The world of photography offers a wealth of opportunities for aspiring photographers. Whether you want to improve your skills for personal enjoyment or pursue a career in photography, online courses provide a convenient and accessible way to learn. In this article, we have curated a list of the best online photography courses tailored for beginners. These courses cover the fundamentals of photography, from understanding camera settings to composition and editing techniques. By enrolling in one of these courses, you can unlock your creative potential and embark on a journey to master the art of photography.
Key Takeaways:
- Online photography courses offer flexibility in terms of timing and location.
- These courses provide a comprehensive and interactive learning experience.
- Industry experts and professional photographers share their knowledge and expertise.
- Top online photography courses for beginners cover essential topics like camera settings, composition, lighting, and editing.
- Online courses cater to various photography interests, including wedding photography, creative photography, lens photography, and DSLR photography.
Why Choose Online Photography Courses?
Online photography courses offer several advantages for beginners. First, they provide flexibility in terms of timing and location. You can learn at your own pace and from the comfort of your home. Additionally, online courses often offer a wide range of resources such as video tutorials, assignments, and feedback from instructors. This comprehensive approach allows for a more immersive and interactive learning experience. Moreover, online courses provide access to industry experts and professional photographers who can share their knowledge and expertise. Whether you are a complete beginner or have some photography experience, online courses offer a convenient and effective way to improve your skills.
| Advantages of Online Photography Courses |
|---|
| Flexibility in terms of timing and location |
| Access to a wide range of resources such as video tutorials, assignments, and feedback |
| Opportunity to learn from industry experts and professional photographers |
Top Online Photography Courses for Beginners
Choosing the right online photography course can be overwhelming, given the abundance of options available. To help you narrow down your choices, we have curated a list of the top online photography courses tailored specifically for beginners. These courses have been carefully selected based on their comprehensive curriculum, instructor expertise, and positive student reviews. Whether you’re just starting your photography journey or looking to enhance your skills, you’ll find an excellent course option in the list below.
The Fundamentals of Photography (Coursera)
If you’re looking for a comprehensive beginner photography course, “The Fundamentals of Photography” on Coursera is an excellent choice. Led by award-winning photographer Justin Bridges, this course covers essential topics such as camera settings, composition, lighting, and digital editing. The course consists of video lectures, practical assignments, and quizzes to reinforce your understanding of key concepts. By the end of the course, you’ll have a solid foundation in photography and be ready to capture stunning images.
| Course Name | Instructor | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Fundamentals of Photography | Justin Bridges | Approximately 21 hours | $49/month for access to all courses on Coursera |
Photography Basics and Beyond: From Smartphone to DSLR (CreativeLive)
Whether you’re using a smartphone or a DSLR camera, “Photography Basics and Beyond” on CreativeLive offers a comprehensive course to elevate your photography skills. Taught by instructor Kenna Klosterman, this course covers everything from the basics of exposure and composition to more advanced techniques such as storytelling and editing. Through a series of video lessons and hands-on activities, you’ll learn to capture captivating images with any camera you have at hand.
| Course Name | Instructor | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Photography Basics and Beyond: From Smartphone to DSLR | Kenna Klosterman | Approximately 20 hours | $29 |
“The Fundamentals of Photography” on Coursera and “Photography Basics and Beyond” on CreativeLive are two highly recommended courses for beginner photographers. These courses provide a comprehensive learning experience and cover essential topics to help you develop a solid foundation in photography. With expert instruction and practical exercises, you’ll be well on your way to capturing breathtaking images.”
