There are many in this industry who hide behind the disguise of " i just want to help and give back" that are strictly there to put $$$ in their pockets. Jeff and others are there to make $$$ and the expense of anyone........Look..the entire industry is full of photographers trying to make names for themselves, trying to get on the speaking circuits because there is big bucks in it. The MAJORITY of these speakers are getting 3-5000.00 to show up to events and teach a 6-8 hr class.
I will not be renewing my PPA membership this year. The Teaching staff has some of the worst offenders in this industry.The information being taught is often rehashed re polished basic 101 photography with pipe dreams of big $$ and sales averages being sold to the entry level photography crowd. Its really sad whats going on. When you really get into the meat and potatoes of it...much of the information is sensationalized and not true.
My opinion- if you need help with technique, spend $$ wisely and ask around before you sign up. In DWF's defense, I will bet the owner had no clue they would stoop to this when it was sold out..........bottom line.....a paid forum or online club like this is still on the internet...you should be very careful before you insert your foot in your mouth.....it can always come back to bite you
Mark my word....Some publication is going to publish an article with a headline like....What photographers really think about their clients...they are going to sensationalize the crap out of this and the industry will continue to struggle with issues such as this. They are not going to say.. wow look at the really good job John Doe Photography did when he captured this featured wedding ( never mind the fact that John Doe probably paid someplace to get it published)........Nope.. that wont sell. They are going to continue to publish crap like....Why you dont need to spend big $$ for a professional photographer,, find a college kid that knows basic photography to photograph your wedding,, This is what photographers really think about their clients.. you can bet its coming...........Bottom line....be careful what you say and do on any public forum.