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Photography Classes Chicago

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Discover the art of capturing the perfect shot with a wide range of photography classes in Chicago. Learn the fundamentals, master advanced techniques, and gain the skills needed to excel in this creative field.

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Cell Phone Photography Masterclass for 1-6 People (Chicago)

Digital Photo Academy See all classes by this school @ Location customized to student goals, Chicago, IL

Unlock the full potential of your cell phone camera and capture stunning images anywhere. Learn expert composition techniques, master dynamic shot framing, and explore powerful editing apps to transform your photos into works of art. With hands-on guidance from a seasoned photographer, you'll gain the skills to elevate your mobile photography to the next level.

(161) All levels 10 and older
$550
Attend
+5500 pts
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Private Photo Workshop Date for Two (Chicago)

Digital Photo Academy See all classes by this school @ Location customized to student goals, Chicago, IL

Capture moments and create lasting memories together in a hands-on photography experience designed for two. Whether you're friends, family, or partners, you'll explore composition, camera techniques, and creative poses while capturing each other and your surroundings. Plus, an expert instructor will snap candid shots of you both, making this a truly special and unforgettable experience.

(161) All levels 10 and older
$350
for 2 students
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+3500 pts
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All Day Private Digital Photography for 1-6 People (Chicago)

Digital Photo Academy See all classes by this school @ Location customized to student goals, Chicago, IL

Enhance your photography skills with a personalized full-day session in Chicago. Capture stunning images and learn post-capture techniques from experienced instructors at Digital Photo Academy. Immerse yourself in various photography genres and receive tailored guidance to improve your craft.

(161) All levels 10 and older
$675
Attend
+6750 pts
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Half Day Private Digital Photography for 1-6 People (Chicago)

Digital Photo Academy See all classes by this school @ Location customized to student goals, Chicago, IL

Learn how to master the art of digital photography with personalized instruction and hands-on experience in Chicago. Improve your skills and capture stunning images in various categories like landscape, portrait, and architecture. Enhance your post-capture workflow and discover techniques to create powerful and impactful images.

(161) All levels 10 and older
$375
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+3750 pts
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Private Holiday Photography Workshop (Chicago)

Digital Photo Academy See all classes by this school @ Location customized to student goals, Chicago, IL

Capture the magic of your holiday moments with confidence and creativity. This personalized workshop will help you master photography techniques like lighting, composition, and timing, ensuring your images tell a unique story. Whether it's candid family moments or festive gatherings, learn how to make your photos shine with your own signature style.

(161) All levels 10 and older
$375
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+3750 pts
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Digital Photography Live In-the-Field @ Bridges of the City of the Big Shoulders

Digital Photo Academy See all classes by this school @ 300 West 19th St, Chicago, IL

Capture the essence of Chicago's iconic bridges and river scenes in this hands-on photography workshop. Guided by an expert instructor, you'll learn to compose compelling images while exploring the city's architectural marvels from a unique vantage point. Enhance your skills with practical tips and personalized feedback, ensuring every shot tells a powerful story.

(161) All levels 10 and older
$125
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+1250 pts
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Close-up Photography: Telephoto Lens

Chicago Botanic Garden See all classes by this school @ 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, IL

Enhance your photography skills with the power of a telephoto lens. From capturing distant subjects to revealing intricate details up close, this workshop equips you with the techniques to maximize the potential of long focal lengths. Join us to elevate your photography game and unlock new perspectives within the lush landscapes of the Garden.

(141) Advanced 18 and older
$374

4 sessions

Attend
+3740 pts
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Nature & Landscape Portfolio B

Chicago Botanic Garden See all classes by this school @ 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, IL

Examine the compositional techniques of today’s contemporary nature and landscape photographers to help you find your photographic voice. Apply these ideas to your work through weekly class projects. Display your photographic vision through a portfolio created during the workshop.  This course is designed for intermediate photographers. Digital SLR or mirrorless cameras are required.

(141) Intermediate 18 and older
$499

7 sessions

Attend
+4990 pts
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Master Your Digital Camera Controls (Chicago)

Digital Photo Academy See all classes by this school @ 300 West 19th St, Chicago, IL

Take your photography to the next level with this comprehensive workshop at Digital Photo Academy in Chicago. This course will teach you everything you need to know about your camera's functions and settings. Don't miss out on the opportunity to capture compelling images and receive a special alumni discount for future classes!

