It is time for our next reader poll – have you ever taken any kind of online or offline photographic training class or course?
If so – tell us about what course/class you took and how you found it in comments below.
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161 Responses to “Have You Ever Taken a Photography Class or Course? POLL” - Add Yours
December 6th, 2012 at 1:47 pm
I took (and still take) classes from Creative Live. I bought 2 from John Greengo and have audited others. I love everything about Creative Live!!!
December 6th, 2012 at 2:23 pm
Many years ago I took B&W and color classes form the continuing education department at Rice University. It was a great experience.
December 6th, 2012 at 2:41 pm
I have taken several classes through the University of California extension program. Though expensive, I feel that I have gotten my money’s worth. I enjoyed the review and feedback that the classroom environment provided, even when they didn’t like my photographs.
December 6th, 2012 at 3:19 pm
If reading DPS is taking an online course then I have done that, otherwise none!
http://blogs.gonomad.com/traveltalesfromindia/
December 6th, 2012 at 3:29 pm
I took photography classes as part of my BFA program at Appalachian State University. I learned under Kathleen Campbell. She is an amazing fine art photographer.
December 6th, 2012 at 3:53 pm
1 basic film photography & darkroom, city rec
2 studio lighting thru local pro
3 off camera flash thru local pro
4 Lightroom local
5 flash studio online
December 6th, 2012 at 5:02 pm
Currently taking the New York Photography Course. It is more of a correspondence course.
. Doesn’t really fit into your poll.
December 6th, 2012 at 6:56 pm
One other (excluding reading this great site).
For my 50th birthday I was given two days with Joe Cornish and Mark Banks in North Yorkshire. Got absolutely cold and wet on day one and faced with a Mac and Photoshop on day two! Wonderful time was had by all
Now I am thinking of a postal / e-mail based course in the New Year and going right back to the basics.
December 6th, 2012 at 7:26 pm
I attended Ohio Institute of Photography and Technology in the late 80′s and currently refresh myself through Creative Live and some Kelby Training videos. I follow many different photos through social media so I pick and choose classes I’m interested in. I do not remember what drew me to OIP&T but I was between that Brooks and another college near Chicago.
December 6th, 2012 at 7:32 pm
A simple program course for understanding the basics (aperture, shuttertime, compositioning, etc)
December 6th, 2012 at 7:39 pm
I did the Open University course on digital photography here in the UK – I would strongly recommend it to anyone who wants to know a bit more. The students varied in ability from absolute beginners to life long keen photographers moving from film to digital, so the peer group was very helpful whatever level you were at.
Flickr group for past present and future students is here http://www.flickr.com/groups/375767@N23/
December 6th, 2012 at 7:40 pm
In 2004, Junior year of high school – a fantastic darkroom and B&W film class taught by a great teacher / photojournalist. 90% of the techniques I use in shooting and digital developing I learned from Mr. Boubol and his film development lessons. The other 10% came from practice.
I keep my Nikon F10 in working order, because it got me into that class and into photography!
December 6th, 2012 at 7:45 pm
One option is missing for me here – didn’t take a course, but intend to in the future
December 6th, 2012 at 8:25 pm
I took a beginning photography class at college after 7 years of being a photographer for the sole purpose of getting an easy A and seeing what it was like to teach (and learn) in a photo class.
December 6th, 2012 at 11:03 pm
I am currently enrolled in a Photoshop/Design course at the local community college. I have taken online certification courses in digital photography and nature photography. Macro is next.
December 6th, 2012 at 11:28 pm
I took 2 courses through the local colleges, one on-line in which I had to do assignments, and have watched (and bought some) many Creative Live workshops. They are great, but I think getting feedback on one’s work is priceless.
December 6th, 2012 at 11:33 pm
I took an introductory photography course in college back in 1975. Emphasis was on just the foundations, including developing/printing B/W (which I already knew, having done it throughout my high school years as the school’s yearbook photographer). It helped me with the ideas of composition, lighting, etc. – moving beyond the mere technical aspects.
December 6th, 2012 at 11:34 pm
Evening community photography courses at a local high school with a professional photographer.
December 6th, 2012 at 11:38 pm
College mainly. I do abhor those made to look like classes that only sell products. Marketing with an ounce of teaching. Been threw a few of those as well. Anyone else not like that setting?
December 6th, 2012 at 11:39 pm
I took a real one in the 80′s. Not much of a course, just the basics and with the resources we had at the time here in Brazil.
Then I watched other ones online. One on exposure, another on composition and then HDR. There are others I’m planning to watch, including one on Lenses and another on low light photography.
Marcos
December 6th, 2012 at 11:51 pm
I have taken several courses at the local junior college and now belong to camera group of past and present students…..”AWESOME” experience. I have also taken two courses, one of them I have just recently completed….Portrait Lighting from Proud Photograhy.com. I will be planning to take some other courses in the future…..
December 7th, 2012 at 12:09 am
I took an online course through Maggie Holmes design which I found through a papercrafting blog. I found the other class through Groupon and it has not been run professionally despite being offered through a major photography studio. They entered me in a class that was way too easy for my experience, an intermediate level class. They graciously allowed me to retake the advanced course but accidentally enrolled me in the beginner class! They have been giving me the run around ever since. I had a baby in the mean time so rescheduling has been difficult. But online has its limitations. {{sigh}}
December 7th, 2012 at 12:10 am
Currently taking the NYIP professional course, as stated in an earlier post, it’s correspondence based. I like the info presented, but the lack of face time with instructors and other students affects the process of learning; I feel)
December 7th, 2012 at 12:13 am
I did a Lightroom course earlier this year at Michaels Camera store in Melbourne Australia. Obviously the amount of content was too much but it was a good start and only had 4 participants on a Saturday
December 7th, 2012 at 12:13 am
I took a college course on Stock Photography, but it was focused more on how to shoot and sell stock, not so much a photograhy technique class. I also took some workshops at the Toronto ExpoSure Show this year. Wonderful!
