Photography is one of the most rewarding hobbies you can have—and digital photography offers the instant gratification of seeing the images you just shot, in the camera right after it is created.

Today’s technology provides folks with more outlets than ever to learn—from reading the camera manual, books and magazines to viewing a video, DVD or webinar to taking a dedicated class or lecture. By far, the ideal way to learn is from in a classroom or lecture setting where you can converse with the instructors, ask questions and seek advice. Reed Hoffmann, one of Nikon School’s instructors explains: “There’s a special kind of energy you feel when attending a class like this, and it’s infectious. From watching the instructors, to sharing lunch, we all learn and grow together. And perhaps most importantly, you leave with a new enthusiasm for photography, a better understanding of it, and ideas for ways to continue to grow with this amazing creative outlet.” Being in a classroom environment lets you learn not only from the instructors but feed off of the energy of the other students as well. Instructor Nick Didlick adds: “I know from personal experience there is nothing like getting into a room with a bunch of like-minded photo students and instructors and participate in a fun learning experience.”

In addition to learning about photography concepts and techniques, attendees also learn the functions and features of their cameras. Instructor Bob Pearson says, “I have many students come up after a class and tell me that they had been confused by certain functions on the camera. Exposure Value (EV) adjustments for example...many students have no idea what EV is for, and are very excited once they understand how EV functions and the advantages to using it.”

Bill Durrence, who has been a Nikon School instructor for two decades, says he hopes the biggest takeaway that students get is a new perspective on learning. Bill feels that it is also important to explain the “story” behind the photograph. He says that in addition to noting how images are made, explaining the story behind the image allows him to add humor and entertainment, which provide a break from the day’s lectures. He adds: “It gives me the chance to talk more about esoteric aspects of making—as opposed to taking—photographs.”  

Nick says that one of his favorite parts about teaching is, “talking to people about our common passion for photography,” along with answering student’s questions.

Michael A. Schwarz photo of a young girl with the reflection of her back showing in the photo as it was taken against a mirror in a ballet studio Michael A. Schwarz
A snapshot made more interesting by placing the subject against a mirror in a ballet studio. Not only do you see her beautiful smile but also the reflection as an added element.
Michael A. Schwarz photo of two boys on a merry go round, showing the panning technique Michael A. Schwarz
In this shot Michael A. Schwarz was in the center of the merry-go-round trying not to move the camera, just trying to stay in sync with the boys since they are all moving at the same speed. The difficulty was in getting the correct shutter speed, so he shot many photos between 1/4th sec and 1/60th sec. The one that had the best combination of sharpness and movement and expression was this one, shot at 1/15th sec.
Michael Schwarz photo of two kids at a pool, with towels wrapped around them. Michael A. Schwarz

Its easy to get candid shots of your kids, especially when they're having fun.

Learn from instructors with a passion for teaching

And the best instructors are those who are working professionals. Nikon School classes are taught by such working pros who not only make a