Digital Photography 1: The Basics
They say the best camera is the one you have with you. From entry-level to professional-level, we'll explore the many settings that will let you get the most out of the camera you have. We will go over some common photography terms and will learn and practice WISE (White Balance, ISO, Shooting Mode, Exposure Compensation) to cover the most common photographic scenarios.
This class will be both in the classroom and some hands-on in the field. There will be regular assignments as well as some constructive critiques during class. Please bring your camera, a charged battery or two, memory cards and your camera’s manual.
WEEK 1
Introduction to the best camera and identifying what types of photography you want to do. We will go over the general layout of most cameras, look at the menu systems and touch on some common photography terms.
Homework Assignment: make photos of what interests you and we will go over on Week 2. Try using the different White Balance (WB) settings to see the difference in the image color. Please email me or have 2-5 images on a flash drive or on your camera's card for us to review.
WEEK 2
Review Week 1 assignment. Use WISE to set everyone's camera and why it is important for the photo you are trying to capture. There will be individual settings for different types of photography (based on class).
Homework Assignment: using any of the other WISE settings to create new photos. Pay attention to the difference in the image or in the settings. Please email me or have 2-5 images on a flash drive or on your camera's card for us to review.
WEEK 3
Field Trip on campus - photo scavenger hunt Bingo style. We will pair up in teams of two or three and make photos to complete the Photo BENGO sheet.
Homework Assignment: complete any images from the BENGO sheet not created during class. Please email me or have your images on a flash drive or on your camera's card, that complete any of the rows, columns or diagonals.
WEEK 4
Reviewing photos from photo scavenger hunt.
Homework Assignment: Using all the knowledge you've learned since week 1, create 2-5 images for us to review in last class.
WEEK 5
We will review photos and reiterate the WISE process. We will also go over the 3 stages of photography - Before, during, after. If time allows, we will touch on how to share your photos.
Homework Assignment: Sign up for Digital Photography 2 :)
Supplemental Material (PDFs)
This area will have PDF files that you can download for each class and keep for future reference. Please note that PDF files may be updated as needed.
Useful Links
Canon - Link to Canon's camera manual page.
Lens Simulator (NikonUSA) - You can simulate images shot with various combinations of lenses, ranging from wide-angle to telephoto, and cameras, in different formats. Image varies with the value of the focal length. This is useful as lens configurations are similar for other camera manufacturers.BorrowLenses.com - Online camera and lens rental company.
LensProToGo.com - Online camera and lens rental company.
RentGlass.com - Online camera and lens rental company.
Mpix - Online printing company for affordable high quality prints.
Now That's a Wrap - Local large-format fine-art and commercial art print and installation company.
Backup Solutions
Carbon Copy Cloner - Backup software for MacOS. Simple. Customizable. Reliable. This is to be used for onsite backup from one drive to another.
Backblaze - World's easiest cloud backup for MacOS and Windows. Peace of mind. Period.
Organizations & Clubs
Professional Photographers of America (PPA) - If you want to be the best photographer you can be, you belong here. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve owned your photography business for years, PPA can help. Join a community that understands your goals and challenges and meet colleagues who want to see you succeed. We have a passion for helping photographers grow their practices, exceed customer expectations and push the artistic envelope. We are a source for inspiration, protection, community and education.
Florida Professional Photographers (FPP) - The FPP exists solely for the good of its members. The association provides the tools and educational opportunities for its members to achieve their business and artistic goals. It is committed to an ongoing exchange of information and experiences among all members in an open and friendly atmosphere.
Bay Professional Photographers Association (BPPA) - BPPA provides an opportunity for photographers to come together to exchange ideas and information and encourage each other to become better at their craft. The association allows photographers to improve their skills by presenting photographic programs and holding print competitions. The association also provides the benefit of networking with other photographers for business and social interaction.
Lakewood Ranch Digital Photography Club - The aim of the Club is to promote growth in members appreciation and skill in making digital photographs and videos through education in both the science and art of photography and videography. Monthly meetings are designed and offered for all levels of photographic understanding from beginner through professional. Special interest Workshops and educational classes are provided to both beginning and advanced photographers. Visitors and guests are welcome at all monthly meetings.
The North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA) - The North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA) is a nonprofit membership association that helps North America-based nature photographers at all levels of experience grow as artists, citizen scientists, and entrepreneurs through education, networking, and advocacy. Together with our members, we advance conservation and foster ethical field practices for the long-term benefit of all.