The Best Photography Educators in the World 2025
December 3, 2024
category |
Written by |
Hey there,
I’ve been in the photography education space for 10 years now, and in that time, I’ve seen a lot of educators come and go. Some have made incredible contributions to the industry, while others… well, let’s just say they didn’t have the best intentions.
The truth is, not all education is created equal. Some people pop up out of nowhere, copying others’ work word for word, and it’s frustrating to see. But then there are the ones who truly care, who pour their heart and soul into their work, and who genuinely want to help others succeed. These are the people worth investing in.
I feel so lucky to have worked alongside some of my idols in this industry—people I’ve admired for years. And today, I want to shine a light on the educators I think are doing amazing things right now. A few of them I haven’t worked with personally, but I’ve seen their hustle from afar, and I’ve heard glowing reviews from my own students.
So, here’s my personal list of the best photography educators in the world in 2025.
1. India Earl
India has been a powerhouse in the photography industry for as long as I can remember. I first saw her speak in 2016 at Photo Field Trip in California. She was so young back then, but even at that age, she had that boss energy she’s known for today.
Over the years, I’ve watched her evolve and grow into someone who truly brings light to the industry. Her products are world-class, her talks are inspiring, and her social media presence is just flawless. She has this way of showing up that never feels forced or pushy—it’s just natural.
We’ve had her speak at the Wedding Photography Summit and the Unrealistic Workshop in LA, and every single time, she brings her A-game. She’s a shining example of what it means to lead with authenticity, and I’m grateful to know her.
2. Cara Mia
Cara is an absolute force of nature. I’ve never seen someone pour so much of themselves into their work. Everyone I’ve talked to who’s attended her content days always has amazing things to say.
She spoke at my Unrealistic Workshop in LA, and from there, we ended up collaborating on the Metamorphosis course. I’ve also worked with her at the Wedding Photography Summit and shared the stage with her at Grain Festival.
Cara has this incredible ability to connect with a crowd. She often brings people to tears with her stories and insights—it’s that powerful. She’s a storyteller through and through, and she’s someone who genuinely cares about the people she serves.
Cara and I also created a limited-run podcast called Metamorphosis
3. Grain Festival
This one isn’t an individual educator, but it absolutely deserves a spot on this list. Grain Festival, hosted by Marcus and Petar in Croatia, is nothing short of amazing.
I was lucky enough to speak on their main stage this year, and let me tell you—it was a vibe. The community they’ve built is so invested, and they bring in top-tier speakers from all over the world.
And the party? Hands down the best photography conference party I’ve ever been to. I can’t wait to go back, even if it’s just as an attendee next time. If you ever get the chance to experience Grain Festival, don’t hesitate.
4. The Heart University (Evie & Lindsey)
Evie and Lindsey have built something really special with Heart and Hustle. I got to speak at one of their conferences in Texas, and it was so much fun.
While I haven’t taken any of their courses, I’ve seen firsthand the impact they have on their community. The energy and effort they put into their events are incredible. I love seeing the educators showing up and over-delivering to their community, and Lindsey and Evie definitely over deliver!
That said, I do want to be honest about something. At their event, a same-sex couple (friends of mine) I know had some hurtful experiences within the community. It wasn’t directly from Evie or Lindsey, but it’s something I feel strongly about addressing. Inclusivity matters, and it’s something we all need to work on.
Despite that, the work they do is incredible…. and their podcast, Heart and Hustle, is fantastic, and being on their show is always a blast.
Find the Heart and Hustles website here
5. Leelou (Studio Leelou)
Okay, I might be biased here, but I have to include my wife, Leelou. She has templates for photographers, and not everyone knows this, but her web templates come with an online course for free.
She’s spoken at the Wedding Photography Summit and the Unrealistic Workshop, and I’ve seen firsthand how much she cares about her community. She’s constantly answering DMs and emails, helping photographers improve their businesses—most of the time, for free.
She inspires me every day, and I’m so proud of what she’s built.
6. Joy Zamora
Joy has been part of the Six-Figure Business Map for years, and his support during that time meant so much to me.
I first met him in person at his wedding, and that’s when our relationship really took off. Since then, I’ve helped him launch his own online course, and he’s absolutely killing it. His attention to detail, his passion, and his willingness to help others are unmatched.
Joy doesn’t have that rockstar complex that some educators get—he’s just a genuinely kind, approachable guy who wants to make a difference.
7. John Branch
John Branch is one of the most consistent educators I know. His YouTube channel is packed with valuable content, and he’s been showing up for years.
I had the chance to work with him at the Wedding Photography Summit, and the feedback from attendees was phenomenal. He’s a true example of what it means to serve a community.
8. Lei Lei
Lei Lei is a newer educator, but she’s already making waves. Based in Melbourne, she started in the Six-Figure Business Map about four years ago. She had that X-factor from the beginning.
She’s a sponge when it comes to learning, but more importantly, she takes action. Today, she’s an incredible educator with her own products, and I know she’s just getting started.
9. Ben Hartley
I’ve never worked with Ben, but I have so much respect for him. He’s been consistent for years, and I’ve heard great things about his courses from my own students. (I love hearing the goss… and when you hear good things, it makes me happy!)
Even from afar, it’s clear he’s the real deal. His dedication and authenticity shine through everything he does.
Find Ben Hartley’s website here
10. Fer Juaristi
Fer is one of the most genuine people I’ve ever met. I first met him in 2016, and even though I was a nobody back then, he treated me with so much kindness and respect.
He’s been relentlessly showing up for years, sharing his knowledge through workshops and social media. Fer has a heart of gold, and the community absolutely loves him.
These are my top picks for 2025. There are so many other educators I could mention, but I wanted to keep this list focused on those who’ve had the biggest impact on me and the industry recently.
If you’ve got a favorite educator who’s inspired you, I’d love to hear about them! Drop a comment below and let me know.
Thanks for reading, and here’s to learning, growing, and making the photography industry even better together.
– Jai