December 7th, 2012 at 1:03 am
I spent the entire summer of 1966 at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey at the Army Photography School. We were in class eight hours a day, five days a week learning to be Combat Cameramen. This was motion photography, and we trained mostly with Bell & Howell Filmo 16mm cameras. Because our gear didn’t include light meters we had the Sunny 16 rule drilled into us, and because our cameras did not have rangefinders we learned the nuances of hyperfocal distance. Although there was quite a bit of classroom instruction, we spent time nearly every day shooting film which would be processed by the guys training for that job and reviewed the next day in class. Although most of the work was with the Filmo, we also were trained to use the B&H Eyemo 35mm, an Arriflex 16mm, some sound on film 16mm which I can’t remember the brand, and even the 35mm Mitchell studio camera. This was probably the most thorough exposure to the elements of photography that one could get anywhere in the space of four months. After graduating I spent the next two and a half years honing what I had learned as a still photographer on the staff of a Army newspaper in Germany. As well as shooting pictures I had to quickly teach myself the skills necessary to run a darkroom.
Since then I have taken other classes and workshops, but after that introduction to the basics I have been disappointed in those whose concentration is there. I do find classes on using Photoshop and Lightroom as well as those dealing with the artistic side to be valuable.
December 7th, 2012 at 1:15 am
Before my step up to a full DSLR, I took an introductory course at the University. It was basically a lot of stuff I had already learned on DPS, but it was also a good reminder of some stuff I learned from art classes in college years ago too on composition. I already understood the exposure triangle stuff, but the rest was fun and informative. He was able to answer all my questions and we even discussed post production work and some of the assignments helped me start to take better pictures. It also helped me in my first steps towards deciding what equipment I should start with.
December 7th, 2012 at 1:21 am
I took classes from Sherry Stinson with Tyler Creative. They were great! I have also taken some through Lynda.com, but not as extensive.
December 7th, 2012 at 1:25 am
I’ve taken an Open University course (UK) in photography that included Elements training plus the Apple certified Aperture Course Books. I also view some of the many YouTube offerings for specific aspects of photography. I have recently acquired the Aperture Training videos via ApertureExpert. There are of course many offerings on this site which I view on a regular basis. I follow several websites on a regular basis that offer all sorts of tips. I’ve probably overdone the theory and underdone the actual photography.
December 7th, 2012 at 1:35 am
Haven’t taken one yet, but I have an online course on composition coming up in January. I can hardly wait!!
December 7th, 2012 at 1:42 am
Took 2 College courses in digital photography, techniques, composition, and editing. Also took advanced classes at Henry’s in Canada. I think the private classes were better than the college classes.
December 7th, 2012 at 1:56 am
took basic photography in high school back in the late 70′s, didn’t do much afterwards until I became a scuba diver and got me a nikonos v in the mid 90′s. I still use my old nikon f70, and soon getting a d7000.
December 7th, 2012 at 2:00 am
Recently, I attended a class in Fine Art Photography at Santa Barbara City College. At Ventura College I have taken several photography and related classes. At Moorpark College, I took a class in Digital Editing. I have also taken several classes from Scott Kelby. I am a graduate of the Navy School of Photography and the New York Institute of Photography. I have taken many other classes and learn something new in each class. My preferrence is the “In Person Class”.
December 7th, 2012 at 2:14 am
Yes, through the local Community College (Portland, OR.) Was a lot of fun, good feedback, weekly assignments.
December 7th, 2012 at 2:47 am
Took 2 semesters of film photography in college back in ’92-93 as part of my Art degree… black and white, old Minolta mechanical camera, hand-processing the film and prints in a dark room… so much fun. Costs of film & supplies and lack of access to a darkroom after college kept me from continuing with it for many years, until digital hit and I rediscovered how much I loved it.
December 7th, 2012 at 3:20 am
I answered yes for a class/course b/c that was the closest to the truth, which is that I’ve attended a few workshops over the years that helped me understand the features on my camera and gave me ideas for better photos.
December 7th, 2012 at 3:23 am
I never have, and I probably should, just to learn all the things I don’t know. I’m not the best photographer by any means, but many people have said they like the style that I do. They often comment on the sheer originality of my photographs. I’m also a little gun shy because I sang for years and years, then took voice lessons, and ended up having to unlearn everything.
December 7th, 2012 at 3:31 am
In the 1980s I took some courses through a local junior college and was lucky enough to meet Ansel Adams at Point Lobos, Monterey. We invited him to our potluck but he said “my wife will kill me if I eat anything”. He was so gracious and loved that we where out there doing photography in one of his favorite places. We all had our pictures taken with him. I still have those slides. Recently I got a DSLR and took classes through REI which were terrific. Several day classes and then one class where we climbed a hill to take a sunset and lights over the bay class.
December 7th, 2012 at 3:33 am
I have a bachelor’s degree in photography from Appalachian State University. The full text of the degree reads “Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology with a concentration in Technical Photography.”
December 7th, 2012 at 3:35 am
I’ve been taking lesson’s almost everyday 40+ yrs, its called Home Schooled, and help from DPS. Thanks Darren.
December 7th, 2012 at 3:37 am
I have taken several through a local camera store. I recently purchased a year’s subscription to kelbytraining.com. They have a ton of on-line training videos which I am loving!
December 7th, 2012 at 3:41 am
I took both Night Photography and Studio Photography with Amber in Edinburgh bot good events and i did learn a lot.
I have also done the Practicle Photography Magazins DSLR Skills course for the last 2 years and enjoyed it immensly.
I feel that, after doing these courses, my photography has improved a lot and will be looking to do more courses in the future.
December 7th, 2012 at 3:47 am
I took two real classroom photography courses at Milsaps College continueing adult education.
Both classes were tught by Kay Ballard. I especially enjoyed the Black and White class since we got to use the Dark Room
December 7th, 2012 at 3:49 am
Took a course in composition at a local Community College a number of years ago (way before digital). With film/processing expensive for an amateur, doing it right the first time became imperative. Composition tips never go stale, still use them today.
December 7th, 2012 at 3:51 am
Nope, I have never taken a photography course, my pasion for photography goes way back to my juvenile years and today, after closing a suitcase full of film equiment and moving to digital I can say that I am extremely satisfied with the perspective I see thing when shooting pictures. I do read magazines, articles, I constantly receive DPS which It had helped me a lot to become a better photographer.
