Painting with light is an exciting and artistic way to portray your subject in a completely unique manner. Using the darkness as the backdrop, the photographer works like a painter using a flashlight to illuminate, highlight, and emphasize their subject.

Bring your creativity to capture otherworldly light designs outdoors in the dark! Join instructor Lori Saunders to learn light painting techniques and skills in the field.  

With special nighttime access to the historic Ivy Hill Cemetery in Alexandria, we’ll light paint some of the older tombstones, some dating back to the 1800s, as well as the old crypt. We'll begin around sunset to go over introductory information about light painting -- including recommended camera settings, focusing, and considerations for working with light pollution. Lori will give step-by-step demonstrations of multiple light painting approaches, including how to incorporate outdoor elements with light designs. Then, everyone will have the opportunity to practice painting with light using Lori's hand-held tools to experiment and see what works best. You are also welcome to bring your own light painting tools! 

Participants should be comfortable with their cameras and know how to change basic settings (shooting mode, focus, ISO, speed, F-stop). Shooting will be in manual mode and setting guidance will be provided.

Recommended Gear: A digital camera with manual exposure controls and the bulb setting. Lenses in the range of 12-70mm.  A sturdy tripod and a remote trigger that can use Bulb.  

NOTE!  There will be bright flashing and strobing lights. Make sure you are comfortable with this before signing up.   

More information about the cemetery can be found on their website, https://ivyhillcemetery.net/

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

Class limit: 8-9

This class is also offered on 5/3, 5/17, 6/13, 6/27, 7/11 and 7/26.

Whether you want to capture cherished moments with loved ones, document game-winning action, or preserve the beauty of your travels, this beginner photography basics class provides the tools you need with hands-on practice.

Learn how YOU, not the camera, can control the ‘look’ of an image by choosing the appropriate settings. Understand which tools you can use to freeze or blur motion, and how to beautifully blur backgrounds to make your subject stand out.

This class is designed for those who want to learn more about photo basics to comfortably get off the Auto mode.

Topics Include:

• Camera Controls – Learn the most important settings that affect exposure
• ISO Settings
• Shutter Speeds – Control motion to add emphasis
• Aperture Settings – To affect the ‘Depth of Field’ (the amount of blurring in the background)
• Manual Shooting Modes
• Focus Settings – Learn how to get tack-sharp focus in your photos.
• Resolution & Compression – Set your camera to capture the best quality images
• White Balance – Capture accurate and vibrant colors
• Fill Flash
• Lenses – Understand your lens options
• Composition – Learn tips for captivating photographs

Students are encouraged to bring their cameras. As we discuss camera features and menu settings, you can follow along and learn how to adjust them.  An extra battery, memory card, and your instruction manual are also very helpful to have on hand at the class.

People who like this class might also enjoy the In-the-Field-Photography classes, especially the FIELDWORK classes, as a way to reinforce the material covered in the classroom.

Appropriate for DSLRs and Mirrorless cameras with manual exposure controls.

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

Class Limit: 10-12

Join Beth Haubach for an incredible photo opportunity capturing the bygone era of the Waterside Woolen Mill.

We’ll find decades old looms, spinning and other vintage machinery, faded yarn, and more. In addition to large equipment there are old coils, production labels and several other items leftover from the production process. 

Inside, we’ll explore the nooks and crannies of the lesser-known workings of the mill and discover hidden gems like interesting textures and color combinations, and create small vignettes or “still-lifes.”

We’ll also work the larger scenes using long exposures and exposure bracketing to create HDR images. 

The Woolen Mill provides marvelous photo opportunities everywhere you look so all will come away with unique images.

Weather permitting, we’ll venture outside to photograph the dam and capture beautiful reflections of the mill in the creek that runs alongside the building.

Topics include:

• Creative compositions: Depth of field, Framing, Textures, Reflections, Vignettes
• Exposure bracketing
• HDR photography
• Capturing the essence of “abandoned” spaces

Zoom session prior to the class: We’ll have a weeknight evening Zoom session where Beth will cover tips and techniques for photographing in “abandoned” spaces. That way we can make the most of our time shooting when we get to the mill.  