Photo Editing in Lightroom Classic CC: The Complete Guide (Udemy)
Once you’ve captured your photos, it’s crucial to understand the art of post-processing. “Photo Editing in Lightroom Classic CC: The Complete Guide” on Udemy is a top-rated course that focuses on the popular photo editing software, Lightroom Classic CC. Taught by instructor Phil Ebiner, this course covers everything from organizing and importing photos to advanced editing techniques. You’ll learn how to enhance your images, correct exposure and color, and create stunning edits that bring out the best in your photographs.
| Course Name | Instructor | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Photo Editing in Lightroom Classic CC: The Complete Guide | Phil Ebiner | Approximately 8.5 hours | $94.99 |
Mastering Macro Photography (Skillshare)
If you’re fascinated by the intricate details of small subjects, “Mastering Macro Photography” on Skillshare is the perfect course for you. Taught by instructor Don Komarechka, a renowned macro photographer, this course explores the techniques and equipment necessary to capture stunning close-up images. From understanding macro lenses to mastering lighting and composition, you’ll gain the skills needed to create mesmerizing macro photographs.
| Course Name | Instructor | Duration | Subscription |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mastering Macro Photography | Don Komarechka | Approximately 1.5 hours | $19/month for access to all courses on Skillshare |
These are just a few examples of the top online photography courses available for beginners. Each course offers a unique learning experience and equips you with the knowledge and skills to take your photography to the next level. Whether you’re interested in mastering the fundamentals, smartphone photography, photo editing, or macro photography, there’s a course that suits your interests and learning style.
The Photography Masterclass (Chris Parker)
If you’re a beginner looking to dive into the world of photography, The Photography Masterclass by Chris Parker is the perfect online course for you. With over 30 years of experience as a professional photographer, Chris Parker brings his expertise and passion to help you develop a solid foundation in photography. This comprehensive course covers the fundamental aspects of photography, including equipment, light, composition, and editing.
Throughout the course, you’ll explore essential topics such as exposure, camera settings, and photo editing techniques. By mastering these skills, you’ll be able to capture stunning images and bring your creative vision to life. Chris Parker’s clear and concise teaching style makes complex concepts easy to understand, ensuring that you’ll be able to apply what you learn effectively.
The Photography Masterclass is specifically designed for beginners, making it accessible for those with little to no prior photography knowledge. Whether you’re using a DSLR or a smartphone, you’ll learn how to make the most of your equipment and unleash your creativity. By the end of the course, you’ll have the skills and confidence to capture professional-quality images.
Enroll in The Photography Masterclass today and embark on a transformative journey to becoming a skilled and confident photographer.
Course Highlights:
- Comprehensive coverage of the fundamental aspects of photography
- In-depth exploration of equipment, light, composition, and editing
- Detailed instruction on exposure, camera settings, and photo editing techniques
- Suitable for both DSLR and smartphone photographers
- Taught by Chris Parker, a professional photographer with over 30 years of experience
Student Testimonials:
“I had zero photography knowledge before taking this course, but Chris Parker’s teaching style made everything so clear and easy to understand. Now, I can confidently capture beautiful images and express my creativity.” – Amy S.
“The Photography Masterclass exceeded my expectations. The course covered every aspect of photography that I wanted to learn, and Chris Parker’s expertise really shines through. Highly recommended!” – Mark D.
| Course Details | Price | Duration | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Photography Masterclass (Chris Parker) | $149 | 8 weeks | 4.8/5 |
Phone & DSLR Photography Course (Udemy)
The Phone & DSLR Photography Course on Udemy is an ideal choice for beginners looking to enhance their photography skills using both smartphones and DSLR cameras. Led by renowned instructors such as Phil Ebiner and William Carnahan, this comprehensive course covers a wide range of topics crucial to creating stunning photographs.
Throughout the course, you will learn essential camera settings and techniques, explore the art of composition, and master the post-processing phase. By the end of the course, you will possess the knowledge and skills needed to capture breathtaking images using both your phone and a DSLR camera.
Course Highlights:
- Learn camera settings and techniques for capturing the perfect shot.
- Master the art of composition to create visually appealing photographs.
- Discover post-processing techniques to enhance and refine your images.
- Gain hands-on experience with both smartphone and DSLR photography.
Whether you prefer the convenience of smartphone photography or the versatility of a DSLR camera, this course provides valuable insights and practical skills for both areas. With a strong focus on interactive learning, you’ll have the opportunity to practice the techniques you learn and receive feedback from experienced instructors.
Enroll in the Phone & DSLR Photography Course on Udemy today to take your photography skills to new heights!
