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Graduate Spotlight
Debbie Calnan, Class of 2008
Saraphina Churchill, Class of 2008
Joshua Crampton, Class of 2008
Andrea Dematte, Class of 2008
Cathy Durbin, Class of 2008
Peter Eisses, Class of 2008
Marcello Fracassa, Class of 2008
Frances Gonzalez, Class of 2008
Leslie Grow, Class of 2008
Karinna Gylfphe, Class of 2008
Billy Hyer, Class of 2008
Braden Istas, Class of 2008
Troy Lee, Class of 2008
Melissa Robin Longstaffe, Class of 2008
Hani Matkovic, Class of 2008
Adam McClure, Class of 2008
Gabriel Nivera, Class of 2008
Peter Odegaard, Class of 2008
Joe Don Richardson, Class of 2008
Celena Sinko, Class of 2008
Vince Trupsin, Class of 2008
Derek Wood, Class of 2008
Todd Barnes, Class of 2007
Seth Beebe, Class of 2007
Libby Benedict, Class of 2007
Adrian Cordero, Class of 2007
Chaz Cruz, Class of 2007
Evan D'Arpino, Class of 2007
Melissa Desjardins, Class of 2007
Lynn Guarino, Class of 2007
Shiela Hizon, Class of 2007
Nate Hurley, Class of 2007
Daniel St. John, Class of 2007
Amber Rae Johnson, Class of 2007
Kindra Keitel, Class of 2007
Cathie King, Class of 2007
Will Long, Class of 2007
Bess Marine, Class of 2007
Jason McGrew, Class of 2007
Susan McManus, Class of 2007
Jeremy Merriam, Class of 2007
Kate Drew Miller, Class of 2007
Olga Minkevitch, Class of 2007
Kimberly Morritt, Class of 2007
Jon Ogrydziak, Class of 2007
Hector Perez, Class of 2007
Paula Poortinga, Class of 2007
Jorge Rivas, Class of 2007
Maria Silva, Class of 2007
Allysia Sneed, Class of 2007
Angela Squicciarini, Class of 2007
Stephanie Stevens, Class of 2007
Brett Wills, Class of 2007 |
"At 54 I was ready for a life change. I decided to follow my passion for photography and chose Hallmark Institute of Photography for my education. It is one of the best decisions I have made in my life. With the comprehensive curriculum, friendly, knowledgeable, hard working staff and their support I feel completely confident in starting my own business doing what I love to do most."
"Becoming a full time professional photographer had always been a recurring dream of mine. After pressing snooze on that dream one too many times, Hallmark has finally awoken me. Simply put, the program is life changing. In just ten short months, I've amassed the skills to confidently embark on my journey. The education and support I received at Hallmark were nothing short of first class. From the state-of-the-art training facility, to the dedicated and talented staff, you realize you're here for one reason: to succeed. Hallmark has guided me towards my fullest potential, instilling invaluable, real-world training that has opened many doors I never thought possible"
"I chose Hallmark Institute of Photography because after a short 10 months I could hit the ground running in a career I had always dreamed of. It turned into so much more than that! I gained technical and business skills, yes, but furthermore a community that I am proud to be a member of."
"I chose to attend Hallmark to learn how to achieve a quality in imaging that is at a professional level in the photographic industry and to be able to produce results time and time again. Thanks to the staff, the learning environment and the teaching method, I have become highly confident when I approach a photographic opportunity that something great will come about from the experience."
"I'm from Brazil and I already had two different degrees, when I decided to give up everything to study something that would really make me happy. My passion for photography brought me here and Hallmark was the only school in the world that would make me travel across the continent to learn more about photography. It is amazing how the Hallmark program can make your photography improve in only 10 months, something that would take years somewhere else. It is not easy, you have to work hard, but it is still worth more than you ever thought.
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"I chose Hallmark Institute of Photography over other schools because of its state-of-the-art facilities, intensive curriculum, and hands-on training by a staff of dedicated professionals. The 10 month program has prepared me for the real demands and expectations of the working world. I am now living my dream of being a professional photographer and, thanks to Hallmark, possess the technical and business skills needed to earn a living doing what I love."
"I had been interested in furthering my education in photography when a friend recommended Hallmark. It has been the best decision I made. Hallmark prepares you for the real world with industry standard technology training, instructors who are available, and a network of contacts. The education you receive at Hallmark encourages you to take responsibility for what you have learned, rare in today's world. Hallmark has more than met my expectations and exposed me to the world of photographic possibilities."