History of the Mill: Waterside Woolen Mill was designed to process raw wool into woven products, primarily produced traditional Pennsylvania woven blankets. Looms date from the 1870s while other equipment was manufactured in the late 1800s and early 1900s.  Other antique pieces of machinery include a picker, a “Moulton Card,” and wrap winding equipment. 

The Waterside Woolen Mill offers a glimpse into part of the history of this area in PA. It was built on land deeded by the heirs of William Penn to Abraham Oberholtzer in 1785.  In 1806 John Snider purchased the land and erected a mill on the banks of Yellow Creek.  It was closed in the 1960s and remained shut for several decades until the current owners opened it as a tourist attraction and antique store.  For a while they resumed production of woolen blankets on a small scale, however the mill is not currently operating.

Prerequisites:
 •  This class is best suited for experienced hobbyists, intermediate or advanced photographers. It's not recommended for beginners.
 •  Participants should be familiar with basic camera operation, including setting the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. 

Entry Fee: Participants will pay the $80 entry fee at the Mill. This is not included in the price of the class.
Note: We are obligated to cover the $80 fee even if you are unable to make it. Therefore we will need 14 days cancellation notice instead of our normal 5 day notice. If you give us 14 days notice, please see our normal cancellation policy. 

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

Class Limit: 8-9

This class is also offered on 7/11/26.

How do you capture the essence of a person in a single image?  How can you manipulate light to produce an emotional response from the viewer?  And, how do you evoke genuine expressions from your subject?  In this hands-on portraiture class, we will explore it all.  

We will cover the technical elements, as well as the motivation and the artistry, involved in producing meaningful portraits.  Most importantly, we will explore how the collaborative relationship between subject and photographer can produce stunning results.

 Join us and unleash your creativity, and learn how to produce high-quality, aesthetically pleasing portraits that leave a lasting impression.

• Baseline camera settings for portraiture* (ISO, f/stop, shutter speed)
• Composition techniques to enhance your images (hand placement, camera angle, filling the frame)
• The do's and don'ts of posing to bring out the best in your subjects
• Evoking genuine expressions to add emotion and depth to your portraits
• Skillful control of light to achieve the desired mood and ambiance
• Harnessing the power of natural window light for captivating portraits
• Using continuous studio lights for seamless professional results
• Techniques for manipulating shadows to achieve the desired effect
• Correcting White Balance using a gray card in Lightroom for precise color accuracy

Unlock your true potential as a portrait photographer and create stunning images that stand out from the crowd.

*Participants will get the most out of this class if they have a solid understanding of exposure basics and are comfortable working in either Aperture Priority mode or Manual mode. 

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

Class Limit: 10

Flowers are nature's jewels, offering infinite colors, patterns, textures, and shapes. Join us for this hands-on class and develop your skills to see and capture flowers more creatively, from portraits of blooms to their intricate and complex details. Learn to capture a variety of styles: representational, abstract, and graphic.

Topics covered:

• Seeing and capturing flowers creatively
• Composition tips and techniques
• Hands-on lab with multiple image-capture stations
• Editing demonstration and creative workflow

Janet will share real-world examples and demonstrate a simple editing process to enhance your images.

During the hands-on lab portion, students will rotate through various stations, each designed to explore a different photographic style. This is the fun part—framing the energy and bold colors of diverse flowers while experimenting with new techniques.

Stations may include working with black velvet backgrounds, using black plexiglass for stunning reflection shots, capturing flowers against a light pad, shooting through tulle for soft effects, and creating bokeh backgrounds with strategic lighting behind flowers or bouquets.

You'll come away with display-worthy images, repeatable methods for future shoots, and a renewed appreciation for these natural jewels.

Bring whatever camera you're comfortable using for close-up work, from smartphones to DSLRs. There will be time at the end for some editing and students can bring a laptop or iPad (or use their phone) for the editing portion of the class. Software needed will be Snapseed app (iPhone/Android) and/or Adobe Lightroom.

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

Class Limit: 8 

This class is also offered on 5/17, 6/13, 6/27, 7/11 and 7/26.

