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Focus Academy: High School Photography 2 - Advanced Composition & Portraiture

New class
Ages 14-18
Live Group Course
This engaging 18 week semester photography class for high school students builds on foundational skills while exploring advanced techniques in portrait and landscape photography!
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:
(479 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 hours
Homework
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
included

Class Experience

US Grade 9 - 12
Intermediate - Advanced Level
In High School Photography 2, students will deepen their knowledge of photography by exploring advanced techniques in portrait and landscape photography. They will work with DSLRs or mirrorless cameras, learning how to manipulate lighting and composition to create compelling images. Learners will require a light or flash, transmitter, light stand, and light modifier. Many options will work and the equipment can be purchased used. Students will also analyze their peers' work to foster a supportive learning environment.

Classes will involve a mix of lectures, hands-on projects, and collaborative critiques. Expect engaging discussions on lighting techniques, composition, and the elements that make a great portrait or landscape. Students will showcase their work and receive constructive feedback from both instructors and peers.

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 2: Advanced composition, portraiture, and lighting techniques. A deeper study of influential portrait and fashion photographers.

Learning Goals

Master advanced techniques in portrait and landscape photography, including lighting and composition.
Develop personal style by experimenting with different genres of photography.

Syllabus

18 Lessons
over 18 Weeks
Lesson 1:
Review of Manual Settings and Exposure Triangle
 Revisit aperture, shutter speed, and ISO in more detail. 
55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Advanced Composition I: Geometry in Photography
 Use geometry (triangles, diagonals) to create dynamic compositions. 
55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Advanced Composition II: Negative Space and Minimalism
 How to use negative space and minimalism to create compelling images. 
55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Introduction to Studio Lighting I
 Basic 3-point lighting setup for portraits (key light, fill light, and backlight). 
55 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.
Pre-Requisites
Our Focus Academy: High School Photography 1 Course is required before enrolling in this course.
Supply List
Camera - DSLR, Mirrorless, or point & shoot with manual settings for ISO, aperture, and shutter speed

External lighting for studio portraits in week 6 - please message us with your questions! 
1 or 2 flashes, ring lights, continuous or studio lights
light stands 
light modifiers (optional)  
transmitter for camera (not necessary for constant lights) 

Fold out reflector or large white posterboard
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.

Offered by

4.9
479reviews
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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