You’ll begin to understand the relationship between camera operation., light, and composition. And as a result, you’ll become thoroughly familiar with essential camera operation and learn to control your photographs’ composition fully.
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Introduction to Photography
Registration
Prerequisites: No.
*Contact Sam for more information
and discounted pricing for In-person or online private classes.
*Are you thinking of getting a class as a gift?
Please consider getting a gift certificate instead.
Introduction To Photography Schedules
Upcoming classes are listed below (4 meetings. 2.5 hours each meeting. 10 hours total. Limited to 5 registrants.)
In-person group classes meet at the Kogod Courtyard in the National Portrait Gallery.
8th and G Streets NW
Washington, DC 20001
After entering the building, walk straight past the front desk to the Kogod Courtyard.
*Please read the Visiting Tips & FAQs. No refunds for any classes will be given to registrants who are asked to leave because their behavior does not adhere to safety policies and guidelines.
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General Information
- Prerequisites: No
- Instructor: Sam D’Amico
- Ways taught: In-person group classes; In-person or online private lessons
Contact Sam for more information and discounted pricing for
in-person or online private classes.
About the Introduction to Photography Course
While working your camera in fully manual exposure mode throughout the Introduction to Photography course in Washington, DC, you’ll become familiar with essential camera operation. In addition, you’ll learn to use your camera settings and features as elements of effective photographic composition. Also, the class includes in-class lectures/discussions, practical application exercises, homework assignments, and weekly self-critiques.
Stop being frustrated with photography!
- Use your mind instead of a machine to make your pictures appear how you want.
- Get control of the outcome of your photographs.
- Be involved in composition.
- Improve your understanding of light and lighting.
Make Better Photographs and Become a Better Photographer by Working Your Camera in Manual Exposure Mode
When working in manual exposure mode during the Introduction to Photography course, we’ll use our cameras thoughtfully to control our composition precisely. In other words, we’ll be involved in camera operation to fully influence the outcome of our photograph instead of the camera taking the picture for us.
Introduction to Photography – What You’ll Learn
During the Introduction to photography course, you’ll learn to use your mind to create a photograph instead of a machine. What is meant by that is that you’ll be involved in creating your picture to the fullest extent possible.
To make the best photos possible, you’ll learn about functions on your camera critical to creating thoughtful compositions uniquely yours. Specifically, among other things, you’ll learn how to think of focusing, metering, and exposure as design elements. Finally, you’ll learn how to relate those composition elements to your camera’s operation.
Some of the things you learn:
- How to evaluate the characteristics of light.
- How to create the best photographs after assessing the light.
- You’ll start metering attentively in manual exposure mode.
- Use the visual attributes of aperture, shutter speed, and ISO thoughtfully as elements of composition.
- Start manually controlling picture tonality (the lightness/darkness of your photograph) efficiently, effectively, and thoughtfully.
- Using white balance settings as an element of the composition.
- Thoughtful and practical visual design.
Introduction to Photography Course – How You’ll Learn
How You’ll Learn During the Course
Sam gives a balanced mix of lectures and practice exercises during the Introduction to Photography course. In other words, you’ll learn by doing what we discuss during class. Specifically, practicing camera operation and technique during class is a regular part of the training. As a result of practicing camera operation and technique during class, the participant can immediately apply their newly acquired skills and begin making thoughtful compositions.
While practicing camera operation and technique is essential, you’ll learn to think like a photographer throughout the class. Furthermore, through discussions and critiques, you’ll learn a thought process and vocabulary to become aware of what we’re doing as photographers.
How You’ll Learn Outside of Class
You’ll get homework to reinforce the lessons provided during the Introduction To Photography Course In DC. However, the assignments are not subject-specific. Consequently, the class participants learn effectively by producing pictures relevant to their preferred work. Moreover, since each photographer brings different kinds of work to display during the classes (4″X6″ prints when meeting in person are best.), conversations organically spring up about the pictures. The importance of these conversations is that it helps us cultivate a thought process and vocabulary that are important to use during our studies and practice.
