Composition Techniques at US Naval Academy

Composition Techniques at US Naval Academy

Strong photography depends on strategic compositional choices that draw the viewer's eye in and hold it on the subject.

If you're ready to strengthen your composition skills, join Kim Kelly for a guided walkabout through the historic and scenic US Naval Academy. Kim will lead you around the grounds — including a few lesser-known spots on campus — as you explore elements of composition such as leading lines, negative space, layering, and vanishing points.

Each participant will receive a digital booklet featuring examples of the compositional styles used to create impactful images, including:

  • Framing
  • Curved Lines
  • Layering
  • Low Angle
  • Shadows
  • Colors
  • Texture
  • Depth of Field
  • Abstracts
  • Silhouette
  • Five Senses

As we move through campus, we'll seek out real-world examples of these elements, training your eye to spot them wherever you go. Challenge yourself to see how many different techniques you can find and photograph along the way.

Please note: Before signing up, review this link to the US Naval Academy's visitor requirements and make sure you have the required documentation. 

Recommended Gear – A DSLR or Mirrorless camera with lenses ranging from 24-200mm.

The Photo Composition Elements booklet (in a pdf format) will be sent to you with the reminder letter a few days prior to the class. 

Questions can be directed to Marie Joabar at info@capitalphotographycenter.com.

Class Limit: 8-10


What People Are Saying About Kim

"Great class that really pushed me to my learning edge! I gained new insights about photographing this type of subject."

"Kim is such a friendly and patient instructor and she was fantastic. She was incredibly helpful in getting shots set up and for the advice that she gave on framing and composition. I would definitely take classes that Kim was the instructor for again."

“Kim showed us different techniques, angles and backgrounds to display in the photos, which made the photos a lot more interesting than the photos that I normally take.”

“What made this class, was the knowledge of the event and backstory that was given throughout this workshop. Kudos to Kim for putting up with us moving around on a hot summer day.”  

“Kim is a great instructor and I learned so much at the class.” 

"Kim’s class exceeded my expectations and I love her teaching style."

"Great workshop with Kim! I learned so much from her and had fun in the process!"

Instructor: Kim Kelly

Kim Kelly

Kim’s interest in photography took root when she received her first camera, a Canon AT-1 (film) as a college graduation gift and she has continued to shoot ever since. She eventually migrated over to digital technology and her passion for capturing images continued to grow. Kim served as the Field Trip Director for three years for the Digital Photography Club of Annapolis and serves as the club’s liaison to the Maryland Photography Alliance. 

More about Kim Kelly


Class Cancellation Policy

  • A refund or a credit towards another class (less a $20 processing fee) can be given if cancellation notice is given more than 5 business days from the scheduled class.
  • If there is no cancellation notice, or it is given 5 business days or less, no refund or credit will be given.
  • Please check the name and date of the class carefully. Requests to reschedule a class will incur a $20 processing fee provided notice is given more than 5 business days prior to the class. If request to reschedule is given less than business 5 days prior to the class, no refund or credit will be given.
  • If Capital Photography Center cancels or postpones a class due to weather or low enrollment, you can choose a full refund or a credit towards a future class.

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