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Zach Sutton Photography Workshops »
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  • I AM AN EDUCATOR

  • I AM A PHOTOGRAPHER

  • I AM A MOTIVATOR

  • I AM A FUNNY GUY

  • I EAT CEREAL ALL DAY LONG

I am Zach Sutton

I am a Creative & Photographer located in Los Angeles, CA. I'm available as an Educator for anything relating to Photography, Lighting or Retouching

WHAT DO I DO?

TRAIN PHOTOGRAPHERS IN LIGHTING AND RETOUCHING

Innovative

Innovative

A teaching style that is casual and personal in style, with proven results. A style to insure success.

Experimental

Experimental

Free form techniques that can be applied to multiple situations for any photographer. With hands on teaching tailored to each persons style.

Perfect

Perfect

Perfecting complex lighting in a technical sense, making it simple and easy to understand and apply. Blending exposures to ensure a well exposed, and dynamic photo.

How About Some Fun Facts About My Workshops And Work

214
Positive Reviews
214
Students Worked With
12
Brand Sponsorships
58
Publications

About Me

Who is Zach Sutton Anyway?

Meet The Man Behind the Icon

Headshot PHotography Albuquerque

Zach Sutton is a Los Angeles Photographer specializing in headshots, portraits, events, and weddings. Zach’s passion is to simply take great photos that contain a style unlike other photographers. He is available for hire for portrait sessions, headshot photography, wedding photography, commercial photography and event photography in Los Angeles, California and the surrounding areas. Zach Sutton also travels to various parts of the world for photography – check the blog to see if he is coming to a town near you.

Zach Sutton is also available for lectures, workshops and teaching seminars on photography all over the United States. He currently writes for Resource Magazine and LensRentals.com. He has experience in public speaking and finds passion in teaching the inner workings of photography and retouching. Various announcements for lectures and workshops will be announced in the blog portion of the website. Please contact him directly for more information.

Zach’s Standard Skills

Personality
Tidiness
Teaching Skills
Lighting Techniques
Photoshop Techniques

Social Icons

Not only is Zach a great inspiration to many photographers but he’s also super down to earth as a friend and a fantastic instructor. I attended his workshop this past winter and he was very helpful in answering everyones questions and made it more like a photo jam session rather than a straight lecture.

— Jeff Nguyen —

Photography Topics Taught

Photography Topics That Will Teach You How to Manipulate Light And Depth of Field to Get VISUALLY STRIKING Images.

Photography is nothing more than the manipulation of light. Using basic techniques, I can teach you how to create complex and visually compelling images with ease. With Zach Sutton’s Photography Workshop, you’ll master these topics and more.

Shooting

  • Building Consistency With Your Shooting
  • Shooting With The Best Light
  • Building Relationships With Your Clients
  • Marketing What You Love To Shoot

Presets

  • Building Presets To Show Off Your Style
  • Editing At An Effective Pace
  • Creating Your Signature Style
  • Keeping That Style Consistent

Lighting

  • Exposing Your Subject Properly
  • Mixing Ambient and Artificial Lighting
  • Developing Consistent Skin Tones
  • Finding The Best Light Source For Subjects

Retouching & Workflow Topics

Retouching & Workflow Topics That Will Streamline Your Process And Guarantee TOP NOTCH Retouches Again And Again.

Photo Retouching is no easy task, and we all have struggled with it at one point or another. The secret to building a successful photo retouching process is to build a really great workflow, and finding consistency within your own work. Through the teaching by Zach Sutton, you’ll be able to develop your own style within photography & retouching, and find a workflow that compliments it completely.

Workflow

  • Creating An Efficient Workflow
  • Deducting Problematic Issues Quickly
  • Using Actions To Streamline & Save Time
  • Creating Consistency In Your Work

Style

  • Correctly Toning Your Images
  • Drawing The Eyes To The Subject
  • Bringing Details to Life
  • Building Contrast Correctly

Retouching

  • How to Correctly Clean Up Eyes
  • Cleaning Up Skin
  • Precision Contrast To Make Your Images Pop
  • Finding Your Clients Best Look

SOME OF THE AMAZING SPONSORS FOR MY WORKSHOPS

Phase OneProfoto LightingLensRentalsRetouching AcademyCapture OneAlien Skin SoftwareDigital TransitionsCapture Integration

