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$20

weekly
or $180 for 9 classes
Class

Focus Academy: 8th Grade Photography

New class
Ages 12-14
Live Group Course
This comprehensive online photography course for 8th graders combines technical mastery with creative expression while exploring fine art photography! Students will use DSLRs or mirrorless cameras to capture compelling images.
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:
(480 reviews)
Star Educator

Live video meetings
1x per week, 9 weeks
3-6 learners per class
50 min

What's included

9 live meetings
7 hrs 30 mins in-class hours
Homework
1-2 hours per week. Learners will be encouraged to get out and take more photos in between classes to share at the beginning of every class.
Letter Grade
included

Class Experience

US Grade 8
Beginner - Advanced Level
In this 8th-grade photography course, students will explore creative expression through advanced techniques, mastering manual camera settings to capture dynamic images. With a focus on light painting, long exposure, and portrait photography, learners will experiment with different light sources and fast and slow shutter speeds. Students will also practice night photography, explore architectural photography, and develop a photo essay to document a story within their community. This course challenges students to take full control of their camera settings while deepening their understanding of the role photography plays in storytelling and historical documentation.

This live, online class offers a deep dive into advanced photography techniques and creative expression for 8th graders. Each week, students will be introduced to new concepts such as light painting, long exposure photography, and capturing movement using different shutter speeds. The course also integrates science and social studies, with projects like night photography to explore light and optics, and assignments that focus on documenting historical moments or architecture in the community.

Students will interact with the instructor through live demonstrations, interactive slides, and group discussions. Assignments are designed to encourage creative exploration, with opportunities to share work and receive feedback. The course will culminate in a personal project where students create a photo essay, and a final photography showcase where they present their work to classmates.

This course is part of the Focus Academy series offering a complete and comprehensive photography curriculum for all grade levels, Kindergarten through 12th grade. All of these courses meet grade-level academic standards for photography and integrate other art, English, math, science, and social studies skills. Learners can begin at any grade level or take the courses in sequence. 

Focus for 8th Grade Photography: Creative Expression and Advanced Techniques

Photography Skill: Mastering manual settings, creative photography techniques (light painting, long exposure)

English Skill: Writing reflective essays based on photo themes
Math Skill: Advanced angles and geometry in photography composition
Science Skill: Light and optics (understanding how light affects photos)
Social Studies Skill: Historical photography and documentation (capturing important moments)

This course encourages students to develop a unique photographic style while integrating science, math, and social studies for a well-rounded learning experience.

Learning Goals

Learners will master manual camera settings, including shutter speed, aperture, and ISO, to create creative effects such as light painting and long exposure.
Learners will explore the relationship between light and photography, applying advanced techniques in low-light and night photography.

Syllabus

9 Lessons
over 9 Weeks
Lesson 1:
Light Painting and Long Exposure
 Advanced Light Techniques 
50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Portrait Photography
 Using Artificial Light 
50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Capturing Movement
 Experimenting with Fast and Slow Shutter Speeds 
50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Night Photography
 Photographing in Low Light 
50 mins online live lesson

Other Details

Learning Needs
With a Master's in Special Education, Erika designs our courses to support diverse learners. Our hands-on, interactive lessons foster engagement, and we are open to accommodating any specific needs to ensure to ensure success.
Supply List
Camera - DSLR, Mirrorless, or point & shoot with manual settings for ISO, aperture, and shutter speed
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.

Offered by

4.9
480reviews
Star Educator
Profile
Teacher expertise and credentials
Pennsylvania Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
Erika Hatfield
Master's Degree in Education from Western Governors University
Erika Hatfield
Bachelor's Degree in Education from University of Phoenix
Erika Hatfield
Erika is a Certified Professional Photographer with the Professional Photographers of America, and she holds two degrees in education. Her experience combines practical photography skills with a strong educational foundation, allowing us to create engaging, interactive lessons that encourage learners to express their creativity through photography. Our goal is to inspire students to explore their artistic vision while mastering essential photography techniques.

Reviews

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