Private Photography Lessons in Dayton, Ohio
One-on-one photography training built around you, your camera, and your goals.
The quickest way to truly understand your camera is through private lessons. Instead of sifting through YouTube videos, confusing menus, and settings that don’t add up, you’ll work directly with Dan Cleary in a straightforward, practical session tailored to your needs.
Whether you are brand new to photography, coming back after years away, preparing for a trip, or trying to Improve your portraits, landscapes, or everyday pictures—Dan will help you understand what your camera is capable of. doing and how to use it with confidence.
Personalized Help That Meets You Where You Are
Private photography lessons are perfect for:
- Brand-new DSLR or mirrorless camera owners
- People who feel overwhelmed by camera settings
- “Rusty returners” getting back into photography
- Travelers who want better vacation photos
- Parents photographing kids, sports, or family moments
- Hobbyists who want better landscapes, portraits, or everyday images
- Photographers who want help with Lightroom or Photoshop basics
You do not need to know technical photography terms before you begin. Dan teaches in plain English and starts at your level. You will also receive a copy of Dan’s eBook, Understanding Your Digital Camera: Seven Steps To Better Photography.
Why Choose Private Photography Lessons?
Private lessons are the quickest way to make real progress because everything is built around your camera, your questions, and the kinds of photographs you want to create.
Instead of sitting through a generic class, you get:
- Hands-on help with your exact camera and lens
- Immediate answers to your questions
- Clear explanations without confusing jargon
- Personalized coaching and feedback
- A simple practice plan so you keep improving after the lesson
Most students leave with a much better understanding of their camera and a clear idea of what to do next.
What We Can Cover, What We Can Work On
You choose what matters most to you. Your lesson can include any combination of the following:
- Camera setup and menu settings
- Understanding aperture, shutter speed, and ISO
- Getting off Auto mode
- Focus settings for portraits, sports, action, and low light
- Composition and how to make stronger images
- Understanding light indoors and outdoors
- Portrait tips and photographing people well
- Landscape photography settings and technique
- Travel photography help
- Lightroom and Photoshop basics
- Organizing, editing, and exporting your images
Dan can keep the lesson simple and beginner-friendly, or go deeper if you already know the basics.
How the First Lesson Works and What to Expect
Your first lesson is designed to be practical, clear, and useful right away.
Step 1: We talk about your goals
Dan starts by learning what camera you have, what confuses you, and what kinds of pictures you want to make.
Step 2: Hands-on teaching with your camera
You’ll work through the most important settings and features using your own equipment so the lesson applies directly to you.
Step 3: Real-time feedback
Dan will show you what to adjust, what to ignore, and how to simplify the learning process.
Step 4: A take-home plan
You’ll leave with notes, a practice routine, and a clearer understanding of what to work on next.
Lesson Options/Pricing
2-Hour Private Lesson
A great place to start if you want focused help and a strong foundation.
Includes:
- 2 hours of one-on-one instruction with Dan
- Camera Settings Quick Card PDF
- Follow-up email with your settings notes
- Simple homework and recommended resources
- A copy of Dan’s eBook, Understanding Your Digital Camera: Seven Steps to Better Photography
Price: $298
3-Hour Private Lesson
A deeper session with more time to work through camera settings, technique, and specific goals.
Includes:
- 3 hours of one-on-one instruction
- Help with camera setup and settings
- Exposure made simple: aperture, shutter speed, and ISO
- Focus help for portraits, action, and low light
- Composition and light
- Optional Lightroom or Photoshop basics
- A copy of Dan’s eBook, Understanding Your Digital Camera: Seven Steps to Better Photography
Price: $399
6-Hour Private Lesson Package
Best for people who want the most progress, more personalized support, and time to build confidence over multiple sessions.
Includes:
- 6 hours of one-on-one instruction
- Can be split across multiple days
- Customized lesson plan based on your camera, experience, and goals
- Camera Settings Quick Card PDF and phone wallpaper
- Follow-up email with notes, resources, and practice routine
- A copy of Dan’s eBook, Understanding Your Digital Camera: Seven Steps to Better Photography
Price: $699
What to Bring to Your Lesson
Please bring:
- Your camera
- The lens or lenses you normally use
- A charged battery
- An empty memory card
- A few pictures you like or struggle with
If your lesson includes editing help, bring your laptop with Lightroom Classic and/or Photoshop installed.
Where and How Lessons Happen
In Person or Online
Private lessons are available in two ways:
In Person
Meet with Dan at his studio in Dayton for hands-on instruction with your camera and settings.
Online by Zoom
Zoom lessons are available for photography coaching, camera menu walkthroughs, Lightroom, and Photoshop help.
Lessons are typically available on weekdays and select weekends, with evening appointments available.
Why Learn with Dan
Learn with an Experienced Photographer and Teacher
Dan Cleary has decades of experience as a professional photographer, teacher, artist, and author. He is known for making photography easier to understand in a way that feels practical, encouraging, and clear. His teaching style is direct, supportive, and built for real people who want better pictures without being overwhelmed.
This is not about memorizing every button on your camera. It is about understanding the few things that matter most so you can make stronger photographs on purpose.
Guarantee / Rescheduling
Simple, Fair Scheduling
If your lesson is not helpful, Dan wants to know and will make it right with more help or a refund.
Need to reschedule? You can reschedule up to 24 hours before your appointment at no charge.
Gift certificates are also welcome and can be applied when booking or scheduling.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m brand new. Will this be too advanced?
No. Dan starts where you are and teaches in plain English.
Do you teach all camera brands?
Yes. Dan works with Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fujifilm, Panasonic, Olympus, and more.
Can we split time between shooting and editing?
Yes. Many students combine camera instruction with Lightroom or Photoshop help.
Can I book a lesson even if I don’t know exactly what I need?
Absolutely. Dan can help you figure that out and shape the lesson around your goals.
Can a friend or spouse join me?
Yes. Dan has had many partners join in his private lessons.
Do you offer Zoom lessons?
Yes. Zoom works especially well for editing help, menu walkthroughs, and photography coaching.
Can I Give A Private Lesson As A Gift? Yes, You can purchase a gift certificate towards private photography lessons. Go to Dan’s Gift Certificate Page.
Ready to Finally Understand Your Camera?
Private lessons with Dan are the fastest way to stop guessing, start understanding your camera, and make better photographs with confidence.