Whether you want to capture cherished moments with loved ones, document game-winning action, or preserve the beauty of your travels, this beginner photography basics class provides the tools you need with hands-on practice.

Learn how YOU, not the camera, can control the ‘look’ of an image by choosing the appropriate settings. Understand which tools you can use to freeze or blur motion, and how to beautifully blur backgrounds to make your subject stand out.

This class is designed for those who want to learn more about photo basics to comfortably get off the Auto mode.

Topics Include:

• Camera Controls – Learn the most important settings that affect exposure
• ISO Settings
• Shutter Speeds – Control motion to add emphasis
• Aperture Settings – To affect the ‘Depth of Field’ (the amount of blurring in the background)
• Manual Shooting Modes
• Focus Settings – Learn how to get tack-sharp focus in your photos.
• Resolution & Compression – Set your camera to capture the best quality images
• White Balance – Capture accurate and vibrant colors
• Fill Flash
• Lenses – Understand your lens options
• Composition – Learn tips for captivating photographs

Students are encouraged to bring their cameras. As we discuss camera features and menu settings, you can follow along and learn how to adjust them.  An extra battery, memory card, and your instruction manual are also very helpful to have on hand at the class.

People who like this class might also enjoy the In-the-Field-Photography classes, especially the FIELDWORK classes, as a way to reinforce the material covered in the classroom.

Appropriate for DSLRs and Mirrorless cameras with manual exposure controls.

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

Class Limit: 10-12

Don’t miss out, Registration closes April 29!

Learn the basics of Real Estate Photography and start developing a strong set skills in this field.

Tammy will take you through a variety of methods that are used in Real Estate- including lighting and HDR issues (high dynamic range). We will also focus on composition theory and how it applies to spaces as well as various methods for dealing with lighting areas in a home from simple to more challenging. 

Topics include:

• How to approach the house
• Standard shot list
• Camera angles for interior shots
• Composition rules with Real Estate
• Methods to balance indoor shots with window light
• Lighting conditions for exteriors in daylight and twilight
• Color accuracy and color casts
• Tips and tricks for dynamic photos
• Gear recommendations from simple equipment for a basic shoot and options for upgrading
• Camera and exposure settings
• And more

After the discussion portion, we’ll have a hands-on practice session taking photos of a beautifully styled home.  

Tammy will share a lot of valuable information. There is a very active Real Estate Photography community and Tammy will introduce you to various paths for getting involved and learning more.

Also, give a look to what you might expect at the class in this YouTube video that Tammy made.

Any camera will do, but for best results we recommend a digital SLR camera or a mirrorless camera with manual exposure controls with a wide-angle lens (10-20mm for digital DX SLR's, 12-24 mm for full frame/FX SLR's), a circular polarizer filter, an external flash unit if you have one, and a sturdy tripod with adjustable head. 

It's recommended that you have knowledge of exposure basics and can adjust the exposure settings with your camera. If not, consider taking the Photo Basics - Getting Off Auto class first.

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

Class Limit:  8-10

This class is held with Corey Hilz on Zoom on Thursdays, May 7, 14, 21, and the time is 7:00pm-8:30. It will be recorded in case you miss a date. 
Learn the basics of organizing and editing your photos using Lightroom Classic. This class is appropriate for people with little or no experience using Lightroom. The class is designed to introduce you to the fundamental tools, not to cover everything available. Students will gain skills and confidence editing your photos without being overwhelmed!
 
Topics include:

• Importing photos into Lightroom
• Organizing photos with folders or albums
• Organizational tools: flags and star ratings
• Recovering highlight and shadow detail
• Adjusting color intensity
• Enhancing details
• Fixing color casts
• Converting to Black and White
• Intro to selective adjustments using Masking
• Retouching tools to remove distractions 
• Removing chromatic aberration and distortion 
• Noise reduction
• Sharpening
• Exporting images to share your edited photos

Each evening's session will be recorded and will be available to you for 90 days after the class starts. 

All students will receive a pdf handout with tips, techniques and screen shots. It'll be your post-class companion when you're back at home editing your photos.
 