 

Next Workshops

September 23rd 2017 IN San Francisco, CA

Photography Lighting Extensive - Flashing Knowledge Into Photography Lighting

Partnering with Samy’s Camera, this workshop is one of the highest rated and most useful workshops for photographers. This Photographic Lighting Extensive is designed for the intermediate to advanced photographer who is looking to gain more control over their professional lighting tools and techniques. From beauty photography to advertising and everything in between, this eight-hour workshop will help to ramp up your knowledge and give you a complete education in just short eight hours. You will learn how to mold and shape light with limitless possibilities. With an easy to understand direction and teaching style, instructor Zach Sutton help bring your skill sets to the next level. —

Lighting Extensive Topics Taught

  • How & Why We Create with Light
    Explanation of the Science of Light
    Expansive Breakdown of Lighting Modifiers
    Identification of Tools Used and Why

  • Effective Lighting Techniques Explained
    Building Effective Lighting Sets
    Expert Level Light Shaping Made Easy
    Active Gelling Techniques
    Overview of Tools Used

This workshop is set to cover all the information you’d need to take your business to the next level. For more information on this workshop series and to register, click the button on the right.

What My Clients Are Saying

  • Zach is one of the most creative and energetic photographers I’ve ever met in the industry. I’ve been consistently impressed with his ability to make any situation and location work in a minimal amount of time. Not only is his photo work exceptional, but as a writer and educator he’s second to none

    — David Crewe —
  • Not only is Zach a great inspiration to many photographers but he’s also super down to earth as a friend and a fantastic instructor. I attended his workshop this past winter and he was very helpful in answering everyone’s questions and made it more like a photo jam session rather than a straight lecture

    — Jeff Nguyen —
  • Zach was awesome to work with. He worked quickly, and we just chatted as he did small adjustments to my pose, the lights and his camera position; and after about ninety minutes I had a whole gallery of possible head shots.

    — Scott Bryan —
  • Zach is the best. The photo shoot was professional, yet relaxed and comfortable. The headshots I received from Zach are outstanding, I couldn’t be more pleased with the results. As an actor, having quality headshots is absolutely key to catching

    — Andres Segura —
  • Zach is the best. The photo shoot was professional, yet relaxed and comfortable. The headshots I received from Zach are outstanding, I couldn’t be more pleased with the results. As an actor, having quality headshots is absolutely key to catching

    — Andres Segura —
  • Zach’s Outdoor Lighting Workshop is a serious game changer, the content and experience of the workshop is amazing and the hands on experience you gain from the work shop is amazing. Zach is so willing to help in anyway that he can and had equipment readily available for the entire class to experiment with! I loved the workshop and feel that my lighting knowledge is mounds and leaps better than when I initially walked into the class :-). If you’re considering taking in course from Zach, I highly recommend it!

    — Amy Luna —
  • The class portion of the workshop was full of information, examples, and extras like tutorials for later use. The outdoor hands-on part was really fun, and he let us use his own gear, which is awesome. I learned a lot and can’t wait to use it.

    — Beth Waldron-Yuhas —
  • I enjoyed my 2nd photography workshop with Zach this past weekend. His teaching style makes new information exciting and understandable. I always learn more than I expect from Zach, and love to watch him work. On top of the great information, I met amazing industry professionals, worked with top notch models, and even went home with a killer swag bag! When Zach comes to town, he don’t mess around!

    — Jeremiah Rosa —

Previous Workshops

2-Day Lighting Extensive – Los Angeles, CA

This Photography Workshop took place on June 2nd & 3rd 2017, and was a 2-day extensive lighting extensive taken place at the Peterson Automotive Museum and sponosred by Profoto, Phase One, Savage Universal and more. With 16 hours of formal and hands on training, students from all skill levels were able to drastically improve their skills when it comes to shaping and using light, both on location and in studio.

2-Day Lighting Extensive – El Paso, TX

This Photography Workshop took place on May 20th & 21st 2017, and was a 2-day extensive workshop with a comprehensive look into photography, and light shaping both in studio and on location In El Paso, TX. This workshop is one of the highest rated and most useful workshops for photographers. Taught all over the United States, this extensive look at lighting is broken down into two days and shines years worth of knowledge into lighting subjects both instudio and on location.