Mario J. Martinez
December 7th, 2012 at 4:01 am
I took a non-major digital photography class at my university, and I’m taking the second class, about editing, next semester.
December 7th, 2012 at 4:05 am
My first class was when I first got interested in digital photography about 12 years ago. Took a few since then. Without sounding like braggadocio I discovered that I had a pretty good eye for composure and capturing the right shot at the right time. Naturally lots of hit and miss. I really enjoy the action shot opportunities . I guess a lot of my class is on the job ( hobby ) training. The learning process is constant and always lots of FUN.
December 7th, 2012 at 4:16 am
I took a class last winter at a local state college here in Texas. As many of you probably know, seniors 65 and older can take classes for free (no tuition) at state colleges/universities–assuming there’s room in the class. There may be small charges for printing costs, but I wasn’t charged anything. I completed all the assignment and took all quizzes/exams and the instructor even graded all my work. The course was very demanding and time consuming, but I learned a bunch about basic digital photography and a fair amount about Photoshop, which is what we used for all our lab assignments. The labs were equipped with 27″ iMacs, so this old PC user also had to learn how to operate a Mac. I liked this computer so well that I purchased a 21″ iMac and Photoshop CS5. The other big advantage of doing this is that students (i.e., those with a valid student ID card, which I got for $10–as best I recall) can get large student/educational discounts with Adobe and lesser discounts with Apple. I believe other software companies like Microsoft also offer student discounts. I guess the only down side was being the oldest “kid” in the class.
December 7th, 2012 at 4:21 am
I took a one day workshop in off camera flash with Neil van Niekerk which was excellent. I took a weekend workshop with Steve McCurry during which he didn’t teach and only talked about his own photos. A weekend class with Peter Hurley on headshots was worthwhile, but a weekend class on photographing people with Clay Blackmore I did not find worthwhile, although special circumstances were supposedly responsible for the less than informative class.
December 7th, 2012 at 4:22 am
I have taken several online couses from the Picture Perfact School of Photography http://www.ppsop.com, and enjoyed them. They are either 4 or 8 week courses that teach a specific weekly topic depending on the course, and then you are to attempt the assignment and submit 3 photos to be critiqued by the instructors and your fellow online classmates. I found those courses to be both enlightening and challenging, and they got me out with my camera more than when I am not taking the courses.
I have also taken a couse online from the Univ. of West Va. but can’t remember the course title. It was a 3 credit course. I am currently looking at the possibility of an AA degree in Photography from the Academy of the Arts in Philadelphia. Nothing final on that one yet. I also looked at taking courses from the Academy of the Arts in New York, but as I am 64, retired, and just wanting to become a better photographer with travel photography and travel writing as a goal, living in a Dorm in New York was not my thing.
I am also signed up with MatadorU.com online but just can’t put the time together to finish the program as I am traveling a lot and when I am home now, it seems like I am just getting ready for the next trip (being retired is awesome). I am also learning a lot from the Kelby Training online which I subscribe to, and from the website, Ugly Hedgehog, which gives me ideas and answers questions that other photographers have, and of course I read a lot of the information online each week from DPS as well.
I am heavy on the learning curve trying to start a new career (or at least have fun trying)
December 7th, 2012 at 4:22 am
Been doing black and white photography (film) at local college in Connahs Quay for five years and got A level and Btech and now doing diploma. Started aged 63. You’re never too old.
December 7th, 2012 at 4:23 am
In 1980 my parents got me a Minolta SRT-201 and a 4 week class at the local camera store for Christmas. Couldn’t have been a better gift. Coming from a little 110 point and shoot, learning how to manipulate light with my 201 was priceless . That was 32 years ago and I have loved photography ever since (and I still have that camera)!
December 7th, 2012 at 4:24 am
I have watched and followed several of Ben Long’s excellent photography courses on Lynda.com. The composition course is filmed during an actual seminar and includes many interesting assignments.
December 7th, 2012 at 4:26 am
Yes, i’ve taken photography classes at college. They’re not required for my degree, but i’ve always loved photography so when i saw i could take the classes i signed up right away
December 7th, 2012 at 4:29 am
I have not been able to take courses due to financing. I would like to go on workshops that teach on the wildlife/nature photography that I like to do. Who knows what the future holds
December 7th, 2012 at 4:38 am
Back in the days of film, I took beginning and then intermediate classes in basic shooting techniques, depth of field, shutter and aperture settings, lens choices, rule of thirds, etc. Years later, I took a figure class and found the demands of working with a nude model much different from working with a bowl of fruit. Each member of the class took a turn running the studio for a bit, posing the model, positioning the lights and then critiquing each other’s work the following week.
December 7th, 2012 at 4:39 am
I am enrolled in the Art Institutes of Pittsburg Online Division and I’m going for my Associates Degree of Science In Photography. I never realized how time intensive the Photography classes themselves were.
December 7th, 2012 at 4:49 am
I started with CDs, progressed to Adorama learning, (2) Bryan Peterson’s PPSOP online classes, Bella Pop class online, one personal hour with James Brandon (found on this site), one community college class, member of Lynda.com and Kelby training. I find that required assignments from online classes that give feedback have given me the most improvement and the structure that require me to look at specifics ideas. I would love to have more personal experiences and one-on-one help.
December 7th, 2012 at 4:49 am
I took an eight week course at a local high school that was for adult education/enrichment. It was advertised in a door to door circular in the surrounding communities. That guy got me out of Auto. He opened a new world. Now I need to go further but don’t know what to take. I don’t know if I would learn as well on line…….no personal attention to answer questions.
December 7th, 2012 at 4:54 am
@ year degree in Photography @ ACC in Austin Texas.
December 7th, 2012 at 5:01 am
I have taken two classes with Steve Gottleib, owner of Horizon Photography Workshop in Chesapeake City, MD. I learned a great deal about creative shooting and critiquing photos. His admonition of ‘shoot everyday’ has been great advice. I’ve learned a great deal by trying to have my camera with me at all times, and missed some great shots because I didn’t have my camera (lesson learned). Using the camera is mostly self-taught and by reading tips here at DPS. Since retiring in June, I’ve been traveling full-time in my RV and love having the time to take photos every day.
