$20
weeklyor $360 for 18 classes
Focus Academy High School Photography 1: Foundations, Camera Settings & History
New class
Ages 14-18
Live Group Course
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(483 reviews)
Star Educator
Live video meetings
1x per week, 18 weeks
2-6 learners per class
55 min
What's included
18 live meetings
16 hrs 30 mins in-class hoursHomework
1-2 hours per week. At the high school level, learners will be expected to get out and take more photos in between classes to share at the beginning of every class.Letter Grade
includedClass Experience
US Grade 9 - 12
Beginner - Advanced Level
In High School Photography 1, students will explore the fundamentals of photography, including composition, lighting, and camera settings. Through a combination of lectures and hands-on projects, they will learn how to use DSLRs or mirrorless cameras effectively. Students will also study influential photographers and their techniques, gaining inspiration for their work. Classes will feature interactive discussions, short lectures, hands-on assignments, and peer critiques. Students will participate in group activities that encourage collaboration and creativity, and they will receive personalized feedback on their photographs to help them grow as photographers. 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 High School Photography 1: Mastering manual camera settings, composition techniques, introduction to lighting, and studying photography pioneers. 💡 Group Learning: This class runs with a minimum of two learners. We generally delay sections with solo learners up to 3 times to give more learners time to join before cancelling the section, unless requested sooner by the family.
Learning Goals
Master essential camera settings and techniques for exposure, aperture, and shutter speed.Develop a strong understanding of composition principles and their application in photography.Syllabus
18 Lessons
over 18 WeeksLesson 1:
Introduction to Photography
History of photography and how it evolved.
Introduction to manual camera settings (aperture, shutter speed, ISO). 55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Aperture and Depth of Field
How aperture affects exposure and focus. Practice creating shallow and deep depth of field. 55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Shutter Speed and Motion
Freezing and blurring motion with shutter speed settings. Practice capturing moving subjects. 55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
ISO and Noise
Understanding ISO sensitivity and its impact on image quality, especially in low light. 55 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Learning Needs
With a Master’s in Special Education, Erika designs our courses to be inclusive and engaging for diverse learners. Our hands-on, interactive approach keeps students actively involved, and we’re happy to provide accommodations.
Supply List
Camera - DSLR, Mirrorless, or point & shoot with manual settings for ISO, aperture, and shutter speed 1st class - cell phone or tablet is best to have for exploring the history of photography Access to Adobe Lightroom - Subscription is not necessary, the 7 day trial will suffice for this course
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Offered by
Teacher expertise and credentials
1 teacher has a teaching certificate
Pennsylvania Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
1 teacher has a Graduate degree
Master's Degree in Education from Western Governors University
1 teacher has a Bachelor's degree
Bachelor's Degree in Education from University of Phoenix
Meet Your Instructors – Professional Photographers & Educators
At Next Level Photo Education, all of our teachers are experienced photographers who bring real-world expertise to the classroom. Whether you're learning smartphone photography, creative techniques, or professional branding skills, we’re here to help!
Erika Hatfield – Certified Teacher & Portrait Photographer
📸 Certified Professional Photographer (PPA) & founder of Next Level Photo Education
🎓 Bachelor’s in Elementary Education, Master’s in Special Education
👩🏫 Taught over 2,000 learners worldwide
💡 Specializes in portraits, branding, and hands-on photography instruction
Jake Hatfield – Lighting & Technical Photography Expert
🔧 Former mechanic turned photographer
💡 Specializes in lighting, forced perspective, and technical troubleshooting
🚗 Experienced in car photography, studio lighting, and creative techniques
Aaron Snyder – Commercial & Portrait Photographer
🏡 Real estate, product, and portrait photography expert
🎞️ Skilled in photo editing, retouching, and visual storytelling
📷 Over 20 years of experience in commercial photography
Miguel Pereda – Product Photographer & Videographer
🎥 Professional photographer & filmmaker
📦 Specializes in product photography, branding, and content creation
📸 Experienced in event photography and directing commercial shoots
With diverse backgrounds and specialties, our team is ready to support learners of all skill levels on their photography journey! 🚀Reviews
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