Personal Photography Mentoring

with Ute Reckhorn

Feeling stuck or unsure how to express your voice through photography? Whether you’re struggling with a Lensbaby lens or longing for a deeper creative journey, I offer one-on-one mentoring to help you reconnect with your vision. Together, we’ll uncover your style, develop your technical skills, and move you from frustration to confidence.

 
Artistic, out-of-focus photo of a seagull in flight with golden bokeh, taken with the Lensbaby Burnside 35 at the beach.

Out-of-focus on purpose: this image captures the feeling of learning to trust your artistic eye — the heart of what we explore in my Lensbaby mentoring sessions.

1. The Struggling Lensbaby Lover

Four Weeks • $300

Lensbaby lenses are beautiful tools for creative expression—but they’re not always intuitive. If your Lensbaby is gathering dust or you’ve just unboxed one and feel overwhelmed, this package will help you move from frustration to confidence. You’ll learn to use manual focus, understand how to shape light and bokeh, and begin creating images that match your imagination.

Requirements:
This mentoring package is for photographers who already understand the exposure triangle and can shoot in manual mode. It’s not a beginner photography course. If you’re new to manual photography, I recommend starting with my foundational class first.

What You’ll Get:

  • 1 introductory pre-session (via email or text)

  • 4 weekly 1-hour live video chats (recorded for you)

  • Ongoing feedback and Q&A between sessions (via email or text)

By the end of this mentorship, you’ll confidently create soft bokeh, work with selective focus, and unlock the expressive power of your Lensbaby.

 
Artistic photo of a seagull walking on the beach, captured with an Omni filter in vivid orange and red tones.

Creative photography is more than technical skill — it’s about discovering your visual voice. This image reflects the kind of bold exploration we embrace in the Aspiring Artist path.

2. The Aspiring Artist

Four Weeks • $300

You love photography, your friends admire your work, and yet—something feels like it’s missing. You’re ready to go beyond praise and seek thoughtful, constructive feedback to grow as an artist. This mentorship will help you develop your voice, build image collections, and evolve your creative direction with purpose.

Requirements:
This package is for hobbyists who are actively creating but feel stuck or unclear about how to level up. You can shoot with any camera—DSLR, mirrorless, or phone. Just bring a collection of your favorite work and an open mind.

What You’ll Get:

  • 1 introductory pre-session (via email or text)

  • 4 weekly 1-hour live video chats (recorded for you)

  • Feedback and guidance between sessions (via email or text)

By the end of our time together, you’ll have clarity on your strengths, an action plan for growth, and a renewed connection to your creative practice.

 
Two small white seagulls in flight against a deep blue sky with repeating lines, captured using an Omni filter.

Building a portfolio is about recognizing patterns in your creative flight path. This image reflects the quiet discovery that happens when you step back and start to see the bigger picture.

3. The Portfolio Builder

Four Weeks • $300

You’re starting to uncover your style and want to create a portfolio that reflects your unique perspective. Whether you’re preparing for future clients or seeking personal clarity, this mentoring path helps you organize, curate, and elevate your work with intention.

Requirements:
No need to have a fully formed vision—just a willingness to reflect. Before we begin, I’ll send a short questionnaire to better understand your goals and where you’re coming from.

What You’ll Get:

  • 1 introductory pre-session (via email or text)

  • 4 weekly 1-hour live video chats (recorded for you)

  • Personalized feedback between sessions (via email or text)

Together, we’ll explore the themes in your work, deepen your visual voice, and shape a body of photography that reflects your values. We’ll also touch on creative tools like journaling and meditation to help you grow beyond the frame.

*The four weeks do not have to take place consecutively.
Work at your own pace and schedule your next session when you feel ready to move on.
However, these four sessions must be booked within 6 months from when you have purchased your package.

What People Are Saying About Working With Ute

  • “Ute’s open-mindedness about the process of creating interesting images and her focus on photography as a tool for well-being and mental health truly inspired me. Her community has encouraged me to experiment again — it’s vibrant, supportive, and full of light.”

    Paul Hornsby, Wales

  • “Joining Ute’s Develop with Light group was the best decision over the holidays! I found a whole family of like-minded creatives. Her monthly themes pushed me to explore new techniques and develop my own voice.”

    Helene

  • “As a visual learner, seeing the work in Ute’s group always inspires me to push my limits and try something new. Her challenges are playful but meaningful — the spark I often need to get motivated.”

    Cathy Kuhlman

  • “Ute has created a space where experimental photography is celebrated. Her dedication and creative vision keep us inspired — it’s such a gift to be part of this community.”

    Abi Coop

 
 

Not Sure Which Mentoring Path Is Right for You?

Let’s talk it through. If you're unsure which program fits your needs or want to get a feel for how I work, I offer a free 15-minute discovery call. It’s a no-pressure conversation where we’ll explore your goals, your creative challenges, and what kind of support might help you grow.

Whether you're curious about Lensbaby, looking for feedback, or hoping to organize your portfolio, this quick call is a great place to start.