Founded in 1909, the Houston Museum of Natural Science stands prominently at the northern edge of Hermann Park and functions as a four-story exploration of scientific discovery, geological collections, precious stones, and mineral specimens that present abundant opportunities for close-range photographic composition. The striking glass framework of the museum structure itself provides photographic opportunities, enhanced by interesting sculptural installations that complement the architectural design. Your instructor will share strategies for capturing visually compelling images that feature both the building's distinctive features and surrounding landscape components such as vegetation, steps, and architectural railings.
You will gain expertise in multiple composition approaches, including guiding viewer attention with leading lines, applying the rule of thirds, incorporating layered elements, utilizing negative space, and additional strategies to elevate ordinary photographs into striking visual statements.
Photo opportunities span diverse subjects, from ancient dinosaur fossils to colorful butterfly specimens, beautiful flowering plants, and tropical rainforest ecosystems. You will develop proficiency in controlling your camera's shutter speed when photographing cascading water, from capturing the frozen moment of splashing water to producing a smooth, silky rendition of the continuous water movement. The outdoor sculpture garden offers exceptional possibilities for environmental and portrait-style photography. Colorful wall murals provide striking portrait backgrounds, transforming casual snapshots into powerful photographic compositions.
Your DPA Instructor will impart knowledge of the decisive moment in photography, such as capturing an insect hunter consuming its food, or a striking butterfly resting on a colorful leaf for an exquisite portrait filled with brilliant colors.
Please bring a DSLR or any other camera you actively use, a completely charged battery, and any additional equipment you can comfortably transport. Prepare for the weather conditions, wear supportive walking footwear, and bring drinking water with you.
Each Composition in the Field class begins with introductory instruction from one of our knowledgeable instructors, followed by an outdoor exploration through a diverse range of scenic locations (represented across the 20+ cities included in DPA programs). Options include street photography locations, impressive interior spaces, farmers' markets, wildlife facilities, scenic vistas, and additional photogenic environments, with examples of which are displayed throughout our catalog. These reference images represent a combination of work by students and instructors photographed across numerous locations and throughout the United States and Canada.
You will engage fully in the three-hour experience, develop purposeful shooting methods, obtain more compelling images, and depart with foundational knowledge to enhance your future photographic work, whether on vacation, at celebrations, or in everyday moments.
Important Notice: If unforeseen weather or other uncontrollable factors necessitate class cancellation, we will gladly collaborate with you to arrange an alternative session. Should you need to cancel and require a revised class date, please contact our office. A $25 rescheduling fee applies if you do not provide notice at least 3 days in advance of your scheduled session.
