Best Photography Classes In Los Angeles
From the beginning fundamentals to advanced techniques, there is so much to explore in the world of photography. In a time when a single photograph is an immediate click on any personal device, with the ability to share an image to the masses in mere seconds, the emphasis on the photo creds is more than ever. Developing a vision is a process, and there are photography classes in Los Angeles to guide the student with a professional career goal as well as gratify the hobbyist. The best photography schools offer in-class instruction, in-the-field or on-set shooting experiences as well as darkroom skills.
Los Angeles City College
855 N. Vermont Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90029
(323) 953-4000
www.lacitycollege.edu
The Photography Department of Los Angeles City College welcomes all levels and offers 17 courses. Beginning photography class Photography 10 takes students through the basic principles of black and white analog photography, instructing mechanical creation of images with the camera and film and enlarging photographs for display. Students will also explore composition and self-expression. People who are signed up for this course must have a 35mm single lens camera to use for projects. The course also mandates two hours of weekly lecture and three hours of traditional lab/darkroom time. Digital photography is also offered through Photography 7, which offers an introduction to the uses and applications of professional digital SLR cameras including camera controls, aspects of composition and photographing with natural light. This class is definitely geared toward the more serious student versus someone who is looking for a quick hobby.
Samy's Photo School
475 S. Fairfax Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
(323) 456-4564
samysphotoschool.com
Samy's Camera Photo School has one of the larger photography programs on the West Coast. Featuring a wide curriculum (300 classes are offered) including specialty workshops and in the field events, all levels of photographers are encouraged to take courses through Samy's Camera Photo School. Students can sign up to learn about photography fundamentals and basics, Canon DSLR basics, Adobe programs including Lightroom and Photoshop, portrait and fashion shooting, digital black and white, street photography, fine art and travel as well as studio and location lighting. Each seminar room can seat 50 people and includes a computer lab. Classes are taught by professional and highly esteemed photographers with various backgrounds and expertise.
Brentwood Art Center
13031 Montana Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90049-4891
(310) 451-5657
brentwoodart.com
For the last 45 years, Brentwood Art Center has been a well-known neighbor in the local Brentwood/Santa Monica community, teaching and inspiring kids and adults through various art mediums. Specifically for adults, Brentwood Art Center offers a photography class instructing on the fundamentals while engaging the fun, creative and experimental side of this artistic expression. Students will learn the technical components of the camera, indoor and outdoor photo shoots and creating a portfolio. Students must bring their own fully manual digital camera to use on assignments and be responsible for printing photos. Many of the instructors are professionals as well as educators in their field.
New York Film Academy Los Angeles
3300 Riverside Drive
Burbank, CA 91505
(818) 333-3558
www.nyfa.edu
Founded by producer Jerry Sherlock ("The Hunt for the Red October"), the New York Film Academy Los Angeles gives students the opportunity to garner hands-on photography experience, as well as industry expertise and feedback. Photography courses honor both technical and creative aspects, as well as the medium's history and evolution. The Academy welcomes students seeking accelerated photography degrees, Master of Fine Arts and Bachelor of Fine Arts, challenging students in a creative atmosphere. Short-term photography workshops are also offered, which are perfect for the beginner, as well as two-year conservatory in-depth programs.
MDR Photography
Merseyside Productions Inc., home of Christina Peters Photography
4051 Glencoe Ave.
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
(310) 301-7241
mdrphotographyclasses.com
Professional food photographer Christina Peters is the owner and lead instructor of MDR Photography Classes, which specializes in food photography courses. Peters, who holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in photography, has been photographing in the food industry for 20 years, working with clients including Pinkberry Frozen Yogurt, Domino’s Pizza, McDonald's and Burger King. Food lovers will have so much fun learning with Christina Peters and her colleagues. Classes are geared toward beginners and intermediates, offering instruction on camera control, setting techniques and lighting, both in-studio and natural. Her comprehensive courses also cater to the professional photographer, as well as the food blogger who seeks to showcase delicious meals, organic photographs of ingredients and ambiance. Students must have their own digital camera and a laptop is recommended for downloading images.