Beginning Photography 101: From Auto to Manual — Understanding Your Camera

© Farrell Scott | Flower in Field

That camera has more sitting inside it than you think — and right now, it's probably doing most of the thinking for you. This class pulls back the curtain. We'll go hands-on with your camera's body, dials, buttons, and switches; decode what all those numbers and letters on your lens actually mean; and demystify the sensor, resolution, file types, and exposure modes, so nothing on your camera feels like a mystery anymore.

You're ready for this class if:

  • You own a Digital SLR or Mirrorless Camera
  • You've been shooting in Auto and wondering what you're missing
  • You want plain-English explanations, not technical jargon
  • You're ready to get to know your camera's buttons, features, and capabilities

We'll also cover the essentials that often get skipped: choosing the right filters, setting white balance for true-to-life color, understanding metering so you control exposure instead of guessing, and how to properly hold your camera for sharper, steadier shots.

You'll walk away with:

  • The confidence to finally step out of Auto Mode, for good
  • A real understanding of the exposure triangle: ISO, aperture, and shutter speed, and how they work together
  • The ability to control Depth of Field, so you can decide what's sharp and what softly fades away
  • Comfort shooting in Aperture Priority and Shutter Speed Priority, the two modes that give you creative control without overwhelming you
  • The skills to shoot fully in Manual Mode, where you - not the camera - call every shot

Bring your camera (DSLR or Mirrorless), its manual (if you have it), and your curiosity. That's all you need.

Posted in Workshops