(161) All levels 10 and older
$90
Attend
+900 pts
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Photographing Waterlilies

Chicago Botanic Garden See all classes by this school @ 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, IL

Unveil the secrets to photographing the enchanting beauty of waterlilies and aquatic flora. Gain insights into optimal camera settings for capturing vivid floral colors, soft focus, and mesmerizing water reflections. Immerse yourself in hands-on practice amidst the scenic landscapes of the Chicago Botanic Garden, refining your photography skills under expert guidance.

(141) All levels 18 and older
$87
Attend
+870 pts
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Digital Photography Live In-the-Field @ Driehaus Museum

Digital Photo Academy See all classes by this school @ 40 E Erie St, Chicago, IL

Step back in time to the opulent Gilded Age with our photography class at the historic Driehaus Museum. Explore grand interiors and intricate details under the guidance of experienced instructors, learning techniques to capture the essence of this bygone era. Immerse yourself in a world of luxury and refinement, honing your skills to create captivating images that transport viewers to another time.

(161) All levels 10 and older
$135
Attend
+1350 pts
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Intermediate Digital Photography

Chicago Botanic Garden See all classes by this school @ 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, IL

Take your digital photography skills to the next level as you explore advanced techniques and creative approaches at Chicago Botanic Garden. Enhance your photos with lead lines, manual focus, and precise aperture settings to achieve impressive and artistic images. Prerequisite: Beginning Digital Photography or consent of the instructor.

(141) Intermediate 18 and older
$249

4 sessions

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+2490 pts
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Intro to Darkroom Photography

Evanston Art Center See all classes by this school @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Discover the art of traditional photography in this immersive course, where you'll uncover the secrets of exposure and delve into the history of the craft. Develop your own black and white film, create captivating gelatin silver prints, and explore the artistic possibilities of photograms. Unleash your creativity and bring your vision to life through the captivating art of darkroom photography.

(93) Beginner 18 and older
$295

6 sessions

Attend
+2950 pts
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Digital Photography Live In-the-Field @ Garfield Park Conservatory

Digital Photo Academy See all classes by this school @ 300 N Central Park Ave, Chicago, IL

Explore the beauty of Garfield Park through the lens of your camera in this immersive photography course. Capture the vibrant flora, intricate patterns, and stunning reflections while learning techniques to enhance your photography skills. Join us for a unique experience in the heart of Chicago's West Side.

(161) All levels 10 and older
$135
Attend
+1350 pts
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Photography: Creative Composition

Evanston Art Center See all classes by this school @ 1717 Central St, Evanston, IL

Master the art of composition and transform your photography with techniques that guide the eye, convey emotion, and elevate your creative vision. Whether you're using a camera or a smartphone, understanding composition will help you craft impactful, visually compelling images. Learn to move beyond snapshots and create photographs that truly stand out.

(93) All levels 16 and older
$250

6 sessions

Attend
+2500 pts
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Digital Photography Live In-the-Field @ Chicago Cultural Center

Digital Photo Academy See all classes by this school @ 78 E Washington St, Chicago, IL

Discover the beauty and culture of the Chicago Cultural Center through the lens of a professional photographer in this digital photography workshop. Capture the grandeur of the Tiffany dome, master light, and shadow techniques, and unleash your creativity in shooting both indoor and outdoor architectural marvels. Elevate your skills and create captivating images of this iconic Chicago landmark.

(161) All levels 15 and older
$135
Attend
+1350 pts
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Photoshop 1

Chicago Botanic Garden See all classes by this school @ 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, IL

Unlock the power of Photoshop to elevate your photography skills. Explore fundamental techniques including cropping, lighting adjustments, color enhancement, and subject modification to transform your images. Master the art of Selections and Layers to refine and enhance your photos with precision and creativity.

(141) Beginner 18 and older
$437

7 sessions

Attend
+4370 pts
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Digital Photography Live In-the-Field @ Gold Coast

Digital Photo Academy See all classes by this school @ 1365 N Astor St, Chicago, IL

Discover the prestige, wealth, and history of Chicago's Gold Coast through the lens of a professional photographer in this immersive digital photography course. Capture the stunning architecture and vibrant street life of this affluent neighborhood while learning the secrets of composition and technique. Unleash your creativity and create powerful images that showcase the beauty of the Gold Coast.