Jamal H. says: Received Sam’s Introduction to Photography class as a gift in November 2017 after showing an interest in photography due to travel outside the states and it was truly a great experience. Sam was patient and willing to always revisit and re-explain topics to me when I struggled with tasks. I never felt intimidated as Sam’s easy-going personality gives the class a comforting feeling. After only 4 classes, I now can shoot in Manual mode with confidence in capturing my shot as the human eye views it. Highly recommend this class to any beginners with a DSLR camera.
Donna I says: I’ve been wanting to learn how to use a camera in manual mode for years. I tried learning from books, online articles, and tutorials, but I always ended up more confused than when I started. I finally realized it was all right to admit I needed someone to teach me. I’m so glad I found Sam and took his course, Introduction to Photography. Sam is a great teacher and extremely patient and supportive. Each class was full of useful information about the how’s and why’s of making pictures. His discussion of the topics coupled with hands-on practice made it all make sense. As I’m continuing to experiment, the notes I took in class give me what I need to work with my camera effectively. The classes were always on topic and Sam encouraged us to ask whatever questions we had. I highly recommend this course for anyone who wants to turn off the auto setting on their camera.
Bernard says:I really enjoyed Sam’s class. I was looking for a class to learn photography and how to use my camera. Sam isn’t going to teach you how to operate your camera – mainly because everyone comes to class with a different camera and that’s what the instruction manual is for. Rather, he’s going to teach you the fundamentals of photography, and in turn, you’ll learn to use your camera thorough knowledge of the fundamentals, practice, and read the manual. I really liked Sam’s teaching style and personality. He makes you think, and he’s not here to judge your photography skills. He leaves that up to you as the photographer. I recommend his class and plan to take the intermediate class and focus class.
Class Meeting Locations
In-person group classes meet at the Kogod Courtyard in the National Portrait Gallery.
Please read the Visiting Tips & FAQs.
No refunds for any classes will be given to registrants who are asked to leave because their behavior does not adhere to safety policies and guidelines.
- National Portrait Gallery
8th and G Streets NW>
Washington, DC 20001>
After entering the building, walk past the front desk to the Kogod Courtyard.
Registration
Prerequisites: No.
*Contact Sam for more information
and discounted pricing for In-person or online private classes.
*Are you thinking of getting a class as a gift?
Please consider getting a gift certificate instead.
Introduction To Photography Schedules
Upcoming classes are listed below (4 meetings. 2.5 hours each meeting. 10 hours total. Limited to 5 registrants.)
In-person group classes meet at the Kogod Courtyard in the National Portrait Gallery.
8th and G Streets NW
Washington, DC 20001
After entering the building, walk straight past the front desk to the Kogod Courtyard.
*Please read the Visiting Tips & FAQs. No refunds for any classes will be given to registrants who are asked to leave because their behavior does not adhere to safety policies and guidelines.
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I am interested in taking the introduction classes, and like to know what are recommended cameras to purchase for the class also for future advanced classes.
Thank you.
Hello Li,
Thank you for your interest in my photography classes.,while I can’t recommend specific cameras, I can offer you some guidance.
Here’s a link to help you to select a camera that is best for you.
https://samdamico.com/frequently-asked-questions/#can-you-recommend-a-camera
Please contact me at 202-531-2344 if you have further questions.
Hi, I see that I just missed the class that started this past Sunday. In looking at the scheduled I don’t see any other Sunday sessions scheduled through March. Will this change and will you be offering more Sunday classes? Thanks
Hi Tonia,
Thank you for you interest in my photography classes.
I’ll probably will be adding at least one more Sunday class during January through March.
If I can add a Sunday class I’ll update the schedule by the end of next week.
Sam
Thanks,
I check back then!
Thank you, Tonia.
I would also be interested in. Sunday class in February
John, do you have a specific class in mind?
Hi Sam, will there be a new round of classes that begin in April? Wif so, when will they be posted?
