David Rosenthal is one of the founding members and a pro here at Muench Workshops. Read on to find out more, and check out his pro page to see which workshops he’s leading.
How did you get into photography?
Helping my father build a darkroom in our basement’s old coal closet.
Where are you from, and where are you now?
Rochester, NY>Easthampton, MA
What made you want to help create Muench Workshops?
I started Muench Workshops with Marc and Andy because I admired their photography and their passion for it and the business. I wanted to be around that fire, and what started as a part-time passion project has blossomed into a full-time incredible journey.
What camera system do you use and why?
I use Nikon Z cameras for the most important reason anyone should choose a camera system–it just feels right in my hand and I don’t have to think about it much when I’m using it. I really enjoy photographing with these cameras.
What is your favorite aspect of teaching photography?
There are so many things to love about leading workshops, but the biggest one is seeing growth over time – whether it be technical understanding, or compositional skills, or both!
Do you specialize in any photography technique or style? If yes, what is it?
I prefer landscape. I like the act of discovery, moving around sometimes by inches to find the shot. I also like the pace of landscape. It’s relaxing, meditative.
What is something valuable you’ve learned through photography that you might not have otherwise learned?
Landscape photography has given me a deeper sense of appreciation and gratitude for the natural world. I love hiking and getting out in nature, but the act of photographing the landscape forces me to slow down and really look.
How do you define success as a photographer?
First by that feeling of contentment I get when photographing out in nature. An added bonus is when I’m at the computer and realize I have an image I like.
Do you have a favorite book? If so, what is it and why?
Blood Meridian by Cormac McCarthy. The way in which the concise and specific language describes the story and setting.
What are your favorite photography resources, i.e. podcasts, YouTube channels, blogs, etc.?
I’m fortunate enough to be able to work with the best photography resources on the planet – the pros of Muench Workshops. Photographing with them is simply the best. And it’s available to anyone on a workshop.
What is something interesting about you that we might not already know?!
In my previous career I flew out to Wellington, New Zealand several times to edit trailers for The Hobbit–along with the opportunity to walk the set while they were in production, saying hi to many in the cast.
Who has influenced your work?
Far and away it’s been Marc Muench. Before we started Muench Workshops he was a hired pro for informal “shootouts” Andy and I arranged on an old photo forum. I would follow him around gleening as much as I could. Over the years of photographing, designing workshops, and creating Lighroom Essentials with him I’ve only continued to learn and grow.
What do you like about post-processing?
My former career as a film and video editor in Hollywood was only possible because I don’t mind sitting in front of a computer for long periods of time obsessing over details. I try to keep my processing workflow simple, but the time just goes by when I’m sitting there.
