This course gives students the fundamentals of photography and equips them to develop their photography in personal and professional directions. Students first learn how to utilize camera settings, work with natural light, and employ composition techniques. Then they learn editing with Adobe Lightroom and work on developing a personal style. From there they focus on building a portfolio, storytelling and communication, and working with unique external factors, like people and physical settings. The class explores different types of photography, including portrait, landscape, action, product, and event/wedding photography, to help students identify their preferred subject and niche. Throughout the course students keep a reference notebook, and perform weekly shooting assignments and exercises. There are also short reading assignments before each class, occasional in-class quizzes, and regular participation in class photo critiques. Upon completion of the course, students will have a comprehensive understanding of manual exposure, composition, natural light photography, and editing in Lightroom; a foundational understanding of different types of photography, working with clients, and creating conceptual and communicative images; and the ability to self critique their work to continue moving forward on their own. They will also have the start of a portfolio filled with professional and intentional imagery.
Photography - Beginner to Brilliant
Description
Prerequisites
“I would highly recommend this course to anyone hoping to learn how to become a better photographer! I came into this course without any experience or knowledge about photography, and I’m coming out with the skills and desire to take beautiful photos. The teacher’s passion for photography shined through every class and couldn’t help but rub off on me. The variety of assignments really challenged me creatively, and as someone who is not naturally artistic, my creativity really blossomed this year! I have discovered what I love (and don’t love) to photograph, and I’m excited to apply what I’ve learned as I capture the beauty of God’s creation around me!”
“This course was absolutely amazing. I started out wondering if it would be helpful at all, since I thought I knew a little bit about photography already, but the title of the course says it all. I’ve learned so much, and my photography has improved by miles (if I do say so myself). This course teaches the technical and artistic sides of photography, and the assignments are super helpful and fun.”
“This class is really amazing! I started out barely knowing anything about photography, so this class was the perfect introduction. We started the year learning about settings and how to use our cameras. Over the year we learned about style, technique, composition, equipment, and so much more! It was so fun to see everyone else’s photos and share ideas in class. The teacher is very encouraging and great with teens! I learned a lot, practiced creativity, and had a lot of fun in this class! Would recommend to anyone!”
“Out of all the classes I have ever taken, this was my favorite. The teacher is funny and encouraging and always has thoughtful feedback on the photos. My classmates and I also developed a very special relationship. Since we present photos every week, we get a sneak peek into each other’s lives, which leads to fun conversations. We also encouraged each other and pushed each other to master the art of photography. It was so fun to take photos for homework. It provided a break from the regular homework and worked a part of my brain that is not normally used in my schoolwork. This class developed a love of photography in me that I predict will last for a while.”
“This course is for all the budding photographers who want to learn more about cameras and how they work, the varying techniques this beautiful form of art has to offer, and their own individual styles that begin to form throughout the year!”
“The instructor is very clear and concise in his teaching, but at the same time keeps each class fun and lighthearted. I truly cannot recommend this course enough. My photography skills have shown more improvement in a few months than in all of the years I have been doing it before this class.”
“Beginner to Brilliant is an excellent course for those looking to expand their basic knowledge of photography. It taught the basics of using a DSLR well, while providing fun assignments that help you to discover your niche. The opportunity to connect with fellow learning photographers across the globe is one I am grateful for, and I trust that it will be a blessing to you as well!”
“Before taking this course, I had no experience with a camera and very little experience in photography. This class taught the essentials and fundamentals of photography, and as we progressed I learned to utilize my camera with ease and take better photos. Now, I’m taking photos with strong composition and lighting.”