Students will follow along with their own computers with Lightroom Classic installed. If you haven’t already downloaded Lightroom Classic go to the Adobe website and find the “Lightroom” plan for $11.99/month. You can also choose a fully functional 7-day free trial."

Not sure whether to use Lightroom Classic or Lightroom Desktop (Cloud)? This comparison between the two might help.
The core function of both versions of Lightroom is the same: they give you the ability to organize and edit your photos. The main differences come down to where your photos are stored, as well as if you need additional features that go beyond basic organizing and editing. The following is a list of the major feature differences, not a comprehensive feature comparison. Which one is best for you depends on your needs and preferences. 

 Lightroom Classic
-Local storage only: photos are stored on your computer or external drive, and cannot be accessed from other devices 
-Extensive options for managing keywords and metadata
-Presets for adding metadata -Presets for exporting photos
-History panel with a list of every edit you’ve made to a photo
-Ability to tether a camera during a photoshoot
-Soft proofing in preparation for printing in the Print Module
-Map module: see geotagged photos displayed on a map
-Print module: layout and print photos yourself
-Book module: layout a book design

    Lightroom Desktop (Cloud)
-Cloud and local photo storage: option to store photos on your computer or in the Lightroom Cloud
-Photos stored in the Lightroom Cloud can be viewed/edited from multiple devices: desktop computer, tablet or phone
-AI keyword search to find photos without manually adding keywords (Cloud-based photos only)

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

This class is designed for those who have taken any of the Photography Basics classes and want the opportunity to work in the field to reinforce the material covered in the classroom. We’ve encouraged you to leave the Auto settings behind and to shoot in the Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority or Manual modes so now it’s time for some hands-on.

Our location in Old Town gives us plenty of photo opportunities to practice exposure settings and creative captures. We begin down by the waterfront capturing the details in the harbor area, we’d then photograph quaint shops and historic homes. We'll end at the Farmers Market in front of City Hall where we’ll find street scenes, colorful produce, flowers stalls, and more.

We'll be working with you to reinforce:

• Camera Controls
• ISO Settings
• Controlling motion with Shutter Speeds
• Depth of Field and setting the aperture for the 'look' you want
• White Balance
• Focus Settings
• Playback tools to evaluate focus and exposure
• Composition - Framing an interesting photograph

Join us and come away with stronger skills for setting exposure and capturing exciting images that you’re proud to show off.

Any camera with the Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority or Manual modes is appropriate. Bring your camera and any or all of your lenses. We’ll work with what you have in your bag. 

Please note: It is assumed you have already taken a Basics class and are somewhat familiar with the manual exposure modes. We will not be able to introduce you to this material at this class.

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

Class limit: 7-8

Photo courtesy of Marisa Roinestad

Join Kim Kelly and explore the Pennsylvania countryside through your lens.

We’ll discover several stunning covered bridges and capture their simplistic yet technical structure in serene settings. With luck we may have a chance encounter with a passing Amish buggy.

Just the sight of an old covered bridge evokes the times of horse drawn buggies amid rolling landscapes. Lancaster County is host to 30 of these beautiful structures set in and around many Amish farms and spring time is one of most beautiful seasons for this type of photography. We've visit 4 to 5 of the most picturesque. 

We’ll also find plenty of photo ops at the Strasburg Train Station and participants have the option to enjoy a 45 minute ride in the comfort of the first class lounge & parlor cars. This is a great way to view and photograph the expansive scenic farmlands.*
 
Topics include; 
- Creating striking landscapes scenes featuring covered bridges
- Showcasing the architecture of these structures as well as intimate scenes
- Exploring the beauty of old steam trains inside and out

We’ve built in a short break at the station for students to enjoy a quick lunch. Students will pay for their own lunch, it is not included in the fee for the class.

Links and more information will be in your confirmation email.

Recommended Equipment: A digital camera with lens(es) in the range of 16-200mm. A circular polarizing filter if you have one.

*Train tickets are not covered in the price of the class. They run about $48 and students will need to reserve their own (in the first class lounge & parlor cars) if they want to enjoy the train ride with Kim. Links and more information will be in your confirmation email.

