I had the privilege of doing a 3-month mentorship with Steve last year, and I can honestly say it has been transformative for me as a new photographer coming to the game. When I first met him, I knew nothing about cameras, but Steve broke down these concepts in a way that was clear and practical, and beyond that, he shared the mindset, habits and workflows that only a seasoned photographer would know - tips that seemed small at first (like reduce what's in the frame that still achieves the same feeling), but completely changed the way I think and apply. That's when I know I'd come back for the mentorship.

After our first meeting it actually took me six months before coming back to resume the conversation. But before I left I asked him which camera to buy. His advice was so precise that 6 months later, when I joined another professional photographer on a special mission, the photographer instantly complimented on my camera choice, and I couldn't help but giggle inside knowing it was thanks to Steve's foresight.

Steve is generous with his knowledge and upfront honest with you (which is exactly what I value in these sessions!). He's also deeply passionate about photography and community. I had the chance to join one of his free Photo Walks and meet other photographers, which was a welcoming and wonderful experience.

The biggest takeaway for me was feeling empowered and allowed to dream and pursue photography seriously, and that's something you rarely get from a structured course. Having someone genuinely invest in your growth is a great gift, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have had Steve as a mentor.

If you're serious about your photography and want guidance from someone, go to Steve, you won't regret it.

attended the BNW photo, develop and printing 1-day course here and i can truly say this is something i’ve been looking for in a longest time.

steve, the owner and the one who led the lesson, was so insightful. even as we shot pictures, he shared knowledge that can only come from a person who truly cared for and hone his crafts over the years. it didn’t matter at which stage i came from, he has so much insights and knowledge to share. we went around the neighbourhood and as we continue to walk around, i was much more confident in sharing my camera settings and what i think of of the scene i was capturing.

then came the developing of film. it was my first time doing it in my whole life and it just inspired me to truly learn more about the craft. the printing was the one that caught a grip of my hesrt the most. it’s finally seeing what i took on hand and the process was so soothing. it may be something i wasnt used to (it really takes a while) but honestly, that is something i needed but didnt think i’d get peace and slow paced fun through printing.

throughout developing and printing, steve would also share some tips and insights on how it came to be. (since the phototaking too) and everything connects more as we see the image on hand.

this has been a great day and i can truly say, i’ve fallen more in love with film photography :)

Steve taught my 8 year old daughter how to take black and white photographs using a firm camera, setting the aperture and shutter speed. He then taught her how to develop the film and create prints in the darkroom. Steve is an incredibly knowledgeable and patient teacher. My daughter absolutely loved the classes and is now keen to take and develop more film photos. Steve’s thoughtful approach to the art of film photography is really an inspiration. I would highly recommend these classes to people of all ages. Thank you, Steve!