Testimonials
The Outer Banks of NC - April 13 - 16, 2023
Thank you for the time spent shooting in the various spots and sharing some great spots to eat as well. Thank you for sharing your time and experience. The Outer Banks workshop provided me access and opportunity to spots I would not likely have discovered on my own. John's instruction and suggestions helped me assess how to capture shots I may not have seen. I was up at early morning hours I have not recently seen! The time was entertaining and educational. I learned a great deal about camera settings and ways to capture shots from different angles and positions. I highly recommend this workshop!
Richard L. - Durham, NC
Fall - North Georgia Waterfalls - October 26, 2022
I recently did a waterfall workshop with John and would highly recommend it. I am somewhere between a beginner and intermediate photographer and John helped me understand how aperture, shutter speed and ISO work together. With John’s guidance I was able to capture the attached photos. I’m looking forward to my next outing with John and would certainly encourage others to spend a day with him to sharpen your skills.
Paul S. - Hayesville, NC
Spring North Georgia Waterfalls - May 12, 2022
Thank you, John, for a wonderful workshop in North Georgia. It was so nice to have you point out these backroads wonders of nature. I also appreciated the help you provided in getting the best shots. Hope to shoot with you again!
Katherine C. - Jasper, GA
Spring North Georgia Waterfalls - May 15, 2021
I had a great time on John's workshop. He took us to 4 different waterfalls where I was able, with his assistance to get some pictures I am very happy with. John keeps the group small so everyone can get time with him. I was also very pleased that John did not shoot for himself during this workshop, he was there for us. I will return again for another workshop with John.
Pau B. - Miami, FL.
Spring North Georgia Waterfalls - May 15, 2021
I took this workshop because of the content and location. I have a passion for waterfalls and have not been able to capture the falling water with the correct exposure. John worked with me over the course of the day, side by side. He showed me many different techniques to get the shots I wanted. I finally understood the camera settings and what they each do. It was a breakthrough moment for me. The small group size gave all of us time to learn from John individually. If you want a great experience, call John.
Dawn W. - Chattanooga, TN
Spring North Georgia Waterfalls - May 15, 2021
I contacted John to discuss this workshop in advance. I wanted to enroll my son in his class but he has special learning needs. John reassured me that it would not be a problem at all. The day of the workshop, John made sure that my son was able to grasp the concepts that were discussed. It was wonderful to see the look on my son's face when he "got it". His eyes lit up many times that day. I will never forget how happy and engaged he was. We look forward to the next time we can go on a workshop with John.
Melissa G. - Hayesville, NC
The Outer Banks of NC - April 8 -11, 2021
I had been looking forward to this workshop for a long time. I had been on a 1 day workshop before and this was my first experience in a group setting. John made sure that each participant received all of the time and attention they needed. We had a variety of weather conditions from calm and sunny to cold and windy. John was able to take us to other locations to overcome the weather conditions. He knows the area very well. The best thing I liked about this workshop was that John was there for his clients. He did not shoot and made sure we got the shots.
Cynthia B. - Pompano Beach, FL.
The Outer Banks of NC - April 8-11, 2021
This was my first workshop I have ever taken. I am a beginner photographer and John was able to explain and demonstrate many techniques to get pictures that I didn't think I was capable of making. His small group size was perfect and allowed each participant lots of time for individual attention and instruction. I look forward to being able to do this with John again.
Kerry C. - Nashville, TN
The Outer Banks, NC - April 8-11, 2021
I had a great time with John on this workshop. He was very patient and helped me take my photography skills to a new level. He knows the locations to get the best images from and is very flexible. We made a number of location changes due to the weather and John was able to get us to places where most folks don't go. I highly recommend him and will be taking another workshop with him in the future.
Mark W. - Jacksonville, FL.
The Great Smoky Mountains Workshop - October 24 - 27, 2019
Recently finished my second workshop with John. His knowledge of the area and ability to shift gears when weather didn’t cooperate was great. These workshops are like going out to shoot with a friend but one who has plenty of photography knowledge to draw upon. It’s so nice to spend as much time as needed at each location and never feel rushed. John is always well prepared and does a great job of meeting the needs and desires of the all attendees. I look forward to taking future workshops with John.
