Hector was an excellent teacher and this class is great for anyone who is looking to learn more about what they can do with their camera and take WAY BETTER pictures! I've had a DSLR camera for over a year and was only using mostly point and shoot modes. I've read the manual, watched YouTube videos, but it just wasn't sticking. I'm so happy I found Hector's class because it's just what I needed. I learned everything I wanted to know about my camera (and using Manual modes)...all in one day! It's a long day for sure and lots of info to take in, but it is worth it! I feel much more confident in using my Nikon. I also really like the small class size. And one more thing- do the homework! It's very helpful to have a basic understanding of where the buttons are and what each one does beforehand. Thanks Hector! read more

Awesome class! Hector taught me so much about my camera and how to use it to take great pictures. It was a super day - fun but lots of learning and practice. If you want to learn about your camera and how to take great photos this is the class for you. I highly recommend it. read more

I highly recommend this class to anyone that owns a camera. Hector is an amazing teacher that has created an intense yet simple structure to get you forever off auto mode and taking great photographs in just one day. I literally feel like I've been shooting in the dark for decades. It feels like my camera is an extension of my self now. read more

EXCELLENT class!!! EXCELLENT instructor !!! EXCELLENT Time !!! Learned a lot and had so much fun!! I'll definitely recommend to all my fiends for sure....!! Thank you Hector read more

Hector is brillant! Take this class. If you have the money to buy a DSLR, then you can afford his class. Invest in yourself and master your equipment. Hector is the man, to help you do so. read more

I had a blast taking Hector's class! He really opened my eyes to what my camera can do for me. He covers everything you have been wanting to learn about your camera including what equipment to buy and what all those modes actually mean! Hector also teaches all the information in a way that is relatable and easy to grasp - he even gives you a how-to binder of everything he taught that day. Thanks to the small class sizes, he is able to really help everyone individually and answer all questions along he way. I also really enjoyed meeting all the great people in class as well. I would highly recommend anyone new to the DSLR world to take his classes, you'll thank yourself later :) read more

let me start of by saying that I was a little hesitant about taking this class given the fact that I kinda taught myself over months about manual, either on youtube or reading online, I was doing things on my own without knowing the facts or what exactly I was doing. Taking the class helped me a lot about getting to know the "theory" about manual mode and last but not least, realize what I was doing wrong. Anyway I highly recommend the class either if you wanna get out of auto mode or for self taught people, like myself, that think they already know to fully understand it. Besides it's fun, great people and great teacher! read more

Took Hectors Feb. 7, 2015 getting out of auto mode class in Long Beach. The class was great! If you are looking for a hands on class environment that teaches camera basics like buttons and features as well as explaining/teaching technical information on how to account for various lighting situation then this is the class for you! Hector is awesome and shares his wealth of knowledge on photography. I loved the small class size and that I was able to ask questions and get answers without feeling intimidated. Learned a great deal and had loads of fun in the process...you won't be disappointed!! read more

I finally got the courage to sign up for a class on learn how to use my DSLR (get out of auto mode class). I was nervous about the long hours but after reading the reviews, I decided to go for it. It seriously did not feel like ten hours, time flew by! I love how he has no more than eight students per class. We got a lot of one on one attention and he was so patient. I didn't feel intimidated at all and the group that I had was super nice. He gave us a work book where we could keep notes and I've found it's really helpful when I don't remember something. If you are considering taking a class, definitely take Hectors class. It was worth it! read more

Hector is an amazing teacher and packs so much information into this 1 day class. I was very impressed with the guide he created to help us through the day and take home with us. The setting at Long Beach Harbour was amazing and like the other reviews say, the 12 hour day just flies by because you're learning so much and practicing so many different exercises. I really enjoyed the class and am anxious to practice the techniques Hector taught us! read more

