally all clicked. THANK YOU Jason - I feel like I have my digital SLR camera mastered now. read more

I came across this class on meetup.com. I enrolled in the taking better out door photos class and was very satisfied... I not only learned some useful tips on what to look for in a frame but I also leaned how to better use my camera. Jason was a great instructor and very helpful. Overall I would recommend this class to anyone wanting to lean better photography. read more

I had a great experience taking a beginner DSLR class. Jason and Rob know their stuff. They keep classes at small enough sizes to give you personal attention as needed. In addition, the hand on portion of the class is amazing. They help you as you practice and what better location than or beautiful Little Italy and port. read more

I just finished my 5th class with The Right Light Photography, and it is perfectly clear that Jason Kirby and Rob Szajkowski are the dynamic duo when it comes to photography classes. They are knowledgable, professional, talented and accommodating for beginners and more-advanced shooters alike. Jason has also given some great tips for Nikon accessories and lenses. read more

Awesome class. Was part of a groupon deal I got. Learned a lot of new things. Will definitely come back for additional classes.

I had the pleasure of working with The Real Light Photography recently at a movie premier. There were two venues involved and all the photos turned out great. They were easy to work with, and make pictures available to all attendees online within days. read more

Jason helped me improve my business activities with his "Photography for Realtors" class. A house won't sell if people don't come through the door and good photography makes all the difference. Thanks Jason for sharing your knowledge. I look forward to taking more of your very useful classes! read more

I just took Photo 101 & 102 with Jason. It was a very good intro to the Digital SLR world. Very straightforward classes with plenty of opportunity for questions and a good amount of hands-on operation of my camera. We were challenged to come up with our own ideas/photos to demonstrate depth of field, leading lines, rule of thirds, etc. I was impressed with the variety and quality of many of the other students! Thank you Jason (and Rob) for the excellent instruction. I am signed up for the Landscape/Macro class next. read more

Attended my first two classes yesterday at Right Light Studios and really enjoyed it. The class was about twenty people and I appreciated the fact that Jason Kirby took the time to get around to each of us during each portion of the training and address our individual cameras and questions. We had plenty of time for hands-on practice and I feel I came away with a lot of new information and a better awareness of how to take photographs than I did when I arrived. I may consider taking some of Right Light's more advanced courses soon. Overall, it was a very pleasant and highly educational experience! Thanks Jason! read more

Thanks for the great photos you took at the movie premiere and after-party!

I was also not sure what to expect for a headshot appointment. My experience was easy and simple. Before the appointment began, I was asked what the photos would be used for and to describe words that I would hope represent the final work. This really made me feel like they were working with me to get the product I wanted instead of a canned product. The wait period for selecting photos and receiving finals was very short. I would recommend The Right Light Photography for your photographic needs. read more

I feel really sad that I didn't have a 5 star experience like everyone else. I bought the class off groupon for I believe 67 dollars and originally it was over 200. Anyways my sister in law and I arrived and it was pretty packed.. The owner and one of his assistants led the class. Obviously the owner is very knowledgeable and knows how to take pictures. My problem is that this class should have had #1 less people- which would allow for more 1 on 1 help or answering questions. #2 it should have been split up, I felt like everything was rushed and my ADD started to kick in the 2nd hour. #3 there was NO printed material given to us as far as tips, and what we learned in the class. After what seemed like hours we are about to embark on our walking journey to take pictures as a class. Everyone was starving so they allowed us time to get a meal, we were supposed to return to a location a couple blocks away to meet up after lunch. My sister in law and I finally found a place to eat but couldn't find the group after lunch! So we were left alone. It really was not organized at all. Thank goodness I only paid 67 because I would NEVER pay for the full price. I did learn some things but not to the extent that I feel I should have and what they say the outcome of the class should be. It was a waste of money for me and im hoping to find another person or place to properly learn from. Also, we were in Little Italy and there was NOOOO parking! We had to get dropped off and picked up. read more

I have attended quite a few of Jason's classes and last night I attended his "Understanding Flash Photography" class. This was a great class for learning and understanding your flash options and limitations. Not all off camera flashes are alike and not all are compatible with all cameras. So much depends on not just the camera manufacturer and buying the flash with the same manufacturer's name. It depends on what your model camera can do with a specific model flash - compatibility! That alone was an eye opener for me! I don't think many of us know anything about our off camera flashes than to attach it and turn it on! There are so many settings within the flash that you need to know to get the perfect picture. That along with proper camera settings are something you need to know. Then there is the fun stuff which is overwhelming but great! There is so much to learn and it seems like the sky is the limit on what you can do with flash, radio triggers, diffusers, pocket wizards, umbrellas, etc. I would definitely recommend this class to anyone who ever uses flash...don't we all? read more

If you want a very informative, small class, for a very reasonable price...then Jason is the instructor for you! He has the compassion and knowledge to best teach you the basics and extended basics of photography. I HIGHLY recommend his classes! Jason ROCKS! read more

Our agency hired Jason to take photographs to be used for our company bios and website photos. Jason was very patient during the process of pinning down a date that everyone could attend. Jason and his assistant arrived prepared and took several pictures that we are very happy with. I highly recommend Jason. read more

Jason was very easygoing and proffessional, and made us feel very comfortable. Myself and a colleague needed headshots for work, and Jason got us in quickly, allowed us outfit changes, and to review our pictures before we left. A great experience overall! read more

A colleague and myself needed our headshot taken for our record label's website. In all honesty, we had not been looking forward to this at all, especially because we dealt with a horrible situation last year with a "photographer" who was completely unprofessional. Jason surprised us in so many ways! Not only was he extremely talented, but he was also very friendly and went out of his way to make us feel comfortable during the shoot (i.e. playing some deadmau5 through the speakers, allowing us to let loose). He has a true gift and passion for photography and we feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with him for the short amount of time we did. The photos turned out great, and we couldn't be more pleased. I highly recommend Jason for anyone who needs a great headshot! read more

I took the 101 and 102 classes the same day with Jason Kirby teaching both classes. Jason was great - made the classes fun and informative. I'm not a complete beginner but these courses were a good refresher and I learned a lot of things I probably should have already known. I will definitely take more courses in the future. read more

The Right Light Photography provided excellent service at my company's latest trade show in San Diego. Jason and his team went above and beyond during the event. After the event, the photos were fantastic and he delivered exactly as promised. If anyone is looking for a professional photographer in the San Diego area that will deliver a high-quality product, I highly recommend Right Light Photography. read more

Real classes, with REAL and USABLE information, taught by REAL people. There are a variety of classes offered, and are valuable to the uber beginner to the seasoned pro. They are delivered at studios in Mission Valley, Oceanside, and the actual shooting classes are at various locations in San Diego. The content is fresh and live - the powerpoint is basic, keeping the real value of the class in the conversation that each instructor leads - where it should be. This team teaches the skill and techniques, but also educates on products (where and what to buy, what is usefull vs what is marketing fluff). They have great personalities (no dry or boring monotones). I've taken several of the classes, and even repeated a few to go deeper. Highly suggest you check them out and attend their classes. The PIT (Photographer In Training) program is unreal - if you are looking to make this a business, this program is a must. I've done extensive research with schools and other outfits that offer something similar, but what Jason has developed is SPOT ON. Thrilled I learned about this team, and got lucky to do this early on in my career as a photographer. PS - the studio rocks. If you're in need of indoor location with all the lighting, take a look. read more