Course Description: 

Digital Photography Basics is a hands-on, creativity-boosting class where students learn to see the world through a completely new lens—literally! Each week, students will explore core photography concepts such as composition, lighting, perspective, and storytelling. Using whatever camera they have (digital, smartphone, or disposable), students will complete fun weekly challenges that encourage them to roam, observe, experiment, and capture the unexpected.

Through guided instruction, interactive activities, and unique prompts, students will build confidence behind the camera while learning how to think like a photographer. By the end of the course, students will have a small portfolio of their favorite work, maybe even consider entering their favorites into the county fair—and a lifelong skill for noticing the beauty in everyday moments.

*NOTE: There will be no post-production editing in this course as our goal is to capture a quality image with the tools we have on hand. If the student is looking for post-production knowledge, that concept will be explored in the Creative Digital Photography Course.

Course Viewpoint:  Mixed

Course Length:  Open

Time: 10:00-10:55

Cost:  $150 [Cash, Check, or Venmo]

Supply Fee:  Supplies included in class fee

Class Prerequisite:  Basic Photography is not just an art—it’s a science!. Students should come with a curiosity about the world, a willingness to try new challenges, and the bravery to embrace imperfect attempts (some of the best photos are happy accidents, thank you Bob Ross!).

While reading and writing skills are helpful for following prompts and taking notes, the most important prerequisites are a positive attitude, a playful spirit, and an eagerness to see everyday life through a fresh lens.

Materials Teacher Will Provide:  Each student will receive a PDF copy of my photography eBook via email. This guide serves as a tangible, easy-to-reference resource for reviewing concepts we cover in class. Students are welcome to print their copy for personal use; however, please avoid sharing or distributing it, as it is a sold product through my photography business.

I will also carry one extra disposable camera per student for those occasions when a student forgets their gear. These backup cameras ensure no one misses out on hands-on learning or active participation.

To help spark creativity and keep the class fun and inviting, I also provide a small selection of creative prompts, themed mini-challenges, and occasional props throughout the semester.

Materials Students Must Provide:  Students may use any type of camera they have access to—digital camera, smartphone camera, or even a disposable camera. The goal is to learn the principles of photography, not to have fancy equipment, so all cameras are welcome and encouraged.

Students should bring their chosen camera to every class, along with:

* A small notebook or sketchbook and writing utensil for jotting down ideas, camera settings, and weekly challenge notes

* A folder or digital space (Google Drive, Notes app, etc.) to keep track of their favorite images and assignments

* Charged camera

** Occasionally I might request students to bring personal props they’d like to incorporate into creative challenges (optional and fun!)

Most importantly, students should come ready to explore, experiment, and observe the world with curiosity—the most essential tools for any photographer.

Minimum Enrollment:  4

Maximum Enrollment:  20

Parent Requirements:  Photography is a wonderfully finicky—and highly subjective—art form. Because of this, students may occasionally need time and space to explore their surroundings in order to find the right subject, angle, or lighting for a weekly challenge.

Parents should expect that their child may need to roam indoors or outdoors (within safe boundaries) to complete assignments. Parents may also be asked to participate as part of a “still life” or portrait subject—bonus points if you’re willing to strike a dramatic pose or hold still longer than your student thinks is humanly possible!

Your support in encouraging creative freedom, exploration, and a little playful experimentation will help your photographer-in-training flourish this semester.

Teacher:  Tessa Zinne

Contact:  Email: teneshazinne@gmail.com OR Text: 406.270.5147 (you can call but definitely leave a message because I often don’t hear my phone)