J Ambrozic Photography, Cleveland

Photography instructor J. Ambrozic started his career on the other end of the lens, working as a TV actor and Banana Republic model. The Renaissance man still appears on camera and works in talent management, but as a photographer, he's more interested in the faces of other people—and sometimes elephants. His diverse portfolio spans portraiture, landscapes, and action shots of animals. All of his images share a virtuosity that he unpacks for students during his DSLR classes. Teaching a mix of technical sophistication and composition techniques, he shows students how to snap captivating masterpieces of their own. Students can practice their new skills in Ambrozic's studio, a naturally lit oasis with crystalline views of the city skyline and the occasional giant lizard monster.