Jeanne Hoopes — Ohio
Course: Basic Photography
It was like I had died and gone to heaven! I work as a school counselor so for much of the year, I am
responsible for helping teenagers learn and be successful. And even though I have been taking photos
for years, I was essentially using my camera as an expensive point and shoot. So it was a true gift to
be able to escape from my routine, go to an idyllic place like Missoula and join a group of friendly,
smart people who share my passion. It was my turn to learn. The process started with the basics but
allowed each of us to be challenged to our limits.
We had an inspiring team of instructors. Doug, our main guy, is a seasoned pro who set the pace with
information, assignments and genuine encouragement and Annie was the gentle, behind-the-scenes assistant
who helped us figure it all out. The week was very full with both hard work and lots of laughter. These
people were so much fun to hang out with. Our final class slideshow was a masterpiece that left me in
tears. I came back home fired up – my tripod is in the backseat of my car and the camera mode is set
on manual! I want to keep learning and getting better.