2-Day Lighting Extensive – Albuquerque, NM

This Photography Workshop took place on August 20th & 21st 2016, and was a 2-day extensive workshop with a comprehensive look into photography, and light shaping both in studio and on location In Albuquerque, NM. With over 16 hours of hands on training, this 2-day workshop gave the modern photographer a jump start into success within the industry. This workshop is designed for the beginner to advanced photographer, and is formulated to teach photographers of all skill levels, bringing them up to pace quickly, drastically improving their work and workflow.

Stand Out Forums 2015 – Los Angeles, CA

The Stand Out! Photographic Forums’ mission is to bring the photographic community together to inform, inspire and excite. Hear from innovative industry creatives and icons. Explore new ideas to differentiate yourself and your business. The Stand Out! event will also bring leading photographic brands under one roof to demonstrate their products to you in an intimate and meaningful manner. Put a face to the brand, meet some of the most knowledgeable resources in the industry. This event is ideal for professional photographers, photo assistants, advanced students or any imaging professional that would like to learn about the latest cutting-edge products and techniques being used in the professional digital image capture market in a hands-on and seminar based forum.

While Stand Otu Forums 2015 has concluded, more information can be found on next years instructors on their website.

WonderGloss 2015 in Las Vegas, Nevada

Wondergloss 2015 is a 3-day event specializing on working with makeup artist and hair stylists to create exceptional imagery. A 3 day even in Las Vegas, 4 of some of the best photographers in the country came together to education and inspire, while 4 of some of the best makeup artists and hairstylists did the same. Through a community effort, the workshop helps students develop a style, workflow and images to wow their clients.

While Wondergloss 2015 has concluded, registration has opened for Wondergloss 2016. You can look into the registration process here.

Stand Out Forums 2015 – Toronto, Canada

The Stand Out! Photographic Forums’ mission is to bring the photographic community together to inform, inspire and excite. Hear from innovative industry creatives and icons. Explore new ideas to differentiate yourself and your business. The Stand Out! event will also bring leading photographic brands under one roof to demonstrate their products to you in an intimate and meaningful manner. Put a face to the brand, meet some of the most knowledgeable resources in the industry. This event is ideal for professional photographers, photo assistants, advanced students or any imaging professional that would like to learn about the latest cutting-edge products and techniques being used in the professional digital image capture market in a hands-on and seminar based forum.

While Stand Otu Forums 2015 has concluded, more information can be found on next years instructors on their website.

San Francisco Master Series Two Day Photography Workshop

A 2-day Photography workshop in San Francisco, California with two days of training – June 13th and June 14, 2015. Day one was all about lighting subjects on location, using professional techniques, and day 2 was focused on marketing, and high end retouching.

Like all of my photography workshops, I asked that my students confirmed on a Facebook event and show off some of the work they were able to achieve during the photography workshop. The review of the photography workshop can be viewed here.

Denver Colorado 2-Day Master series Photography and Retouching Workshop

A two day lighting, marketing and retouching workshop taking place in Denver Colorado on May 16th and 17th 2015. Day one was focused entirely on using tools to help shape light on location. Day two was entirely focused on marketing and retouching for professional photographers.

Like all of my photography workshops, I asked that my students confirmed on a Facebook event and show off some of the work they were able to achieve during the photography workshop. This event page can be viewed here.

Phoenix 2-Day Photography Lighting, Marketing and Retouching Workshop

A 2-day Photography workshop in Phoenix Arizona broken into two days on April 11th, and April 12th, 2015. Day one was focused on professional photography lighting, while day two was a comprehensive look into photography marketing, retouching, and workflow.

Like all of my photography workshops, I asked that my students confirmed on a Facebook event and show off some of the work they were able to achieve during the photography workshop. The review of the photography workshop can be viewed here.

All reviews expressed are direct quotes from the students of the photography workshop. They were not questioned or encouraged to review positively or negatively.

Coming soon.

Washington D.C. Outdoor Lighting Workshop

An Outdoor Lighting and Photography workshop in Washington D.C. on November 9th, 2014. The workshop itself was the largest of my career, with 17 students, sponsoring by Phase One, Digital Transitions, Alien Skin Software and more. The workshop was 8 hours long and went over everything I do to light images on location using off camera flash. The workshop itself was broken up into two different sections, one 4 hour lecture, and one 4 hour on location portion. The photography workshop took place at 202 Photography Studio in the heart of Washington D.C.

