Spark Academy: Education For Photographers In Orange County

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news — Spark Studios is officially stepping into the education space with the launch of our very first Spark Academy class! Hosted right here at our Spark Costa Mesa location, this sold-out event marks the start of a brand-new chapter for our creative community.

This  workshop will be led by none other than Nicole Leever (Instagram), a talented, Orange County wedding photographer whose work has been featured in Martha Stewart Weddings, Brides, and Style Me Pretty. Joining her as co-host is Jennifer Garcia, founder of Spark Studios.

A Deep Dive into Professional Studio Lighting

Our first class will focus on the fundamentals of professional studio lighting — the kind of skills that can transform your portrait, branding, or wedding photography overnight. Attendees will enjoy front-row access to Nicole’s extensive knowledge as she demonstrates:

• How to work with and control studio light
• Posing techniques that complement different lighting setups
• Live demonstrations with an in-person model
• Practical tips for making lighting work in any space

This hands-on approach ensures that students leave with the confidence and technical skills to elevate their own photography work.

Why Spark Academy?

Here at Spark Studios, our mission has always been to create a collaborative space where photographers, creatives, and entrepreneurs can thrive. Education is a natural next step in our journey — and our Spark Costa Mesa location provides the perfect environment for it.

Not only do Spark Academy attendees get access to industry-leading instructors, but Spark Studios members receive exclusive, heavily discounted rates on all classes and workshops. This is our way of giving back to the creatives who make our community so vibrant.

Looking Ahead

Our sold-out launch class is just the beginning. We’re already planning future Spark Academy sessions covering everything from advanced lighting setups to posing techniques, marketing for photographers, and more.

Whether you’re a wedding photographer in Huntington Beach or a creative entrepreneur based right here in Costa Mesa, Spark Academy will be your go-to space to learn, grow, and connect.