This comprehensive beginner’s course introduces the fundamental skills of photography, focusing on key aspects such as understanding the role of light and how the camera works.

Through a combination of instruction, in-class exercises, and take-home assignments, students will learn to master key concepts such as exposure, composition, depth of field, color management, priority modes on DSLR and mirrorless cameras, and basic photo editing techniques.

Two digital lab sessions using Adobe Lightroom Classic will give students hands-on experience in exploring the software’s post-capture possibilities. Additionally, a studio demonstration and workshop will introduce students to a basic one-light portrait setup.

Class discussions and critiques will support the development of both technical and compositional skills, rounding out this foundational and engaging course.

Duration: 30 hours (7 classroom sessions, 1 studio session, 2 digital labs)

Course Content:

• Camera settings, parts, and handling
• Lenses and focal lengths: types and uses
• Composition and perspective
• Exposure: ISO, aperture, shutter speed, light metering, and histogram
• White balance and depth of field
• Manual and semi-automatic shooting modes
• Portable flash: manual and semi-automatic modes
• Night and slow shutter speed photography
• Available light and white balance
• Photo editing and retouching with Adobe Lightroom Classic (2 sessions)
• Introduction to portraiture: lighting, composition, and working with your subject
• Basic studio lighting setups

Equipment Required: A 35mm DSLR (Digital Single-Lens Reflex) or mirrorless camera, an SD card, and a tripod. Students are strongly encouraged to bring their camera’s instruction manual.