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

Class Limit: 8

Street photography is very popular now more than ever because photographers have access to high-quality cameras in mobile phones and smaller high-resolution digital cameras.  A camera’s ease of access and proliferation raises the issues of ethics and privacy in public places and the difference between a snapshot and a street photograph.

This hands-on class will explore the unique aspects of the street photography genre. Michael Koren will be your guide as you create compelling photographs that go beyond the ordinary snapshot.  

First, we'll gather on Zoom on a Thursday, 5/7/26, and you’ll learn pro-level tips and techniques and discuss privacy issues associated with street photography. This will be recorded in case you can't make it.

Then we'll meet in person on Saturday, 5/9/26, and with Michael’s guidance and direction, the group will photograph outdoors around the White House and Lafayette Park area. 

You’ll create photographs that demonstrate your personal vision while using your own gear optimized for street photography.

Topics include:

• Proper techniques and settings for street photography
• Pro tips and techniques for capturing compelling images
• Create captivating images using anticipation, patience, composition, and visualization
• Hands-on image capture
• Privacy and ethics concerning street photography
• Image review and feedback

Recommended gear: A DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual exposure controls and lenses in the range of 28mm - 70mm. Smartphone’s are welcome too.

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

Class Limit: 8-10

Join Corey Hilz at the National Colonial Farm and improve your understanding of composition in Landscape photography. 

Piscataway National Park and the National Colonial Farm are nestled across from Mount Vernon on the Maryland side of the Potomac River. The Park offers a historical countryside setting and the farm is home to heritage breeds of sheep, goats, turkeys, and hogs.

Learn hands-on the concepts of landscape photography and the tools that will help improve your landscape images. From a weathered pier we will look for scenes in the early morning light along the Potomac. Afterwards we’ll explore the park looking for opportunities to incorporate historic buildings into our small scenes. We’ll also have the chance to capture creative details and patterns of the buildings. The farm area will offer a variety of animal to photograph.

Topics Include:
Concepts of landscape photography
Getting the right exposure in high contrast scenes
Elements of creative compositions
Using perspective to add depth to your images
Layering near and far elements for stronger compositions

Recommended Gear:
A DSLR or mirrorless camera and lenses covering the range of 18-200mm.

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

Class limit: 8-10

Join Kim and explore the rich maritime landscapes of Maryland’s Eastern Shore from St. Michaels to Tilghman Island. Learn techniques to capture the essence of maritime life from beautiful wide vistas down to the interesting little details.

We’ll begin shooting a variety of skiffs and typical Chesapeake Bay boats, explore a boat barn and the Hooper Strait Lighthouse. From there we will carpool to Tilghman Island to capture several fishing harbors with iconic boats, crab pots, and harbor scenes.  

In spring, the watermen ready their boats for the crabbing season and this is the perfect time for photographers to frame harbor finds, rugged waterman and Chesapeake Bay scenes.

Weather permitting, we might be able to take advantage of the full moon rising and the sun setting.  

The coastlines and tributaries of the Chesapeake Bay are home to a long history of maritime life. Harvesting the seafood bounty of the bay required dedicated men and women and a vast array of wooden boats like deadrises and skipjacks. Much of this is available for us to photograph as Kim knows where to find these gems.

There is a quaint little general store along the way that serves sandwiches, wraps, etc.. We’ll plan to make a stop here.

Since we’ll be finishing at 8:30, our confirmation letter will list some Hotel/Inn options in the area for those that would prefer to stay overnight.

Note- Fee includes $20 access fee to a boat barn and a dock area to photograph harbor scenes from.

Recommended Equipment: A digital camera with lens(es) in the range of 16-300mm, 400mm if you have that. A sturdy tripod. 

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

Class Limit: 8

This class is also offered on 6/13, 6/27, 7/11 and 7/26.

Whether you want to capture cherished moments with loved ones, document game-winning action, or preserve the beauty of your travels, this beginner photography basics class provides the tools you need with hands-on practice.

Learn how YOU, not the camera, can control the ‘look’ of an image by choosing the appropriate settings. Understand which tools you can use to freeze or blur motion, and how to beautifully blur backgrounds to make your subject stand out.