December 7th, 2012 at 5:10 am
In the late 70s or early 80s my father-in-law paid for a course offered by a local portrait/wedding photography studio. I don’t remember if that was before or after I started part-time wedding photography. Later I took another course, mostly on lighting, at the university where I worked. As a result, the instructor recommended me to a friend to photograph a wedding. I did a couple of more weddings after that but then was not able to find time for it because my full time work was too demanding. Now I would like to take a course on post processing but I cannot afford a course, a new PC and new software. Maybe someday…
December 7th, 2012 at 5:15 am
I took the basic, three class course through the National Camera Exchange. Very good basic introduction to DSLR cameras.
December 7th, 2012 at 5:29 am
2 documentary photography courses at UC Santa Cruz and a week in the southwest with Al Weber.
Practical applications and sharing.
December 7th, 2012 at 5:41 am
I took course in the Philippines – Basic and Advance. The course was offered by one of the Photography club in the Philippines. That was 18 to 20 years ago before the digital cameras. I learned a lot to take better pictures and undertsand more of the features and settings of the camera. How to use light properly, etc. Before the course I was only pointing and shooting and never realised if I was doing things wrong or correct. Until this age of digital, those things that I learned during film time uses the same principles and techniques w/ the added bonus of having not to spend a lot of money on film and you can do your own picture processing via software. You are now more in control of your pictures.
December 7th, 2012 at 5:45 am
I’ve taken an online portrait class by Jim Harmer from improvephotography.com and another class on flyingphotoschool. I took a photography class in high school in 2002.
December 7th, 2012 at 5:46 am
I have taken course at Perfect Light in Idaho Falls, Id, It really paid to have hands on training rather than the online reading. I learned more in six hours than I did in 3 years of books and online reading.
December 7th, 2012 at 5:47 am
I took a course at Perfect Light in Idaho Falls and I learned more in six hours than I did in years of online and book reading. Hands on is the only way to go.
December 7th, 2012 at 5:49 am
I took a five day course with Aguila, a french photo cum travel organizer. Great experience, small groups.
December 7th, 2012 at 5:50 am
I took a night photography course at our local community college. And I took a week long course through Rocky Mountain School of Photography in South Carolina.
December 7th, 2012 at 5:58 am
I have never taken a course but may in the future.
December 7th, 2012 at 6:02 am
Many years ago I took photography classes while attending Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan, USA. Later when I moved to Seattle, Washington I took more classes at the Northwest School of Photography. My 15 minutes of fame was when 2 other students, our instructor, and myself were invited to do a show. Since then my cameras have been pretty silent and I want to correct that.
December 7th, 2012 at 6:08 am
I recently attended a weekend workshop conducted by Rocky Mountain School of Photography and found it very helpful. The workshop touched on a broad range of photography topics and the instructors were very good. Between sessions, the instructors made themselves available to talk with participants one-on-one about questions, techniques, equipment, or just small talk.
December 7th, 2012 at 6:09 am
Currently in week 5 of a 6 week Astrophotography Course @ Royal Greenwich Observatory.
December 7th, 2012 at 6:09 am
Took a 2 day Nikon digital photo course. I found it to be very helpful, but it was held at a hotel, all the attendee’s (approximately 300-400) were in a ball room setting and it was more a “listening” experience than a teaching experience. While I did learn something, I would have liked a smaller setting and the opportunity for interchange with the instructors.
December 7th, 2012 at 6:11 am
I took a course “Taking Your Camera Off Automatic” before I bought my first DSLR. I had a prosumer camera at the time and wanted to learn how to get the most out of it. Those skills transferred when I bought my DSLR. It was well worth the money and the travel each week, 240kms, in the evening after a full day’s work. Well worth it.
December 7th, 2012 at 6:13 am
I went full time to a terrific college of art and design (4 yr. course) back in the early 70′s and took photography (2 yrs.) as my minor subject. Mainly learned black n’ white process but also did a lot of shooting in colour as a means to shoot my finished artwork for presentation and portfolio etc. Found this also came in handy years later for doing website work.
As much as I liked 35mm, my preference now is for digital and have been doing that for quite a while. However, I know of a few folks who are rediscovering pinhole cameras with some very interesting results …this may even tempt me back into a bit of film work one day.
December 7th, 2012 at 6:20 am
I have taken a number of courses at the local community college. These have been offered by professional photographers working in the city. They have been very helpful and provided some solid ideas which can be used to improve your photography. I am still learning to ‘see’ but that is my problem not the instructors.
December 7th, 2012 at 6:23 am
My bachelors degree was a major in photography and minor in comparative literature. California State University at Long Beach.
December 7th, 2012 at 6:27 am
online ?????? hmmmm well I have done alot of research online, discovering alot of tips and tricks , but not a true online course. Alot of from here DPS. Thanks DPS for being here.
December 7th, 2012 at 6:28 am
OH i forgot to say F R E E
December 7th, 2012 at 6:31 am
Yes, I took a basic introductory photography class at the local community college. It was a great way to get the basics and get some good feedback. It was a good experience, and Im looking forward to taking more classes. I have learned so much on this site as well. Thanks for the inspiration and the information. Keep up the good work.
December 7th, 2012 at 6:33 am
I have taken a set of courses at Southern Alberta Institute of Technology “SAIT” (Marlene Hielema is one of the instructors) , I have taken some of Marlene’s classes online from her website (imagemaven.com) and on Ruzuku, and I have an annual subscription for KelbyTraining online. All pretty good.
December 7th, 2012 at 6:51 am
I have taken three university level classes and can say from experience that I have learned more on my own and from sites like this one than from in class studies. Maybe some schools are effective or would be for me, just not the University of Nevada Reno for sure! For the money, its best to learn on your own at your own pace. Online material is always available at the click of a button. Sitting in class listening to a teacher babble about useless stuff while trying to receive reinforcement for their teaching was useless to me. While reading online and watching videos of demonstrations like Mark Wallace have been invaluable.
December 7th, 2012 at 7:15 am
Took a one day basics course from Chris Bray at the Adelaide Zoo. Great class for re-establishing the fundamentals of photography and to help make the mind switch between film and digital solid. I wasn’t used to taking as many shots as I needed to, to help get the image I wanted.
