Take Your Camera Off Auto - Finally!
Learn photography in plain English with Dan Cleary. Whether you’re brand new, coming back after years away, or confused by all the buttons and settings, Dan helps you understand your camera and use it with confidence.
Beginner-friendly. Practical. No jargon.
Hi, I'm Dan Cleary
I’ve spent decades helping people understand photography in a way that actually makes sense. My teaching is simple, practical, and personal. I explain what your camera is doing, why it matters, and how to use it to make better photographs with confidence.
Dan helps everyday people finally understand their camera without jargon
Choose the Best Way to Learn Photography
Start where you feel comfortable. Dan offers three simple ways to help you understand your camera and make your photographs better.
Hands-On Photography Workshop — April 19th, 2026 (Free eBook Included)
Join Dan for his next small-group workshop on Sunday, April 19th, at his studio. Dan walks you through exposure, focus, composition, and much more. You’ll master the basics of using your camera, leaving you confident with every step of the process. Everyone who signs up will receive a copy of the Seven Steps downloadable eBook. Only $119 for a full afternoon of learning. Click here for more information and to sign up.
Private 1-on-1 Lessons
The fastest way to really understand your camera is with one-on-one lessons. Dan has 40 years of experience in photography and 25 years of using a digital camera almost every day. He can help you quickly meet all your goals, dial in the proper settings for the photos you want, and clear up confusion in minutes—not months. You’ll get hands-on coaching, immediate feedback, and a simple practice plan to keep improving. Most students walk out shooting confidently the same day. Click here for more information.
From Guesswork To Great Pictures
A Plain English Guide to Understanding Your Camera Today
After teaching in-person group photography classes for 10 years, Dan compiled his entire class into an eBook titled Understanding Your Digital Camera: Seven Steps To Better Photography. It is written in clear, plain English that guides you from Auto to confident manual shooting. Learn the exposure triangle, focusing, and a simple practice plan, plus much more—so great photos become repeatable. As a bonus, he’s included a glossary of photography terms and a section on setting up Photoshop and Lightroom. The cost is only $27. Click here for more information and to buy your copy of the ebook now.
The next In-person group class is Sunday, April 19th, 2026, at 1 pm at Dan Cleary’s studio. It’s $119 per person and includes a free copy of his eBook, Understanding Your Digital Camera.
Sign Up For One of Dan's In person Classes This Year
Do you have more questions? Call Dan at 937-298-6776 or email him at Dan@ClearyCreativePhoto.com
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 People Who Have Attended The Class:
“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.
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.