(161) All levels 10 and older
$125
Attend
+1250 pts
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New Camera Workshop

Chicago Botanic Garden See all classes by this school @ 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, IL

Unleash your photography potential with expert guidance in this hands-on workshop designed to help you master the setup and basic operations of your new camera. Capture stunning images with confidence, whether you own a DSLR, mirrorless, or advanced point-and-shoot camera.

(141) Beginner 18 and older
$162

4 sessions

Attend
+1620 pts
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Digital Photography Live In-the-Field @ Wicker Park

Digital Photo Academy See all classes by this school @ 1425 N Damen Ave , Chicago, IL

Capture the vibrant energy of Wicker Park with your camera, from its historic architecture to lively street scenes. Guided by a seasoned photographer, you’ll learn to create compelling portraits with dynamic backdrops, including colorful murals, unique storefronts, and bustling markets. Whether photographing locals or visitors, refine your skills to produce stunning images in this creative and dynamic environment.

(161) All levels 16 and older
$135
Attend
+1350 pts
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Reviews for Photography Classes in Chicago

Photography Classes in Chicago are rated 4.6 stars based on 119 verified reviews from actual CourseHorse.com purchasers.

  • I really enjoyed the class, I feel like Brenan was very kind and effectively showed us how to develop our photos. I liked the cadence of the class, and Brenan's instruction was very flexible and catered to each student well
  • Great workshop with the guidance and expertise of Ron ! Ron is very experienced in all aspects of photography… makes it clear and accessible. Learning a new way to approach street photography and depth of field! Thank you
  • Ron was an excellent instructor, especially for beginners. He helped ensure the content was easy to understand and provided really great recommendations on how to use a camera without overcomplicating things. Really nice person, accommodating, and made sure to answer every question.
  • Garfield Park Conservatory is an outstanding location and Ron taught me many helpful technical tips about using my camera & stylistic elements to consider while taking photos. Thank you, Ron!
  • Ron is an excellent instructor! He was very friendly and patient with all of the students and covered all of the important features on my digital camera. Ron provided and explained each concept with specific examples that were easy to understand and see. He also provided many tips about using the camera settings. I’m hoping he teaches a class at the conservatory so I can take another class with him.
  • I was really uninspired with photography bit after this class I've found a new perspective and am excited to shoot again
  • Great teacher! Great info! I really benefitted from this private course!
  • Great class! I appreciate all the information I received.
  • Don was a great instructor and I learned a lot! He even adjusted the curriculum to my and the other students proficiency with photography! I would recommend him and this course to anyone!
  • Iris, the instructor was great. I highly recommend this course.
  • Great class, very informative!
  • Digital 101 in a Day

    Carlos is great and always made sure everyone understood the current content before moving forward. I would hope to have Carlos again in future courses I plan to take.
  • Digital 101 in a Day

    The class was amazing but directions into the building were difficult. I learned so much and highly recommended this class.
  • My first class at the Botanical gardens. It was great!!! Looking forward to other related classes. Mr. Lucas had a lot of knowledge. I love his teaching techniques. Thank you
  • Digital 101 in a Day

    Carlos was fantastic!!
  • Digital 101 in a Day

    Excellent ! Carlos , our teacher was wonderful . Very knowledgeable ,very skilled presenting information to the group . Carlos quickly assessed the varying levels of the students and adapted to each to give the instruction at the correct knowledge base . The class was interesting , I learned so much and will be returning for further classes . Thank you ! Karen Rooke .
  • Digital 101 in a Day

    The class was awesome, just wish there was some sort of a handout that covered the key points with steps on how to find it again on your camera.
  • Very good course to learn the basics on how to work your camera. Would do again
  • Instructor was thorough and easy to work with. I felt like I was appreciated as a student. This class help spike my inspiration in photography.
  • Our instructor, Jack Carlson, was very good. He arranged for us to have photo shoots at the Evanston lighthouse, Graceland Cemetery and the Chicago Botanic Gardens. Jack was very helpful in teaching me and the other students composition and lighting techniques. He also helped me figure out what all the features were on my camera and how to use them. I highly recommend this course.
  • Digital 101 in a Day

    The class delivered exactly what was promised. A fast-paced overview of the basics of how to manage light and begin to apply that to taking photos.
  • Digital 101 4 Week Session

    I definitely got my money’s worth. The course is fast paced and covers a ton of ground. I walked away understanding why certain things happen when taking a photo and how to adjust. The instructor took time to help with individual issues and questions.
  • Digital 101 in a Day

    Carlos was awesome. We learned so much - and the info was easy to understand.
  • Exposure