This class is designed for those who want to learn more about photo basics to comfortably get off the Auto mode.

Topics Include:

• Camera Controls – Learn the most important settings that affect exposure
• ISO Settings
• Shutter Speeds – Control motion to add emphasis
• Aperture Settings – To affect the ‘Depth of Field’ (the amount of blurring in the background)
• Manual Shooting Modes
• Focus Settings – Learn how to get tack-sharp focus in your photos.
• Resolution & Compression – Set your camera to capture the best quality images
• White Balance – Capture accurate and vibrant colors
• Fill Flash
• Lenses – Understand your lens options
• Composition – Learn tips for captivating photographs

Students are encouraged to bring their cameras. As we discuss camera features and menu settings, you can follow along and learn how to adjust them.  An extra battery, memory card, and your instruction manual are also very helpful to have on hand at the class.

People who like this class might also enjoy the In-the-Field-Photography classes, especially the FIELDWORK classes, as a way to reinforce the material covered in the classroom.

Appropriate for DSLRs and Mirrorless cameras with manual exposure controls.

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

Class Limit: 10-12

Capture the Chesapeake Bay with Jay Fleming and Marie Joabar.

Join us on the water for a unique opportunity to photograph some of the Chesapeake Bay’s most iconic scenes — from the dramatic lines of the Bay Bridge reflected in the water to classic lighthouses and working watermen hauling in their catch. We’ll shoot from a boat during the beautiful early morning light through golden hour, when the Bay is at its most photogenic.

With guidance from Jay and Marie, you’ll learn how to work with changing light and dynamic conditions to create striking, memorable images. Whether you’re using a DSLR or a mirrorless camera, you’ll head home with new skills and a collection of stunning Chesapeake Bay photographs.

All levels are welcome but some familiarity with manual exposure settings is helpful.

Recommended Gear: 
•    Digital SLR or mirrorless camera with lenses ranging from wide-angle to telephoto (a 24–70mm and 100–400mm are ideal). If you need to rent gear, look at Apeturent in DC.
•    Two camera bodies (optional but helpful to avoid changing lenses on the water).
•    Fully charged batteries and empty memory cards.
•    Windbreaker, waterproof jacket, hat, and gloves — dress for spring conditions on the water. There’s no protection from the wind on the boat!

We will launch out of a location in the Sandy Point State Park area in Maryland. Details will be in your Confirmation email.

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

CLASS CANCELLATION POLICY for CHESAPEAKE BAY PHOTO SHOOT
-A refund or a credit towards another workshop or class (less a 10% processing fee) can be given if cancellation notice is given more than 14 days from the scheduled workshop.
- If cancellation notice is given less than 14 days, no refund or credit will be given unless another person fills your spot. If so, we will give a refund or credit less 50%.
- If there is no cancellation notice, or it is given 14 days or less and no one fills the spot, no refund or credit will be given.
- If Capital Photography Center cancels or postpones a workshop due to weather or low enrollment, you can choose a refund (less the 5.5% payment processing fee) or a credit towards a future workshop or class.

About Jay Fleming

Jay discovered his passion for photography upon inheriting his father’s hand-me-down Nikon film camera at the young age of thirteen. He immediately developed an affinity to looking at life through the lens of his camera and what ensued was an exciting photographic journey that would eventually lead him to his career as professional photographer.

Whether it’s a dramatic sunrise over the Chesapeake Bay or a fisherman hauling gear, the passion for his craft and for visual storytelling is obvious in every photograph. Jay’s talent is undeniable, his is photography is not only beautiful but purposeful. 

Jay’s documentation of the iconic seafood industry proved to be an incredibly powerful educational tool in raising awareness for the people and the processes involved with bringing commonly consumed seafood products to market. On these topics Jay has authored two books; Working the Water and Island Life. 

He considers himself to be extremely fortunate to have found a livelihood that both satisfies his creativity and simultaneously supports his beliefs in environmental conservation. 
View his work at www.jayflemingphotography.com.

This class is also offered on 6/6.

