From the press release:
Introducing Asheville's First Source of Holistic Photography Instruction: Photographer/Instructor David Simchock re-locates from New Jersey to Asheville

Asheville, NC - David Simchock, a New Jersey-born freelance artist and educator, and owner of Vagabond Vistas Photography Instruction (www.VagabondVistas.com), has relocated his successful teaching business to the River Arts District (RAD) in Asheville, North Carolina. Once a home-based venture in New Jersey, Vagabond Vistas now calls Suite 101 at 375 Depot Street its home, where Simchock will conduct his popular photography workshops and seminars, while also utilizing the space for private consultations. The studio is shared with Simchock's other creative venture, David Simchock Photography. Still wet behind the ears in Appalachia, Vagabond Vistas is already a proud member of the Asheville Chamber of Commerce.
 
Says Simchock, "After building up my teaching business in the Northeast over the past four or five years in New Jersey, I am taking on quite a challenge in moving everything to an entirely new client base. Having said that, what better place to seek out creatively-minded people than Asheville, North Carolina?"
 
Vagabond Vistas strives to differentiate itself from other photography schools and institutions in three distinct ways. First, by offering classroom-based events in a setting that has absolutely no resemblance to a classroom or board room. The RAD Learning Studio, as Simchock likes to refer to it as, has more in common with most people's living room than a stuffy classroom. Gone are the days of a digital projector and rolling screen for his presentations, and in come his Mac lap-top connected to a large-screen TV monitor. Complementing the professionalism of his presentation set-up are his three-seat sofa, captain's chairs, contemporary lighting, and worldly accents of indigenous crafts and his own photography, resulting in a relaxing atmosphere and inspiring learning environment.
 
Given this arrangement, Simchock's second tack in separating his services from others is the small maximum group size for his workshops. Almost all events are capped at only seven students, providing a personal service to his clients, be them retired executives, soccer moms and NASCAR dads, or enthusiastic teenagers.
 
Simchock's third method of distancing himself from his competition is his emphasis on a "holistic" aproach to learning photography.
 
"It's not just about the camera", claims Simchock. "There's no use in spending a fortune on fancy gear if you're not willing to learn the manual controls. And, even that isn't enough, since you also need to understand what makes for sound photographic composition. These three facets, gear, technical skills, and creative composition, are all interconnected, and it is important for any photography enthusiast to understand that each deserves equal attention." Simchock continues, "Of course, in today's digital world, being a good photographer also requires a substantial proficiency in computer technology, so modern-day shooters have another dimension to explore and to master."
 
"But," adds Simchock, "having a mastery of software such as Photoshop does not make one a great photographer. A competent artist gets it right 'in camera' by taking a holistic view of the craft to ensure that everything coming out of the camera is done with intent and with creative skill. There should be no surprises with each click of the shutter."
 
How does the Asheville transplant implement his holistic approach to photography education?
 
"In my studio, I offer a wide range of workshops and seminars, ranging from point-and-shoot and DSLR camera operation, to photographic composition, to getting the most out of your Mac computer. Supporting my studio-based events are my "photo tours", which are enjoyable hands-on learning experiences that I conduct around town and in the surrounding Western North Carolina region. Finally, for those who are not interested in group events, I offer one-on-one consultations."
 
Before departing from New Jersey, Simchock had Vagabond Vistas firing on all cylinders, as his workshops continuously filled to capacity, as did his photo tours around New York City and Philadelphia. His southern plans call for an expanded repertoire of workshops, along with an all-new line-up of photo tours. Expect to see Asheville's newest vagabond guiding his clients around Downtown Asheville and The Biltmore Estate, to locations outside of the city such as the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains. With leaf season just around the corner, the Vagabond Vistas' October calendar will be jam-packed with colorful itineraries.
 
Simchock concludes, "I had an incredible run with Vagabond Vistas in the Northeast, but the time had come to move my wanderlust and my passion for creativity to a new venue. I'm thrilled to be in Asheville, and to offer my services to such a friendly, art-loving community. I believe that my holistic approach to learning photography is a perfect fit for Asheville, and it's going to be a lot of fun building the business over the coming months."
 
Simchock will be arranging a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony through the Ashville Chamber, as well a few social events before the year is up. In parallel to the introduction of Vagabond Vistas Photography Instruction, Simchock is also launching his photography services business, David Simchock Photography (www.DavidSimchock.com). Both enterprises will play an active roll in the upcoming RAD Studio Stroll in November (12th & 13th), as well as RAD's monthly "Second Saturday" events.
 
About David J. Simchock: A native of New Jersey, David has lived and traveled overseas for many years and, since returning to the States in 2002, founded Vagabond Vistas Photography. David subsequently spun off his shooting services as David Simchock Photography leaving Vagabond Vistas to exclusively cover his instructional services. David's images have been published in major periodicals such as The New York Times, The Washington Post and Newark Star-Ledger and he has exhibited his work in numerous galleries and venues from Philadelphia to New York City. His efforts have been awarded many prestigious accolades, while his life story and career have been covered in several publications and TV features . David is also an educator, speaker and writer (and aspiring rock star). He enjoys being a stranger in a strange land and taking on new artistic challenges, whether abroad or nearer to his own back yard. He strives to bring a fresh approach to his craft, successfully capturing the mood of the moment, as well as, perhaps, an entire journey.
 
Vagabond Vistas Photography Instruction Website: www.VagabondVistas.com
Studio Address: 375 Depot Street, Suite 101, Asheville, NC 28801
Phone: (828) 216-6457 
Studio Hours of Operation: Tue - Sat 11:00AM - 6:00PM (or by appointment)

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