This engaging beginner-to-intermediate photography class is perfect for anyone who wants to gain confidence with their camera settings and move beyond automatic mode to make creative decisions. We'll cover the essential elements of photography through real-time demonstrations and hands-on practice exercises that reinforce each concept.
Topics Covered:
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Aperture - Learn to control depth of field and create beautiful background blur for stunning portraits or sweeping landscapes.
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Shutter Speed - Master the technique of freezing fast action or creatively blurring motion for dramatic effect in action photography and night shots.
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ISO - Understand how to balance image brightness with overall quality in various lighting conditions and environments.
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White Balance - Achieve natural, accurate colors even under challenging lighting like tungsten bulbs or fluorescent tubes.
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Focal Length - Explore how different lenses affect the perspective, compression, and framing of your compositions.
We'll demonstrate these important concepts live so you can immediately see the effect on your actual images.
How the Class Works:
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Mini Lessons and Live Demonstrations: Clear, concise explanations followed by real-time camera demonstrations showing each concept in action.
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Hands-On Practice Sessions: Work individually or in small groups to experiment with and practice each photographic concept.
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Challenge Stations: Rotate through various shooting stations designed to reinforce your learning, including a dedicated station exploring focal length and lens choice.
Who This Class Is For:
If you're just starting your photography journey and want to take full creative control of your camera, this class is ideal. We keep instruction approachable, practice-focused, and centered on real skills you'll actually use in your photography.
By the End, You'll Walk Away With:
- A solid understanding of the key camera settings that control exposure
- Confidence using Manual Mode or Aperture Mode on your camera
- A better grasp of how lenses, settings, and composition work together to shape your photographic results
Class Philosophy:
You bring the camera, we'll bring the expertise, enthusiasm, and creative perspective. Let's explore photography together!
Prerequisites:
Students should have already completed the Photo Basics: Getting Off Auto class or possess a basic foundational understanding of exposure controls, ISO, Aperture, and Shutter Speed. We will not provide an introduction to these fundamental settings in this Part 2 advanced class.
Recommended Gear:
This class is appropriate for any camera capable of shooting in Manual Mode or Aperture Mode, including DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, or advanced compact cameras. Lenses in the range of twenty-four to 105mm are recommended if you have multiple lenses available.
School Notes: Mailing address:PO Box 855 Alexandria, VA 22313