December 7th, 2012 at 7:16 am
In 1955 I took a course from the New York Institute of Photography but it was by snail mail (no computers back then). Some responses from them were by telephone. I was quite happy with the courses offered and did “graduate” but any certificates are gone over time.
December 7th, 2012 at 7:28 am
I took some courses thru McKay Photography.. begining photography and intermediate photography. I got these courses thru Groupon.. These guys are GREAT and I learned a ton. I’ve also gone on some Safaris with them and learned a ton more. It’s one thing to learn in a class room and another thing to actually go out an practice what you just learned.. They hold classed throught the US and if you get a chance to take one of them, I hightly recommend them …
December 7th, 2012 at 7:30 am
I did two short courses at the Australian Centre for Photography in Sydney which motivated me to look into tertiary education. I started my BA (Photography) at Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga in 2011, and through CSU am currently studying at Humboldt State University in California for a year abroad.
December 7th, 2012 at 7:39 am
Santa Fe Workshops. Highly recommended
December 7th, 2012 at 7:47 am
I took a night school course in the UK (equivalent to taffe ) when I was seventeen, that was a long while ago. I also tookone for digital with proud photography. Both were of great use. Ernie
December 7th, 2012 at 8:05 am
I’m a compulsive learner. I have taken many classes on-line with a “real photographer” critiquing my weekly assignments. It is through PPSOP. Some of the instructors are not only excellent photographers but know how to critique and support students. Other instructors are just good photographers. One of the most powerful aspects of these courses is the ability to discuss and share assignments with fellow students – knowing that we are all learners in this course, there is no “bad” photo, just a great lesson. Even if the instructor is mediocre if the class is communicating well with each other there is plenty to learn. If the class is “quiet’ and non-talkative, then the outcomes from the class are diminished.
I have also taken the passive on-line courses – the type that do not include instructor critiques. They are not very productive – much like a “how to” book on photography. It takes more discipline to complete the course because there is no peer pressure to share and learn from other students.
It would be really great if some group -like DPS – could figure a way to have some ROI and create a free on-line course like a MOOC.
December 7th, 2012 at 8:19 am
I’ve done real life courses and online courses – all I know about photography I learnt in the online courses. Those that haven’t done any online should do themselves a favour and try one!
December 7th, 2012 at 8:20 am
Yes. A short one evening course on flash lighting with Joe McNally. Well worth the time!
December 7th, 2012 at 8:33 am
I went to the Liberal Arts College in a town about 65 miles away and took a photography night classes in the journalism department, 1/3 of the focus was on basic manual camera operation focus, shutter speed, iso, and white balance. Then the second 1/3 was on composition, meaning and story telling. The final 1/3 was digital dark room. At the end of the semester our work was displayed during a gallary showing on campus, the evening of an orchestral concert with good attendance.
Then I have gone to a different town 45 mile in the other direction and have taken a PhotoShop Class, which was 20% camera manipulation, composition in frame, and cropping then the last 80% was on PhotoShop.
I have gone to a local City Arts classes that are 4 or 5 week classes on photography, digital darkroom and gallary presentation.
December 7th, 2012 at 8:39 am
I took this one at MorgueFile: http://www.morguefile.com/classroom
It’s a bit dated (2004) and the original writer no long contributes to it, but the few people in the forums are helpful and it’s a great way to learn the basics.
December 7th, 2012 at 8:51 am
Took classes at the local jr. college( TCCC Fort Worth, Texas) in the middle 80′s some of the best instructors in the world,
Mostly fine art, documentary, with a couple of commercial classes.
Have done seminars and ” webinars ” most seem to be too much of a marketing event than a real learning
session.
December 7th, 2012 at 8:54 am
I took a couple of one day courses which i found to be really helpful.
December 7th, 2012 at 9:04 am
Yes I did take 3 levels of courses at our local college many years ago with a Pentax 1000 SLR. We where using black and white film, loading and developing it our self. I am applying what I learned from those courses to the DSLR camera that I have today. BUT the technology that the camera has is way above what I learned in the past. I am looking for a basic/advanced course on the use of the DSLR to apply to what I already know. Just trying to stay on top and in touch.
December 7th, 2012 at 9:17 am
I have taken and instructed professional photography courses. I have instructed many camera clubs as well as both basic and advanced photography. I have spent over 50 years in the photo field and I am still ,learning.
December 7th, 2012 at 9:17 am
Hi I took 2 years of Art photography at College a few years ago. Also a darkroom course. Recent years i have taken taken part in some on line stuff, also learning about digital manipulation. A never ending quest to continue to discover the joys of photography.
December 7th, 2012 at 9:23 am
I took a semester-long photography class in high school, in 1986. We used black and white film, we had to develop our own film and process our own photos. I used film (but obviously didn’t process my own film) till my 35mm Nikon died after 25 years of faithful use. (we were in the military and had no way to set up a darkroom, though I used to look longingly at a large closet in our military housing and wonder, “what if…”).
I have a long story of how I went from that old Nikon to a Canon point-and-shoot to a Nikon D5100, but I’ll save it for another time. But I will say- the Nikon D5100 was my Mother’s Day gift from my kids this year. They planned it for six months. I have awesome kids.
And picking up that D5100 was like shaking hands with an old friend.
December 7th, 2012 at 9:31 am
Two courses that made a huge improvement to my photos were given by Les Walkling and covered using software to improve your photos out of the camera and colour management. Both course were in Canberra Australia, but Les does give them in other locations. He has a website with some very useful information on issues in digital photography.
December 7th, 2012 at 9:48 am
Bought Karl Taylor’s DVD course.
For me, Karl is the Jamie Oliver for photography. Like Jamie, Karl bubbles over with passion & enthuism; oh yes, he is creative & knowledgeable.
Would recommend him
December 7th, 2012 at 10:09 am
Have taken at least 4 courses at Creative Live and think they were all really good. Lots of webinars dealing with special products which have been informative. Plus have had live classes with Clyde Butcher, Moose Peterson and Arty Morris. And oh so many classes at adult education programs Fl and AZ. I am not a professional, but oh so wish I were. Looking for an older 70+ person who lives in the Northridge, CA area to shoot with and chat about all aspects of present day photography
December 7th, 2012 at 10:48 am
I took a day’s class photographing birds of prey last year. It was both useful and fascinating. And I got some wonderful photos!
