Have you ever wondered why your Instagram feed doesn’t look like a professional photographer? Yes, I know that you must be armed with a camera and have likely explored YouTube tutorials and invested loads in the latest travel photography gear. But bridging the gap to professional-looking photos often demands more than YouTube tutorials and a good camera.
The truth is, behind those captivating shots lies a dedication to learning – years of mentorship, workshops, and professional online courses. As a freelance travel photographer for a few years, I have seen the transformative power of continuous learning.
Now, I want to share my élite online photography courses, meticulously curated for enthusiasts like you. These classes dive into the fundamentals, planning, composition, advanced techniques, post-processing, and even leveraging your craft for financial gain.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned photographer, there is always a path to improvement. You don’t need a college degree when you can unlock your potential from home. Crafted by industry professionals, these handpicked courses will be your gateway to mastering photography. I believe photography is not just about snapping pictures; it’s about evolving into a visual storyteller. So what are you waiting for? Your journey starts here with the click of a button! Enroll in these courses and elevate your photography game today.
Best Online Photography Courses
1. iPhone Photography School by Emil Pakarklis
For those of us who share a passion for capturing life’s fleeting moments through the lens of our trusty iPhones, Emil Pakarklis’ iPhone Photography School is nothing short of a game-changer. Emil goes beyond mere instruction on using your phone’s camera; he skillfully transforms it into a potent instrument for capturing visually stunning images. This course is an absolute essential for anyone keen on unlocking the full creative potential of their pocket-sized marvel and taking their iPhone photography to greater heights.
You don’t have to invest in an expensive camera; it’s possible to earn money while traveling using just a smartphone designed for travel.
2. Adventure Photography Masterclass by Jimmy Chin
Enrolling in the Adventure Photography Masterclass by the renowned Jimmy Chin is imperative for photography enthusiasts. This course offers a unique opportunity to delve into adventure photography’s captivating orbit under a true legend’s guidance. Jimmy Chin, celebrated for his exceptional skills, shares unparalleled insights into the intricacies of commercial shoots, editorial spreads, and the nuanced art of storytelling. This masterclass transcends the traditional boundaries of a typical course; it transforms into a captivating visual journey. I believe it’s not merely an educational experience; it’s a profound and enriching exploration into the craft led by one of the best in the business.
3. Adventure Photography Pro by Alex Strohl
Embarking on Alex Strohl’s Adventure Photography Pro feels like stumbling upon a hidden treasure for those yearning to delve deeper into the world of adventure photography. Strohl, renowned for his awe-inspiring outdoor masterpieces, graciously takes you behind the scenes of his profession. This course isn’t just about capturing the perfect shot; it’s a holistic exploration, offering valuable insights into the business side of adventure photography from a master of the trade.
4. The Business Of Photography by Chris Burkard
When it comes to transforming a passion for photography into a thriving career, my compass points straight to Chris Burkard’s The Business Of Photography. Beyond the captivating visuals, Burkard graciously shares the strategic aspects of achieving success in the competitive photography industry. For anyone serious about leaving a lasting mark in the photography business, this course serves as an indispensable guide.
For anyone aspiring to be a digital nomad and travel the world, travel photography presents an excellent career opportunity.
5. Wildlife Photography Workshop by Charly Savely
Embark on a thrilling safari into the world of storytelling through your lens with Charly Savely’s Wildlife Photography Workshop. From selecting the right lenses to capturing the raw emotion in wildlife, Savely’s course is a complete guide for those passionate about wildlife photography. Consider this workshop your trusted buddy on the path to mastering the art of visually narrating the untamed beauty of the wild.
6. Mastering Lightroom & Photoshop by Andrew Kerns
For the pixel perfect enthusiasts who are eager to upgrade the art of post-processing, Andrew Kerns’ Mastering Lightroom & Photoshop is nothing short of a revelation. Going beyond the basics, Kerns unveils advanced techniques employed by seasoned professionals. Brace yourself to make your images stand out with finesse, as this course opens up a world of possibilities in the dominion of photo editing.
7. A To Z Of Selling Your Photos by Lola Akinmade
Looking to turn your passion into profit? My top recommendation is Lola Akinmade’s A To Z Of Selling Your Photos. As an award-winning travel photographer, Akinmade captures stunning visuals and generously shares the secrets of the business side of photography. This course is a must for anyone aspiring to monetize their creativity and navigate the intricate landscape of selling photos.
