Online Class: Photography 101 — Beginner to Intermediate

'Photography 101: Beginner to Intermediate' empowers you to transform ordinary moments into extraordinary stories through an intuitive, self-paced curriculum. Expert guidance demystifies camera operations and artistic strategies, ensuring every shot you take conveys a powerful visual emotion.

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$120.00 (with CEU Certificate)
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  • 16
    Lessons
  • 37
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 103
    Students
    have taken this course
  • 17
    Hours
    average time
  • 1.7
    CEUs
 
 
 

Course Description

Ready to capture the world through your lens and tell your story through breathtaking images? Whether you're just starting out or looking to elevate your photography skills, "Photography 101: Beginner to Intermediate" is the perfect self-paced, online course to help you on your journey. In this comprehensive, engaging course, you'll explore the essential techniques and strategies used by professional photographers—all presented in an easy-to-understand format designed to help you achieve remarkable results right away.

This course is all about helping you master the camera you already own, whether it’s a smartphone, a compact digital camera, or a high-end DSLR. You don’t need to have the fanciest gear to take stunning photos, and with the knowledge you’ll gain here, you’ll soon be able to transform ordinary moments into extraordinary images. This course goes beyond just teaching you how to point and click—it's designed to give you the skills and confidence you need to make every shot count.

Why Photography 101?

Photography is more than just capturing a moment. It’s about telling a story, evoking emotion, and creating a visual masterpiece that can last a lifetime. But to achieve that level of artistry, it’s essential to understand the fundamental principles behind photography. In "Photography 101: Beginner to Intermediate," you’ll get a solid foundation in the basics and beyond, with expert guidance every step of the way.

One of the best features of this course is that it's completely self-paced. You can fit it into your busy life, progressing through the material at your own speed. There’s no pressure, no deadlines—just you, your camera, and a wealth of knowledge that’s waiting to be unlocked. Whether you have 10 minutes a day or a couple of hours to dedicate, this course adapts to your schedule.

What Will You Learn?

By the end of this course, you’ll have the technical know-how and creative confidence to take pictures that truly stand out. You’ll start with the fundamentals of camera operation and progress to more advanced techniques like managing exposure, understanding lighting, and composing your shots for maximum impact.

  • Master Your Camera: You’ll learn everything about the type of camera you own, from smartphone cameras to advanced DSLRs, and how to get the most out of them. The course covers camera settings, modes, and functions, allowing you to feel fully in control no matter the model you use.

  • Camera Buying Guide: Thinking about upgrading your camera or getting your first "serious" camera? The course provides a detailed guide on what to look for when purchasing a new camera, taking the guesswork out of finding the right model for your needs.

  • Aperture and Shutter Speed: Dive into the art and science of aperture and shutter speed. These two essential elements control the amount of light entering your camera and how your camera captures motion. With this knowledge, you'll be able to shoot in a variety of conditions and make creative decisions that enhance your photos.

  • The Power of Exposure: Discover the critical relationship between ISO, aperture, and shutter speed—commonly known as the "exposure triangle." Learn how to manipulate these settings to achieve properly exposed photos in any lighting condition. Whether you're shooting in bright sunlight or low light, you'll know how to make your camera work for you.

  • Depth of Field: Learn how to use depth of field to your advantage, blurring backgrounds or keeping everything in focus to highlight exactly what you want. This lesson is perfect for those wanting to master portraits, macro photography, or scenic landscapes.

  • Lighting Techniques: Lighting is the heart and soul of photography. This course will demystify how light affects your images and how you can manipulate both natural and artificial light to achieve the desired mood and tone. You’ll explore different times of day, weather conditions, and how to use tools like reflectors and diffusers to control your lighting environment.

  • Flash Photography: Not all lighting situations are ideal, and sometimes, you need a little help. Learn how to use your camera's flash effectively, whether it’s built-in or external. Understand when to use flash to avoid harsh shadows, or create dramatic effects in your images.

  • Choosing the Right Lens: Your lens choice can make a world of difference in your photography. In this course, you'll learn how different lenses affect the look and feel of your photos, from wide-angle to telephoto lenses. Even if you’re shooting on a smartphone, you’ll learn about the benefits of add-on lenses.

  • Steady Shooting: A steady hand is crucial for getting sharp images. We’ll cover techniques for keeping your camera steady—whether you’re using your body, a tripod, or other equipment—so you can avoid blurry shots and capture clear, crisp photos every time.

  • Creative Composition: Great photos don’t just happen—they’re designed. This course will teach you how to arrange the elements in your photos for maximum impact. You’ll explore the rule of thirds, leading lines, framing, and other compositional techniques that will help you transform ordinary shots into visually stunning images.

  • Digital vs. Film: While digital photography dominates today, this course also touches on the advantages and nuances of film photography for those who are interested. You'll learn the differences between these two mediums and how to choose the right one for your creative goals.

Real-World Learning

One of the most exciting aspects of this course is that it's filled with real-life examples from amateur photographers just like you. These case studies offer insights into the journey of learning photography, providing tips and tricks that are practical and easy to implement. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how these photographers overcame challenges, made creative breakthroughs, and continue to improve their skills.