I am an inactive member of the Long Beach Digital Photograph and photo shop meet-up. Over the past four years, I've had several surgeries, consequent post surgery therapies and a concussion. I did continue following the group's posts. Finally, I feel physically able to resume my interest in photography including participation in the meet-up. Unfortunately, I could not recall how to operate my camera and it felt too heavy. Fortunately, a member of the meet-up posted a positive review for Hector Gonzales. I, immediately, phoned him. I explained my situation to Hector. He listened and made appropriate recommendations about cameras; provided resources about where to buy at reasonable costs; etc. I purchased a camera that is lighter in weight, easier to learn and a camera that uses the lens I own. Hector was available, by phone, to answer my many questions. Hector limits his 8 to 9 hour workshop to eight participants. Online, Hector gave us "pre-workshop homework" that explained and illustrated aperture, shutter speed, ISO, etc. He was available by phone. The workshop participants had various cameras and varying levels of experience. Hector knew each camera and through out the day provided individual instructions. He would explain, demonstrate, have us duplicate what he had demonstrated, look at each of our results (and provide feedback and assistance if needed), etc. Hector discussed all the modes, how to hold a camera, positioning your body, lighting, composition, lenses, .... and much more. In sum, Hector taught us using various methods: lecture, demonstration, individual follow up, repetition, reading material, etc. Once a student...always a student. Hector will remain open to assist you in the future. I owned my camera less than two weeks before the workshop. My rich learning experience has given me a great foundation. At this point, I know that I will master what the workshop covered and I am ready to shoot, shoot and shoot. I highly recommend Hector Gonzales if you want to learn photography. read more

Hector is an amazing instructor! I just took Part I in Long Beach last Saturday. I highly recommend it. The hands-on experience was fantastic. Hector explains a concept and then has you practice it immediately. You get instant feedback from him. I also think that the whole-day format is a huge bonus for the course. It's a lot of information, but I have found out that it is much better to learn everything at once than bits and pieces. You need to have information about all aspects of photography to get the best picture possible. To practice one concept without understanding how all components interact with one another would not make sense. The day flew by. Hector is personable and fun. He makes you feel comfortable and answers all of your questions. The snacks and drinks were great too! read more

Hector is the best! If you want someone patient, talented and knowledgeable, he's your man! I took the class in October 2013 and I've seen a huge improvement in my photos. I'm a true beginner and Hector made me feel and look intermediate by the end of the day. I completely know how to use my camera, I'm much more comfortable taking pictures manually and Hector provides a class worth much more than he charges. read more

I took the compositon workshop over the weekend and this was my second workshop with Hector. It was lots of fun! Hector shared lots of tips and creative ideas to dramatically improve your pictures. He help me find ways to take better pictures, and showed me how to make any subject stand out. You will learn to take professional looking pics, really cool, stuff. read more

Hector is incredibly patient, kind and generous with his knowledge of photography. That's all anyone can ask for in a teacher and I'm so grateful that I had the opportunity to take his class. I will take his invaluable lessons with me throughout my photography career. Thanks so much for everything, Hector!! read more

Had the privilege in taking this class 2 days ago and by far one of the best hands on experience I've came across that really allows you to understand your camera in a better way like never before. Hector is very professional and patience with everyone until they understand each subject clearly. His class sizes are perfect so that he can go around and help everyone individually and as a group... He gives you homework before hand to have a better understanding and I would really recommend taking this class for anyone who wants to have a better complete understanding of getting out of AUTO MODE.... Thank you Hector this class was AWESOME... read more

I have had my camera for a couple of years with the intention of using it for travel and food photography. I purchased books, viewed online tutorials and even attended another class, they helped somewhat but never held my interest long enough for me to grasp what my camera could really do, instead I felt overwhelmed. I found Hector's class on Facebook and tried to sign up a couple of times but there communications issues with emails etc... I finally was able to sign up for the class on Saturday and I definitely feel more in control of my camera and all that it's capable of. The class was organized and well planned and Hector was patient and methodical, by the end of the class we were all able to confidently manage the settings on our cameras and shoot pictures. I plan on seeking out photography groups to continue to hone my skills and I definitely recommend that anyone looking to conquer their fear of their camera settings sign up for this class. My only caveat is if you don't get a response to your initial inquiry try contacting him through Facebook or another way as I did not even find his emails in my spam, alas it remains a mystery : ) but I am now enjoying my newly honed skills! I look forward to my next vacation to really put them to the test! Thank you Hector! read more

This is probably the best class there is for learning how to use a DLSR camera. It is hands on training. Very, informative and you must be committed and want to learn. It is a one day workshop, but you leave knowing a LOT more then just the basics. You leave knowing and feeling great that you are able to get out of auto mode. You show up early in the morning and Hector gets down to business. At the end of the day, you would have accomplished what would have been a semester of work. I would recommend taking this workshop with no hesitation. read more

