Introduction to Digital (SLR) Photography Wednesday Afternoon with Mary Jenson:

"I would like to thank you for doing such a great job teaching the Introduction to Digital Photography class. I am extremely happy with everything that was covered. It exceeded my expectations."

"Great course - I really enjoyed the hands-on shooting excercises and I am confident using my digital camera gear now."

"This course has been the best photography class I have ever taken - a perfect combination of lectures, hands-on shooting exercises, critiques and technical advice. And the best value in the City as well. Thanks Marc!"

This 10 week course is for everybody looking for a great introduction to the fascinating world of digital photography. Learn all about your digital camera, starting at the basics of its operation to using it effectively and with confidence in any kind of shooting situation. Getting your pictures off your camera as well as basic image manipulation and a variety of output (printing) options will be addressed.

Your skilled Instructor will also teach you basic photography concepts, such as exposure calculation, depth-of-field, effective composition guidelines and how to use your flash effectively. You will have the opportunity to practice your newly acquired skills during field trips and a full scale studio shooting session with professional models. With a strong emphasize on practical hands-on shooting exercises, this course will make you feel in complete control over your digital camera equipment. In-depth review and critique sessions are held to give you valuable and encouraging feedback.

While comparable courses taught at other institutions in this City take up to 18 students and cost $395+, VPW's has strictly limited this class size to 14 students only. This will ensure that you will get the best possible learning experience with lots of quality one-on-one instruction from your instructor. VPW uses the latest camera, computer and lighting equipment for all of its courses and workshops. If you have been disappointed in the past taking courses elsewhere, come on in and give us a try.

To read testimonials left by our students click here.

DETAILED COURSE AGENDA

Session 1 : Lecture: Introduction to Digital Cameras and their basic functions, ISO and file formats, white balance, differences to film, advantages and shortcomings of digital. Session 2 : Understanding image capture modes and exposure tools, EV compensation and intro to histogram - demo and workshop. Session 3 : Metering methods, reading a histogram, using manual mode, greycards, white balance - demo and workshop. Review last weeks images Session 4: Creative uses for aperture and shutter, depth of field and motion, lenses and characteristics - demo. Review last weeks images Session 5 : Composition guidelines - rule of thirds, texture, color, point of view and seeing in shapes and forms. Parameters and image optimizing and digital technology. Review last weeks images Session 6 (weekend 3 hr day trip, discussed in class): Photo Field Trip to Yaletown and the waterfront: Bring your camera . Practical exercises and refining composition and camera control. Session 7 : Review field trip images, introduction to on camera flash. Session 8 : Photo Field Trip to Granville Island - Night Photography (if you don't have one, the school will loan you one for the evening). Session 9 : Photographing people in the studio, using continuous light sources and strobe. Explore your creativity, learn how to pose and build rapport. Session 10: Review images, demo on resizing for the web, overview of printing and color profiles.

NOTES: This course is designed for students with Digital SLR Cameras only. Register early as class size is strictly limited to 14 students only. Register before April 8th, 2008 and get 10% off the tuition fees!