Visit us in-store July 2-8th to enjoy no interest on your new or used camera gear purchase when paid in full within 18 months through Synchrony Credit!
Let's Shoot Some Fireworks :)
In case you missed it in our last email, here are a few helpful hints for shooting fireworks this Independence Day
Use a Tripod
Perhaps the most important tip is to secure your digital camera to something that will ensure it doesn’t move during the taking of your shots. This is especially important in photographing fireworks simply because you’ll be using longer shutter speeds which will not only capture the movement of the fireworks but any movement of the camera itself.
Remote Release
One way to ensure your camera is completely still during fireworks shots is to invest in a remote release device. With a remote you won't need to touch you camera to take a picture and risk camera shake.
Aperture
A common question around photographing fireworks displays is what aperture to use. Many people think you need a fast lens to get them but in reality it’s quite the opposite as the light that the fireworks emit is quite bright. Apertures in the mid to small range tend to work reasonably well, try somewhere between f/8 to f/16.
Shutter Speed
Probably more important to get right than aperture is shutter speed. Fireworks move and as a result the best photographs of them capture this movement meaning you need a nice long exposure. A great technique is to shoot in ‘bulb’ mode. This is a mode that allows you to keep the shutter open for as long as you hold down the shutter (preferably using a remote shutter release of some type). Using this technique you hit the shutter as the firework is about to explode and hold it down until it’s finished exploding (generally a few seconds).
ISO
Shooting at a low ISO is preferable to ensure the cleanest shots possible. Stick to ISO 100 and you should be fine.
Manual Focus
Auto focusing in low light can be very difficult for many cameras and you’ll end up missing a lot of shots. Once your focusing is set you’ll find you don’t really need to change it during the fireworks display – especially if you’re using a small aperture which increases depth of field.
Have some fun shooting fireworks!!
$35
Many people think an artistic eye for composition is something you're either born with or not. The truth is, good composition techniques are skills you can learn! Join professional photographer Joe Klocek for a two-hour online discussion packed with practical composition techniques you can start using in your photography right away.
What You’ll Learn:
Value contrast
Weight and scale
Direction
Movement
Reads
Using foreground elements
This class is perfect for photographers of all skill levels who want to improve their ability to create visually impactful and balanced images.
Take your photography skills to the next level with our Intermediate Photography class! This course is designed to help you master the fundamentals of exposure, focus, and manual camera control, so you can capture stunning images with confidence.
What You’ll Learn:
Understanding and using aperture, shutter speed, and ISO
Mastering metering modes for accurate exposure
Take control of autofocus modes and settings
Using aperture for portrait control and creative depth of field
Freezing fast action with your shutter speed
By the end of this course, you’ll have the essential skills needed to take professional-level photos and elevate your photography game.
Stars and Galaxies: Essentials of Night Sky Photography
Many people believe that when the sun goes down, so does the camera—but that couldn’t be further from the truth! Join us online for an immersive session focused on the art and technique of capturing breathtaking images of the night sky, from star trails to the Milky Way and beyond.
This class will explore the technical and creative aspects of night sky photography, providing you with the knowledge to elevate your astrophotography skills and capture the wonders of the cosmos.
Take your vacation photos from snapshots to stories! This hands-on travel photography class is designed for travelers who want to make the most of their camera while exploring the world. Whether you're heading to the mountains, city streets, or foreign markets, you’ll leave this class ready to capture the heart of your journey—not just the highlights.
What You'll Learn:
How to plan, pack, and protect your gear for travel
Choosing the best exposure modes, autofocus settings, and quick-access functions
Composition techniques for capturing mood, place, and people
Storytelling with your photos: from wide shots to details
Backup strategies and real-world workflow tips for travelers
How to adapt when things go wrong—weather, missed shots, or gear issues
Take control of the auto modes on your digital camera and unlock a world of creative possibilities! This class is perfect for beginners looking to understand the basics and make the most out of their camera.
What You’ll Learn:
How to operate camera controls and navigate menu options
Tips for getting the most out of your lenses
How to override auto modes to capture the best images
Join us for an entertaining and educational evening of ideas, techniques, and inspiration in the world of portrait photography. In this immersive class, we’ll explore how to harness different environments—from ambient and interior spaces to controlled studio setups—to create compelling portraits with mood and character.
We’ll dive into working with natural light through windows, using strobes, understanding light direction, and techniques for effectively communicating with your subject to capture authentic expressions. Whether you're looking to level up your portrait skills or refine your creative vision, this class will help you bring your portraits to life.
What You’ll Learn:
Choosing the right lens and focal length for portraits
Mastering aperture and controlling depth of field
Working with both exterior and interior spaces
Proper light placement for flattering results
How to interact with subjects to evoke genuine emotion
Ready to take your wildlife photography to the next level? You have your camera and a big telephoto lens… now what? Wildlife photography is a favorite among outdoor photographers, but it can be challenging. From tracking fast-moving subjects to adjusting for tricky lighting conditions, there are essential techniques to help increase your success in this highly rewarding style of photography.
What You’ll Learn:
Understanding sensitivity settings for tracking systems
Using atmospheric compression and teleconverters effectively
Identifying and tracking subjects in various environments
Building an exposure for different lighting positions
Discover the art of macro photography and see the world through a whole new lens with our Macro Photography class!
Have you ever wanted to capture the beauty of everyday objects that often go unnoticed? Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of macro photography, where you'll learn how to create stunning images in a controlled studio environment.
During this class, we’ll share valuable insights on the best camera settings and equipment for capturing still life images with incredible detail. You'll gain practical knowledge and techniques that will enhance your skills as a macro photographer.
After the informative lecture, you'll have the opportunity to practice your newfound skills at our shooting stations. Experiment with different subjects and techniques as you explore the captivating world of macro photography.
Starting at $125.00
We offer private one hour photography classes and coaching at our store to build your photography and post processing skills. Our private lessons can be tailored to anything you want to learn!
