Demystify Your Digital Camera

Instructor	John A Benigno
Schedule	Fridays · 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Dates	May 2 – June 6, 2025
Ages	Adults
Type	Onsite
Medium	Digital Arts & Photography
Level	All Levels
Cost	Members $173.50 · Non-Members $201.75

Not sure where to begin with your digital camera? Build a foundation in photography with an overview of the technical aspects of how to handle a camera, adjust exposure and depth of field, properly use available light, and understand good composition. Well start with lessons in camera settings, composition, and lighting. Well look at post processing techniques in Photoshop and learn about digital file management. Throughout the class, well hone in on our creative, presentation, and discussion skills. The class is designed for beginning users of digital cameras; however it is open to all adults and teens regardless of experience. There are no prerequisites for this class. Topics covered include: Camera formats and settings, file formats, crop factor, the histogram, and focusing modes.

Student Supply List:

I have prepared a Photoshop workflow document. Students can purchase a download of this directly from me for $20.00.
A digital camera — preferably a dSLR, mirrorless, or high-end point-and-shot camera capable of RAW files.
When students come to class the camera’s battery should be fully charged and loaded with an appropriate memory card.
Pencil and paper to take notes.
A way of presenting assignments to the class: prints, iPad, Notebook or personal lap top computer. A smart phone is too small.
USB Thumb drive
Students should bring their own laptop to class with, at least, Photoshop CS 6.

While not a requirement, I would recommend four books:

“Digital Photography for the Impatient” by Ed Snyder
“The Adobe Photoshop CC Book for Digital Photographers” (2014 release)
“Voices That Matter” by Scott Kelby
“How Do I Do That In Photoshop?” by Scott Kelby
“In Camera: Perfect Pictures Straight Out of the Camera” by Gordon Laing