Barbara C. - Dawsonville, GA
The Great Smoky Mountains Workshop - October 24 - 27, 2019
Wonderful locations, a variety of weather conditions coupled with excellent tips on composition and settings made for an informative and creative four days. There was never a rush to “get the shot” in order to move to next location. Thank you John for all the helpful advice and encouragement! I will definitely be attending more workshops in the future!
Donna H. - Cumming, GA.
Spring - North Georgia Waterfalls May 2019
Had the pleasure of spending a remarkable morning with John Deas last Monday. Can't say enough about his expertise, tolerance, guidance, suggestions and sense of humor with a flatlander from South Georgia. If you ever get the chance to be with John do not miss any opportunity! Thanks again John! GREAT TIME!
Ross T. - Albany, GA.
Spring - North Georgia Waterfalls - May 2019
Thanks for a great time on your Spring N. Georgia waterfalls photography workshop, shooting waterfalls in North Georgia. This was a great area to shoot in, and you did a great job organizing things to maximize our time in the field. Being able to shoot 5 different waterfalls in one day was awesome! Thanks for the good advice you gave me on composition and camera settings. Although I've shot a lot of waterfalls before this workshop, you gave me some tips and ideas to try things differently than what I'd been doing. I'm really happy with the shots I was able to get on this workshop and what I learned will help me going forward. To me your workshop had the feel of going out and shooting with a friend - only your friend is a pro and he knows where to take take you, and he wants to help you be a better photographer. I'm already looking at your Fall workshop dates, and I'll certainly be recommending your workshops to others.
Bruce H. - Charlotte, NC
Spring - North Georgia Waterfalls May 2019
My husband and I had planned to visit some waterfalls in the North GA mountains this Spring, but his surgery put that trip on the back burner. When I saw John's workshop on a Facebook group that I belong to, I took advantage of the opportunity and signed up. Was I glad I did!!! John's knowledge of the area saved a lot of time that I would have spent just searching for these locations. I was the only attendee and the individual attention was fabulous. I was able to shoot four waterfalls in the span of eight hours and John placed no rush to finish until I was pleased with the results. For the first time, I understood how to use exposure compensation and the light bulb went off in my brain. I was pleased with the fact that John had a good knowledge of my Nikon and all of his attention was on my shooting. It was a fun experience!
Maggie S. - Athens, GA.
Spring - North Georgia Waterfalls May 2019
Thanks so much for the wonderful waterfall workshop yesterday. I appreciate your hands-on approach to teaching and your suggestions for taking the pictures. As a novice, I have become more confident that the next time I want to take a shot of moving water, I will know what to do. I am also more confident using my polarizing filter. I'm looking forward to joining you in the Outer Banks next April.
Margie C. - Clayton, GA
The Outer Banks, NC - April 4-7, 2019
I had the pleasure of attending John Deas Outer Banks workshop. John is an excellent workshop leader. It was evident he had thoroughly scouted our shooting sights and was able to point us to the best shooting locations. John is engaging, patient, and knowledgeable. He seamlessly attended to the needs and questions of all participants and was helpful to each regardless of their skill level. We were able to photograph many locations and were afforded ample time to explore each location. John was always attentive to his workshop members and rarely did any shooting himself. He was always their help us get the best captures we could. Thank You, John for a wonderful workshop.
Barbara C. - Dawsonville, GA
The Outer Banks, NC - April 4-7, 2019
I had the pleasure of attending John’s Outer Banks Workshop. It was a great experience. It’s obvious John loves the area and he does a great job scouting for the uncommon shooting spots. John keeps the workshop enrollment low so that he can spend quality time with everyone. I hope to attend another workshop soon.
Laura J. - Clarkesville, GA
The Outer Banks, NC - April 4-7, 2019
John Deas is a well-versed professional with a vast knowledge of the tools and artistry that make photography such a wonderful pursuit. His experience shows through in his location scouting and extensive planning down to the last detail. His workshops are a great value for photographers of any level. First let me begin with thanking you for a great workshop. I really felt I got to cover the area's high spots and captured some fantastic light more than once. You're an excellent leader, well-prepared and easy-going. You are consistent on teaching and guidance without letting your own shooting get in the way. Kudos on that, many leaders cannot seem to grasp that concept. I personally liked the heavy shooting schedule (some people do not). I can have downtime at home, I'm there to see the area and shoot as much as possible when there is good to great light. The locations were scouted well and it was obvious you had done the work beforehand to achieve success for your participants.
