DATE: TO BE DETERMINED.

This workshop is geared to those who have a digital camera, either a DSLR or mirrorless version with interchangeable lenses, or simpler "point-and-shoot" version, and want to know more about how to use it. Maybe you are the owner of a new camera, or have had one for awhile but are not as knowledgeable about it as you would like to be. Modern digital cameras are basically computers and the menu options can be vast and baffling. We help you “set and forget” most options and explain how to utilize the key ones. If you'd like to take your camera off the fully automatic mode and began to explore the range of what is possible, this class is for you. We will cover the basics of ISO, shutter speed for action control, and aperture (f/stop) settings for depth-of-field.

We will also discuss how to set up your camera including jpeg and RAW quality options, picture modes, using histograms to judge correct exposure, menus, and white balance settings. Other topics include shutter and aperture priority modes, using a built-in or hotshoe mounted flash, exposure compensation in automatic modes, tripods, lenses, filters and accessories, and much more. Note that not all camera options will be available with every camera, with point-and-shoot models having much more limited options than DSLRs with interchangeable lenses. We provide a handout packet with lots of information to take home to review what you learn at your leisure. Bring your camera outfit, instruction book, and questions!

DATE: TO BE DETERMINED

This workshop is designed for artist or anyone who needs an introduction to managing photographs on the home PC or MAC computer. It covers basic computer operation and workflow related to image handling and photo manipulation starting with the captured image (from your camera or provided by a photographer) through basic image manipulation in Photoshop Elements.

The first part of the workshop covers topics including importing photographs into the computer, storing and organizing images, designing a folder structure for archiving photographs for easy retrieval, the digital imaging basics of file types (jpeg, Tiff, PSD, RAW, etc.), sizes and resolution (dpi/ppi) and using external hard drives and burning CD/DVDs as backups to prevent losing your images. We will then use Photoshop Elements to improve images by cropping, resizing, color correcting, sharpening, correcting flaws, adjusting contrast, and much more. We will also discuss preparing files for email, your web page, print output and Internet sites such as Facebook, Zapp and Juried Art Services. Bring a few images to work on to class. If you open Elements before coming to class, DO NOT click on Photoshop Elements “ORGANIZE”, or allow Apple’s iPhoto to import your images automatically. Only click on Photoshop “EDIT” option.

Class size is limited to about six participants for this workshop in order to give maximum attention to the particular needs and skill level of each participant. We have three PC computers for use here, or you can bring your laptop running Windows, or MAC laptop (required to bring if using a MAC) loaded with Photoshop Elements (Version 16 or later preferable)-available from local office supply stores or online at sites like B&H Photo in New York. A basic understanding of computer operation and Microsoft Windows (or MAC-OS) is needed, but no prior Photoshop knowledge is necessary. Do not assume your battery will last for the entire class time. Be sure to bring your laptop POWER CORD, KEYBOARD AND MOUSE (Photoshop is a “two-handed” program and laptop keypads don’t offer the control you need) for your computer and a few images to work on. 

DATE: TO BE DETERMINED

Simply stated “composition,” as it relates to photography, is the selection and arrangement of objects within a frame. In painting the artist creates their own compositions by arranging elements from their minds eye, or inspired by the visual world, on the canvas. Photographers, on the other hand, must select what they photograph from the ”real world” and create compositions as they encounter an existing scene. The aspects of composition, subject selection, and lighting are more important in creating a successful image than any technical abilities with your camera, yet it is common for beginning photographers struggling with learning basic camera operation, or technically minded folk, to overlook these artistic aspects of making great photographs.

This workshop addresses using creative composition, and learning to see and understand the qualities of light, in order to make beautiful photographs. Anyone with a camera, from the cellphone camera user to the DSLR aficionado, can benefit from what they learn. Topics include compositional rules and guidelines, understanding the role of color and tone, visual balance, learning to use forms, shapes, lines, and patterns for visual interest, and understanding how to guide the viewer’s eye with your compositions. We will work on understanding how light reveals form and texture and can elicit emotion in your images. Participants are asked to bring up to a dozen of their favorite images to share with the class. We will discuss how to improve your work going forward and how to increase the number of great images you create using compositional and lighting techniques.