Vivienne's course is such a lovely treat to give yourself. The class environment was so supportive and lovely that I was happy to share photos with the group that I might not have otherwise shared. The course layout was clear and inviting. Vivienne's description of techniques and tools were so helpful for photography and self exploration and I thoroughly enjoyed this e-course. It was the first I've ever taken and I would certainly try another after this great introduction. Thank you Vivienne for opening up a whole new side of photography for me and helping me discover a love for self portraiture.
-Gia Schultz {Wading In Participant}
The course was really engaging and beautifully taught. Vivienne's loveliness and experience bursts through in all the examples, encouragement and guidance. She's also a shining example of somebody doing their right work.
-Tangerine Meg {Wading In Participant}
I can't say enough positive about these courses. Vivienne took all the rules that have been holding me back and replaced them with playfulness. Worlds of possibilities opened up for me. I took the first course because I thought it would be good for me. I took the second course because I was addicted.
I'm using the techniques from this class all the time--and not just for self-portraits. I'm taking lovely family portraits that really show the personality of our family. I'm using images for my author blog that better reflect the topic of the blog. And the images I'm using for my short stories actually add something to the story! Yay! I'd also be remiss if I didn't mention the fact that Vivienne's energy attracts the best classmates imaginable. In taking these classes, I didn't just have the feedback from a wonderful teacher, but I was welcomed into a community of artistic souls. Seeing their work on the flickr site often inspired me to push myself a little more and reach a little farther. The classes have been a wonderful experience for me. Thank you, Vivienne!
-Johanna Harness {Wading In & YAYOM Participant}
It was the best course I've done online in terms of community, support and fun. I'm a painter not a photographer but I wanted to find a way to like photos of myself, something I've always had a problem with, and I liked the idea of developing creatively in a different way from what I usually do.
I didn't imagine I would meet such a kind, friendly, supportive and creative group of women from all over the world. I even made a friend who has offered me a bed when I visit the States! It was great to see people's personal style developing as well.
I also loved the ideas and prompts and the videos you posted to show us how you do it and give us ideas. The whole process was extremely gentle and forgiving, and I found myself logging in every day to see what people had been up to while I was asleep over here in the UK! I had never seen photography in this 'fun' light; over here I'd say it tends to be a bit more formal and serious.
It just felt like a really safe place to hang out and discuss creativity, share ideas and talk about our experiences of what we were doing. I need to find a painting class online that does all this now!
-Tara Leaver {Wading In Participant}
Fucking fantastic! May I be sold bold? Yes, this was my first online class. And undoubtedly none other will compare! The inspiration, eye candy, variety of prompts, interesting info/interviews kept the classroom fresh!
The willingness of participants to share has been amazing. I will miss this class, but continue my journey as a self portrait artist with new tools in my bucket, ideas in my head and as always MUSEing inspirations! Thank you Viv for a wonderful ride!
-Deb Taylor {YAYOM Participant}