Wedding Photography Course (John Branch)
The Wedding Photography Course by John Branch offers a unique opportunity to learn the art of wedding photography. In this course, John Branch takes you through a real wedding and shows you how to capture every moment professionally. From using your gear effectively to delivering the final images to your clients, this course covers all aspects of wedding photography. Whether you are interested in pursuing wedding photography as a career or want to capture your own memorable moments, this course will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need.
| Course Name | Instructor | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wedding Photography Course | John Branch | 8 weeks | $299 |
Course on Lenses (Envato Tuts+)
The Course on Lenses by Envato Tuts+ is perfect for beginners who want to understand the different types of lenses and their applications in photography. Taught by Dave Bode, this course explores the basics of focal length, aperture, lens quality, and more. You will learn how to choose the right lens for different types of photography, such as portrait photography and macro photography. By the end of the course, you will have a clear understanding of lenses and how they can enhance your photography.
Understanding lenses is crucial for any photographer looking to improve their skills. The Course on Lenses offered by Envato Tuts+ is designed to provide beginners with a comprehensive understanding of lenses and their applications in photography. Taught by Dave Bode, a renowned photography instructor, this course covers key concepts such as focal length, aperture, lens quality, and more.
Through this course, you will learn how different types of lenses can affect your photography, and how to choose the right lens for various shooting scenarios. Whether you’re interested in capturing stunning portraits or exploring the intricacies of macro photography, this course will equip you with the knowledge and skills to make informed lens choices.
The Course on Lenses takes a hands-on approach, offering practical exercises and examples to help you apply your learnings. You’ll also gain insights into lens maintenance and care to ensure the longevity of your equipment. By the end of the course, you’ll have a clear understanding of how lenses impact your photography and be able to make confident decisions when choosing the right lens for each photographic opportunity.
Course on Creative Photography (CreativeLive)
Are you a beginner looking to explore your creative side through photography? The Course on Creative Photography on CreativeLive is the perfect choice for you. Taught by renowned instructor John Greengo, this online course covers a wide range of topics that will help you unleash your creativity and take your photography skills to new heights.
In this course, you will delve into various aspects of photography, including camera types, exposure, advanced shooting techniques, and the elements of design. Through practical exercises and insightful lessons, you will learn how to think critically about your photography and create images that truly stand out.
One of the key benefits of this course is the comprehensive learning experience it offers. You will have access to in-depth video tutorials, interactive assignments, and the opportunity to receive feedback from both the instructor and your fellow students. This interactive approach ensures that you not only gain theoretical knowledge but also apply it practically to refine your skills.
By the end of the Course on Creative Photography, you will have a deeper understanding of the creative process and the ability to capture images that truly reflect your unique perspective. Whether you aspire to become a professional photographer or simply want to express your creativity through photography, this course will equip you with the tools and knowledge to excel.
Dive into the world of creative photography and enroll in the Course on Creative Photography today. Unleash your creative vision and capture breathtaking images that leave a lasting impression.
Short DSLR Photography Course (Skillshare)
If you’re a beginner looking to enhance your DSLR photography skills, the Short DSLR Photography Course on Skillshare is the perfect choice for you. Taught by Justin Bridges, this course offers a concise and focused learning experience that will help you take better photos with your DSLR camera.
During this course, you’ll cover essential topics such as camera settings, composition, and lens selection. Justin Bridges will guide you through the fundamentals of DSLR photography, giving you the knowledge and skills you need to improve your photography game.
In just a few hours, you’ll gain a solid foundation in photography and learn how to capture stunning images with your DSLR. Whether you’re completely new to photography or have some experience, this course is designed to help you enhance your skills and take your photography to the next level.
Enroll in the Short DSLR Photography Course on Skillshare today and start mastering the art of DSLR photography.
Course Highlights:
- Covers camera settings, composition, and lens selection
- Taught by Justin Bridges, an experienced photographer
- A concise and focused learning experience
- Suitable for beginners and those with some photography experience
Expand your photography skills and capture stunning images with the Short DSLR Photography Course on Skillshare.