Glen T. - Atlanta, GA
The Great Smoky Mountains Workshop - October 18 - 21, 2018
This is the second workshop with John that I have attended. The first was earlier this year at the Outer Banks. With John's assistance, I have made great strides in my ability to optimize the camera to create the desired effect. Prior to working with John, it would take me multiple shots to to make a photo that met my expectations. Often, I never did get the photo I wanted. John ushered me through several sessions and showed me how to get many of the expected results. He keeps the group small so that everyone gets the attention they need. John also increased my awareness of content and composition. Specifically, you have to get out and look for interesting subject matter. He takes you to some of the most beautiful areas around and immerses you in the beauty that exists there. I would strongly recommend taking one or several of John’s courses. They have greatly improved my photography skills.
Dennis K. - Hickory, NC
The Great Smoky Mountains Workshop - October 18 - 21, 2018
I had the pleasure of attending John's workshop in the Great Smoky Mountains. It was hands down one of the best experiences I have had and fantastically educational on all levels. John's knowledge of both the photography and the area made this experience invaluable. He has incredible patience, especially with us novices, and took the time to show us everything (and answer all of our questions) about our camera and about shooting .....from the basics to learning some neat tricks! It was so nice to be able to take our time at each location as well to just play around and find out what works best for each of us as an individual. We also worked as a team in some respects which was great and we all learned a little from each other as well. I felt so much more comfortable using my camera by the end of the trip and can't wait to attend another workshop. Whether you are just starting out or even have experience, I would highly recommend taking one of John's workshops. He really is there for YOU, and to make sure you come out with the best experience and knowledge possible.
Kait T. - Bethel, CT
The Great Smoky Mountains Workshop - October 18 - 21, 2018
What a pleasant way to spend some time with a friend, make some new friends...while learning to use a camera that had been sitting on a shelf!! I am so glad I was able to attend the photography workshop in the Smokies, taught by my friend John Deas. My camera, a Nikkon 3200 (a gift from my deceased husband) had been sitting unused for far too long so I was pleased to learn about Johns workshop and decided it was a good opportunity to learn how to use it. It was fun learning how to ditch Automatic Settings and learn about f-stops and lens filters and all those buttons I was afraid to touch. John worked with the group and also with us as individuals. He helped us look for the best lighting and what to do if we couldn't find the best lighting. I have truly I ventured out of my shell some and learned some nice techniques. I was pleased with some of the shots I did during the session and can study the ones that were not so good. He also helped us critique our work. I feel more confident in using those Manual Settings and will be on the lookout for photo opportunities . If you have a chance to attend one of John's workshops.........please do. He knows his stuff and can take you to the most beautiful areas to find your own great shots. A friend and student.
Marilyn S. - Upton, KY
The Great Smoky Mountains Workshop - October 18 - 21, 2018
John’s workshop was fantastic! From the locations he picks out and scouts beforehand, to his patience with helping everyone. John takes time with each person in the group to go over the camera functions, what they do, why you should use them, and when. He does not rush you from one place to another and gives ample time in each spot. If you have questions, he answers without hesitation. I learned so much about my camera and shooting from John. I highly recommend his workshops to anyone!
Mary R. CT.
The Outer Banks, NC - April 5-8, 2018
I had become frustrated with trying to move to a fully manual mode from automatic mode. By the end of the class I had developed a complete confidence in moving forward. I look forward to implementing what I have learned and then taking another course. John provides a comprehensive class that can assist both the beginner as well as those who are more experienced. On the Outer Banks. weather can change quickly. John was prepared for these changes and made many “mid course corrections” that enabled us to fully take advantage of his knowledge. His experience at the Outer Banks gave us many opportunities to get some great sunrises, sunsets, lighthouse and wild horse shots. John further tried to insure success by giving you pre-course instructions on both clothing and camera equipment. I would highly recommend this course for anyone who is trying to improve their photography skills.
Dennis K. - Hickory, NC
The Great Smoky Mountains Workshop - October 12 - 15, 2017
I have had the pleasure of having attended three workshops over the past few years. Each workshop has provided opportunities for me to build on my skills, learn new techniques and see places at these locations that, without John, I would not have had the time or would have simply overlooked due to not knowing the Park. John has a very impartial personality which makes all those in attendance relaxed and evens the field between the most experienced and the novice. He takes the time needed to ensure those in attendance can get the "one on one" attention needed to ask and answer questions, learn the basics (exposure techniques and composition), and enjoy the natural surroundings of the Great Smoky Mountains. If you are questioning whether or not workshops are just money grabs, know this........... Johns workshops are worth the money and, if you listen, you will be a better photographer as a result of having taken the workshop. Who knows, you too may go back again, and again, and again.