Like all of my photography workshops, I asked that my students confirmed on a Facebook event and show off some of the work they were able to achieve during the photography workshop.

All reviews expressed are direct quotes from the students of the photography workshop. They were not questioned or encouraged to review positively or negatively.

Coming soon.

ABQ Outdoor Lighting Workshop #3

An Outdoor Lighting and Photography Workshop hosted in Albuquerque, NM on Oct 19th, 2014. The workshop itself was 8 hours long and limited to 10 students. Sponsored in part by Alien Skin Software, Phase One and Capture Integration, the workshop was designed to teach everything a photographer would need to know to create commercial styled off camera lit images.

Like all of my photography workshops, I asked that my students confirmed on a Facebook event and show off some of the work they were able to achieve during the photography workshop.

All reviews expressed are direct quotes from the students of the photography workshop. They were not questioned or encouraged to review positively or negatively.

Coming soon.

Grand Rapids, MI Outdoor Lighting Workshop

An Outdoor Lighting and Photography Workshop in West Michigan focusing on off camera lighting on location as well as the use of ND Filters. Class was limited to 12 students, and covered 8 hours of material focusing on effectively lighting in hard conditions to create amazing images. Students were able to get hands on training using practical gear as well as the use of professional models. Students were also able to shadow me and watch me work as I create images using the techniques taught throughout the workshop.

Like all of my photography workshops, I asked that my students confirmed on a Facebook event and show off some of the work they were able to achieve during the photography workshop.

All reviews expressed are direct quotes from the students of the photography workshop. They were not questioned or encouraged to review positively or negatively.

Coming soon.

Kalamazoo Outdoor Lighting Workshop

Outdoor Lighting photography workshop in Kalamazoo MI sponsored by LensRentals, and Phase One. Class limited to 12 students and is designed to teach you all aspects of lighting outdoors and having complete control over your ambient light and with the use of off camera flashes. With two models, each student is able to learn all the aspects of lighting with full practice using the two different models on location. This allows for you to not only learn and practice the techniques, but get a bunch of new work for your portfolio as well.

Like all of my photography workshops, I asked that my students confirmed on a Facebook event and show off some of the work they were able to achieve during the photography workshop.

You’re also able to read more about the experience of this workshop by checking out the blog post on my website.

All reviews expressed are direct quotes from the students of the photography workshop. They were not questioned or encouraged to review positively or negatively.

I had the great opportunity to attend the “Outdoor Photography Lighting” workshop on 7/13/14, hosted by Zach. The entire day was jam packed with information and knowledge transfer. The key to the success was Zach’s personality. Despite being a highly published artiste, Zach is down to earth & approachable and with no pretenses. That made it easy for us to ask questions and get straight answers. The photography workshop also featured industry experts from PHLEARN & Phase One and we got to use some cool equipment. Once we got started on the hands on part of the class where we mixed strobes with harsh afternoon sunlight, Zach showed us how it is done, and worked with us all individually till we “got it”. We then went on and worked with the talented models all afternoon. The techniques I learned in this class will help take my outdoor photography to the next level. I have already ordered a beauty dish & a power pack to go with my AB800. Can’t wait to try my skills. Don’t miss this opportunity if this class comes to your town!
– Shankar Narayanan

I had the pleasure of meeting Zach last fall in NYC (despite living in the same small town for several years) and found him to be enthusiastic and making new paths for himself in the industry. This past weekend, I had the opportunity to attend his workshop here in West Michigan. So here are my thoughts: Zach puts a lot of effort into the workshops and it comes through. The workshop factors in your needs and wants, and he is open to input. The price was affordable and in no way was Zach price gouging anyone – I fear to say it, but I doubt any grand profit was made. And speaking of price, we all received our money’s worth from this workshop. It was my first photography workshop for photography and up until that point, I had never considered the importance of neutral density filters in my work. Certainly, the workshop was a great opportunity to build network connections and meet people passionate about photography. I also enjoyed trying out new equipment and seeing how it could be applied toward my own work. In short, if you have a chance to take a photography workshop with Zach – you will get more than your money’s worth.
– Aaron Geller