This course doesn’t just stop at teaching you how to operate your camera; it’s designed to inspire you. You’ll have access to stunning visual comparisons that illustrate how small adjustments in settings can make a world of difference in your photos. As you progress, you’ll find yourself more confident and creative, with the ability to experiment with new techniques and settings.

A Fun and Engaging Learning Experience

Forget about being overwhelmed by confusing technical terms. This course is all about making photography approachable, fun, and rewarding. You’ll learn at your own pace, with engaging lessons that explain photography concepts in a way that anyone can understand. The hands-on approach means you’ll be practicing what you learn right away, reinforcing your skills as you go.

Whether you want to capture stunning landscapes, document family moments, or start building a photography portfolio, this course provides you with the skills and knowledge to make it happen.

Perfect for Everyone

Photography 101 is designed for photographers of all levels. If you’re a beginner, this course will give you the foundation you need to feel comfortable with your camera. If you’re more experienced, you’ll pick up advanced techniques that will take your skills to the next level. The course is also perfect for anyone looking to turn their passion for photography into a professional endeavor or a rewarding hobby.

Courses Frequently Bought Together:
  • Completely Online
  • Self-Paced
  • Printable Lessons
  • Full HD Video  
  • 6 Months to Complete
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Start Anytime
  • PC & Mac Compatible
  • Android & iOS Friendly
  • Accredited CEUs
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.31 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(2,521 votes)

Lesson 1. The Essentials of Photography

Understanding the evolution and types of cameras, from film to digital, simplifies the art of photography. Regardless of the device you own, learning the fundamentals empowers you to take better pictures and preserve memories creatively. 45 Total Points
  • Lesson 1 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Complete: Lesson 1 Assignment: Introductory Questions
  • Assessment: Lesson 1 Quiz
  • Assessment: Lesson 1 Review Exam

Lesson 2. Capturing Stories with Every Click

Modern cameras can range from simple point-and-shoot devices to advanced systems with customizable settings, allowing users to expand their creative horizons without needing a technical background. This balance enables photographers to capture ordinary moments effortlessly while still having the capability to craft extraordinary images. 28 Total Points
  • Lesson 2 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 2 Quiz
  • Assessment: Lesson 2 Review Exam

Lesson 3. Film and Digital: Different Tools for Creative Expression

Digital photography mirrors many film concepts, like ISO, while offering innovative flexibility through easy in-camera adjustments and creative photo editing software. These features amplify artistic possibilities without needing to change physical film types, broadening the scope of creative expression. 58 Total Points
  • Lesson 3 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 3 Assignment: Testing Types of Film
  • Assessment: Lesson 3 Quiz
  • Assessment: Lesson 3 Review Exam

Lesson 4. Exploring the Dynamics of Aperture and Shutter Speed: Unleashing Your Creative Potential

Aperture and shutter speed are key to capturing the perfect exposure by orchestrating how light affects a photo's brightness and sharpness. With this lesson, you'll learn to adjust these settings skillfully to convey your artistic vision, whether creating crisp portraits or dramatic landscapes. 26 Total Points
  • Lesson 4 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 4 Quiz
  • Assessment: Lesson 4 Review Exam

Lesson 5. Perfect Exposure Unveiled

To capture the perfect photograph, understanding and mastering exposure through a camera's light meter is essential. By adjusting variables such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, and aligning them with the metered recommendations, photographers can artfully control the light that defines their work. 46 Total Points
  • Lesson 5 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 5 Assignment: Practice Using a Light Meter and/or Gray Card
  • Assessment: Lesson 5 Quiz
  • Assessment: Lesson 5 Review Exam

Lesson 6. Control Your Focus: Depth of Field Explained

The depth of field is a dynamic tool in photography, determined by the interaction of aperture, focal length, and subject distance, allowing photographers to emphasize or de-emphasize elements in a scene. This ability to shift focus depth is fundamental for creating both intimate and expansive visual stories. 47 Total Points
  • Lesson 6 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 6 Assignment: Depth of Field Pictures
  • Assessment: Lesson 6 Quiz
  • Assessment: Lesson 6 Review Exam

Lesson 7. Discovering the World Through Lenses: Elevating Your Photography Game

Lenses are crucial in photography as they shape how a scene is captured, offering diverse storytelling methods through normal, zoom, telephoto, and wide-angle types. Selecting the appropriate lens allows photographers to conquer creative challenges, framing reality in versatile and engaging ways. 19 Total Points
  • Lesson 7 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 7 Review Exam

Lesson 8. Lens Insight: A Guide to Focal Length and Image Perspective

Macro lenses shine in close-up photography, bringing out intricate details of tiny subjects, thus revealing unseen beauty. Meanwhile, versatile zoom lenses offer quick focal length adjustments, suiting dynamic shooting environments like travel and events. 19 Total Points
  • Lesson 8 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 8 Quiz
  • Assessment: Lesson 8 Review Exam

