In this class, we will focus on learning the basics of photography and building confidence by presenting our work through fun photography projects! Weeks 1-3 will include a project to complete for the following class. At the beginning of each class, we will spend some time sharing our work on these projects and offering constructive feedback. 

Week 1: Introduction to digital cameras (any camera is welcome, from smartphone or point-and-shoot camera to a DSLR.) 

Class1: We will talk about the fundamentals of photography including basic composition -  subjects and framing, lighting, and basic camera settings. 
Project: Nature photography

Class 2: We will discuss and plan out the projects for the following week. Students will have an opportunity to ask questions about their plan and get suggestions to improve their project. This project will be an introduction for applying the basic skills learned earlier this week and assess each students' current skills and experience.

Week 2: Playing with settings.

Class 1: This week, we will discuss how to change camera settings to achieve greater results while shooting. We will talk about aperture, shutter speed, ISO, focus, and the rule of thirds. We will also share photos from our projects for week 1.
Project: Portrait photography

Class 2: We will discuss and plan out the projects for the following week. Students will have an opportunity to ask questions about their plan and get suggestions to improve their project. We will talk about things to be aware of when shooting with live subjects, including awareness and safety, positioning, and more.

Week 3: Adding a bit more

Class 1: In this class, we will discuss how to use various tools to add a bit more flair to photographs such as additional lighting (using household items like a lamp or flashlight), items for creating effects, and more!
Project: Experimenting with interesting effects within photos

Class 2: We will discuss and plan out the projects for the following week. Students will have an opportunity to ask questions about their plan and get suggestions to improve their project. We will talk more in-depth about all the different ways to replicate the effects such as bokeh in class 1.

Week 4:

Class 1: We will talk about the basics of editing photos using software. Stock computer programs such as the Photos app for Microsoft is fine as long as it allows for editing light and color. 
Short Project: Editing previous photos

Class 2: We will present photo edits using the previously-submitted photos from the earlier weeks. We will discuss and give feedback.


IMPORTANT NOTE: Sharing and criticism is an important part of this class! Students are encouraged to give their feedback - 1 thing they like and 1 thing that can be improved - to other learners. I reserve the right, however, to remove a student should bullying or non-constructive criticism become an issue and does not stop after a warning.