December 7th, 2012 at 11:02 am
Took digital photography classes in 2005 at a community college and am currently a photography major (b&w film/wet darkroom) at Guilford College in Greensboro NC.
December 7th, 2012 at 11:05 am
Just finished a B & W film course at a local community college in Pennsylvania. Had wanted to take it for sometime, but did not seem to be able to fit it in until now. Turns out, I was allergic to the chemicals, but the prof let me scan and edit on the computer! Wonderful class, plan to take more!
December 7th, 2012 at 11:18 am
I have taken three residential photography workshops with AWAI; one in Seville, Spain with Efrain Padro; one in Venice, Italy with Rich Wagner; and one in Paris, France with stock photographers Shelly Perry and Lise Gagne. I have also done a Street Photography course in Istanbul with Arjen Swart.
December 7th, 2012 at 11:18 am
I’ve taken a diploma course with an Open University for working adults which is conducted over weekends. The most enjoyable part of it is the outings with the lecturers. So I think nothing beats going out and practicing !
December 7th, 2012 at 11:48 am
Yes, Recently I enrolled in a DSLR class at a local community college. It was a total of 12 class hours with an amazing instructor and only four other classmates. The cost at the community college in comparison to some other advertised workshops was extremely reasonable. I am looking forward to some of their other hands-on photo related classes including Photoshop and related software.
December 7th, 2012 at 11:48 am
I’ve taken several CreativeLive courses. I also attended photography classes held by a local museum for a number of years. I’ve attended a couple of workshops as well. I’ve learned so much from all if this. I feel it’s been invaluable.
December 7th, 2012 at 12:19 pm
1978 *th grade photography class. Black & white film we developed and printed in a darkroom. It was a great class.
December 7th, 2012 at 12:26 pm
Another props to Creative Live and John Greengo, as well as Jasmine Starr.
December 7th, 2012 at 12:47 pm
Just purchased NikonD3100 with18-55mm and 55-200mm lenses.To professional training gained. Any words of advice. Thank you.
December 7th, 2012 at 12:51 pm
I have taken both college and online classes, after about ten years of shooting I starting teaching. I have taught at Jacksonville University where I went to school and now teach 1 on 1 lessons to beginners as part of my business. I love teaching 1 on 1s it is a lot of fun. DPS is great !! I send lots of people to the DPS site because it is great for beginners and professionals. Thanks for the great work. Jeremy
December 7th, 2012 at 1:34 pm
Many, many years ago, I registered for a photography course, an evening course held at our loval technical high school, hoping to learn how to choose the right camera in the early classes. In my first class we were told to bring a camera to the next class. So knowing nothing, I went to the first camera shop I could find and bought a 35 mm Yashika FR. It was fully manual. I learned a lot and really liked that camera. Gave it to my brother in law for some reason. Now I’m trying to get it back.
December 7th, 2012 at 1:42 pm
I took an evening course more than thirty years ago. It was taught by a teacher who during the day was a woodworking instructor. He made many errors teaching photography. He talked about photographing “foiliage.” He said that if a person was being photographed in front of a white mass such as snowbanks and the pictures were underexposing that person, you should switch the film setting to ASA 400 even though the camera was loaded with ASA 100 film. When I challenged him on this (it would aggravate, not solve, the underexposure) it almost caused a riot. Half the class had been thinking along the same lines as me, while the other half thought who the hell was I to disagree with the instructor. The last straw came when he advised us that depth of field was (as is true) shallower with wider apertures. I asked him to tell us why this is the case, since that understanding would help us remember the principle. I’ll never forget his response, verbatim: “I ain’t gonna ‘splain ya that. I’d venture to say there ain’t no-one gonna ‘splain ya that. I’ve read a lotta books and all I can say is – that’s just the way it is.” I promptly went to the library and borrowed and studied ALL the Time/Life Books on photography, and learned the answer to this and many other questions.
December 7th, 2012 at 2:49 pm
Have taken courses in Photoshop Elements at UW – Waukesha. Also Micro Photography, Night and Low Light Photography at Waukesha Co. Technical College. Additionally did a photography trip to Arizona with Road Scholar and had Chuck Larson, a AZ Highways photographer, as an instructor. There were two trips through UW-Waukesha. One was the CA Coastline in September of 2011. The other was this fall to Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor Maine. These trips had a professional photographer along as an instructor.
I enjoy taking classes and traveling with a focus on photography. I keep learning and the new experiences and social interaction with other class members is very rewarding.
December 7th, 2012 at 3:26 pm
Intro Course at Concordia University in Montreal, Quebec and The School of Modern Photography in Montreal. Back in the days of real photography and darkrooms (what are they ?!?!?). Film wins every time !
December 7th, 2012 at 4:22 pm
The first course was “The Gestalt of Photography” at the University of British Columbia; three weekends in the Mojave Desert at workshops through the University of California consortium; and last course “Creative Close-up” in Vancouver, BC.
December 7th, 2012 at 4:28 pm
I did an informal practical course in UK about 60 years ago I also commenced an online course but circumstances stopped from completing it.
Over all, I found that I learned more from other members of the photographic society in the UK than from any ‘formal’ instruction!
December 7th, 2012 at 4:51 pm
I’ve done three practical in class courses and I’m busy with an online course with The Photograhpic Institute.
I’ve enjoyed all and still enjoying it. Just the normal problem of having a day time job that’s getting in the way.
December 7th, 2012 at 5:34 pm
I took photography classes while in college decades ago. At the time, I was a Fine Arts major and Photography was an elective. I took the class with a couple of my artist friends. The class was part of the Communications department, but the teacher considered himself more of an artist than journalist, so we got along very well. Working in the darkroom was so much fun…except for those moment while developing film where you hope that you didn’t screw up and ruined a whole roll of film.
December 7th, 2012 at 5:55 pm
I took a course with PPtutor-online.com who provide courses to British National qualifications, namely NVQ levels 2, 3 and 4. It’s absolutely brilliant and they also do an HPD (Higher National Diploma) which I am keen to start. It’s fantastic because the level 4 courses actually count as your first year of a degree course (120 points).
