Level 1 - Camera Basics
Level 1 - Camera Basics
Welcome to Camera Basics! This workshop is for students just beginning to take up photography who would like a hands-on approach to learning the fundamentals of exposure, focus, and depth of field. This is also the perfect place for those looking to get into film, but unsure of their camera or the different technique required between digital and analog. In this workshop we’ll cover shutter speed, aperture, and ISO, where to find them, and how to adjust them to capture a well-exposed image. We’ll cover the principles of focusing an image, which might seem straightforward but can vary widely between cameras! We’ll also cover depth of field and how to manage it to make sure your image is sharp where you want it.
Along with camera technique we’ll be taking a walk through the valleys and washes of the Phoenix Mountains where there will be ample opportunities to practice and to learn more about the nature of the desert, how to hike safely, and why you’d want the extra weight of a camera in your hand. The sights we see along the route we take will change with the seasons, making each class unique!
This is a six-person workshop, and will typically be held every other Saturday. It will meet at the 40th Street Trailhead at 3pm and run until 6pm to give us ample light with the possibility for a beautiful sunset. I recommend arriving with some spare time, as parking can often become crowded. As with the other three workshops it is only available to students at least 18 years old, and requires the signing of a liability waiver before participating. This waiver is available for you to read through in advance HERE, and a paper copy will be provided to sign on the day of the workshop.
Signups for the next round of workshops will become available two weeks before their start date, so if you plan on attending a future class be sure to check back and reserve your spot in time!
Be Aware
Weather in the desert can vary from day to day and from hour to hour, so check the forecast for your workshop and plan accordingly! If rain is expected make sure you have a weather-safe covering for yourself and your equipment, and if heat is a concern then a hat and extra water are a necessity. Most weather will not deter us from having a productive time outdoors, but if severe conditions are expected I may have to delay the workshop to a later date. If this happens and you’re already signed up, I will contact you by email to reschedule or refund at your option.
What to Bring
Digital or film camera with manual exposure controls. You may bring an automatic or point-and-shoot camera, but it will severely limit the impact of this level of workshop and your ability to practice mindful photography technique.
Appropriate media for your camera, whether SD card or film. If you are unsure of how to load your 35mm or 120 rollfilm, feel free to bring it separately and it will be a helpful demonstration.
Carrying system for your camera, which could be a strap, backpack, clip, or hand-leash.
Appropriate hiking attire for the season. Recommended gear includes strong boots, a hat, and full-length lightweight pants.
Enough water for three hours of walking and hiking, at least one quart/liter.
Covid-19 Awareness
The safety and health of all workshop participants is of the highest priority, and this includes preventative measures against spread of COVID-19. Because these classes are held in a public preserve I cannot enforce mask-wearing, but I can recommend it, especially when we stop along the trail to talk. I understand the discomfort caused by hiking while having your face covered, so I must leave this to your discretion. If you do not want to risk being around others, or if you are showing any symptoms of illness, I ask you to refrain from signing up until you are back to health. Anyone who arrives to a workshop visibly ill may be denied participation. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in respecting the concerns of all participants.