Dates: Thursday June 4, 11, 25 from 7:00PM-9:30PM (no class June 18)
Location: McLean, VA (Tyson’s Corner)
Class fee: $169
Photography is a great way to record day-to-day activities and express one’s feelings about them. Through various modes of sharing, photography has become part of our daily experience. Although today’s cameras are packed with Auto features, most people find that their pictures are more expressive and interesting if they take control of the exposure basics.
This class will help students make the transition out of Auto mode. Learning to set the shutter and aperture will give you more consistent picture effects. This is a great class for people with little or no experience with their cameras as well as those who would like a structured approach to learning their camera functions.
Learning to use a digital SLR or a mirrorless camera is not complicated – nor is it camera-specific. The same functions exist on all cameras. There are a few digital concepts that are readily explained and easily set in place on any camera. The role of ISO, shutter, aperture, and the mechanics of their uses, will be the primary focus of the class.
The following topics will be covered in detail. Each will help you become more comfortable with digital photography in general and your camera specifically
- Megapixels, resolution, and image size – what they represent
- Image quality – the best file formats (JPEG or RAW) to use and why
- RAW files – advantages and requirements
- White Balance – what is it and when to adjust
- Shooting mechanics – single shot vs. continuous shooting, and fixed focus vs. continuous focus
- ISO – it’s all about light and exposure
- Shutter priority – exposing to express motion
- Aperture priority – influencing depth of field
- Histograms – what do they tell us and how should we use the information
- Exposure compensation – increase or decrease exposure
- Introduction to composition – making your pictures more interesting
- Useful filters – which ones are most helpful
- Camera maintenance
- Basic organization on the computer
- An overview of software that can be used to organize and edit files
Participants should have a digital camera with the ability to adjust ISO, shutter and aperture. Generally this would be an SLR or mirrorless camera. Some compact cameras also have this capability. Be sure to bring a memory card and charge your battery before class.
The class is limited to 10 participants.
Cancellation Policy:
6 or more days: Full credit toward a future class or refund less $25 cancellation fee.
5 days or less: The full charge is incurred. No future class credit or refund are provided.
Requests for credit must be received in writing within the timeframes above.
Questions may be directed to Eliot: eliot@washingtonphotofocus.com