"The equipment we are provided with here at Hallmark is identical to what is being used by the top photographic professionals throughout the world. This is coupled with a great education by all the instructors. The staff and administration really care about you – no one is just a number here. The 10 month program certainly prepares you to hit the ground running upon graduation."
"As a graphic designer, regardless of how creative I was, my designs were not complete without strong images. With cutting edge technology and equipment, Hallmark's 10 month program prepared me with all I needed to become a better designer and professional photographer. Besides learning the technical aspects of photography, Hallmark gave me each and every one of the creative and business skills needed to succeed in the real world. "
"Attending Hallmark has given me the opportunity to develop my passion for photography into a career. It has taught me, in just 10 months, how to see color, composition, and design; business etiquette, and all the technical skills to be a professional photographer. This was the best decision and greatest investment I have ever made. I chose Hallmark because it was only 10 months long. It has been like a family and now I wish I could stay longer. "
"Hallmark has been the best choice I have made in my whole life. I have loved photography for many years and never knew I could have a career doing something I love for the rest of my life, and succeed at it. With a friendly and job-like environment, Hallmark really pushed me to be a better person and also gave me a vast knowledge in all fields of professional photography and the business of photography."
"I was impressed by Hallmark Institute of Photography from the first step. Everything from the equipment to the faculty sends out the vibe of excellence, commitment and integrity. Hallmark is a program that desires everyone to succeed to the highest of their abilities and it pushed me to meet them. I learned more in my 10 months at Hallmark than anywhere else. It's a great school, a great experience and filled with people who care."
"My time at Hallmark was outstanding. I not only learned a great amount about the technical and business sides of photography, but have made lifelong relationships with the other students and the faculty. Everyone at Hallmark is dedicated to helping you succeed, and they provide the facilities and equipment that will guarantee it. I don't believe you can get what you receive from Hallmark anywhere else. "
"After attending a film based photography school in North Carolina, I felt strongly that I needed help converting my skills in the darkroom to skills in the digital world. Hallmark seemed like the only logical solution. After reading about the resources provided, relationships maintained after graduation and the publicity available from your accomplishments throughout the 10-month program, I decided to take advantage of the faculty and staff provided there. Hallmark met my expectations and provided all the resources needed to meet my goals and become a professional photographer with significant digital and business skills."
"I knew where I wanted to be long before coming to Hallmark, I just didn't know how to get there. Hallmark Institute of Photography gave me the confidence and education to pursue not only band photography, but wedding, portrait and fine art as well. Now I am not only photographing famous musicians, but also high end weddings and portraiture. Hallmark was the only place I could have gone to change my childhood dream into a financially stable career. I am so fortunate to be able to do what I love in a world where that is so rare. I could've never done it without Hallmark."
"I know that the decision to go to Hallmark is the one I'll never regret. Hallmark was my first choice when deciding on which photography school to go to and it proved to be exactly what they advertise. Dedicated and friendly instructors and staff, facilities and the latest digital imaging technology provide a very stimulating growth environment and I'm leaving with competitive technical skills and strong business knowledge."
"The time had come to take my 6 years of being a self-taught photographer to the next level and that was when I turned to Hallmark. The education I received from the professionals at Hallmark enabled me to write my own ticket. Hallmark Institute of Photography is a stepping-stone into the professional photographic world."
"After graduating from university, I realized that I wanted to pursue a career in professional photography. I knew that I did not have another 4 years to spend studying. After careful research, I made my decision to go to the Hallmark Institute of Photography, because it was the only institution that provided a solid photographic foundation with a simultaneous business approach in 10 months, and with state of the art facilities."
"The decision to attend Hallmark was a tough one. After the first day, I knew that I had made the right choice; the technical skills that I acquired throughout the year have proved to be invaluable. Hallmark has been the best decision I have made."
"The time spent at Hallmark was exceptional. The faculty are willing to spend so much time with the students. They are so giving. The difference Hallmark offers is the real world preparation. After high school and college I was ill prepared to look for a job, but that changed after attending Hallmark. I have always struggled with self-confidence, but the training that I received here has boosted my self esteem to the point that I could take on any task given me. It has been a total change in the way I view myself.