I was a fan of Zach’s work before meeting him, and after getting to work with, attend one of his workshops to see just how the man works, i’m even more a fan! Zach is one of the most creative, driven, funny, and talented photographers AND educators on the market and I cannot recommend him enough!
– David Crewe

I enjoyed my 2nd photography workshop with Zach this past weekend. His teaching style makes new information exciting and understandable. I always learn more than I expect from Zach, and love to watch him work. On top of the great information, I met amazing industry professionals, worked with top notch models, and even went home with a killer swag bag! When Zach comes to town, he don’t mess around!
– Jeremiah Rosa

Albuquerque Outdoor Lighting Workshop #2

Outdoor Lighting photography workshop focusing on off camera lighting and the use of ND filters. Being 8 hours long, the photography workshop was limited to 10 students and had both a classroom setting as well as an outdoor setting where we were able to use the principles taught such as working with a single and multiple lights, working within harsh lighting conditions and more. With the use of a model, each student had time to work individually with the model in the session as well as shadow me to watch me work.

Like all of my photography workshops, I asked that my students confirmed on a Facebook event and show off some of the work they were able to achieve during the photography workshop.

You’re also able to read more about the experience of this workshop by checking out the blog post on my website.

All reviews expressed are direct quotes from the students of the photography workshop. They were not questioned or encouraged to review positively or negatively.

Very hands on, patient, loved being able to test out different equipment and learn from one of the best! Would highly recommend it to anyone interested in lighting. I usually don’t photograph in that style and prefer natural lighting but now I’m completely in love! 🙂 photography workshop-icon_smile
– Bella Black

Very amazing class, very easy to understand. The hands son that was amazing . It was not a boring class you kept it very interesting. You made me feel very comfortable, and you made it very easy to able to ask a question, And your answers were very honest.. I would take a class with you again in heart beat. Thanks Again!!!
– Berta Torrez

I am so glad I took Zach’s lighting and photography workshop! I have always been a natural light photographer and didn’t really see the use for artificial lighting outdoors but OMG was I wrong! Learning how to properly use light and light modifiers coupled with natural light was a total game changer for me! Thanks Zach!
– Destinie Jaramillo

Zach’s Outdoor Lighting Photography Workshop is a serious game changer, the content and experience of the photography workshop is amazing and the hands-on experience you gain from the work shop is amazing. Zach is so willing to help in anyway that he can and had equipment readily available for the entire class to experiment with! I loved the photography workshop and feel that my lighting knowledge is mounds and leaps better than when I initially walked into the class :-). If you’re considering taking in course from Zach, I highly recommend it!!!
– Amy Luna

Albuquerque Outdoor Lighting Workshop

Outdoor Lighting Photography workshop focusing on off camera lighting and the use of ND filters. Being 8 hours long, the workshop was limited to 10 students and had both a classroom setting as well as an outdoor setting where we were able to use the principles taught such as working with a single and multiple lights, working within harsh lighting conditions and more. With the use of a model, each student had time to work individually with the model in the session as well as shadow me to watch me work.

Like all of my photography workshops, I asked that my students confirmed on a Facebook event and show off some of the work they were able to achieve during the workshop.

You’re also able to read more about the experience of this workshop by checking out the blog post on my website.

All reviews expressed are direct quotes from the students of the photography workshop. They were not questioned or encouraged to review positively or negatively.

Zach’s workshop was such an eye-opening experience for me. I had zero knowledge of artificial lighting and he was patient and willing to answer all the questions I had. I am so excited to practice all the tips and techniques he had to share.
– Ashley Shaw

From the moment I learned Zach was offering a lighting and photography workshop I immediately knew that the investment had to be made. I have followed not only his incredible work but his fantastic articles for Fstoppers. Both the in class workshop and on location shoot were incredibly insightful. Zach was patient, hands on, and willing to share his vast knowledge of outdoor lighting and beyond. Absolutely nothing was off limits. I sincerely feel that the course is a game changer & will push you & your photography business to that next level.
– Alicia Padilla

The class portion of the photography workshop was full of information, examples, and extras like tutorials for later use. The outdoor hands-on part was really fun, and he let us use his own gear, which is awesome. I learned a lot and can’t wait to use it.
– Beth Waldron Yuhas

