In-person Instruction: Photography 101

I occasionally teach photography workshops to small groups of students or individuals. Each workshop caters to the experience level and specific goals of the participants.

For example, when I work with graduate students in marine science, we focus on how to capture quality imagery while conducting field work. I also work with individuals who have some basic photography experience, but want to increase their knowledge and skills in a specific area, like portraits or landscapes.

In addition to this customized instruction, I offer introductory-level tutorials in image processing, including managing files and editing photos using professional software (Lightroom, Photoshop, and other programs within the Adobe Creative Suite.)

If you are interested in working with me to develop your photography skills, please send me an email at mlparkermedia@gmail.com with the subject line “teaching”.

Online Course: Grow your business as a freelance science communicator

Over the past few years, dozens of people have reached out to inquire about my success as a full-time freelance science communicator, and how they might navigate a similar career path. To meet the growing demand for information on this topic, I have partnered with the Association of Science Communicators to facilitate a professional development course online.

The course includes four sessions, which will give you some essential tools and insights including:

• Grow your network: learn what approaches actually work for making professional connections and getting hired for science communication projects.

• Get tech savvy: learn the basics of website design, professional social media presence, email newsletters, and personal branding.

• Get paid: learn how to establish your rates, know your worth, and find resources to help you navigate the self-employment world, from taxes to accounting to financial planning.

• Keep it real: recognize that full-time freelance work is tough at times. Engage in thoughtful discussions about overcoming insecurities, coping with self-doubt or uncertainty, and building confidence and community.

Testimonials:

“Marley generously shared concrete resources, tips, and suggestions ranging from networking to business development to contract negotiations. She was direct about the rewards and the challenges of freelancing and at the same time immensely positive and encouraging. Overall, her course was inspiring, collegial, and informative. I would highly recommend it!”

— Mara Shurgot | Associate Director of Communications at Duke University Center for WaSH-AID

“Science communication freelancing can be a lonely endeavor as few people understand its unique challenges. I came to this course after freelancing for a few years, seeking ideas too expand and improve my business. Marley provided resources, her insights and wealth of experience, and a safe space for discussion with other course participants, which allowed me to explore ideas of what to do next.  The course provided me with a sense of community and renewed my energy for trying out new things.”

— Clare Gibson | Filmmaker at Allegorical Alchemy

“Marley’s vast experience working as a science communicator and her passion for teaching really shine through, and I will miss these insightful weekly Wednesday discussions. I learned so much about the practical and business aspects of freelancing in science communications, for which information can sometimes be difficult to come by. It was also a great opportunity to meet fellow science communicators! I cannot recommend this course enough!"

— Maria Pinto | Science Communicator and Videographer