THis is a MUST take class! Hector really gears the class to ALL levels! He makes sure to give both group and one on one instruction. The length of this class is fanastic and he does not end early! We went over and he didn't even hesitate he wanted to make sure he could provide us with as much information as possible! I have been practicing ever since and cant wait till I feel I am ready enough for part 2! He is very personable which I really enjoy! Sign up you won't regret it! read more

I took Part I class and got a lot more out of the class than I expected. I got my camera for Christmas and reading the manual and reading books did not help. This class was awesome!! We got a binder with cheat sheets, diagrams and explanations that will help me later when I practice. I thought I was doing pretty good on the pre programmed settings but this class teaches you how to use manual and create all these settings. Hector is a fabulous instructor with lots of patience and with a way to help you understand. He answers all your questions and makes you feel comfortable about the subject and continues to help until you understand it. I am now practicing as much as I can so I can be ready for his Part II class. I now am able and understand how to use the settings to take the pictures that I have wanted to. I highly recommend this class to any beginner and I will continue taking classes from Hector. read more

I've been using my cameras for years and thought I had been doing pretty well on my own in "Auto". You'll learn so much in this day that it'll be worth your while! We invest hundreds of dollars in cameras and equipment you'll learn if you invest In yourself and your skills you'll become a better photographer. Do yourself a favor and check out Hectors classes. One of the best gifts I've received. read more

DSLR I was the real first DSLR class I have ever taken - and after just one class I feel so more confident and comfortable in manual mode. Hector was great and his passion for photography was the best part. I am excited to keep learning and will take any class Hector provides. The class was very organized and the class materials I have read through many times since and keep getting better every day. read more

Went into the class as a novice, and left the class with a general understanding and skill set to take different types of photos in manual mode, aperture and shutter priority. Snacks and study manuals were provided, and learned everything from basic fundamentals- to physics- to taking photos in extreme conditions (weather, darkness etc.) The "No More Auto Mode" workshop was a great investment! Hector really takes our education seriously-- imagine my surprise when we had a test at the end-- but l left with a deep appreciation for his passion and patience as we learn everything about our cameras and how to use them. I would recommend this class in the future to anyone who just got into photography or needs a good refresher on taking excellent shots in manual mode/A or P mode. Thanks again Hector read more

Took Get out of Auto Mode class with Hector and I highly recommend his class. Not only is he organized and professional but his class was fun and super informative. He breaks everything down so it's easy to learn and there is plenty of hands on learning as well. I can't say enough about how great this class was. Thank you Hector!!! read more

finally....i'm out of auto mode. hector is the best. he has a wealth of knowledge and is very eager to impart what he knows with those who have an interest in photography. give him a shot....i promise he won't disappoint. .....KENYA read more

Worth every penny and time. Hector gets straight to the point. He is able to effortlessly explain the process and pair them with hands on practice so at the end of the session it was time well spent. I took the class yesterday and wished that I had not wait this long. Hector is a gem of an instructor. I would take another class with him without reservations. Do not wait you will be glad once you have joined him for a session. Thanks Hector! read more

I've been wanting to learn to use different modes of DSLRs but never took the time to actually do it. Finally I signed up for Hector's class. I had doubts before the workshop (not about the workshop but if I could learn all that stuff...his homework seemed a bit overwhelming) The workshop was fast-paced, lots of great info and materials, and so much enjoyable. Hector was amazingly knowledgeable, yet funny, and the materials were well-prepared and organized. We went over time, almost 12 hours, but he didn't mind even though another 2 hours of drive was waiting for him afterwards - he made sure that we got best out of his workshop and all of our questions were answered. He even uploaded pictures of us in action the same night and emailed us the link after non-stop talking/teaching for 12 hours and 4 hours of driving. That's already a testament to his passion for sharing his love of photography. He really wanted us to learn and enjoy taking pictures. And to respond my doubts I had - I was able to learn to shoot in manual "master" mode just in one day! Hector made everything super easy for us to understand, very hands-on, practical - every single moment of that 12-hour workshop was well worth it! I just wish I took his class sooner! read more

Great class, well worth it! I feel confident using my camera now and finally understand how aperture, shutter speed and ISO WORK.

