This class is designed for those who own a digital SLR camera and want to learn how to use all of its features so they can take better photographs. We will focus mostly on portrait work, and striving to “get it right” in camera.
This class is not a retouching class; we will not be going into post processing work. It is also not a class on “how to become a professional photographer.” However, aspiring professional photographers are welcome, as shooting in manual mode is a critical skill for becoming a true professional photographer.
At its core, this is a class for someone who loves the art of photographs, who loves taking pictures, and wants to learn to shoot in manual so they can perfect their art.
At the end of the course the student will:
- Develop a basic understanding of light, and how the camera reads and reacts to light, to create an image.
- Know the basic controls on their camera for manipulating light in manual mode.
- Comprehend the 3 components of manual mode shooting: Shutter, Aperture, and ISO, and how they work together to create a final properly exposed image.
- Understand that ‘causes and effects’ that go with each of the ‘big 3’ controls, and be able to articulate how to balance their camera’s meter for a properly exposed image where he or she controls the visual outcome.
- Be exposed to basic visual composition techniques to create more dynamic images
Testimonials from Spring 2015 Students
Katie had been using manual before the course, but couldn’t get consistent results. Afterwards, she went out with a practice subject… and these were some of her images!
Here’s what she had to say about the course:
The class was great! The most helpful tip was my “Ah, Ha” moment [how to manage the metering with back lighting], but the most helpful part was just doing it. This class and its exercises reall help to ingrain it in your brain and feel more confident with your camera. Your feedback and advice was so important and really made this class special… and worth every penny.
Heather had some basic knowledge of manual before she took the class… but never was able to make the camera do what she wanted with the controls. Now… she can!
Here’s what she had to say about her experience:
When I came into this course I had a very basic understanding of manual mode but I wasn’t able to really operate a camera in manual alone. Now I definitely have a much larger understanding. I LOVED all of the personal feedback I got on these assignments. I really appreciated the time you took to help explain things and really give tips to help me become a better photographer!
Before taking “Camera Basics” Lauri had never shot in manual mode before: now that she knows how, she’s never going back to Auto! 
“I haven’t shot in auto since starting this course. I’m still not completely comfortable shooting in manual, but I’m going to make sure I have some cheat sheets with me at all times until I get very comfortable with manual. I don’t have any intentions of returning to auto. I’m very happy I decided to take the class. I finally understand shooting in manual and plan to continue to practice so it becomes more natural.”