YouTube Tutorials for Photography
YouTube is a treasure trove of valuable photography tutorials and lessons that can help you enhance your skills as a beginner photographer. We have curated a list of the best YouTube channels that provide insightful tutorials on a wide range of photography topics.
| YouTube Channel | Content |
|---|---|
| Mark Wallace’s “Exploring Photography” Series on Adorama | Mark Wallace’s series on Adorama offers in-depth tutorials on various aspects of photography, including camera settings, composition techniques, and post-processing tips. |
| Tony & Chelsea Northrup’s “Photography Tutorials” | Tony & Chelsea Northrup’s YouTube channel is a valuable resource for beginner photographers. Their tutorials cover a wide range of topics, including camera basics, understanding exposure, and advanced photography techniques. |
| Adorama’s “Master Your Craft” Series | The “Master Your Craft” series on Adorama’s YouTube channel features tutorials by professional photographers, providing insights and tips to improve your photography skills. Topics covered include portrait photography, landscape photography, and street photography. |
Whether you want to learn about portrait photography, composition techniques, or advanced editing tips, these YouTube channels offer a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Take advantage of these free resources to expand your photography skills and unlock your creative potential.
Free Online Photography Courses
Not everyone wants to invest money in photography courses, and luckily, there are many free options available online. Websites like Lifehacker, MIT OpenCourseWare, and Alison offer free online courses that cover the fundamentals of photography. These courses provide a great starting point for beginners who want to learn the basics of photography without any financial commitment. However, it’s important to note that while free courses can offer valuable information, they may not always provide the same level of depth and instructor feedback as paid courses.
Conclusion
Whether you’re just starting out in photography or looking to enhance your existing skills, online photography courses are the perfect choice. In this article, we’ve highlighted some of the best online photography courses available for beginners. These courses cater to different learning styles and cover a wide range of topics, from camera settings to composition and editing techniques.
By enrolling in one of these courses, you’ll have the opportunity to learn photography online and gain the knowledge and skills needed to capture stunning images. Whether you prefer a comprehensive masterclass or a course focused on a specific aspect of photography, there’s an option that’s right for you. With the flexibility and convenience of online learning, you can take your photography skills to the next level at your own pace and from the comfort of your own home.
Don’t wait any longer to pursue your passion for photography. Take the first step today by enrolling in an online beginner photography course. Whether you aspire to become a professional photographer or simply want to improve your photography skills for personal enjoyment, these courses will provide you with the foundation you need to succeed. Start your online photography journey now and unlock your creative potential with these top-notch courses.
FAQ
What are the benefits of online photography courses for beginners?
Online photography courses offer flexibility in terms of timing and location, provide access to resources and industry experts, and offer a more immersive and interactive learning experience.
How were the top online photography courses for beginners selected?
The top online photography courses for beginners were selected based on their curriculum, instructor expertise, and student reviews.
What does The Photography Masterclass by Chris Parker cover?
The Photography Masterclass covers the fundamental aspects of photography, including equipment, light, composition, and editing.
What topics are covered in the Phone & DSLR Photography Course on Udemy?
The Phone & DSLR Photography Course covers camera settings, composition, and post-processing techniques for both smartphones and DSLR cameras.
What does The Wedding Photography Course by John Branch focus on?
The Wedding Photography Course covers all aspects of wedding photography, from effectively using your gear to delivering the final images to clients.
What is covered in the Course on Lenses by Envato Tuts+?
The Course on Lenses covers the basics of focal length, aperture, lens quality, and choosing the right lens for different types of photography.
What does the Course on Creative Photography on CreativeLive teach?
The Course on Creative Photography covers a wide range of topics, including camera types, exposure, advanced techniques, and the elements of design for creative photography.
What topics does the Short DSLR Photography Course on Skillshare focus on?
The Short DSLR Photography Course covers camera settings, composition, and lens selection for DSLR photography.
What are some of the best YouTube channels for photography tutorials?
Some of the best YouTube channels for photography tutorials include Mark Wallace’s “Exploring Photography” series on Adorama, Tony & Chelsea Northrup’s “Photography Tutorials,” and Adorama’s “Master Your Craft” series.
What are some free online photography courses for beginners?
Some free online photography courses for beginners can be found on websites like Lifehacker, MIT OpenCourseWare, and Alison.