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"Before coming to Hallmark, I received my BFA concentrating in Fine Art Photography but I was taught to be an "artist" not a photographer. Hallmark has been able to provide me with the technical ability and business confidence to now market myself in the photography field. This 10 month experience has truly been life changing, I am looking forward to what new experiences."
"I was very skeptical about the idea of learning the artistic, technical and business aspects to become a successful photographer in ten months. Looking back on my experience, I have gained so much more than what I had mentioned. I gained confidence in myself, my work and I created a family. The experience of Hallmark truly changed my life both professionally and personally."
"The short time period and the concentration on business definitely affected my decision to attend Hallmark — going to Hallmark has been the best decision I have ever made. Interaction with faculty, their approachability, and the knowledge and experience they share has given me the skills and confidence needed to be a successful professional photographer. I have progressed more in the short amount of time here than I could have ever imagined."
"Hallmark has completely satisfied my high expectations of striving for excellence. Their fusion of both the business and portrait/commercial aspects of photography sets a standard for similar institutes. Incredibly dedicated staff members offer students one-on-one scenarios and coupled with their top of the line technology and continuous updating, Hallmark has offered me the most solid future I could hope for."
"Attending Hallmark was the biggest decision I have made up until this point. I give thanks every day that I decided to come. Having learned so much about photography and the business aspects was amazing, not to mention making lifelong friendships with teachers and students alike. I grew as a human being more than I could have ever imagined. It was the best year of my life thus far."
"While being a student and now, as an alumni, I have often been asked what I think about my decision to attend Hallmark. My answer is simple: Hallmark was the best decision I have ever made. With the strong technical training and business skills I obtained in my ten months there, I now have the ability to produce images I truly care about and can sell them for their true worth."
"After spending 7 years volunteering in many parts of the world I decided it was time to follow my passion for photography. I decided to attend Hallmark Institute of Photography, and I feel it was one of the best decisions I could have made. I really appreciated the one-on-one time with the teachers; they were always willing to help regardless of what they had going on, and helped prepare me for the photographic world I was entering. The relationships that I made with my fellow students will be life-long friendships as well as great resources. Now I feel confident and prepared to enter the world of photography and am excited to turn my passion into my career."
"Hallmark Institute of Photography has given me the tools and knowledge to further my creative endeavors. The faculty and staff are invaluable resources, and the equipment and facilities are on the cutting edge of what is going on in the industry. With the education I acquired I am confident in pursuing my career in professional photography."
"Hallmark was my first choice when deciding which photography school to go to and it hasn't disappointed. It's mix of photography and business education has enhanced my photographic skills to a level that I never could have achieved on my own. Going to Hallmark Institute of Photography was the best choice that I have made."
"One year before attending Hallmark my life was at a crossroad. I had graduated with a BS in Geological Science and had to choose between working in a field that no longer interested me, or following my passion for photography; the decision was far from easy. Now, after completing the program, I can't help but look back and think that attending Hallmark was the most rewarding choice I have ever made. Not only does the curriculum apply to the real world, but the facilities also provide the same equipment used by today's top professionals. Similarly, the faculty's passion is contagious and their commitment is unmatched by any other program I have seen. Thanks to them I am now armed with the tools to succeed in one of the most competitive fields on the planet and the confidence to bring my dreams to reality."
"Feeling financially insecure at a young age, I knew there was a dream I needed to follow regardless of what monetary difficulties would develop in order to achieve my goal. I was looking for a challenge at a school with independence and a harmonious learning environment. I found all that and more at Hallmark! Not only do I now possess the confidence and the skill sets necessary to embark on a career in photography, but also have made remarkable friendships with faculty and classmates along the way. I am truly just beginning my life long journey that I have always dreamed of and couldn't have asked for a better start than the solid foundation I received at Hallmark."
"Photography has always been an interest of mine but I never thought I could make it a career until I found Hallmark. The past 10 months have not only expanded my photographic skills and knowledge, but I have also obtained the business know-how to make it in the industry. I am leaving this school with confidence and excitement for myself and my classmates and our photographic futures."
"Before my training began at Hallmark Institute of Photography my walls were covered with images that I aspired to create. Hallmark helped me to achieve the skills, knowledge and confidence to create my own unique images that are equal to those in the field of professional photography... all in 10 months."
"Hallmark Institute of Photography's dedication and expertise at training students to become professional photographers in ten months is without a doubt the most challenging and rewarding experience I have ever had from an educational facility. With their training and vision, I'm walking away confident that I have learned and refined the technical and artistic skills necessary to succeed as a photographer."
