Photography for beginners

About this course

The course introduces the basic mechanics of photography, including exposure, light readings, shutter speed, aperture, depth of field and lens use. Participants also explore composition and ways to photograph different subjects indoors and outdoors. Teaching combines talks, demonstrations, group discussions, individual practical exercises, project work and some individual tutoring. Learners review their own and each other’s images, with Google Classroom used to share comments, access course materials and upload photographs for discussion.

What you'll learn

• Operate the manual functions of a camera
• Explain commonly used photography terminology
• Use shutter speed, aperture and depth of field settings
• Identify and work with daylight and artificial light
• Compose visually interesting photographs

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for complete beginners and for learners seeking a technical refresher. Participants should be able to follow written and spoken instructions, take part in group discussion, and use simple measurements and calculations.

• Practice between lessons is recommended.
• Learning includes both group activities and individual exercises.

Before you go

• Participants should bring a working digital or film camera with manual aperture and shutter-speed settings.
• A digital SLR or mirrorless camera can be supplied for use during taught sessions if a learner does not have one, but cameras cannot be borrowed between classes.
• Film-camera users need to arrange film, processing and printing themselves; colour or black-and-white film may be used.
• Tripods and selected Nikon and Canon lenses may be available for use during class.