I just loved his anecdotes and stories. His all-inclusive attitude and willingness to share is what makes him a rarity. But it speaks to his confidence in his abilities.

On the problem with lighting the front of the laptop during the workshop, I wasn’t clear what he wanted to do. My solution would have been to put the camera on a tripod, turn off ambient light in the room, turn on the computer and let the Apple logo burn in with a long exposure, then expose the picture normally with the flash.

I agree with you that 2 D diagrams leave a lot to be desired but much of what he showed you can pick up through experimentation on your own.

The best photographers don’t necessarily make it in the business because they don’t know how to run a business.

In that sense Joe is a rarity, he has been able to parlay his artistry and not compromise too much and still be so successful.

That to me is the epitome of success as an artist.

Most of the lighting setups were just brilliant, but that red gelled laptop with the blue background was just weird. Learned a lot from the portrait lighting.

NPPA, National Press Photographers Association, which I used to belong to during my rookie years has been ineffective in helping educate its members.

Sadly, I’m sure their numbers are dwindling these days.

If you don’t get a chance to see Joe McNally in person, you might find some videos of him online like this one below.