Summer Photography Classes Begin May 12

My summer photography classes through the Lifelong Learning Center in Missoula, Montana, are now open for registration.

On May 12 you can spend a day Getting to Know Your Digital SLR Camera. Learn about different exposure modes and when to use them for better focus and exposure in your pictures. Understand the various autofocus settings available and when to use them or switch to manual focus. Find out about megapixels, histograms and JPEG versus raw file formats. You’ll walk away with the skills to make the most of your digital SLR camera.

Late Light on the Mission Mountains
Ninepipe Wildlife Refuge, Montana

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As the weather warms up and sunshine returns to western Montana, it's a great time to practice Photography in the Field starting June 1. Have fun taking pictures outside with an experienced photographer to answer your questions! In the classroom you learn techniques for improving your outdoor photos using light, composition and focus. Then we visit two nearby locations to photograph your favorite subjects. Back in the classroom we share pictures and discuss the results.

Crescent Moon at Sunset
Ninepipe Wildlife Refuge, Montana

Hands-on People Photography with experienced portrait photographer Bret Tate helps you make better pictures of your family and friends. We begin with an evening class on June 6 to learn about lighting, backgrounds, posing ideas for individuals and groups as well as camera settings. Then on June 10 we meet for a Saturday morning photo shoot and practice making images of your classmates. After a break for lunch, we gather again to review your favorite images and get feedback on how to improve them.

Lane and George
Missoula, Montana

Wrap up your summer of photography with Night & Low Light Photography at the Fair. In class on August 8 before the Western Montana Fair opens, we explore creative night photography techniques for capturing spinning carnival lights. You also learn tips and techniques for making photographs in low light conditions inside exhibit halls or barns as well as early evening outside. Then we meet at the fair on two evenings to practice. You are welcome to spend more time at the fair as your time and budgets allow. We wrap up in the classroom the following Tuesday by sharing our favorite photos from the event.

Carnival Lights at the Western Montana Fair
Missoula, Montana

You can register online or by phone at 406-549-8765 during normal business hours. I hope to see you in one of these summer classes!