Online Class?

[Ballez]

Hello,

I feel the need to take some kind of photography class to improve my skill. I've been looking online and now I'm pretty confused on what to take, some look fake and some look too good to be true. So I want to ask for your guys' opinion on this matter and if anyone has taken one before.

Thanks in advance!

[jojonac]

Ballez,

I took four classes with the Art Institute of Pittsburg. Perhaps you have seen their ads here on DPS. I took them because the Navy will pay part of my tuition so the cost was a lot less then if I had to pay fully out of pocket. Here is what I found out.

Before the classes I had spend at least two to three years on the internet soaking up everything there is to know about Photography. A lot of that was learned right here at DPS. Also at Kellby training and other sites. So when it came time to take the classes, I was already way ahead of the power curve.

Each online class had about 10-15 students, and of those maybe 3-5 of them where not beginners. They understood shutter speed v aperture v ISO. They could shoot on manuel and knew what all the functions of their cameras did. I was always one of those 3-5. A lot of the classes where geared towards learning the basics. The same stuff you can learn for free on the internet. I submit you can learn everything you need to know about photography on the internet.

What the classroom was really good for was the one on one feedback from the instructor, and the feedback form the classmates. The DPS critique section has nothing on the feedback I received while in class.

So other then the Professional feedback from the instructors, I really did not learn much from the classes I took. At least I did not learn much about how to use my camera. The classes did help with the whole picture taking aspect, ya know things like composition, line, pattern...and so on. But these things can all be found in numerous books that are out on the market. You just cant get the feedback.

This post is getting long so to sum it up. If you are looking to learn how to use your camera, or are confused about the difference between fstop and ISO then just stick to the free internet...DPS. If you are looking for more then what the DPS critique section is giving you, then I suggest seeking out a local professional, or someone who is not friends with you and who takes photographs that you admire, and ask for feedback. Its a lot cheaper then all of the "Photography Schools" that I have seen.

Save your money to get a degree in business, or take some classes in business cause if Photography is where you want to make a living then those are the classes you will want to pay for.

ps Now I stick to books, and seeking out feedback from people I admire. I would say its working out better, and cheaper.

jojo

[bkamps14]

hey jojo, how did you (or anyone else that has used kelby) find the training on Online Training for Photographers, Graphic Designers, Illustrators, Multimedia Artists, and Hobbyists | Kelby Training

is it worth the money or is there enough free info out there?

cheers

[jojonac]

bkamps

For $24 a month I had a subscription to Kelby for about a year. I learned a lot. There are probably free videos out there, but I can guarantee they wont be as comprehensive. The first year I had it, I used it a ton. I got rid of it because I dont really use it anymore. But occasionally I wish I still had my subscription so I could pop in and watch a series or two when Im bored.

They have lessons on everything. If you dont mind the price its worth it.

[SwissJon]

A 12 month course costs around $1000

A week long Guided photo tour will cost you about twice that.

I reckon, once you're beyond basics, you'll learn far more than twice as much in the company of a professional and other like minded individuals, concentrating and focusing on something that is of interest to you.. Save your money up and spend a week doing something fun.. Photography is an artistic activity.. You can't learn more than just the basics from books, the rest is self taught from feedback.. You don't need to be a professional to go on a photo tour, you just need to want to enjoy taking photos.. If they don't turn out good on the first day, with a good instructor, I'll bet you they will by the last.

And better than that, you'll meet like minded people who you can grow your skills further with.

[photographyxfactor]

Hi,

In addition to on-line training, another option would be to sign up for a local "photo safari", workshop or seminar in your city. Don't know where you live but most large metropolitan areas usually have something like this where local photographers take groups of students around the area to teach different subjects.For some other on-line resources take a look at The Photography X-Factor which has listings for various photography schools and other offerings.The Mentor Series also offers photography training and tours for all levels and have found them to be very helpful and informative. Hope this helps.