I am a self taught photographer. After I retiring from the Forest Service my goal was to improve my photography. I began a self study program using John Shaw's book series. It is easy to read a book but it is another thing to actually apply what you read. It took me a couple months to read, understand and apply the principles. My biggest issue was learning to see photographically. First Light was the first photograph I took at this location that met my expectations. I have owned and operated a Photography Gallery in Chester for a couple years, taught photography classes through Feather River College extension program and currently work with aspiring photographers to help them attain their goals. Please visit my web site at www.almanorphotography.com