Photography is a captivating art form, but getting started can feel daunting without the right guidance. Luckily, there are numerous online platforms that offer beginner-friendly photography courses.
Whether you’re aiming to learn how to shoot professional-level photos with your DSLR or you simply want to understand the basics of composition, exposure, and lighting, there’s a course for you.
Best Online Photography Courses for Beginners
1. Skillshare: Photography for Beginners
- Course Duration: 1-2 hours
- Instructor: Justin Bridges
Overview:
Skillshare’s Photography for Beginners course is designed to help you quickly grasp the basics of photography, with a focus on understanding your camera and mastering manual settings. It’s ideal for people who want to transition from automatic settings to manual mode and gain confidence in their photography.
What You’ll Learn:
- Camera settings: Exposure triangle (shutter speed, aperture, and ISO)
- How to frame a shot using composition techniques (rule of thirds, leading lines, etc.)
- Basic editing tips for improving your images
- Creative exercises to help you practice
Why Choose Skillshare:
- Membership provides access to a wide range of creative courses
- Engaging and beginner-friendly content
- Free trial available
2. Udemy: Photography Masterclass: A Complete Guide to Photography
- Course Duration: 16.5 hours
Instructor: Phil Ebiner, Sam Shimizu-Johnson
Overview:
Udemy’s “Photography Masterclass” is an excellent course for beginners who want an in-depth, comprehensive guide. It covers a broad range of photography topics, from mastering your camera to advanced photography techniques. The course is broken down into bite-sized lessons, making it easy to follow at your own pace.
What You’ll Learn:
- Understanding different types of cameras and lenses
- Manual mode and exposure settings (shutter speed, aperture, ISO)
- Composition and lighting techniques for stunning photos
- Post-processing and editing with software like Lightroom and Photoshop
- How to take portraits, landscapes, and action shots
Why Choose Udemy:
- Lifetime access to the course
- Detailed, step-by-step instructions
- Access to a community of learners and instructors for support
3. Coursera: Introduction to Photography and Lightroom by Michigan State University
- Course Duration: 4 weeks (3-5 hours per week)
- Instructor: Prof. Brian Bowers
Overview:
Coursera offers a professional-level course by Michigan State University, focusing not only on photography basics but also on editing techniques using Lightroom. This course is designed for beginners but also offers valuable insights for those who want to integrate digital editing into their workflow.
What You’ll Learn:
- Basics of DSLR and mirrorless camera operations
- Core principles of photography (exposure, composition, and lighting)
- Introduction to editing photos using Adobe Lightroom
- Techniques for creating compelling photos in various environments (landscapes, portraits, etc.)
- Understanding the workflow from shooting to post-production
Why Choose Coursera:
- Free enrollment with an option to pay for certification
- University-level content with structured timelines
- Hands-on practice with assignments and peer feedback
4. CreativeLive: Fundamentals of Photography by John Greengo
- Course Duration: 3 hours
- Instructor: John Greengo
Overview:
John Greengo’s course on CreativeLive is perfect for beginners who want to get the basics right from the start. Greengo, a seasoned photographer, explains photography principles in simple terms, making them easy to grasp for newcomers.
What You’ll Learn:
- The essential components of a camera and how to use them
- Exposure settings and how they affect your images
- Key photography concepts like depth of field, white balance, and ISO
- Techniques for creating well-composed images in different environments
Why Choose CreativeLive:
- High-quality production value
- Direct access to a top-tier instructor
- Lifetime access to the course content (with purchase)
- Free live streaming of classes (with the option to purchase for permanent access)
5. The Great Courses Plus: Fundamentals of Photography
- Course Duration: 24 lectures (30 minutes each)
- Instructor: Joel Sartore
Overview:
For those looking for a detailed and in-depth introduction to photography, The Great Courses Plus offers a 24-lecture series taught by renowned National Geographic photographer Joel Sartore. It’s ideal for beginners who want to take a comprehensive dive into both the technical and artistic aspects of photography.
What You’ll Learn:
- Technical skills like aperture, shutter speed, and exposure triangle
- Artistic skills, including composition, framing, and color theory
- Techniques for photographing various subjects like people, animals, and nature
- Introduction to photo editing tools and techniques
Why Choose The Great Courses Plus:
- High-quality lectures by expert instructors
- Extensive resources and materials to supplement learning
- Access to a library of other related photography courses
6. MasterClass: Annie Leibovitz Teaches Photography
- Course Duration: 14 lessons (about 3 hours total)
- Instructor: Annie Leibovitz
Overview:
If you are an aspiring portrait photographer, Annie Leibovitz’s MasterClass is an incredible option. This course not only covers the technical aspects of photography but also offers insights into creative decision-making, composition, and working with subjects. Annie Leibovitz is one of the most iconic photographers of our time, and her lessons are invaluable for any beginner looking to elevate their craft.
What You’ll Learn:
- The art of portraiture and storytelling through photography
- Tips on lighting, both natural and artificial
- How to work with models, creating an authentic connection for compelling portraits
- Post-production techniques using Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop
Why Choose MasterClass:
- Learn directly from one of the world’s most famous photographers
- High-production value and immersive experience
- Lifetime access to course materials
7. Photography Concentrate: The Ultimate Photography Course
- Course Duration: 3+ hours of video lessons
- Instructor: Rob and Lauren Lim
Overview:
Photography Concentrate offers an all-in-one, easy-to-understand photography course for beginners. The course provides both video and written content, making it accessible to different learning styles. It covers everything from camera settings to the basic principles of composition and lighting.
What You’ll Learn:
- Camera basics: settings and functions
- Compositional techniques like leading lines, symmetry, and framing
- Understanding different types of lighting (natural, artificial)
- Practical photography tips for shooting portraits, landscapes, and events
Why Choose Photography Concentrate:
- Affordable one-time payment
- Clear, concise, and engaging lessons
- Access to downloadable resources and guides
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FAQs
Do I need a professional camera to take these courses?
No, you do not need a professional camera to get started. Many courses cater to beginners using entry-level DSLRs or even smartphones. As long as you have a camera with adjustable settings (manual mode), you’ll be able to practice the concepts taught in these courses.
Are these courses suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, all the courses mentioned above are designed specifically for beginners. They start with the basics and progressively introduce more advanced techniques. They are ideal for people who are just starting out and want to build a strong foundation.
Do these courses teach photo editing?
Yes, many of these courses include sections on photo editing using popular software like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop. Editing is a key component of digital photography, and learning how to enhance your images is an important skill for any photographer.
How much do online photography courses cost?
The cost varies depending on the platform and the course. Some platforms like Skillshare and Udemy offer affordable subscriptions or one-time payments, while others like MasterClass charge a premium for their exclusive content. Many courses also offer free trials or free lessons.
Will I be able to make money with the skills learned in these courses?
While the primary goal of these courses is to build foundational skills, with dedication and practice, you can absolutely turn your photography hobby into a business. Learning about photography basics, composition, lighting, and editing will all contribute to your ability to create high-quality, marketable photos.
Conclusion
Starting your photography journey can be both exciting and overwhelming, but the right course can set you on the path to success. Whether you’re interested in portrait photography, landscape photography, or just capturing everyday moments, there is a wealth of online resources that can guide you through every step of the process. From platforms like Skillshare and Udemy to professional-level courses like those offered by Michigan State University or Annie Leibovitz’s MasterClass, there’s something for every beginner. So, grab your camera, dive into one of these courses, and start capturing the world around you!