I did this because I couldn’t find a suitable night school course locally and work prohibited me from going to college through the day. The NVQ courses are all done online but your assessments are done either at their studio or at a location of your choice. Brilliant!
December 7th, 2012 at 6:27 pm
I took introductory and intermediate courses at as local community college. The first one was really helpful in teaching about exposure–F-stops, apertures, and ISO. The second one, not so much as there was one student who thought the course was his personal chance to ask questions. The instructor–same one for both courses–wasn’t great at coming to class with a syllabus and lesson plan so he was easily sidetracked. Still, I remain in contact with the instructor and he’s generous with his knowledge and always helpful when I have questions.
December 7th, 2012 at 8:08 pm
2 year AAS degree in Photographic Tech/Portraiture with the Ohio Institute of Photography & Technology.
The professors there are incredible, each with their own businesses and specialties. Full-time wedding, fashion, commercial photographers and a pair of amazing graphic artists on tap for our education!
The school had moved away from film and was fully invested in the digital age. I wish we’d had the opportunity to learn film from a practiced hand, but enjoy teaching myself in my free time.
December 8th, 2012 at 12:19 am
Took a Canon Intermediate Class of 5 days since I was aware of the basics. It was very useful & helped around composition with a combination of classroom & practical session with a trainer / expert photographer.
From there on, it was easy to progress & improve on your photography. My next stage would be outings preferably with some expert.
December 8th, 2012 at 1:52 am
I attended a weekend course at the Guildford School of Art,UK, where I learned how to use a Technica 5×4 camera and develop and print a 2×3 foot mounted photo. I have completed a ten week (2 hours a week) course on Adobe Photoshop.
Also, I have given a demonstration to my Camera Club on how to make and use a Light box.
December 8th, 2012 at 2:19 am
I did a couple of short beginner workshops organised by Canon which gave me a lot more confidence to use all the knobs, buttons & dials more effectively. I’ve also joined two great 2 day workshops run by a group of 4 professional female photographers where they shared their knowledge generously. While some men were invited to join the second session, the first was exclusively for women and it was very relaxed but non-threatening. Sorry guys, no offense meant, but it’s much easier to ask technical questions and discuss technical issues when the guys aren’t there.
December 8th, 2012 at 2:57 am
Yes….. I’ve just completed a course in Digital Photography and Photoshop at NSW TAFE / Western Sydney Institute / Wentworth Falls Campus. The course was very informative with a great teacher who was interested in each and every student and very willing to give of her time in class to help each student, not just attend class and hand out lesson notes and say ‘Go for it”
Our class was a mix of ages from 17 – 65 and from all walks of life. We learnt so much from the course, our teacher, Nicola, and each other.
December 8th, 2012 at 3:28 am
I live in the Milwaukee area and there is a GREAT camera store called Art’s. I’ve taken 3 or 4 classes from them and it’s SIGNIFICANTLY helped my photography – mostly cuz I actually feel comfortable using all of the modes Nikon and flash. I’ve done only a couple on-line classes, but haven’t found them to be as generally applicable as the in-person ones.
What I’d REALLY like is a class that consisted of 3 parts – classroom learning, a shooting session and MOST IMPORTANTLY, review by a pro/teacher. This might get a little heavy into software, but could really use some coaching on croping, fixing, retouching etc. Many times I feel certain there is a “better” photo within the shot I’ve taken, but am just not experienced enough to know what/how to make it “better”.
December 8th, 2012 at 4:01 am
I’ve taken courses at a local arts college, at Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania, and a Nikon course. I learned something during each and every one of the classes. The best class was a Macro class that DCAD in Wilmington offers. I found that the instructors clarified technical aspects for me and the other participants tended to challenge my creative aspects.
December 8th, 2012 at 6:25 am
I’ve never taken any but would like to. I just bought a Nikon # 5100 w/18-100 lens. The store I bought it from said they offer a 1 hour class for $100.00.
December 8th, 2012 at 6:32 am
I did the Photography Institute on line home study course & gained a diploma in photography. It really helped encourage me to learn to use my DSLR to better effect & take control. I found that digital was so different to the wet process, which was my previous experience of 20+ years. I also learned on the course the basics of photoshop editing & developing my images from RAW files. Very glad that I did the course, it covered a lot of elements to allow me to consider making a career from photography – not yet made that leap, but learning more & more day by day.
December 8th, 2012 at 8:18 am
I just finished a local photography course. I am really familiar with film photography and working in a darkroom. I’m so sad that it’s nearly a dead art. I felt forced into the digital world of photography, but the digital realm has a lot more to learn. I felt silly taking a beginner photography class, but I learned a lot of the basics of a digital camera and know how to better use the functions I have available to me. Our teacher is a local commercial photographer that had great insights and was always willing to help. I encourage taking a course face-to-face, if you can. Well worth my time.
December 8th, 2012 at 9:58 am
4 YEARS in the USAF 4444 RTG trained at Lowery in Denver, Co. in 1964, darkroom to portraits, just went digital about two years ago, but still have my Yashica DX with a Carl Ziess 1.8, 55MM , worked on Automatic processing machines 8 inch X 500 ft, from U2 and C-130s that flew over Cuba and North Africa.
December 8th, 2012 at 10:19 am
I have been searching the web for “academic” courses on photography and the ones I found are really expensive, and so have been put off. I know my camera (Nikon 7000) pretty well (still get surprises) and I participate in the activities of a local club (gave a presentation of composition beyond the rule of thirds).
This might sound absurd; what I am looking for is a group/institution in which one learns how to criticize (evaluate) pictures and in turn learns how to learn from criticism. Why is it so hard to find such a site? Probably because I am asking the wrong question.
December 8th, 2012 at 11:24 am
I’m taking the DPS online Photography course at this time. I really like the set up and the way the instructors interact with the assignments that you post.
