From Career Training student to New York City assistant to running a thriving commercial, editorial, and retail photo studio, Heather Anne Thomas is doing exactly what she set out to do when she enrolled at RMSP. Now, after 11 successful years, she is passing on her experience and knowledge.

Throughout the week, Thomas shares what went into creating her business from scratch—branding, marketing, bookkeeping, and building your "team," including digital technicians, retouchers, assistants, accountants, and lawyers. She also delivers insightful lectures about getting the most from your subjects, whether hired models or people on the street. You learn techniques for lighting on location, working with stylists, equipment choices for various shooting scenarios, and methods for delivering the finished product. During group photo shoots you gain experience as primary photographer, first assistant, and post-production coordinator to better understand each role. Assignments include photographing a mock wedding party, an in-studio family, an interior, and creating images of food and still life at a local coffee shop. Thomas provides informative group critiques of your images and offers a private portfolio review of your work at the end of the week.