Beginner Digital Workshop

This workshop is a perfect place to start for beginners who have a Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) or mirrorless camera and want to learn how to shoot with more confidence and creative control. This is a hands-on workshop with a small group, live shooting demonstrations, and time for your questions. The instructor will cover all the topics listed below. We keep the class size small, so there’s time for interaction and problem-solving.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

Buttons and dials: locating and deciphering the physical controls on your camera.
Basic menus & settings: file size, quality, JPG, RAW, TIFF, white balance and ISO.
The viewfinder: what information is available and how it helps you.
What’s in a name: Why your camera is called a DSLR and what goes on when you take a picture.
Exposure: a thorough explanation of shutter speeds, f-stops and their relationship to ISO and light.
Motion blur and depth of field: understanding these creative tools is the key to better photos!
Exposure modes: getting off the green Auto mode and understanding the difference between P-A-S-M, (P-Av-Tv-M).
Built-in flash: when to just say no.
Focusing modes: if it’s called auto focus, why do some photos still turn out blurry? Taking control of how and where your camera focuses.
Techniques for stability: stance, camera operation, holding the camera.
Assignment: we will shoot photos together of live professional models.
Assignment review: surprises and near-misses; we end the day with a live edit and slide show of your best shots.

This is an intensive full-day workshop. Some people learn best in that environment; others prefer smaller doses. If you’d prefer to break it into individual classes, take a look at the Beginner Digital Photography and Intermediate Digital Photography online series.

Official Site