Mike and Cheryl - Kingwood, WV
The Great Smoky Mountains Workshop - October 12 - 15, 2017
I attended John's Smoky Mountains workshop, and had a great time. John is so familiar with the area, and always is willing to meet the needs and desires of the participants. I highly recommend this workshop. You will have a wonderful time!
John W, Charleston, WV
The Outer Banks, NC - April 6 - 9, 2017
"I had an absolutely amazing time and I am so thankful I went on this adventure. I had the opportunity to attend the Outer Banks photography workshop and it was one of the most enjoyable experiences I have had. For four days, I was surrounded by wonderful leadership, enthusiastic fellow photographers and stunning views in all directions. I learned many new skills during the trip that allowed me to take my photography to the next level. I feel more confident now to go out on my own and know that I have the knowledge and skills needed to capture quality images. I cannot speak highly enough of this workshop. I had such a wonderful time that I'm already looking forward to joining again next year!"
Stephanie J.
The Outer Banks, NC - April 6 - 9, 2017
"I have attended several photography workshops over the years and easily rank John's among the best I've experienced. John was always prepared for any number of conditions you might encounter during a landscape workshop. In changing environments complete with high winds, blowing sand, quickly changing light, heavy rain, etc, John never failed to place the group in the best location to create our images. He remained flexible to the group dynamics as well as the outdoor conditions that confronted us and was always available to coach and instruct anyone that needed that time. Because of his attention to detail, preparation, experience, and constant willingness to help, I came away from John's workshop with a higher number of "keepers" than any previous workshop I've attended. John's workshops are easy to recommend because they are run very well, you are put in great locations, and you always enjoy yourself."
Michael C.
The Outer Banks, NC - April 6 - 9, 2017
"Although I had been to the Outer Banks many times, never had I been with a camera in hand. We had weather that ranged from gale force winds to rain to bright, sunny skies that made shooting conditions a challenge at times. John and crew worked very hard and carefully to select locations best suited for the varying conditions, having scouted the area many times before. There was never a rush or sense of urgency, help was always readily available whether it be a composition or exposure question, and each day ended with a joyous meal as a group. It was always evident that John and the other instructors had an abundance of talent and ideas which they freely shared at the right times. The workshop as a whole was well organized and ran smoothly in spite of having 3 more participants than originally planned for, and there was never a time when the group seemed distant. There were a number of very qualified shooters, participants, in the group, but everyone got along amazingly well and helped each other, an attitude and tone which John set during the initial group gathering. I actually met John the afternoon prior to the workshop beginning, and after introductions, he promptly and enthusiastically issued an invitation to join him that evening for a sunset shoot. I was new to this workshop group, with many of the shooters knowing the instructors and having been on prior workshops with them, but very quickly I felt very much at home and comfortable, almost as if I'd known John and Randall for a long time. I like to tell folks that I met a bunch of new friends on the OBX trip, and that's the way I feel. I am very comfortable in highly recommending this workshop for anyone wanting an Outer Banks experience, whether that person be a beginning photographer or a well seasoned shooter. I will be obliged to accept questions from anyone regarding this experience."
Riley B, Cornelius, NC
The Outer Banks, NC - April 6 - 9, 2017
"I have had the pleasure of joining two of John Deas workshops. One of Johns first worry is what's best for us as the photographers. 'Will it be an easy to moderate hike, will it rain, will there be good light.' He takes all of these things in mind and then chooses the best location that will benefit everyone in the workshop and not just one person. If needed he will leave his camera equipment in the truck and just spend the entire workshop helping beginners, or those who need assistance. As I said in the first sentence, I have had the pleasure of joining two of Johns workshops, and hope to enjoy more."
Kaliafeh W.
