I’m fairly new to digital photography –  I received my first digital camera in 2007. Only after shooting in “auto” or various “scene” modes for a while did I decide to actually read the manual, learn what ISO, shutter speed and aperture meant and go “manual.” Knowing what the terms mean and actually putting that knowledge into some kind of artsy beautiful action is whole other monster though. After stumbling around, reading lots of articles on the internet, exploring other photographers’ work and becoming intimidated rather than inspired I decided to look into taking classes. Here is what I found:

• WSU offers an online course, Discover Digital Photography. This class covers the basics of digital photography, equipment, software, the digital darkroom, printing and more. The course last 6 weeks and there are 2 lessons each week. It costs $89 and starts December 9th, with other sections of the course starting Jan 20, Feb 17, & Mar 17.
• Wichita Center for the Arts offers two digital photography classes for adults that start in 2010. Digital Photography 101 and Digital Photography On Location for $150 each for non members and $140 for members. A DSLR camera is required for these classes.
• CityArts offers Basic Digital Photography for ages 16 or older. The course is one day a week for 3 weeks on Wednesday or Thursday evenings beginning in January 2010. This class is $45. All you need is a digital camera and they will cover camera functions, composition, and what to do with all those photos you’ve taken. To register, go to WichitaTix.com and click on CityArts Classes.

Pixel Time is another organization that offers classes and workshops in various digital arts for children and adults. Dr. Skyler Lovelace, owner of Pixel Time, created these classes so people can get the “most from the camera and computer they already have, and use what they learn right away.”

The instructors also share websites they’ve found that are low-cost or free that are full of information, such as My Product Advisor, which aids those trying to decide what digital camera to buy.

Pixel Time recently moved to the 3rd floor of the CityArts building. With the move, they are now offering new classes including a workshop for traditional artists who want to explore digital tools, as well as introductory classes for seniors where “you have to be 50 or better to take the workshops!” says to Pixel Time intern, Danna Hatchett.

There are plenty of opportunities in Wichita to help ease your transition from auto to manual mode. Grab your camera and get to snapping!

Image Credit

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