"In the ten months at Hallmark, I was able to absorb all the technical, artistic, and business skills I need to take my photography to a level equal to today's leading professionals. The friendly faculty gave expert advice for stimulating growth and the confidence to succeed in the real world."
"Hallmark has given me sound photographic skills, a strong digital foundation, and the business aspects of photography. Hallmark provides the most hi-tech equipment in the marketplace. Because of my education I am moving to New York City to begin my career."
"After spending four years acquiring a BFA I felt I still did not possess the technical or business skills needed to open my own studio. Within months of beginning the program here I was leaps and bounds ahead of my fellow fine art graduates. Prospective students need to know: the four years I spent at another private college did not come close to the value of the ten months here at Hallmark. It's the best decision I ever made."
"The program is so well organized that, in ten short months, I have not only received an advanced education in photography but have also acquired extensive knowledge in various related areas as well. It is hard to fully comprehend just how much you are learning until the end of the ten months. It is at this point that it occurs to you that you're not only a well-rounded photographer, but a professional. Leaving Hallmark, all doors are open!"
"Hallmark's dedication to its students' success is more than evident, from the instructors' constant support to the amazing equipment and technology available to each student. I have learned more than I ever thought possible in ten months, gaining the confidence and skills necessary to begin my dream career. I have no doubt in my mind that the investment I've made in my education has been well worth every penny."
"After raising my family I decided to finally follow my passions. After looking at several schools I decided that Hallmark's 10 month program and business focus was the best place for me. While visiting the school I was immediately impressed with the technology that Hallmark had to offer its students. Now that I have completed the program I know I made the right decision."
"Upon entering Hallmark in September, I had no professional photographic experience. During my ten months at Hallmark Institute I acquired the technical and creative skills needed to produce high quality portrait and commercial photography. Simultaneously, the program also provided a strong business education that was needed to turn me into a successful working photographer."
"After serving in the military I decided that I needed a school that provided me with the same fast-paced environment. Hallmark's intense curriculum provided me with the education and confidence to actively pursue my career in photography. The school has given me the tools to succeed through its knowledgeable and experienced faculty members, cutting edge facility and its striving to make an impact in the photography community. Hallmark has changed my life; it was one of the best choices I have ever made."
"Finally! A school that is what they advertise! I came to Hallmark out of desperation. I went to three other well respected colleges and universities only to find that their programs were not all that I had been told they were. A friend had told me about Hallmark, and had I not heard it from a friend I probably never would have believed what they do here. It just seemed too good to be true. I came to Hallmark with virtually no knowledge of any technical aspect of photography, I didn't even know what an f-stop was. The incredible staff here has not only taught me the ins and outs of medium format, DSLR, large format, and so much more but they also taught me the most important thing of all; the business. It's amazing how much I've learned here. These past ten months have changed my life. I got to work for the two photographers I have been looking up to for the past 5 years thanks to Hallmark. In addition, Hallmark's reputation made it very easy for me to get a job. Not only am I working 40 hours a week, I also have a job offer from my favorite photographer, and images being published in The Standard Quarterly this July. None of this would have been possible without the guidance and help of the Hallmark staff. They truly go above and beyond the call of duty, the facilities here are envied by many (all the guest speakers say so), and the alumni have been incredibly helpful. I feel by enrolling at Hallmark I have become part of a large family that I hope to be giving back to for a long time. Thanks Hallmark."
"In my short time at Hallmark I have gained the skills and confidence I need to work in any field in the photographic industry. What I learned in 10 months would be impossible to learn on my own. The faculty is extraordinary; they truly care about all their students and our success. Hallmark is number one when it comes to a real world photographic education!"
"After the hurricane, I knew it was time for a change in my life. With no prior photographic education, I enrolled in Hallmark Institute of Photography and took advantage of my opportunity to learn in a state-of-the-art facility under the direction of an amazing and accessible faculty. I am now prepared for the creative and flexible career about which I have always dreamed."
"Hallmark prepared me for the skills and confidence it takes to be a professional photographer. In 10 months not only did I learn all the proper techniques for making great photos but I also was able to develop my creativity to show my true passion for photography."
