Finding the Perfect Fit: How Looking Glass Helped Steffi Berkowitz Elevate Her Photography
Photography has always been more than a hobby for Steffi Berkowitz—it’s a way to connect, communicate, and help others. As a seasoned mediator and executive coach, she often uses photography as a tool to help her clients navigate difficult conversations and emotional roadblocks. But when it came to her own photographic journey, she needed something more—a place where she could refine her craft, get expert guidance, and find a community that shared her passion.
That’s when she discovered Looking Glass Photographic Outfitters.
A Personal Approach to Finding the Right Gear
Steffi’s love for photography began over two decades ago with her first camera, a Canon AE-1. While her passion never faded, technology had evolved, and she wanted to find the right system to match her current goals. But with so many choices available, she needed expert guidance to navigate the options.
Walking into Looking Glass for the first time, she immediately felt something different.
"The first thing I heard when I walked in was, ‘What can I do to help you?’ That is rare these days—whether you’re shopping in-store or online,” Steffi recalls.
She opted for Looking Glass’ Outfitting Service, a one-on-one consultation designed to match photographers with the perfect gear for their needs and aspirations. Instead of pushing products, the team took the time to understand her style, interests, and challenges. Through in-depth discussions, they helped her pinpoint the best camera system for her evolving needs—one that would allow her to work seamlessly, whether capturing quiet moments in nature or documenting powerful human interactions.
"Photography is a whole other language. The Outfitting Service helped me translate what I wanted into the right gear for me.”
More Than Just a Camera Store
But Steffi’s journey with Looking Glass didn’t end with the right camera setup. She immersed herself in the community, joining workshops, local excursions, and even a photography travel tour. One such trip—a life-changing expedition to photograph polar bears—became a defining moment.
"Every night, we uploaded our photos, and the Looking Glass staff provided feedback on how we could improve. The level of care, education, and support was priceless. It wasn’t just about taking pictures—it was about learning, growing, and capturing something meaningful.”
Through her experiences, Steffi discovered that Looking Glass was far more than a retail store—it was a resource, a mentor, and a creative home.
The Value of Expert Guidance
For Steffi, working with Looking Glass wasn’t just about buying gear—it was about investing in herself as a photographer. The expertise, education, and personalized attention she received through the Outfitting Service set her on a path to greater creative confidence.
"Looking Glass has taught me to slow down, to be present, and to wait for the right moment. In a world that moves fast, this has been one of the greatest lessons—not just in photography, but in life.”
Recent Testimonials
Gearing up for a Safari.I recently had the pleasure of working with Jen to gear up before a trip of a lifetime safari to Kenya. Jen was patient, knowledgeable, and happy to educate me to the level I was comfortable! Since I was not local, she initially set up a Zoom with me to get to know more about me and what I was looking for, both in what I wanted to get out of the safari photos and what my current skill level is. As I continued to ask questions, Jen patiently answered them (while also trying to make sure she guided me but didn't influence me into something that wouldn't be what I wanted).
by Bobbi N.
I recently had the pleasure of working with Jen to gear up before a trip of a lifetime safari to Kenya. Jen was patient, knowledgeable, and happy to educate me to the level I was comfortable! Since I was not local, she initially set up a Zoom with me to get to know more about me and what I was looking for, both in what I wanted to get out of the safari photos and what my current skill level is. As I continued to ask questions, Jen patiently answered them (while also trying to make sure she guided me but didn't influence me into something that wouldn't be what I wanted).
by Bobbi N.
Looking Glass helped us to make a very good choice.We've purchased three cameras from Looking Glass Photo over the years. The latest - a Sony - just recently while they were moving locations. They have always been extremely helpful in choosing the right equipment that matches our needs and deserve a special acknowledgment for this last purchase. They took time to meet and go through our questions/problems and share their extensive expertise while they were putting together their new location. (BTW - new location looks very impressive.) In today's online world, being able to sit and have a conversation with someone knowledgeable about the array of products was outstanding! We have been using the new camera and once again Looking Glass helped us to make a very good choice.
by Nancy A.
We've purchased three cameras from Looking Glass Photo over the years. The latest - a Sony - just recently while they were moving locations. They have always been extremely helpful in choosing the right equipment that matches our needs and deserve a special acknowledgment for this last purchase. They took time to meet and go through our questions/problems and share their extensive expertise while they were putting together their new location. (BTW - new location looks very impressive.) In today's online world, being able to sit and have a conversation with someone knowledgeable about the array of products was outstanding! We have been using the new camera and once again Looking Glass helped us to make a very good choice.
by Nancy A.
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