The Outer Banks, NC - April 6 - 9, 2017
"I have been shooting pictures beginning in the early 1970's, well before the digital world ever thought of becoming prevalent and mainstream. I had a scholarship through college, was primarily self-taught and thought of myself as someone who appreciated the consequence of composition and its relative importance in the pursuit of the epic image. Not until attending the recent OBX photography workshop did I truly and fully embraced the infinite ways in which a single subject could be viewed and portrayed. Having the benefit of seeing the same subject though the eyes of individuals, not unlike yourself who share the same passion, capture images from the virtually the same vantage but yet present it in a totally unique and fresh way, is quite an education. I found myself rethinking what I initially thought of as good and in return producing images that my peers applauded; most often on images that I had at first discarded. Honing of skill sets, building new bonds and finding my place amongst most very talented individuals attending the workshop is in itself the reward , not to mention it was fun and I'll never forget the experience! "
Kenny G.
The Outer Banks, NC - April 7 - 10, 2016
"I participated in the Outer Banks workshop, the first I have taken with John Deas. It was a wonderful experience. John knows great locations along the Outer Banks for good shooting at various times of the day and night. The workshop included my first-ever night-sky shooting; we left for the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse after midnight and stayed through the prime Milky Way viewing period. There and in other locations, John checked on how participants were doing, answered questions, and offered suggestions as appropriate; I found him to be quite knowledgeable, helpful, and patient. I am considering taking other workshops with him, and recommend them to others."
John H.
The Outer Banks, NC - April 7 - 10, 2016
"I have been shooting as long as I can remember, but until recently I realized I have just been using rather expensive camera equipment to take "point and shoot" images. This had to stop. So, enter the OBX workshop!! I was made aware of the this workshop after attending my first workshop ever in West Virginia during the fall of 2015. I was hopeful that I could improve upon what I had learned in West Virginia - I was not disappointed!! John and Randy Sanger teamed up to bring the workshop group together and mentor, coach and demonstrate how to improve our images. Now I will say, the scenes were challenging and it took this novice a while to grab hold of the range of light of some of the subjects we were shooting -- but I got it!. Did I mention they shoot ALL DAY?!!! You not only get your monies worth, but you get all their attention, years of experience and, most of all, their desire to help others. This is a great workshop for early Spring - I would have been shoveling snow had I not gone. If you have any doubts about booking this workshop, just look at the work from John. You can do it too!"
Mike and Cheryl, Morgantown, WV
The Outer Banks, NC - April 7 - 10, 2016
"I had a great time at the Outer Banks Workshop. John and Randall knew the location well, and even had backup plans in case the weather didn't cooperate. They both gave us plenty of time at each location. The workshop was easy going and stress free."
Kaliafeh W. Orlando, FL
The Outer Banks, NC - April 7 - 10, 2016
"Enjoyed the Outer Banks workshop very much. Met some awesome fellow photographers and learned lots more about landscaping and long exposure. John and Randall were great!"
Mike B., Lewisburg, WV
The Outer Banks, NC - April 7 - 10, 2016:
"I recently attended a John Deas workshop at the OBX. It was a great experience, and I feel that I have improved my work. The workshop was well organized and he was very helpful with settings and compositions. I hope to attend another workshop with him in the future and benefit further from his experience."
Kimara W, Paoli, IN
The Outer Banks, NC - April 7 - 10, 2016
"John, had a great time on the OBX workshop with you and Randy. Will recommend it to my friends. Learned some new things (night photography) and was very pleased with your range of places to go and shoot. Thanks again for a great workshop...."
Art H, Shady Spring, WV
The Great Smoky Mountains Workshop, TN - October 15 - 18, 2015
"John, I really had a great time with you and Tom in the Smokies. I'm inspired to go back! You took us to some good places. Unfortunately, my photography didn't equal the locations. I have enclosed some I picked out of the bunch. You pick the ones you like best. A review and suggestions will follow in a few days. Again, it was a great time!"
Jack, Dahlonega, GA
The Outer Banks, NC - April 9 - 12, 2015
"I attended John Deas's OBX workshop and it was awesome. John knows all the neat places to go to get the best shots, and was continually helping with compositions, settings, and filters. I highly recommend this workshop."
John W, Charleston, WV
Charleston, SC - March 19 - 22, 2015
"I went on the Charleston Workshop given by John Deas Photography. John's rule of a maximum of six people insures the workshop allows for more attention and individualized instruction. Adding to an advantage of this beautiful southern city is the fact that John spent time here as an adolescent and certainly knows the area from Mt. Pleasant to Edisto. He is such a patient and flexible instructor- I can certainly say, 'its all about you and your photography.' If you want someone who knows the area, has an excellent knowledge of photography and is willing to transfer that to your shots, John Deas Photography is just that!"
Sandy H, Asheville, NC