"Hallmark gave me the technical training that I have always needed. Coming from a fine art background, I needed practical business and technical training to become a professional working photographer. I had no idea that I would explore my creativity and develop my style, while really pulling away from anything that resembles amateur. I am so grateful for my time at Hallmark."
"Being a self taught photographer for 5 years, I was looking for a solid professional education that would bring my knowledge of photography to an absolutely different level and Hallmark Institute of Photography gave me all I could dream of. Not only did I learn all the aspects of digital photography and studio lighting, the program helped me build a strong foundation to market myself and feel confident in the competitive world of photography."
"I came to Hallmark as a career change student and mother of three young children with aspirations of being a professional photographer. I was expecting to learn photography, but Hallmark has given me so much more. Not only did I master real world skills that landed me a full time job one month before graduation, but the program also forced me to go out of my comfort zone to build confidence in myself and my photography skills. Your age or place in life does not matter; if you absolutely love photography and dream of being a professional photographer for life, Hallmark is the place to see that dream through."
"This has been a once in a lifetime experience that I would never change. I was at a point where I loved photography and had to make a choice if I was going to pursue it. I chose Hallmark because it came with high recommendations and it was only ten months. It not only gives you a strong education in photography but prepares you to go out into the business prepared. It's been a journey and I recommend it to anyone who's passionate about photography and wants to get out there and work in this industry."
"Hallmark honed my skills as a photographer to go with confidence into any job I take on. Hallmark gave me the business skills to be able to make a living doing what I love. Hallmark gave me a network of talented instructors, students and alumni for support and friendship now, and in the years to come. Education is what you make of it, and at Hallmark, I was able to make more than I imagined I could."
"Attending Hallmark Institute of Photography is the best option for anyone who is serious about photography. During the 10-month program, I learned not only the technical aspects of photography but also the business of photography.The program is packed with hands-on training and backed with a great staff of professional instructors and administration. All this knowledge can be applied to immediate job positions or for entrepreneurs looking to open their own business."
"I wanted to be a professional photographer but I didn't know where to start. Hallmark Institute of Photography first appealed to me because of their intense 10-month program, which focuses on professional photography and the business of photography. But the reason I'm so glad I chose Hallmark is because I know that when I leave I'll have had the best training to enter the photographic industry with confidence."
"I am thankful I chose Hallmark Institute of Photography; I met a lot of great people who are truly passionate about photography. Hallmark gave me the knowledge, and technical ability needed to pursue a career in photography with confidence. All of this was offered to me in just ten months. The Hallmark program is remarkable."
"Hallmark Institute of Photography's unique program, which stresses the artistic, technical, and business aspects of the photographic industry, has helped me master my skills not only in photography, but also in essential digital and design skills that make me an excellent candidate for success in the real world."
"Choosing to go to Hallmark Institute of Photography was the best decision of my life. From the kind and dedicated faculty I have learned everything that revolves around the world of photography. I have come out not only a better and stronger photographer, but also a better and stronger person."
"Attending Hallmark has been a triumphant, life changing experience. I came with little or no understanding of the technical aspects of the art and a desire to become the best photographer I possibly could. I wanted to distinguish myself from the average photographers in the field. The instructors here at Hallmark have afforded me the opportunity to fulfill my desire and to work with confidence among fellow professionals in the business of photography. I can't fathom a better learning institution to have chosen. Hallmark Institute of Photography and everyone associated with it is purely excellent. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!"
"I always enjoyed photography. When I decided to embark on a new career, it had to be something I wanted to do everyday. Hallmark helped me improve my photography, and make it a career. The professional equipment, knowledgeable teachers, and amazing guest speakers were a great experience!"
"I started the program at Hallmark Institute of Photography without any formal photography training and I'm leaving after ten months confident in my future, working in the photographic industry. The instructors are always helpful, facilities and equipment are always top-notch and the work environment always kept me motivated to work hard. I can't believe how far I've come and where my education will take me."
"It is unbelievable that before coming to Hallmark I was shooting mostly with disposable cameras. Within ten short months, the professional staff has taught me so much. This will definitely be the most beneficial investment I'll ever make."
"After high school I knew I did not want to go to a four year school, when I found Hallmark I knew it was the perfect choice. The intense 10-month program proved to be very demanding as well as incredibly rewarding. The difference between where I was before I came and where I am now is unbelievable. With the technical, business, and artistic skills I gained at Hallmark I will now confidently move to the most competitive photographic market, New York City."