    I LOVED that Russ did not just talk...he made the class interactive and MADE us interact in a very non-threatening way! It was obvious he knows what he's talking about and gave us wonderful tips to improve our photographs...not just "pictures". It was great...and made us THINK about what we were doing. The venue was very comfortable and conducive to learning. I would highly recommend him!
  • This was a wonderful intro class. The instructor was friendly, interesting, and did a really good job of getting the class started on the basics.
  • The class was very engaging and explanatory for a basic level class. Loved it!
  • Excellent instructor with Jack Carlson made this class great!
  • Great class!
  • I was incredibly surprised by how much information I walked away with after only 90 minutes. You could tell that Nick really cared about the class & was adamant about us taking something away from it. His passion for photography was apparent which made the class very enjoyable. There were multiple times my friend & I looked at each-other and laughed because something we had been trying to learn on our own finally clicked. I'm definitely debating taking the full 7-week session & have told all my friends they should check it out.
  • Sai was super nice, patient and taught us a lot about our cameras and taking great pics.
  • Nick Sinnott is a wonderful teacher and anyone that takes even the trail course will benefit (if they're a beginner). The facilities are nice and are conducive to learning. I highly recommend doing the trial if you want to find a good photography class. My husband and I both have signed up for the course.
  • Digital 101 in a Day

    Carlos was great I know more about my camera after the class then I every would have figured out on my own he take the time to make sure every student understands despite all the different cameras people had. I would recommend this class to anyone who has a DSLR camera and wants to get the most out of it.
  • It was a great session with Don. Really helpful to do some time inside on the camera basics before h adding out to the field. Thanks guys for a great session!
  • Digital 101 in a Day

    As I said in the previous review request, Carlos was THE best instructor I have ever had. I always had such a hard time understanding the relationship between aperture, shutter speed and ISO. He walked us thru everything in terms that made perfect sense to me. Unlike other beginning photography classes I have taken, Carlos started from ground zero even though a few in the classroom were more advanced. Loved, loved, loved the class! I even signed up for the online version this morning! Great job!

Discover the Best Photography Classes in Chicago

Photography is an artistic way to express your creativity. There are many levels to photography and numerous paths that anyone can choose. Given the endless possibilities, it is essential to consider what and why you want to learn photography, especially in a fantastic city like Chicago. 

Why You Should Learn Photography in Chicago

Learning photography in a city like Chicago is a great idea and can be the start of some incredible opportunities. You can learn this skill to add to your employable skills or break into a new career. Not only does Chicago have some iconic backdrops for photography, but you might find your work in their public photo gallery with a chance to sell your work. Chicago is considered a top spot for wedding photographs, so if you want to enter the field, you could start as a photographer. 

If your aim is not to make photography into a career but to instead connect with others with similar interests, that is also an option. The Out of Chicago conference is a great photography conference for you to meet other city, street, and architecture photographers. This five-day conference allows you to work closely with professional photographers and meet other enthusiasts from all over. There is a full itinerary and a chance to take pictures all over the city while meeting new friends. Finally, learning photography could be your next hobby. Living in a city with many iconic and picturesque backdrops, you can learn how to take excellent pictures to relieve stress, try something new, and make good use of your free time.

In-Person Photography Classes & Schools in Chicago

Chicago offers many choices when it comes to taking photography courses. The Chicago Botanic Garden is one of the world's great icing museums and conservation science centers. The botanic garden has 26 gardens and four natural areas situated on 385 acres on nine islands. It is truly a beautiful place to visit. Additionally, people of all ages, interests, and abilities can take classes offered in their laboratories on the garden grounds. Located in Glencoe, Illinois, this is the perfect setting for a photography class. The botanic garden offers a Garden and Travel Photography course to prepare you for your next trip. In this class, students will learn how to create lead-line and use the light, angles, and time of day to optimize their pictures.

The course is four sessions long, with each session lasting for 3 hours. There is a prerequisite of the Beginning Photography class or general camera competence, and you are required to have a digital camera. 

If you aren't quite ready to jump into a class using a digital camera, the iPhone Photographycourse is also an option. Also offered at the Chicago Botanic Garden, this iPhone course will explore some of the better-known photo apps and get instructions on how to use them for mature photography. You can also expect to learn the basics of iPhone photography such as how to enhance, manipulate, or alter them. This 2 hours course has three sessions, and students must have an iPhone to participate. If you are looking for a beginners level class, the Beginning Digital Photographyclass at the botanic garden is a great place to start. This course will teach students the techniques and principles of photography. At the same time, they explore the basics of photography, how the camera works, and the functions of lens aperture. While no previous experience is required for this class, students are required to have a digital SLR camera. Students can expect to learn a lot in this four-session course that lasts 3 hours, and students have the perfect background of the Chicago Botanic Gardens.

