Dirk Erkau
From the time Dirk sold his first picture at age 12 he knew that photography was his calling. In the ensuing 35 years Dirk has worked in every facet of the photography industry. Starting as an apprentice with one of the leading architectural/studio photographers in western Canada he soon learned that an average day in a commercial photographers life could mean photographing a multitude of assignments. From shooting a simple exterior of a building in the early morning hours, to covering a Prime Ministers’ lunchtime meeting, to photographing the dress rehearsal of the latest play in the evening.
It was this variety that shaped Dirk’s travels through the photography landscape. During his journey Dirk was involved, among other things, managing a commercial colour lab, running his own commercial studio, designing and producing his own publication, working in the print production industry and representing an international camera manufacturer. As a culmination of all these skills Dirk entered the teaching arena in order that future photographers could benefit from his broad range of experience and knowledge.
After 35 years of professional photography, he understands what it takes to make his clients look their best in their marketing efforts.
Teaching
North Island College
Program Coordinator/Instructor, Professional Photography
Classes taught in addition to overseeing department:
Studio Practices & Lighting
Advertising & Commercial Photography
Digital Imaging 1 & 2
Portfolio Development
Visual College of Art and Design
Instructor, Graphic Design/Photography
Classes taught:
Photography for Graphic Designers
Photoshop 1&2
Illustrator 1&2
InDesign 1
Emily Carr University of Art + Design
Continuing Studies Faculty
Classes taught:
Commercial Photography
Intro Digital Photography
Intermediate Photography
Composition for Photographers