Hello Neil,
Thank you for your interest in my photography classes.
I just got finished updating the schedule for April through June, 2017.
You can see the schedule here–>https://samdamico.com/introduction-photography-washington-dc-photography-class/
Hi Sam!
I’m interested in taking the 4 class wednesday series starting Nov 2. Would a canon EOS Rebel T5 would be good. Any recommendation with that over the Nixon D3300.
Thanks, kelly
Hi Kelly,
Thank you for your interest in my photography classes.
A Canon EOS Rebel T5 would be fine for the Introduction to Photography class ( https://samdamico.com/introduction-photography-washington-dc-photography-class/ ).
I would not have a recommendation with that over the Nixon D3300. I can’t recommend one over the other. Which one do you feel more comfortable using?
( https://samdamico.com/frequently-asked-questions/#can-you-recommend-a-camera )
Please contact me at 202-531-2344 if you have further questions.
Hi Sam,
Will a Sony RX10 work for your Introduction to Photography class?
Hi Kaustav,
Thank you for your interest in my photography classes.
Yes, the Sony RX10 http://www.sony.com/electronics/cyber-shot-compact-cameras/dsc-rx10/specifications will work for the Introduction To Photography class.
Hi Sam,
I do not have a camera, do you have suggestions for a novice?
Thanks~
While I can’t recommend a camera, you can use this information to help you find the camera that’s best for you.
https://samdamico.com/frequently-asked-questions/#can-you-recommend-a-camera
Sam
Hi Sam
I am interested in classes starting Feb 6th. I have a Fuji XT10 camera, would that work?
Cheers, Steffen
Hi Sam!
I am interested in your class ” Introduction to Photography” starting next February 6. My camera is an Olympus SP-720UZ 14megapixel. I wonder if it would work.
I would appreciate your comments!
Many thanks!
Best,
Isabel Mateus
Hi Isabel,
Thank you for your interest in my photography classes.
I took a look at your camera (http://www.imaging-resource.com/PRODS/SP720UZ/SP720UZDAT.HTM) and unfortunately, since it cannot be operated in fully manual exposure mode, this camera would not be appropriate for the Introduction to photography class.
Thanks for your reply.
We have another camera, it is a Nikon D 3200. Would it work?
best,
Isabel
Hello Isabel,
Yes, the Nikon D3200 would work.
Best Regards, ‘
Sam
Wonderful! Thanks!
You’re welcome, Isabel.
Hello Sam,
I am very interested in your classes and I have a sony nex-5t. Does that satisfy the prerequisite?
Thank you
Hello Jane,
Thank you for your interest in my photography classes.
I took a look and according to what I read at http://store.sony.com/nex-5t-mirrorless-camera-w-16-50mm-lens-zid27-NEX5TL//cat-27-catid-EOL-Alpha-NEX-Cameras, the prerequisite is satisfied.
Please contact me at 202-531-2344 if you have any further questions.
Best Regards,
Sam
Hi,
I’m interested in taking your class. However, I don’t have DSLR. Only camera I have is Nikon Coolpix P510.
Here is the description.
http://www.nikonusa.com/en/Nikon-Products/Product-Archive/Compact-Digital-Cameras/COOLPIX-P510.html
Should I take the class or should I take it after I got a DSLR?
Thanks,
Hi Nick,
Thank you for your interest in my photography classes.
Thanks for the link to your camera. I took a look and, although limited in some ways, since it can be worked in manual exposure mode it would be fine for the Introduction to photography class. —->https://samdamico.com/introduction-photography-washington-dc-photography-class/
By using the camera you have now for the class, you’ll learn camera operation, you’ll get a good foundation in photography and if you decide to get a DSLR (or other type of format) you’ll be more informed as a result of the class to make a good decision on which one to buy.
Please contact me at 202-531-2344 if you have more questions.
i am wanting to take your classes, the only camera i have is my I phone 6 …
what camera would you recommend i get ? thanks Tom
Hi Tom,
Thank you for your interest in my photography classes.