Learning all about the basics of photography is just like learning how to swim, you can't do it by reading books or watching youtube alone. After the day I took my first workshop from DSLRclasses, I shot some photos of my family and sent to my relatives. They asked me if I hired a professional photographer :D. Thanks Hector for pointing out my mistakes. read more

This class is well worth it! I took the Part 1 in Long Beach a few weeks ago. I learned so much in that one day of class than any book could have taught me. Hector is awesome! He's easy going and makes the process of learning fun! It may seem like 8 hours of a class is a lot but it goes so fast because you are having so much fun! He really breaks everything down and goes step by step to help you understand how to work your camera. I loved that everything was hands on with my own camera. And it didn't matter that everyone was using a different camera. Hector was able to show us all how to use our own camera. I have a whole new understanding of my camera. It's great! Thanks Hector. I highly recommend taking one of his classes. Well worth it!! read more

I took Part I with Hector in Long Beach. It was a great experience. First of all, it is outside. Never a dull moment. Hector is a great instructor and explains things in a simple concise manner. He is very patient and works with every student to understand the content regardless of their experience level. The class flowed well, and went by quickly. We were there for 11 hours, well worth the money. Covered everything and then some. If you want to learn how to take photos, as opposed to snapshots, this is the class for you. Lots of hands on work, as well as explanations. I now feel comfortable that I can do so much more in manual settings, than i would have imagined. Cant wait to practice more. read more

I learned from this workshop from a coworker.....i tell you its well worth the money. After completion of the lecture, i feel more comfortable with my camera...hector made it very easy, fun, and interactive to overcome the learning of my DSLR camera. I highly recommend Hector's workshop.....im planning to take the 2d part.... read more

I loved Hector's way of teaching. I learned a lot and really enjoyed the class. Hector is very professional and very patient. The class was worth what I paid for. I liked that the class is very hands on. Hector explained a subject and then we did what he taught us. I learned a lot and have a better understanding of what everything means. I took this class because I love taking pictures of my children and wanted to learn how to make those pictures great. Now, I'm confident that I can take those Million dollar shots! Now is just practice, practice, and practice. I will definitely take his other workshop. The class went by so fast and was not boring at all. The day I had the class it was very cold but sill enjoyed the class. We had a lot of "Now I get it" moments. Thanks Hector!!!! read more

I took more out of Hector's photography class than I could've imagined. It was so informative and motivating. I owned my camera for 6 years and realized that I was not using it to it's potential. I am excited to continue learning and implementing all the information Hector provided. The set up for the class was great. Hector took the time to explain concepts that were difficult to understand. I would 100% recommend this class to anyone who wants to learn how to use their camera and learn how to spot a beautiful picture when least expected. This class is also very informative regarding lighting and how important it is when doing photography. read more

Had such an amazing time with Hector and our group in the "Get out of Auto Class" in San Pedro. I needed direction on the settings to use for sports photography and this class was just what I needed to now feel proficient in getting the settings correct! Hector was very patient with all of us, making sure to NEVER leave anyone behind in the class. I plan to take the class again in 4 months and see how much I have improved in that time. Hector packed our day with many challenges to make sure we got the most out of our time with a great teacher. Thank you Hector and see you again in the future. If you are considering the class I promise you won't be disappointed!!!! read more

I found Hector after seeing all his reviews on Yelp. I was very skeptical about taking this class because I wasn't sure if I'd get anything out of it. He offers most of his class on Sat's but this Sunday workshop opened up so I tried it out. I just took Hector's class yesterday...one of the BEST classes I've taken in a very long time. It was a VERY LONG (10 hrs) day but it went by so fast and I learned so much about my camera that was so underutilized. Even though we paid for only 8 hours, Hector extended the class so that we can squeeze in all the materials (and he's driving in from SD so he had a very long drive home so he really went out of his way so that we can get the most of our class). Show's that he really loves what he's doing and definitely looking out for our best interest. CONTENT: very constructive and thorough and organized. Provided us with a notebook of information which we followed and then we had our hands on practice. He was very patient with each and every one of us. I learned so much about the buttons on my camera and how to use the different modes in different lighting. I plan on taking all his workshops and I HIGHLY recommend this class to anyone who wants to start taking photos that have more meaning to it!!! read more