JAY PIERSTORFF
Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum Art Institute Instructor / Photography / Graphics / Websites/ Dot Sighter
CLASSES BY JAY PIERSTORFF

Photo Basics: Mastering Manual Mode
Take away the fear from Manual Mode in this multi-session class with assignments, image reviews, and more! A terrific way to go more in-depth with your photography.
Duration
9am to Noon- 5 days

Intro to Generative AI Images for Artist and Photographers
In this introductory class on Generative AI images for artists and photographers, you will learn how to use artificial intelligence to create unique and visually stunning images.
Generative AI is a powerful tool that allows you to create images by training algorithms on large datasets of photographs, paintings, and other visual media. In this class, you will about popular generative AI platforms to generate realistic and abstract images that can be used as inspiration for your own artistic projects.
Duration
9AM to Noon

Photo Workshop: Shallow Depth of Field
We will cover the fundamentals of aperture, focal length, and distance to subject, as well as techniques for achieving the desired bokeh effect. You will also learn how to control depth of field in various lighting situations, including low-light environments.
This class is designed for filmmakers, photographers, and enthusiasts who want to take their visual storytelling to the next level.
Duration
9AM to Noon

Intro to Airbrush
In this introduction to airbrush class, you will learn the basics of airbrushing, including how to use an airbrush and compressor, how to mix and thin paint, and how to control airbrush pressure.
This class is perfect for beginners who want to learn how to use airbrushing as a tool for creative expression. You will start by learning basic techniques such as painting gradients and applying stencils, and then progress to more advanced techniques such as masking and freehand airbrushing
Duration
9AM – 2PM

Turning Photos into Digital Paintings
Great paintings adorn the walls of museums or art galleries. Meanwhile your photos live in dusty old albums or on your sad, cracked phone screen. That all changes NOW! Make beautiful digital paintings from your camera or smartphone, without getting a single drop of paint on you!
Duration
9am to Noon

Get Your Art Photographed
Whether you are an artist looking to document your portfolio, preparing for a gallery show, or simply looking to create high-quality images for promotional purposes, this event is for you. Your artwork photos are adjusted for lighting and color correction, to ensure that your artwork is accurately represented in the final images.
Duration
Call for Appointment

Intro to Photoshop Elements/cc with Take Home Video Lessons
Learn Photoshop Elements and CC’s most useful photo editing tools. You may bring a laptop (optional) to follow along or just listen and learn. Take notes, ask questions, and see why Adobe Photoshop is one of the most powerful photographers’ tools!
Duration
One Day, 9am -2pm

Intro to Adobe Lightroom Classic
Join Pro Photographer/Educator Jay Pierstorff for this one day, lecture-style class on Adobe Photoshop. Learn Photoshop Elements and CC’s most useful photo editing tools. You may bring a laptop (optional) to follow along or just listen and learn. Take notes, ask questions, and see why Adobe Photoshop is one of the most powerful photographers’ tools! Students receive a USB flash drive with video lessons to view on your home computer.
Duration
One Day, 9am -2pm

Photo Ops: Location and Studio
Start before the Museum is open when many of the Museum’s animals respond to enrichment activities for great photos. Then at 9am we’ll head to the indoor studio for some intimate portraits with rattlesnakes, Gila Monster, porcupine, and a skunk
Duration
One Day, 7:30am – 10:30am

Reptiles: Photo Ops
Start with a “behind the scenes” tour of the reptile building (not open to the public) to see how these animals are housed and cared for. Then studio and outdoor (weather permitting) photo sessions with rattlesnakes, Gila monsters and more desert reptiles! Learn about these animals as you get photos with studio backdrops and lighting.
Duration
One Day, 7:30am – 10:30am

Introduction to 3d Printers
Learn the basics about 3D Printing. Suddenly this exciting new hobby is affordable! 3D print models, functional parts, artistic décor and more from patterns you download or design yourself using free software. Learn what tools and materials you will need to begin your 3D printing journey.
Duration
1 day - 9AM to 2PM

Editing Your Photos Like a Pro
Watch as your instructor edits your photos using Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop and additional software as needed. A complete explanation of what is being done and why to help you learn and evaluate these techniques for your use.
Duration
1 day - 9AM to Noon