While I can’t recommend a specifc camera, I can help you with some suggeastions on what to consider when looking for a camera to purchase.
Please read the following information on my website.
—> https://samdamico.com/frequently-asked-questions/#can-you-recommend-a-camera
Sam
I was wondering if my camera would be ok, it is a nikon one:
http://www.nikonusa.com/en/Nikon-Products/Nikon-1-Cameras/index.page
Rosario,
Thank you for your interest in my photography classes.
Which Nikon 1 is the model that you’ll be using for the class?
http://www.nikonusa.com/en/Nikon-Products/Nikon-1-Cameras/Nikon-1.page
I also have the “will my camera be ok” question 🙂 It’s a FujiFilm XQ1. Thanks!
If the link below leads to your camera, then your camera would be fine for the class.
Thank you for checking, Christy.
http://www.fujifilm.com/products/digital_cameras/x/fujifilm_xq1/features/page_04.html
Hi Sam,
I’m interested in enrolling in the March 31 intro class. I just purchased a Sony RX100M3. It’s not on a SLR but it’s a high end point and shoot with manual settings. Would I qualify to take the class.
Thanks,
Bahaa
Hi Bahaa,
Thank you for your interest in my photography classes.
If this is the camera that you’ll be using for class (http://store.sony.com/cyber-shot-digital-camera-rx100-iii-zid27-DSCRX100M3/B/cat-ProductChannelAssignments-catid-SNYUSAssignments) then you would be well qualified to take the class.
Sam
Thanks, Sam!
How do I go about registering online? Silly question, I’m sure, but I can’t seem to find the link.
Bahaa
Hi Bahaa,
No question is silly. 🙂
Here’s the link —-> https://samdamico.com/introduction-photography-washington-dc-photography-class/#upcoming-classes-price-and-registration
Sam
Hi,
I am interested in signing up for this class and recently purchased a Canon EOS Rebel DSLR T5. But I’m not sure whether or not it can be “operated in full manual exposure mode.” Can anyone answer this for me?
Thanks!
Amy
Hi Amy,
Thank you for your interest in my photography classes.
Yes, the Canon EOS Rebel DSLR T5 (http://shop.usa.canon.com/shop/en/catalog/cameras/eos-cameras/eos-rebel-t5-ef-s-digital-camera-18-55mm-is-ii-lens-kit) can be operated in fully manual exposure mode and would be fine for the class.
Sam
Hi Sam,
I’m really interested in taking the Introduction to Photography class that starts tomorrow. However, I’m out of town this weekend. Would it be possible to start next Saturday and make up for the missed class on the next class cycle? I’m not sure what would be the content of the 1st class, but I could maybe review material and come prepared for next class.
Thanks,
Cristina.
Hi Cristina,
Thank you for your interest in my photography classes.
I would not recommend taking the class if you can not make the first meeting because the first meeting is foundational for the rest of the class.
If I would have known sooner, I would have said yes, as long as you could have attended the Getting To Know Your Camera class that was offered last evening.
I hope that you can register for one of the Introduction to Photography classes that start in March.
Hi Sam,
I’d love to take the Saturday class, starting Feb. 7, but will be away on Feb. 28. Would it be possible to make up that class at the end of one of your March sessions? Thanks!
Jenelle
Hi Jenelle,
Thank you for your interest in my photography classes.
Yes, It would probably be possible to make up the class that you’ll be missing on February 28 at the end of one of the March sessions.
Please review the policy on making up a missed meeting:
https://samdamico.com/registration-terms-and-conditions/#missing-a-meeting-during-a-multi-week-class
Sam
Hello! I am interested in taking the Saturday morning class, but I will be away on Saturday, the 24th. Would it be possible to join the corresponding Thursday evening class that week?
Many thanks,
Anonymous
Hello,
Yes, If you are registered for the the Saturday morning class that starts on the 10th. and you miss the meeting on the 24th. You can attend the corresponding Thursdasy evening class (January 22.)