Meeting Times

• Monday 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM

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Description

Maybe you own a digital camera, but are not getting the quality images you want.  Or, maybe you're getting some great pictures but can't figure out why. This, then, is the class for you. The major emphasis will be on moving away from the automatic mode, which most beginners gravitate towards, to shooting modes where you have total control of your camera.  All the basic photography concepts will be presented and discussed in depth.  Included will be: Hand-holding the camera; Setting the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO; Using the camera's light meter to make properly exposed pictures; Focusing the lens to create sharp images; Depth-of-field options; Finding the best lenses to purchase; Backing-up images; Cataloging images; Digital editing basics. Next, the specific controls on your camera that mystify most beginners will be identified and explained thoroughly. You will learn exactly where they are located on your camera and precisely what they do. Then we will discuss and critique each other's pictures.  This will be done both as a way to understand photographic composition as well as to explore specific shooting issues you may be having with your own images. There will be time in class to practice shooting with your camera. This will help solidify what you have learned about photographic theory and the camera controls. And it will be your chance to try a variety of composing ideas.

A very complete handout will be given to you when you arrive.  It contains lots of information and diagrams, and will greatly simplify the process of understanding what is being taught in class.  In addition, the handout will allow you to spend less time taking notes and more time listening and participating in class.  You also will find it quite useful for review after the course has ended.  Enrollment in this class is limited to fifteen (15) students. 

Additional Notes

Be sure to bring your digital camera (with instruction booklet) to class, along with photos you have taken, saved as JPGs, on a flash drive.  IMPORTANT: Please be sure your camera can operate in non-Automatic modes, such as Manual or Shutter Priority - if it does not and you still want to take the class, that certainly is fine too.

Please note:  A $5.00 material fee is due to the instructor the first night of class. Please bring cash to cover this fee. 
There is no class on Monday, October 9th. 

This class will be held at Rockville High School in room 163. Directional signs will be posted in the lobby of both school entrances. 

Related Class Offerings

• Edit Your Pictures in Photoshop's Adobe Camera Raw
• Take Great Photos With Your Smartphone