
This class is also offered on 1/6 in DC and 1/21 in Falls Church, VA.
Appropriate for DSLRs and Mirrorless cameras with manual exposure settings.
Unlock the potential of your camera and embark on a journey to create amazing images. Whether you want to capture cherished moments with loved ones, document game-winning action, or preserve the beauty of your travels, our beginner photography classes provide the tools you need with hands-on practice.
Learn how to control the ‘look’ of your images by mastering the exposure settings, not relying on the auto mode of your camera. Develop the skills to select the perfect exposure settings, freeze or blur motion, and manipulate the depth of field to capture your desired look.
Topics Covered:
- Camera Controls: Gain proficiency in essential camera settings that directly impact exposure.
- Resolution & Compression: Optimize image quality through understanding resolution and compression settings.
- Manual Shooting Modes: Unlock the full potential of your camera by mastering various manual shooting modes.
- ISO Settings: Discover the impact of ISO settings on exposure and image quality.
- Shutter Speeds: Learn how to control motion to emphasize key elements in your photographs.
- Aperture and: Learn how to control Depth of Field and direct the viewer’s eye with aperture selection.
- Focus Settings: Discover the techniques for achieving sharp and precise focus in your images.
- White Balance: Achieve accurate and vibrant colors in your photos.
- Fill Flash: Discover the benefits of using fill flash to enhance your images.
- Lenses: Explore the choices of lenses available and how they can elevate your photography.
- Composition: Unleash your creativity by understanding the principles behind captivating photographs.
Our photography basics and manual exposure settings class is specifically designed for beginners seeking exposure knowledge to comfortably get off the Auto mode.
We encourage participants to bring their own cameras and follow along as the instructor guides you through camera features and exposure settings, enabling you to practice in real time. It is highly recommended to have an extra battery, a memory card, and your camera's instruction manual readily available.
People who like this class might also enjoy the In-the-Field-Shooting classes, especially the FIELDWORK classes, as a way to reinforce the material covered in the classroom.
Questions can be directed to Marie Joabar at info@capitalphotographycenter.com.
Class Limit: 8-10
What People Are Saying About Corey
"Corey Hilz never disappoints! I have taken several classes and workshops with Corey and I always come away with more photographic knowledge and insight than before. Not only does he have great vision, he is also technically savvy, making him a guru in the field and in the classroom. Corey is patient with all of his students regardless of level, and he makes his explanations easily understandable. I can’t recommend Corey enough if you are contemplating a workshop or class with him."
"Corey makes one feel confident. Yes, Corey truly is a gifted teacher, and he is able to clearly explain complex concepts to a complete novice."
"I've done enough photo workshops to know that some instructors are good in the field while others are good in the classroom. Corey is outstanding in both! In the field he has an uncanny ability to show up just when you need his help. His comments are always constructive and nonjudgmental. He lends his equipment freely (he got me hooked on Lensbaby) and encourages you to try new techniques. In the classroom, his teaching is methodical and logical. He shows you how to make the most of the digital darkroom with the software that you have (and then he shows you again using the software you wish you had). Corey is a natural teacher."
"I completed the Lightroom in a Day class with Corey Hilz today. This class far exceeded my expectations. I was admittedly skeptical of the long list of topics to be covered in one day but Corey is a gifted instructor and he presented a large amount of technically complex materials in a very easy to understand clear, concise, and coherent in manner."
"Corey Hilz did an excellent job of outlining the goals for the class, reinforcing some key concepts and adjustments relevant to the indoor environment, and providing guidance and feedback on composition. There was ample time to practice and Corey circulated among the group to review photos, provide helpful feedback, and answer questions. Extremely satisfied with the experience"
Instructor: Corey Hilz

Corey Hilz is a professional photographer specializing in nature and travel photography. He finds the diversity in nature and cultures around the world offer boundless opportunities for new images. Corey approaches his subjects with an artistic eye, looking for a fresh perspective. He goes beyond the documentary image to show a unique perspective using color, shape and line. He strives to share the beauty of a destination you’ve never seen and provide a new perspective on a familiar subject. While Corey has collected diverse images from extensive travel, he also finds some of the most interesting subjects close to home.
Corey is a published author and his work is seen in magazines, books, calendars and catalogs. His photographs are also seen in exhibits and his prints are found in private collections. Corey has written six books, including two books on digital workflow and the first book dedicated to Lensbaby.
Corey has a passion for sharing his knowledge and his instruction enables photographers to improve their photographs technically and artistically. He leads workshops to locations in the United States and abroad. More about Corey can be found on his website, www.coreyhilz.com
Corey teaches the following classes for Capital Photography Center.
* Lightroom In A Day
* Printing with Lightroom
* Editing With The Wacom Tablet
* Photoshop For Photographers
* External Flash Made Easy
* Advanced External Flash
* And Many Of The In-The-Field Shooting Classes