Digital Photo Refresher

The Fundamentals classes are, by far, the most popular starting point for photography classes in Chicago and are designed to give the complete beginner a solid understanding of their digital camera and the fundamental knowledge needed to embark upon a lifetime's exploration of photography. There are no 'hidden' or extra fees to pay for any classes...

This workshop will offer instruction for people who want to learn the ins and outs of their cameras. Improve your skills no matter which camera model you own! Take this Course if you: Just purchased a Digital SLR Camera/Point and shoot camera Want to learn to make simple and creative changes to your pictures using the functions of your camera...

This course focuses on the foundations of photography and the various ways to use a digital camera. Students examine how to choose and shoot subjects that are both personally meaningful in content and contemporary in context. Instruction includes capturing and printing images in both black and white and color, and investigating digital photo editing. ...

Each Composition in the Field class begins with a talk with one of our experienced instructors, and then you and your fellow students take a stroll through one of a variety of photogenic locales (in any of the 20+ cities the DPA encapsulates).  There is street photography, magnificent interiors, farmers markets, zoos, landscapes, and more, photos...

Building on basic digital photography skills, students focus on the development of their images using digital media. Students gain a foundation in the tools and methods needed for application in contemporary photographic practice. Topics include various methods of image manipulation and output options. Critiques and presentations supplement the studio...

Learn the techniques and principles of photography. Explore the basics, including image composition rules, how the camera works, proper exposure, and the functions of lens aperture and shutter speed. Some minimal photo processing will also be covered. The course requires a digital SLR camera. No previous experience is required.

Using flash can lighten and brighten the subject, but using it incorrectly can distort the image or cause the dreaded red-eye. Learn where, when, and how to use flash indoors and outdoors. Bring your DSLR camera and an external flash, if you have one.

Take the next steps in developing your photographic practice! Experiment with tools like Adobe Bridge and Photoshop and begin to understand photography on a conceptual level. Create a more developed portfolio of images and prints and form a better understanding of your own style. Bring a DSLR camera, a hard-drive or large thumb drive for transporting...

Thoughtful processes are key steps in learning to identify, then capture, an impressive and artistic image as an intermediate photographer. Use lead lines, selective manual focus, and appropriate aperture settings to enhance your photos. Prerequisite: Beginning Digital Photography or the consent of the instructor. 

This course is for students with previous experience using a digital SLR camera and who are interested in pursuing a more conceptual engagement with photography. A brief review of basic camera techniques starts the term, followed by a focus on the possibilities of communication using photo-based images. Supplemented by trips to the Art Institute of...

Many of the great masters talk about photography as awareness of the present moment in which we forget ourselves.  We let go of goals, desires, expectations, techniques, and anxieties to more fully immerse ourselves into the experience of seeing. You will gain a new perspective through meditative photo exercises, discussions, and weekly reviews. ...

With the original stained glass windows, bordering the pews of warm, glowing sunlight, The St. James Episcopal Cathedral offers great photographs. Your instructor will share techniques in silhouettes of portraits back-lit by the stained glass as well as a study of angles from the upper level of the sanctuary and the leading lines of the center aisle...

Did you receive a camera as a gift recently? Is your camera still sitting in the box? This workshop will help you set up your camera and cover its basic operations. With hands-on instruction, you’ll learn the basics of camera operation. To get the most out of the class, you should own a digital single lens reflex (DSLR) camera, mirrorless camera,...

Learn how to manually control your own DSLR camera’s exposure when making digital photos, learning how to control the 3 main components of exposure: ISO, shutter speed, and aperture.  The first half of the workshop will focus on the technical components of exposure, while the second half will consist of an in-class shooting assignment. Leave...