Hands-On Photography Class In Dayton, Ohio. Stop struggling with online tutorials. Start creating photos you'll love with personalized instruction from master photographer Dan Cleary

Sign up for the next photography class on Sunday, January 12th, 2025. Class starts at $89 per person.

Understanding Your Digital Camera: The Seven Essential Steps To Better Photography

Hi there, fellow photography enthusiast! Let’s be honest – trying to learn photography by yourself can feel like climbing a mountain blindfolded. I get it – you’re probably drowning in YouTube tutorials and wondering why everyone seems to have different opinions on what makes a great photo. Whether you’re just starting out or have been shooting for a while, finding the right guidance to level up your skills shouldn’t be this hard.

You know that feeling when you’ve watched countless online videos but still can’t quite nail that perfect shot in real life? It’s frustrating when concepts like composition and lighting still feel like a mystery and don’t even get me started on those camera settings! The worst part? Those huge photography workshops where you’re just another face in the crowd, leaving you with more questions than answers.

Here’s the good news – Dan Cleary’s photography classes are different. He keep the groups small and personal because we believe that’s how real learning happens. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your craft, Dan Cleary will work with you to develop your unique style. We’re not about boring lectures – we get you out there shooting in the real world, whether that’s capturing nature’s beauty, street life, or stunning portraits. Ready to stop second-guessing yourself and start creating images you’ll love? Join him for hands-on learning that combines your passion with solid technique. Your portfolio (and your confidence) will thank you!

Unlock The Secrets Of Great Photography With Expert Guidance from Dan Cleary

Class is $89 per person, bring a friend for $169 for both.

Hands-On Learning And Practical Techniques To Help You Create Stunning Photographs

Regardless of your skill level or camera type, Dan Cleary offers invaluable insights and techniques to elevate your photography journey. Walk away from this crash course equipped with the knowledge to operate your camera confidently and the inspiration to apply newfound skills in practice. Take your chance to embark on the 7 Steps to Better Photography journey with Dan Cleary!

Frequently Asked Questions:

-Will we go over everything on my camera? Everyone attending the class should bring all their camera equipment so Dan can explain all the settings.

-Do I need a brand new camera? No, many people have older or used digital cameras because they are just starting. There is nothing wrong with buying a manufacturer refurbished camera today. All the information you’ll learn will apply.

-I want to take better photos of my kids’ sports. During the class, Dan will explain the best shutter speeds and apertures for sports photography.

-I want to know more about landscape photography. Dan will answer everyone’s specific questions. He will go over the settings for all aspects of landscape photography.

Kind Words From Clients:

“Dan’s work and professionalism are second to none! I would highly recommend him for any of your photography needs!” Becky Edgren

“Dan is one of the most knowledgeable photographers I’ve ever met and does and outstanding job- I wouldn’t recommend anyone else!” Andrew Banks

“Dan is nationally known for his creative photography.” Robert Kirchner

What Dan Will Cover In The Class:

This class is designed for photography beginners and enthusiasts looking to learn the basics of digital photography—both the art and the science of it. Dan Cleary will share a comprehensive overview of their seven-step method for creating unique images during this fast-paced four-hour workshop.

Step One: The Basic Function of Today’s Modern Digital Camera! You’ll learn and finally understand your camera! Whether you have a point-and-shoot, consumer model, or top-of-the-line professional DSLR, Dan and Maria will make sure you get the most out of your camera!

Step Two: The Technical Stuff! You’ll learn and understand what all those buttons and settings do! But more importantly, you’ll learn how to use them best! We will be covering:

What Are F Stops?
Shutter Speed?
White Balance?
ISO (What do we use to call film speed)?
What Is A Proper Exposure?

Step Three: Image Composition! Here’s where you will learn about the “artsy” stuff and how to give your images more impact:

Leading Lines
Converging Lines
The Rule of 3rds
Symmetrical and “A” Symmetrical Images
Creating A Center Of Attention

Step Four: Lighting Techniques! Learn how to light like a pro with:

Finding The Direction Of Light
Sun vs Shade
Indoors vs Outdoors
Natural Light vs Flash
What Is A Reflector?

Step Five: Making Your Subjects Look Their Best! Dan will share many of these secrets to make his subjects look their best! He’ll cover:

Using The Proper Lens
Camera Angle
Posing
Expression
Spontaneity
Tips For Photographing Kids
Use Of Props

Step Six: It’s the Little Things! To improve your photography, it’s all about refining the little things and looking for details. Dan will show you how to turn what would typically be a snapshot into a work of art!

Step Seven: Enjoying Your Photographs After You’ve Created Them! You’ve created them…now what do you do with them??? Dan and Maria will demonstrate the latest ways to enjoy your images, such as fine art prints, albums, slideshows, and more!

The bottom line is that no matter your skill level or the type of camera you own, Dan Cleary will give you some of the best information regarding photography you will ever receive. You’ll leave the classroom knowing how to operate your camera and be inspired to put that knowledge into practice! Join Dan for his 7 Steps to Better Photography Crash Course!

Dan Cleary is a certified professional photographer, artist, author, teacher, lecturer, and historian living in Dayton. Dayton Magazine readers voted Dan the best photographer in the region for 2024. The Dayton City Commission and Mayor named him a Proud Dayton Original. He has run Cleary Creative Photography for the past 35 years, bringing creativity and professionalism to every client. He has published a book from the Wright Brothers: Then and Now series. It is available at many museum stores around the country, including the National Museum of the USAF in Dayton and the Wright Brothers Memorial in North Carolina, which is part of the National Park Service.