December 8th, 2012 at 1:11 pm
When I retired I was given a camera. Since then I have taken Photography classes at our local Adult School both learning how to use new cameras I’ve purchased and the elements of a good photograph. Also have taken at the Adult School classes ih using Photoshop Elements and Photoshop for the past 10 years. And I have taken a 5-day workshop from from a pro in Yosemite National Park that was terrific. As long as I am photography is a passionate hobby of mine, I will take classes, courses, workshops – whatever is available to me.
December 8th, 2012 at 1:26 pm
This is my second course in 5 years. I take pretty good photos but I can always learn and improve. Nothing beats have a real live person to talk to and get instant feedback!
December 8th, 2012 at 1:45 pm
~ I took a photography course offered by Modesto Junior College in 1979. It was an excellent course and well worth the time and money spent taking it. ~
December 8th, 2012 at 1:52 pm
I took an introduction to digital photography class at a regional arts center, artscenteronline.org, in Troy, NY, USA, with a wonderful instructor, Katherine Wright.
December 8th, 2012 at 2:39 pm
Many years ago I did an evening class at the local college (in the UK), more recently I took a 2 day in Thailand. I would like to do more though.
December 8th, 2012 at 2:52 pm
I took Karen Russell’s popular Photographers’ Workshop. It was awesome. She only does 3 per year I think and they sell out in hours. Highly recommended for new or experienced amateurs interested in everyday life people photography. http://www.snapshotsofagoodlife.com/index.cgi?p=schedules
December 8th, 2012 at 3:46 pm
I took the Pro Course from NYIP. I was cool with teaching myself from what I read on the internet, but the girl pushed me to do some schooling. Not some fancy degree, but the certificate is a cool little thing to hang in the digital lab.
Other than that, tons of videos, Lynda.com, Kelby Training, Creative live, all sorts of youtube videos, Lastolite has a bunch of lighting videos, adorama has lots of videos, along with many other brand sites.
December 9th, 2012 at 1:05 am
I love PHOTOGRAPHY so much, when i had may first SLR Camera a RICOH KR10 with a normal lens I ordered a photography book from Readers Digest.
so, i learned the basic from the book, i wanted to learn more but i don’t have the time and there was no internet back then.
well to make this short , i never attended a photography class/ course. i only read books and magazines.
and this time i watch tutorials from youtube, and other free tutorials and download free ebooks about photography and most of all in your website DPS
your site is very helpful i always recommend DPS to my friends. ^_^
December 9th, 2012 at 8:34 am
I’m doing the complete course online at the New York Institute of Photography. Excellent home study course. I did a Google search for a home study course in photography and found NYIP. Check it out.
December 9th, 2012 at 3:15 pm
I’ve never taken a photography class, just read a lot of books/blogs, etc. – but, everyone who is interested in taking good pictures should take some classes – if nothing more than to be around people of similar interests and ask questions/compare notes. I learned a lot of lessons the hard way, after making many (avoidable) mistakes. In hindsight, I should have taken some classes, not just when I started taking photos, but after six months and a year, so that each time I went to a class I’d have new and different questions from experience.
December 9th, 2012 at 9:52 pm
it was last year when i had the opportunity joining a photo class at PCCI here in the philippines..
December 10th, 2012 at 1:30 pm
I am currently attending the New York Institute of Photography complete professional photography course through online and mail correspondence. I have been attending now since early 2011.
December 11th, 2012 at 12:57 am
I am new born to photography world and i am not planning to take any classes. right now i am reading stuff related to photography online and developing my skills
December 12th, 2012 at 1:05 am
Workshops – get me out of my comfort zone and allow me to think/breathe/act photography 24 hr/day. Go by myself so am not distracted by family or friends.
December 12th, 2012 at 1:57 am
If you have not taken any kind of course, then the only question is “WHY NOT?” You can spend a lot of money or no money at all, but you will come away INSPIRED!!! That could be the best part!
December 12th, 2012 at 6:03 am
I have taken several courses in film photography at the International Photography Workshops in Rockport, Maine (USA). The summer program offers scores of courses taught by master photographers. Most courses are a week long and it is a wonderful place to spend a week learning.
December 12th, 2012 at 1:08 pm
I took the NYIP And the oca but ran out of money on the OCA BOA digital photography degree, from then i learnt allot more, for cost not enough and to much time. times changing to fast,
December 12th, 2012 at 1:11 pm
All course well worth taking as i teach my self. And hold courses, learning from others and learning from show casing, Still cannot make a sale though. only in events photography. But when doing pro work It pays to have as many courses under your belt . So you can back up what you do and know.
December 12th, 2012 at 11:02 pm
I consider DPS as online class as I have learnt a lot from it. Otherwise I have done any classes.
December 14th, 2012 at 1:58 am
I went on a 4 hour walking tour around Edinburgh with a professional photographer who was giving tips and advice on photography in a city; exposure, composition etc. We got instant feedback on our efforts. He also gave his take on other areas including landscapes, wildlife, portraits and night photography. Four hours very well spent!
December 14th, 2012 at 3:25 pm
I’ve now taken (5) course through BetterPhoto.com that include:
1. Learning the Canon Digital Rebel Camera (Charlotte Lowrie)
2. Developing Your Creative Artistic Vision (Jim Zuckerman)
3. Photoshop: Advanced Creative Techniques (Jim Zuckerman)
4. Basic Masks In Photoshop (Doug Steakley)
5. Photographing Architecture: Around Town or Far Afield (Lynne Eodice)
I am very impressed with the quality of instructors and will definitely take more courses.
December 16th, 2012 at 12:12 pm
I took my first nature photography class in Colorado’s gorgeous Pingree Park with Road Scholar and the amazing Bob Harvey as instructor in 2005 and got the push I needed to turn from a hobby photographer into a serious photo artist. Have been taking at least 2 or 3 Chicago local or travel classes a year since then. The company of other photographers, great pros as instructors, and not having to worry about travel details makes every dollar spent worth my while. I’ve tried online or video, and just give up on it because I learn best by just going out there and learning to use all the features of my Canon Eos 50D
December 26th, 2012 at 6:32 am
I’ve never taken any formal potography classes unless you want to consider DPS a class. I have learned a lot from here and consider alot of my work to be as nice as some that are posted. it’s my belife you sould come here first even before you get into the more expensive equipment I allways recomend this site to my friends.
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