Zach’s workshop was outstanding, both in content and hands-on experience. The material covered was valuable and readily translated into applicable skills during the field portion of the day. I would recommend it to anyone looking to improve their outdoor lighting techniques – and photography in general.
– Webb Johnson

Studio Lighting/Retouching Workshop

The Studio Lighting Photography Workshop was designed to show the practical uses of lighting a subject within a studio space. Using lights provided by Profoto, each student was able to learn both in a classroom setting as well as work with the model provided during the shoot. The teaching points of this workshop was various lighting techniques and working within a small space to maximize your results. The Workshop then concluded with a “Practical Portrait Retouching” session that explained the process of correctly retouching portrait photography.  

Like all of my photography workshops, I asked that my students confirmed on a Facebook event and show off some of the work they were able to achieve during the workshop.

You’re also able to read more about the experience of this workshop by checking out the blog post on my website.

All reviews expressed are direct quotes from the students of the photography workshop. They were not questioned or encouraged to review positively or negatively.


Not only is Zach a great inspiration to many photographers but he’s also super down to earth as a friend and a fantastic instructor. I attended his workshop this past winter and he was very helpful in answering everyone’s questions and made it more like a photo jam session rather than a straight lecture.
– Jeff Nguyen

I took one of Zach’s workshops last winter and was thoroughly impressed. As a photographer that was looking to get into more studio shooting, I needed some more training on lighting techniques. He was clear and concise with his information and answered all questions that myself or other participants had. There was also plenty of hands on learning which for me is the best way to learn. I highly recommend his workshop whether you are an aspiring photographer or looking for a refresher.”
– Scott VanGilder

Zach gave an exceptional workshop that was able to teach lighting principles for portrait photography in an easy to understand and practical way. His workshop was an absolute asset for portrait photographers everywhere.
– Bill Strome

I had the pleasure of attending Zach’s studio workshop in December. It was both fun and informative as he shed new “Light” into my photographic skillset. One takeaway I wasn’t expecting was a faster more efficient workflow, and for that I will be forever grateful!
– Jeremiah Rosa

Private Training

One on One Retouching Education

PRIVATE RETOUCHING EDUCATION EITHER IN PERSON OR THROUGH SKYPE

Private Lessons

Online classes and lessons are great for you to learn the techniques I use with Adobe Lightroom, Capture One, or Adobe Photoshop, but in a setting that is at your own pace. One on one training ensures you’re retaining all the information taught, and applying it directly to your own style of photography. These classes are meant to be collaborative, helping you learn exactly the techniques you want to learn, using the software you feel most comfortable with.

What Is Covered?

Topics covered are completely dependent to what the student would like to learn. Each lesson is tailored specifically to each student, and designed to show you exactly what you’d like to learn to better your own career and skills. Anything from beauty retouching to commercial retouching. From developing a successful workflow, or simply focusing on color toning. These classes are meant to compliment your work, and best help you grow as a Photographer/Retoucher.

Pricing

2 Hour Session

$400
    • 2 Hour Retouching or Photography Session
    • Education Tailored To Your Style
    • Workflow Actions Included
    • One on One Education
    • Call & Response Education, to ensure techniques are taught.

3 Hour Session

$500
    • 3 Hour Retouching or Photography Session
    • Education Tailored To Your Style
    • Workflow Actions Included
    • One on One Education
    • Call & Response Education, to ensure techniques are taught.

Private Lesson Examples

Workflow Overhaul

Learning your current workflow and adapting it to be more consistent, and MUCH faster. Whether you work in Adobe Lightroom, Capture One or Adobe Photoshop, this class will help you drastically speed up your workflow process and is completely customized to you.

Beauty Retouching

Learning how to effectively edit skin tones, textures and details of the human face in a nondestructive environment. Using layers, blend modes and HIGH END RETOUCHING techniques to ensure skin and makeup looks flawless for each of your subjects.

Commercial Retouching

Retouching entire scenes, to be used for print and commercial photography. Learning how to work in a NONDESTRUCTIVE way, using various brushes to add detail, and toning images effectively to attract commercial clients for magazines and print.

Contact

I'd really love to hear from you so why not drop me an email and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.

zach(a)zsuttonphoto.com

505-916-1898

Los Angeles, CA 90038

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