Exposure I: Digital Photography (DM01 Summer)

A fun and friendly course introducing digital camera basics for people with a fancy camera but little idea how to use it to its full potential.

What will you learn on this course?

This course provides an opportunity for you to unleash your creativity, have fun with your camera, and start creating pictures you want to keep, share, and maybe even print! If you have some photography experience, this is an opportunity to develop a portfolio of your best shots and create a new body of work.

On this course you will:

• Learn the basic rules of composition and lighting
• gain a real insight into what all the knobs and buttons on your camera are for
• learn how aperture, shutter speed and ISO all work together to help you create stunning pictures and get the best out of your camera
• learn post production skills and file management basics

Throughout the course, you will be encouraged to think creatively and to use your camera as a tool for expression. During this course, you will also have the opportunity to experience fine art photography and photograph a life model within a studio setting.

Each week, participants will be set a short assignment to practice what they have learned that week.

The tutor encourages knowledge sharing and participation from all members of the group, creating a relaxed learning environment where you can freely ask questions. Some 1 to 1 support may be provided as required. Independent research, learning, and completion of practical weekly photography assignments between classes are encouraged. An active element of each week is the downloading, discussing, and reviewing of each other’s images shot in response to the weekly challenge.

Upon completion of this course, you will have a solid understanding of the basics of photography and an improved confidence in the operation of your camera. You should feel confident to be creative with your camera and be able to explore your own capabilities further.

To view past participants’ work from Kate’s courses search #photosocial365 on Instagram, a hashtag dedicated to students’ homework.

Who is this course for?

This course is suitable for adults aged 18+ years. It is open to beginners and no experience is required as full instruction and guidance is given. The course is aimed at people with a digital camera who usually shoot in ‘Auto’ but would like to understand how the camera works and how to take better pictures using manual settings.

It is ideally suited for people with DSLR, Bridge, Compact System Cameras, Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Cameras, or a compact camera for enthusiasts that has manual settings. If you have a basic point and shoot camera but are considering upgrading, then we do have a limited number of DSLR’s that can be borrowed during the class.

At the heart of MAC is a focus on accessibility and inclusion. Please contact us to discuss your specific access needs. The room is wheelchair accessible. A personal assistant or companion must book a complimentary ticket if attending to provide support.

Do you need to bring anything?

Bring along your camera, a tripod (if you have one), and wear appropriate clothing for going outside. It is also useful if you bring a copy of your camera manual.

You can bring your own laptops or tablets if you wish to use these for post-production, but please remember any cables you might need to connect your camera to your device.

Please bring a 32GB USB stick or external hard drive to save your work each week.

Are there any additional costs?

There are no additional costs.

Who teaches this course?

Kate Green