8. Photographing The World by Elia Locardi
Embark on a global photography odyssey with Elia Locardi in Photographing The World. This course isn’t just an educational experience; it’s a visual feast set against breathtaking backdrops in locations like Iceland and New Zealand. If you dream of mastering landscape and travel photography, Locardi is the seasoned guide who can turn that dream into a captivating reality.
9. The Travel Photography Course by Laurence Norah:
Are you a Voyager? Then embark on a thorough exploration alongside Laurence Norah in The Travel Photography Course. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned enthusiast, Norah’s course covers it all – from the fundamental principles of composition to the intricacies of the business side of travel photography. This 10-week exploration promises to elevate your travel photography skills, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone passionate about capturing the essence of their journeys.
Mastering the Frame
Until now, we have glanced through some trending photography courses, but embarking on the composition journey in photography is akin to deciphering the secret language of captivating images. It’s more than arranging elements—it’s about weaving a compelling visual story. Let’s delve deeper into a few composition techniques and their role in the enchantment of a photograph.
1. Rule of Thirds
The rule of thirds divides the frame into a nine-part grid. It will guide you to position critical elements along these lines or intersections. This technique, which is widely explored in recommended courses, enhances visual appeal and dynamic storytelling. Instructors provide practical exercises to master this foundational skill.
2. Leading Lines
Leading lines, whether roads or architectural features, direct the viewer’s gaze, adding depth and perspective. Composition courses delve into identifying and utilizing leading lines effectively, teaching you to create images that engage and invite exploration.
3. Framing
Framing involves using elements within the scene to frame the main subject, adding context and depth. Recommended courses extensively cover framing techniques, teaching photographers to spot natural frames and enhance overall composition through practical exercises.
4. Symmetry
Symmetry imparts balance and harmony, achieved through reflections or natural formations. In recommended courses, instructors break down the art of symmetry, guiding photographers on effective identification and capturing symmetrical scenes to create visually striking compositions.
Additional Top-Tier Photography Courses
1. The Photography Masterclass (Chris Parker)
Embark on an incredible journey with Chris Parker’s Photography Masterclass, perfect for those diving into photography’s enchanting territories. Over 28 captivating hours, Chris unfolds the mysteries of exposure techniques, camera settings, composition, and the art of editing using Photoshop, Lightroom, and GIMP. With a solid enrollment of 200K+ and an impressive rating from 14K+ students, this paid course is one of my top recommendations for anyone committed to honing their photographic skills.
2. Best Phone & DSLR Photography Course (Udemy)
If you’re like me, eager to master the intricacies of phone and DSLR photography, Udemy’s Best Phone & DSLR Photography Course by Phil Ebiner, William Carnahan, and Sam Shimizu-Jones is a game-changer. Through 29 engaging hours, this course demystifies manual settings, composition, lighting, and various photography scenarios. With an enrollment of 180K+ and an outstanding 4.5/5.0 rating from 1.2K+ learners, this paid course is a must for unlocking the full potential of your camera.
3. Best Wedding Photography Course (John Branch)
Dreaming of capturing the magic of weddings? John Branch’s Best Wedding Photography Course on YouTube is my heartfelt recommendation. In just 2-3 hours, John takes you through the intricacies of using gear effectively, seizing different wedding moments, and delivering enchanting images to clients. With a staggering over a million views and 17,000 thumbs up, this free course is a gem for budding wedding photographers.
4. Best Course on Lenses (Envato Tuts+)
For lens enthusiasts, Dave Bode’s Best Course on Lenses on Envato Tuts+ is a captivating exploration. Tailored for advanced learners, this free 2-3 hour course unravels the intricacies of focal length, aperture, and lens types and guides you in choosing the perfect lens for diverse photography styles. Boasting 2.4 million views and 29,000 thumbs up, this lens-centric exploration is a visual feast for photography connoisseurs.
5. Best Course on Creative Photography (CreativeLive)
John Greengo’s Best Course on Creative Photography on CreativeLive is my go-to recommendation for those eager to transcend basic photography skills. Over 24-25 hours, this paid course offers a deep dive into camera types, exposure mastery, advanced techniques, image editing, composition, and the elusive qualities that make a photograph truly extraordinary.