Lesson 9. Lighting Fundamentals

High-end lighting equipment isn't a necessity for great photography; simple techniques utilizing natural light can effectively enhance your photos. Whether through window lighting or reflective surfaces, accessible methods can achieve professional-quality results. 32 Total Points
  • Lesson 9 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 9 Quiz
  • Assessment: Lesson 9 Review Exam

Lesson 10. Harnessing Nature's Brilliance: The Art of Natural Light Photography

Daylight, from the enchanting blue of dawn to the golden glow of sunset, serves as an ever-changing palette for photographers. Learning to manipulate and embrace these shifts elevates your images by adding depth, mood, and emotional resonance. 48 Total Points
  • Lesson 10 Video
  • Complete: Lesson 10 Assignment: Practice These Lighting Conditions
  • Assessment: Lesson 10 Quiz
  • Assessment: Lesson 10 Review Exam

Lesson 11. Lighting Skills for Photography

Flash in photography offers expansive creative control, making ambient lighting manageable and providing an edge in both casual and professional settings. It involves strategic use of shutter speed and flash types, ranging from basic point-and-shoot electronic flashes to sophisticated studio setups. 29 Total Points
  • Lesson 11 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 11 Quiz
  • Assessment: Lesson 11 Review Exam

Lesson 12. Creative Control with Filters: Transform Your Photography at Capture

UV and skylight filters are pivotal in reducing image haze caused by ultraviolet light and in neutralizing the bluish cast in certain outdoor lighting conditions, respectively, while also offering physical protection for lenses. Utilized in landscape and everyday photography, these filters enhance image sharpness and act as a safeguard against lens damage. 26 Total Points
  • Lesson 12 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 12 Quiz
  • Assessment: Lesson 12 Review Exam

Lesson 13. Steady Shots: Techniques for Clear Photography

Effective photography relies on steady camera techniques such as proper grip, understanding shutter speeds, and incorporating tripods or cable releases. These strategies ensure sharp, focused images, even when photographing dynamically moving subjects in low light. 27 Total Points
  • Lesson 13 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 13 Quiz
  • Assessment: Lesson 13 Review Exam

Lesson 14. Exploring the Unique Characteristics of Digital and Film Photography

In digital photography, the sensor is integral, dictating depth of field and low-light performance, whereas film relies on grain and light absorption for its distinctive aesthetics. Both systems provide unique advantages in capturing images, allowing photographers to craft their desired narrative. 29 Total Points
  • Lesson 14 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 14 Quiz
  • Assessment: Lesson 14 Review Exam

Lesson 15. Photography Enhancements: From Lens to Display

Once a photo is taken, post-processing offers endless possibilities with tools like cropping, color grading, and HDR imaging, allowing photographers to finely tune their work. Such digital enhancements correct issues and craft the mood, ensuring nothing detracts from the story. 26 Total Points
  • Lesson 15 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 15 Quiz
  • Assessment: Lesson 15 Review Exam

Lesson 16. Capturing Stories: Organizing Your Photographs for Maximum Impact

Photography, like novel writing, is about inviting viewers into a visual narrative that goes beyond simple image-capturing. From striking focal points to mindful composition, every element plays a role in portraying the intended story and emotion. 39 Total Points
  • Lesson 16 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Final Course Poll - Your Opinion; Program Evaluation Follow-up Survey (End of Course); Course Comments; Course Comments
  • Complete: Final Assignment: Show Us a Good Picture Now!
  • Assessment: Lesson 16 Quiz
  • Assessment: Lesson 16 Review Exam
544
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Understand basic camera operations.
  • Summarize operating a camera.
  • Summarize types of film.
  • Demonstrate aperture and shutter speeds.
  • Identify TTL light meter.
  • Demonstrate depth of field.
  • Determine how to choose appropriate lenses.
  • Demonstrate lighting techniques.
  • Demonstrate flash photography.
  • Determine filter use with your camera.
  • Summarize steady shooting techniques.
  • Describe film and its use in the today's world.
  • Determine enhancing photograph techniques.
  • Demonstrate organizing picture techniques.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: Photography 101: Beginner to Intermediate
Course Number: 7550459
Lessons Rating: 4.31 / 5 Stars (2,521 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: Accessible from any state in the U.S., this course covers key areas such as California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. The course is also offered in English-speaking nations like Australia, Canada, the UK, and South Africa.
Last Updated: April 2024
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Class
CEU Value: 1.7 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Syllabus: View Syllabus
Course Fee: $120.00 U.S. dollars

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Student Testimonials

  • "My instructor was very helpful and made me now feel that I can operate my camera and shot a better photo." -- Ruth W.
  • "The instructor gave helpful feedback." -- Josie B.
  • "The assignments were the most helpful, as I had to go out and practice what I learn in the lesson. " -- Charles W.
  • "Instructor was very good and helpful. I found every lesson very interesting, and very helpful. I feel I could go over it again and learn more which I intend to do. Enjoyed it very much." -- Dorothy M.
  • "Enjoyed this course. The last few chapters were the best." -- Nancy V.