The Digital Photo Academy, DPA, offers nationwide workshop series to promote the culture of digital photography. DPA hosts workshops in various cities hiring professional photographers to teach live classes in those cities. All of the DPA instructors are adequately trained to teach DPA workshops. In addition, DPA offers quite a few seminars in the Chicago area. One special seminar offered at DPA is the live in-the-field course. For example, there is a Digital Photography Live In-The-Field @ Garfield Park course offered in the picturesque Garfield Park on the West Side of Chicago. The live in-the-field, or Composition in the Field class begins with a talk with one of DPA's experienced instructors, followed by a stroll through a photogenic location.

In this case, students can take shots of waterfalls, the cacti in the Desert Room, abstract art and shapes, and a full bloom of flowers, depending on the season. This fun-filled three-hour session is a great way to learn how to shoot strategically and capture some interesting photos. If you love the idea of taking pictures in the field, there is also the Digital Photography Live In-The-Field @ St. Nicholas. Same concept as the Garfield Park class, except this location is the St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral which offers an excellent photo opportunity. Students will explore some of the challenges associated with lightning while having fun. Students will take pictures inside and outside the church, leaving a lot to your creativity. Like others in the field course, this one also lasts three hours. 

Finally, perhaps the field is beyond your comfort level; there is the Master Your Digital Camera Controls (Chicago). This workshop will teach students the ins and outs of their camera, no matter the model. The course lasts for an hour and a half and gives students a chance to learn how to work their Digital SLR Camera/Point and shoot camera. Though not required, the Master Your Digital Camera Controls class is an excellent prerequisite for the in-the-field courses.

The Evanston Art Center specializes in art education and offers exhibitions to the public for free. The art center is one of Illinois's oldest and largest visual art centers. As a part of their mission to provide visual arts classes that engage the community, you can find some excellent classes here for your creative mind. If you are like many, learning a craft's history is a great way to gain insight and appreciation for the skill. The History of Photographyclass is just what you need if you are looking for an overview of the history of photography. The course begins with the birth of the photographic process and ends with present-day digital photography. Students will discuss the science and technique behind various photographic processes, influential photographers, and events throughout photographic history. 

Virtual Photography Classes & Schools

You can take a photography class virtually, and it has its benefits. A virtual option allows you to attend the session from anywhere, cuts out your commute, and you have access to more class options. However, while having an online option has benefits, there are some things to consider such as costs. Consider this: attending a virtual class versus an in-person class means you will have to provide your own equipment in most cases. Fortunately, most photography classes require you to provide your equipment regardless of being virtual or in-person, so you might not be at a disadvantage if you choose the online route. 

There are quite a few options if you are looking for an online photography class. For example, The Documentary Photography Narrative course is offered out of the Los Angeles Center of Photography. In this online course, students will explore how to tell visual stories and form a cohesive narrative body of work ready for publishing. The course has six sessions, exposing students to the creations of great documentary photographers. This workshop is an excellent way for future photographers to tell stories with their photos. 

A Digital Photography: Smart Phone skills course might interest you if you want to learn how to become more creative with your iPhone. The course covers hardware add-ons, apps for networking and editing, and some basics of better composition. It is split into two sessions and only costs $115. While both classes require a camera or an iPhone, they provide supplemental instruction instead of learning just the basics. These courses operate under the assumption that you already own the device and want to perfect your skill. There are many other online options like these to help you expand your skills on the equipment you already own. 

Private Group Photography Classes in Chicago

Planning a unique team-building event for your next company can be challenging. Still, CourseHorse has just what you need to plan a great event. You can consider just about any private event such as a private group photography class in Chicago. You still have options if you don’t see a photography class available. CourseHorse can help you plan your perfect event. Using the contact form on their website, enter your group size, event detail, and requested date for your event. You will hear back from a virtual event planner in 2 business hours to help craft your virtual group class. CourseHorse makes this easy because there are no booking fees, you will receive confirmation within 24 hours of booking, and they support multiple virtual platforms. Everything will be handled on the day of the event, and all your team needs to do is show up and enjoy!

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