Photo Basics: Getting Off Auto
Whether you want to capture meaningful moments with family and friends, photograph your travels, or simply take better everyday pictures, this class will help you feel more confident using your camera.
Our Photo Basics class is designed for people who want to move beyond Auto mode and understand how their camera really works. With hands-on instruction and small class sizes, you’ll learn how to take control of your settings in a way that feels approachable and practical—not overwhelming.
Classes are offered in Washington DC, Northern Virginia, and occasionally in Maryland, making it easy to find a session that fits your schedule.
Learn to Take Control of Your Camera
One of the most important shifts in photography is moving from letting the camera decide everything to making those decisions yourself.
In this class, you’ll learn how you can control the look of your images by choosing the right settings. We’ll walk through how to freeze or blur motion, how to create a softly blurred background, and how to make adjustments based on the light and your subject.
The goal is simple: to help you feel comfortable, capable, and in control when you pick up your camera.
Topics Covered
We’ll cover the key concepts that form the foundation of photography, including:
- Camera Controls – The most important settings that affect exposure
- ISO Settings
- Shutter Speed – How to control motion for different effects
- Aperture – How to control depth of field and background blur
- Manual and Semi-Manual Shooting Modes
- Focus Settings – How to achieve sharp, consistent focus
- Resolution & Compression – Getting the best image quality
- White Balance – Creating accurate and natural color
- Fill Flash
- Lenses – Understanding your options
- Composition – Simple techniques for stronger, more engaging photos
Who This Class Is For
This class is ideal for:
- anyone new to photography
- people who feel stuck using Auto mode
- new camera owners
- travelers who want better photos
- anyone who wants a solid, easy-to-understand foundation
If you’ve ever felt unsure about your camera settings, this class is a great place to start.
What to Bring
Please bring your camera so you can follow along as we review settings and menus together.
An extra battery, memory card, and your instruction manual can also be helpful.
This class is appropriate for DSLR and mirrorless cameras with manual exposure controls.
Class Size
Class size is limited to 10–12 participants so there is time for questions and individual attention.
Ready to Get Off Auto?
Take the next step and choose a class date that works for you.
Continue Your Learning
Many students take this class as their starting point and then continue with our in-the-field photography classes—especially our FIELDWORK sessions—as a way to practice and reinforce what they’ve learned.
You can also explore our other photography classes in the Washington DC area to find the next step that fits your interests.
Photography classes in the Washington DC area
Questions?
If you have questions about this class, feel free to reach out to Marie Joabar at info@capitalphotographycenter.com.