Take a leisurely ride on a pontoon boat and explore the tidal tributaries of the Patuxent River, one of central Maryland’s wildest. 

Join naturalist Matt Felperin for exciting bird photography opportunities such as Osprey, herons, shorebirds and songbirds. WIldlife abounds in the area as well and we'll hope to see beavers and turtles. We'll also see wildflowers and explore marshes in places inaccessible by foot. With good weather, we'll also catch a beautiful sunrise!  

You’ll also learn more about this special place and its role in keeping the Chesapeake Bay a healthy ecosystem under tremendous environmental pressures. 

Topics include:
-Tips for photographing wildlife
-Being ready for the shot
-Focus settings that work best
-Exposure and camera settings

Recommended gear: DSLR, mirrorless, or superzoom camera. A telephoto zoom or prime lens with a minimum of 300mm focal length. A normal 24-105mm lens for closer encounters. No tripods but monopods are OK.
Consider renting a lens, we recommend Aperturent in DC, use CPC10 for a 10% discount on your rental.

Prerequisite: Participants should be familiar with their cameras and somewhat familiar with exposure settings of ISO, Aperture and Shutter Speed. We will not be able to introduce you this material at the class. If not familiar, consider taking the Photo Basics-Getting off Auto class first.

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

Class limit: 8-10

Join Corey Hilz for a morning photo hike in beautifully wild yet local Rock Creek Park. Expand your creative nature photography by getting off the beaten track and find the hidden treasures on the trail.

Along the rapids area of Rock Creek Park the road is closed on the weekends to auto traffic bringing peace and quiet along the water. With a meandering trail along the river this adventure allows us to slow down and create compelling compositions of bridges, granite boulders and flowing waters.

This class will focus on learning to use camera settings and filters for slow exposures that create silky water effects. We’ll photograph along the rapids section with historic bridges as backdrops. Along with developing your slow exposure skills, compositional techniques for nature photography will be emphasized.

Designed for any level of  photographer, we will concentrate on making thoughtful choices for compelling compositions and creating slow exposure captures.

Topics Include:

• How Neutral Density and Circular Polarizer filters are used in nature photography.
• Technical aspects including camera settings, the histogram, understanding light and composition.
• Creative composition for compelling nature captures. 

This class is on uneven and rocky terrain. Boulder stepping is necessary near the water’s edge. Estimated distance is 1½ miles on both paved, unpaved and rocky trails.

Recommended Equipment: Digital camera with a zoom lens in the 16 – 105mm range and a sturdy tripod. A circular polarizer filter and if you have it, a neutral density filter (6 stops or variable)

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

Class limit: 8-10

Photo Credit: Karen Davis

This class is held with Corey Hilz on Zoom from 7-8:30 pm on Thursday, June 4, 11, 18. All will be recorded in case you miss a date. 

Learn the basics of organizing and editing your photos using Lightroom Desktop/Cloud. This class is appropriate for people with little or no experience using Lightroom. The class is designed to introduce you to the fundamental tools, not to cover everything available. Students will gain skills and confidence editing your photos without being overwhelmed!
 
Topics include:

• Storing your photos on your computer or in the cloud
• Organizing photos with folders or albums
• Organizational tools: flags and star ratings
• Recovering highlight and shadow detail
• Adjusting color intensity
• Enhancing details
• Fixing color casts
• Converting to Black and White
• Intro to selective adjustments using Masking
• Retouching tools to remove distractions 
• Removing chromatic aberration and distortion 
• Noise reduction
• Sharpening
• Exporting images to share your edited photos 

Each evening's session will be recorded and will be available to you for 90 days after the class starts. 

All students will receive a pdf handout with tips, techniques and screen shots. It'll be your post-class companion when you're back at home editing your photos.
 
Students will follow along with their own computers with Lightroom Desktop/Cloud installed. If you haven’t already downloaded Lightroom Desktop/Cloud go to the Adobe website and find the “Lightroom” plan for $11.99/month. You can also choose a fully functional 7-day free trial."