6. Best Short DSLR Photography Course (Skillshare)
Short on time but longing for DSLR expertise? Justin Bridges’ Best Short DSLR Photography Course on Skillshare, spanning 2-4 hours, is my top pick. With 150K+ enrollments and an outstanding rating from 3.2K learners, this course is a concise yet comprehensive gateway to DSLR essentials. Perfect for anyone looking to enhance their photography skills without a significant time commitment.
Course-Specific Emphasis
Each recommended course uniquely emphasizes mastering the composition techniques, ensuring participants grasp the theory and develop a keen eye for application. Instructors have shared their experiences, case studies, and critiques, empowering learners to go beyond basics and craft visually compelling narratives through thoughtful composition.
Mastering composition transforms a photograph into a captivating story. These courses guide photographers through intricacies, helping them craft images that resonate and leave a lasting visual impact. It’s not just about taking a picture; it’s about creating a visual masterpiece that speaks volumes to those who behold it.
Elevate Photography Through Storytelling
Photography is an intricate dance between technical expertise and the art of storytelling, where each frame serves as a brushstroke in a more prominent visual narrative. Beyond the conventional focus on technical skills, the courses recommended here delve into the profound importance of storytelling in photography.
As we conclude this journey, consider tailored tips that extend beyond the usual spheres of photography. Explore lessons that guide you in forging emotional connections through your images, master the delicate art of visual sequencing for a cohesive narrative flow, and delve into the shades of documentary-style storytelling to authentically capture real-life scenes. Uncover the power of visual symbolism, develop a consistent style that amplifies your storytelling voice, and challenge yourself to narrate beyond the obvious in everyday scenes.
Engage thoroughly with your subjects, learn to extract authentic moments that resonate with your audience, and experiment with visual pacing to control the tempo of your narrative. Armed with these tips, allow these meticulously crafted courses to refine your technical skills, and I can assure you that you will transform yourself from a mere moment-capturer into a skilled and evocative storyteller, weaving compelling visual tales that linger in the minds and hearts of those who behold them.
Best Online Photography Courses FAQs
1. Why should I consider online photography courses and not YouTube Tutorials?
YouTube videos are view-oriented and sometimes fail to deliver the knowledge we seek. Therefore, opting for online photography courses over YouTube tutorials provides a structured and comprehensive learning path led by professional instructors, offering hands-on assignments, high-quality production, and interactive features on dedicated platforms.
2. Are these courses self-paced?
Yes, most of these courses allow you to learn at your own pace. This flexibility is especially beneficial for those with busy schedules, enabling you to balance learning with other commitments.
3. Are these courses suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! The recommended courses cater to various skill levels, from beginners to seasoned photographers. Each course provides a structured learning path, ensuring that even those new to photography can grasp the fundamentals and progressively advance their skills.
4. Do I need specific equipment to enrol in these courses?
No, most courses are designed to accommodate a variety of equipment, from smartphones to DSLRs. While some courses may have specific gear recommendations, they often emphasize fundamental techniques that can be applied across different devices.
5. Will these courses help me turn photography into a career?
Absolutely. Courses like “The Business of Photography” and “A to Z of Selling Your Photos” specifically focus on the business side of photography, providing insights into turning your passion into a viable career. These courses often result in recognized certifications, focused content tailored to specific interests, and personalized feedback, making them a more formalized and effective avenue for in-depth skill development.
6. How can I choose the right course for my specific interests?
Consider your specific interests in photography, whether adventure photography, wildlife photography, or mastering post-processing. Read course descriptions, reviews, and syllabi to ensure they align with your goals.
7. Do I need to have prior experience in photography to enrol?
No prior experience is required for most courses. Instructors often start with the basics and progressively move to more advanced topics, making the content accessible to beginners while still offering valuable insights to experienced photographers.
8. Are there practical exercises in these courses?
Many courses include practical exercises, assignments, and real-world applications to reinforce theoretical concepts. These exercises are crucial for hands-on learning and skill development.
9. How long does it take to complete these courses?
The duration varies for each course. Some are short and intensive, while others span several weeks. Consider your availability and learning preferences when choosing a course.
10. Can I interact with the instructors or other students?
Yes, absolutely! Many online courses offer discussion forums, Q&A sessions, and sometimes even direct interaction with instructors. This provides a collaborative learning environment and the opportunity to seek clarification on specific topics.
Leave a Reply