Online Photography Courses

About Online Learning

For avid scrapbookers who love photography, online learning offers many advantages. For example:

• Online learning is very flexible, so you can easily fit lessons around work and family responsibilities.
• An online photography course lets you learn from experienced instructors without worrying about traveling to a faraway campus.
• If you’re shy, online learning will give you a chance to improve your photography skills in a non-threatening environment.

However, taking classes via the Internet isn’t the right choice for everyone. The disadvantages of online learning include:

• If you don’t have reliable Internet access, it may be difficult to access the lessons as needed.
• The software used in many online courses may be tricky to use if you have limited computer experience.
• If you struggle to stay motivated without the personal attention of an instructor, you may find it difficult to complete an online course within the required timeframe.

Free Online Photography Courses

If you’re interested in learning more about the art of digital photography, a free course can help you become more comfortable with your camera. For example:

• Morgue File: On the Morgue File Web site, you can download free photography lessons and submit your work to a public gallery. Some of the topics covered include aperture, shutter speed, camera filters, and studio lighting.
• Digital Photo Secrets: Visit this site to register for a free e-mail course offering basic photography tips for beginners. You’ll receive one lesson each day for three weeks.
• Lexar Digital Photography: Lexar Digital Photography has an archive of free photography tips, lessons, and video tutorials.
• Kodak: As a leading maker of cameras and photographic accessories, it should come as no surprise that Kodak offers a variety of educational resources for aspiring shutterbugs. The lessons on photographing people, animals, holidays, and special events will be of particular interest to scrapbookers.

Fee-Based Photography Courses

While free online photography courses can give you a useful introduction to basic photographic techniques, taking your skills to the next level often requires more of a financial investment. Here are some classes to consider:

• Stare Photography School Online: This inexpensive photography course features nine lessons covering a variety of photography topics as well as the opportunity for you to have your work critiqued by professional photographers.
• New York Institute of Photography: Choose from one of three photography courses offered by this online educational institution, including a course explaining how to use the power of Adobe Photoshop to enhance your images.
• Better Photo: Better Photo offers a variety of online photography courses, most geared towards intermediate level photographers. Classes are available as part of four or eight week sessions, with new illustrated lessons delivered every Wednesday. After completing the week’s assignment, you’ll have the opportunity to receive a personal critique from the instructor.
• The Picture Perfect School of Photography: The Picture Perfect School of Photography offers online courses lasting four or eight weeks taught by experienced professional photographers. The selection of available classes includes “The Fundamentals of Composition,” “The Art of Seeing,” “Photographing Children,” and “Portraits Unplugged.”
• Academy of Art University: If you’re contemplating a serious pursuit of photography, Academy of Art University offers online AA, BFA and MFA degrees, classes, and certificates. The school is accredited by the national Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

Additional Photography Resources

While online photography courses can be very beneficial, you may also wish to investigate the offerings available from your local community college. Many schools have continuing education classes that provide a chance to receive personal attention in a small group environment. The classes are typically inexpensive and often held during the evening or weekend hours to accommodate the schedules of busy working adults.