Just after we get back from Christmas, I get one email over and over. Those of you who got new DSLR cameras want to know what the best photography classes are! (And yay! So excited for you!)

1. SnapShops with Under the Sycamore

Ashley’s classes are online, perfect for so many of us. This is a beginner level class and she does an amazing job of helping you really understand the fundamentals of photography. She also adds her own advice about how to tell a story with your photos. This advice will resonate with all of you!

I’ve had the privilege of meeting Ashley in person and she is the real deal. It is hard to believe that I met her for the first time in June of 2011. The person you see on her blog is exactly who she is. She is a kind, passionate, mother who loves fiercely. She shares her knowledge freely – wanting all of us to be able to capture our days!

What does SnapShops cover:

• General rules for composition
• My personal tips for telling a story with your photographs
• How to capture moments, not poses
• Lighting: how to work with the lighting you have available
• The basics of shooting in Manual: ISO, Shutter Speed, Aperture
• My personal photography style
• The process I take for capturing an image & what happens next

2. Manual ‘N More with Ordinary Miracles Photography

Nancy’s classes are also done online – through a Facebook group. There is a little overlap between Ashley’s class and Nancy’s class – but I actually loved that. It reinforced solid technique and practice. Nancy’s class is very focused on helping you get off of “auto” mode and teaching you how to tell the camera what you want it to do.

Nancy became a personal friend after she was stuck with me traveled home with me after a GoPro Workshop (see below). She is a mother of seven beautiful children and loves to teach!

What does Manual ‘n More cover?

• Exposure-what it is and why it’s critical to understand and how to do it in Manual mode
• Apertures and depth of field
• Shutter speeds and ISO and how they affect your photos
• How to read your camera’s light meter
• Putting all the pieces together and choosing the camera settings to get the photo you envision
• Different metering and focus modes–what they do and how to know which one to use
• Studying the light in the setting you’re in
• Techniques for getting crisp focus

3. GoPro Workshops with Blue Lily

Tyler and Wendy are amazing. First of all, they are too funny to even explain. They are incredibly talented and share every bit of knowledge they have with you. This workshop is in person and includes practice photo sessions. I was incredibly nervous taking pictures in front of them, but they put me at ease immediately. I feel like my photography has only improved with their advice and guidance.

What does a GoPro Workshop cover?

Day 1

• Finding confidence to go pro
• Interacting with clients and keeping them happy
• Seeing the light and using it to your advantage
• Finding inspiration and how to stay creative and fresh
• Business matters- taking it up a notch and pricing structures
• Editing: finding your own style and running with it

Day 2

• Workflow (Bridge, Camera Raw and Lightroom)
• Blogging and Social Networking
• two practice shoots (families, children, wedding couple)

 

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I have personally taken all of these classes. I absolutely recommend every one. I know there are so many classes offered out there, and it is hard to know where to invest your time and money. I hope these suggestions help! Feel free to ask me any questions.