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Photo Basics: Getting Off Auto

Take control of your camera and elevate your photography skills. Learn how to adjust settings for stunning images, freeze or blur motion, and create beautifully blurred backgrounds. This hands-on class covers essential techniques like manual modes, focus settings, and composition tips to help you confidently move beyond Auto mode. Bring your camera and discover the art of capturing captivating moments!

  • Beginner
  • Small class sizes
  • 16 and older
  • $109
  • Earn 10% Rewards
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  • 4 hours

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  • $109/person
  • 4 hours
1201 K St NW, Washington, DC
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8130 Porter Rd, Falls Church, VA
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1201 K St NW, Washington, DC
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Class Description

Description

Whether you want to capture cherished moments with loved ones, document game-winning action, or preserve the beauty of your travels, this beginner photography basics class provides the tools you need with hands-on practice.

Learn how YOU, not the camera, can control the ‘look’ of an image by choosing the appropriate settings. Understand which tools you can use to freeze or blur motion, and how to beautifully blur backgrounds to make your subject stand out.

This class is designed for those who want to learn more about photo basics to comfortably get off the Auto mode.

Topics Include:

  • Camera Controls – Learn the most important settings that affect exposure
  • ISO Settings
  • Shutter Speeds – Control motion to add emphasis
  • Aperture Settings – To affects the ‘Depth of Field’ or what is or isn’t in focus
  • Manual Shooting Modes
  • Focus Settings – Learn how to get tack-sharp focus in your photos.
  • Resolution & Compression – Set your camera to capture the best quality images
  • White Balance – Capture accurate and vibrant colors
  • Fill Flash
  • Lenses – Understand your lens options
  • Composition – Learn tips for captivating photographs

Students are encouraged to bring their cameras. As we discuss camera features and menu settings, you can follow along and learn how to adjust them. An extra battery, memory card, and your instruction manual are also very helpful to have on hand at the class.

Appropriate for DSLRs and Mirrorless cameras with manual exposure controls.

School Notes: Mailing address:PO Box 855 Alexandria, VA 22313

Refund Policy

  • A refund or a credit towards another class (less a $20 processing fee) can be given if cancellation notice is given more than 6 business days from the scheduled class.
  • If there is no cancellation notice, or it is given 6 business days or less, no refund or credit will be given.

Please check the name and date of the class carefully.

  • Requests to reschedule a class will incur a $20 processing fee provided notice is given more than 6 business days prior to the class.
  • If request to reschedule is given less than 6 business days prior to the class, no refund or credit will be given.

If the school cancels or postpones a class due to weather or low enrollment, you can choose a full refund or a credit towards a future class.

In any event where a customer wants to cancel their enrollment and is eligible for a full refund, a 5% processing fee will be deducted from the refund amount.

Reviews of Classes at Capital Photography Center (19)

(4.9-star rating across 19 reviews)
  • Photo Basics: Getting Off Auto

    My son and I attended this course. The instructor had a good presentation with lots of examples and best of all, he would stop by every single person each time he taught a camera function on technique. So many times if the instructor stays at the front of the classroom, it’s hard to know if you actually understand what’s being taught. Excellent course for beginners.
  • Photo Basics: Getting Off Auto

    This was a very good intro class. Well explained and easy to understand. We got done about 40 minutes only suggestion I can think of is maybe put us through some more exercises if the class gets done early.
  • Photo Basics: Getting Off Auto

    Outstanding! Exactly what I was looking for. Valuable guidance presented in an effective manner.
  • Photo Basics: Getting Off Auto

    Great beginner class for anyone looking to get into photography. Helps that it is an in-person class where you get to see hands on what each concept means and as a bonus you get to see various types of cameras - if you haven’t yet decided on buying/upgrading to one.
  • Photo Basics: Getting Off Auto

  • Photo Basics: Getting Off Auto

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Review Summary by CourseHorse

Students rave about the Photo Basics - Getting Off Auto class, describing it as outstanding and exactly what they were looking for. The class provides valuable guidance in a highly effective manner. As a result, students walk away from the class with a solid understanding of photography and are equipped to make informed decisions about their camera choices. Quotes: 1. "This class taught me so much about photography that I previously had no idea about. The instructor's guidance was invaluable and I now feel confident in my ability to take great photos." 2. "One of the best parts of this class was getting to try out different cameras and lenses. It really helped me understand the importance of equipment and what I need to consider when purchasing or upgrading."

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Capital Photography Center

How We Began

Capital Photography Center was created by Marie Joabar who for more than a decade was the Education Programs Manager and Corporate Trainer at Penn Camera, one of Washington D.C.’s long standing photography retailers. Marie developed that company’s educational program growing it from...

Read more about Capital Photography Center

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This school has been carefully vetted by CourseHorse and is a verified Washington, D.C. educator.

Capital Photography Center

Capital Photography Center

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