Arthur Rainville

Arthur Levi Rainville is a true artist and teacher of the life and business of “Art, Heart & Soul.” He prides himself in saving lives (memories) through photography. He captures his clients’ little moments to help them remember their great lifestyle. It was my honor and pleasure to spend last weekend with him at a retreat organized by Professional Photographers of California (PPC). 

The two-day session with Arthur was closer to a Yoga or religious retreat than a photography workshop; the latter tends to focus on the technical (equipment, software, posing) or informational (business, regulations) aspects of photography. Arthur led us through a presentation of inspirational quotes as well as beautiful music, images, and videos to explore how to grow as an artist and what it means to be an artistic photographer who takes advantage of technology to create emotional imagery. He also walked the walk and demonstrated his art of capturing and engaging the people on the other side of the camera.

Without giving away Arthur’s secret sauce, I’d just say that my analytical self has finally acknowledged the artist within me. I am inspired to let go of cynicism and allow myself to be creative. Arthur’s teachings resonate with me and confirm that I have been on the right track: study, play, and practice. In time, I’d be able to imprint more of my heart and soul into my creations. This is also going to be why my photos, even those that appear to be snapshots, are always going to be just more professional and poetic than amateur shots.

Big Hug to you, Arthur! You are my inspiration.

P.S. Part of my letting go of cynicism -- at the workshop, I had my first experience in photographing "human" models, paparazzi style! The last time I did any paparazzi shooting was taking pictures of a big group of hammerhead sharks in the depths of Cocos Island in Costa Rica; the divers could at least spread out horizontally as well as vertically. I apologize to any photographers whom I might have elbowed, bumped into, or stepped on.

P.P.S. Arthur will be teaching a 5-day version of this workshop at the West Coast School next June. Don’t miss it!

Arthur Levi Rainville
www.studiorainville.com

West Coast School of Photography
http://www.westcoastschool.com/