Not sure whether to use Lightroom Desktop (Cloud) or Lightroom Classic? This comparison between the two might help.
The core function of both versions of Lightroom is the same: they give you the ability to organize and edit your photos. The main differences come down to where your photos are stored, as well as if you need additional features that go beyond basic organizing and editing. The following is a list of the major feature differences, not a comprehensive feature comparison. Which one is best for you depends on your needs and preferences. 
    Lightroom Desktop (Cloud)
-Cloud and local photo storage: option to store photos on your computer or in the Lightroom Cloud
-Photos stored in the Lightroom Cloud can be viewed/edited from multiple devices: desktop computer, tablet or phone
-AI keyword search to find photos without manually adding keywords (Cloud-based photos only)

   Lightroom Classic
-Local storage only: photos are stored on your computer or external drive, and cannot be accessed from other devices 
-Extensive options for managing keywords and metadata
-Presets for adding metadata -Presets for exporting photos
-History panel with a list of every edit you’ve made to a photo
-Ability to tether a camera during a photoshoot
-Soft proofing in preparation for printing in the Print Module
-Map module: see geotagged photos displayed on a map
-Print module: layout and print photos yourself
-Book module: layout a book design

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

Abstract photography is one way to capture simple, everyday subjects in different contexts allowing the photographer to create compelling images where the subject is often unrecognizable. 

The techniques used in abstract photography provides a fresh approach to crafting unique images. They may also help the photographer develop a stronger eye and view subjects with a fresh perspective. Using a variety of techniques the photographer finds limitless options and is easily entertained as each frame gives a different result.  

Join instructor Beth Haubach in this hands-on class as she shares her 3 favorite techniques to create abstract images with:
   •    Oil & Water photography
   •    Water Drop photography
   •    Bottled Light photography

The combination of presentation, demonstration, and hands-on photo shooting sessions is sure to spark the imagination and ultimately produce some unique and beautiful abstract images. Participants will come away with the know-how to replicate the set-ups in their own home.

Learn the essentials including:
   •    The tools and equipment needed
   •    Camera and exposure settings for the particular abstracts covered 
   •    Post processing – Use tools in Lightroom (or Photoshop) for the final touches and polished look. 

Recommended Equipment:
   •    DSLR/mirrorless camera
   •    Macro lens or zoom lens in range of 24-120mm
   •    Macro lens, extension tubes or close-up filters (oil & water/water drop photography)
   •    Tripod and remote trigger or cable release

Prerequisites:
 •  This class is best suited for experienced hobbyists, intermediate or advanced photographers. It's not recommended for beginners.
 •  Participants should be familiar with basic camera operation, including setting the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO.

This class is not suitable ot Smartphones. 

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

Class Limit: 8-9

What People Are Saying About This Class
“I had so much fun in Beth’s Abstract class! She did a great job working with each of us and I loved what I captured. I’m going to set up a spot in my home to continue playing with these techniques. Thanks Beth!”

Take a leisurely ride on a pontoon boat and explore the tidal tributaries of the Patuxent River, one of central Maryland’s wildest. 

Join naturalist Matt Felperin for exciting bird photography opportunities such as Osprey, herons, shorebirds and songbirds. WIldlife abounds in the area as well and we'll hope to see beavers and turtles. We'll also see wildflowers and explore marshes in places inaccessible by foot. With good weather, we'll also catch a beautiful sunset!  

You’ll also learn more about this special place and its role in keeping the Chesapeake Bay a healthy ecosystem under tremendous environmental pressures. 

Topics include:
-Tips for photographing wildlife
-Being ready for the shot
-Focus settings that work best
-Exposure and camera settings

Recommended gear: DSLR, mirrorless, or superzoom camera. A telephoto zoom or prime lens with a minimum of 300mm focal length. A normal 24-105mm lens for closer encounters. No tripods but monopods are OK if you want to bring one.
Consider renting a lens, we recommend Aperturent in DC, use CPC10 for a 10% discount on your rental.

Prerequisite: Participants should be familiar with their cameras and somewhat familiar with exposure settings of ISO, Aperture and Shutter Speed. We will not be able to introduce you this material at the class. If not familiar, consider taking the Photo Basics-Getting off Auto class first. 

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

Class limit: 8-10