Photography has been a popular art form for centuries, and the rise of the internet has made it easier than ever to access online photography learning resources. But can photography be learned online? The short answer is YES, photography can definitely be learned online. There are a plethora of online resources available, including blogs, videos, online courses, and tutorials, that can help you learn the fundamentals of photography, as well as more advanced techniques.
When I started photography, I have always been interested in learning how to take better pictures. However, with my busy schedule and limited access to photography classes in my area, I found it difficult to pursue my passion. That’s when I decided to explore online photography courses as an alternative. The thought of being able to learn at my own pace, on my own schedule, and from the comfort of my own home seemed like the perfect solution. But, before diving in, I wanted to know if photography could really be learned online. So, I decided to do some research and find out.
In this article, I will share my experience with online photography learning and how you can find the resources to learn. I will also share some pros and cons of online photography learning. If you are a beginner, then you can also check my other article on 6 Things Beginner Photographers Should Know before getting started in photography.
Can Photography Really be Learned Online?
Photography is an art form that has been practiced for centuries and has undergone many changes and advancements over time. With the advent of digital photography and the widespread availability of cameras, more and more people are becoming interested in learning how to take better photos. However, with busy schedules and limited access to in-person classes, many aspiring photographers are turning to online resources as a way to learn.
So, can photography be learned online? The short answer is yes! There are many great resources available online for learning photography, including online courses, video tutorials, and blogs. These resources offer a wealth of information on everything from camera settings and exposure to composition and post-processing. With the right resources and dedication to practice, anyone can improve their photography skills through online learning.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that online learning is not a substitute for hands-on experience and feedback. While online resources can provide a solid foundation of knowledge, it’s important to practice regularly and seek feedback from experienced photographers in order to truly develop one’s skills. Joining a photography community or taking in-person workshops can offer valuable opportunities for feedback and collaboration that are difficult to replicate online.
In addition, it’s important to be discerning when choosing online photography resources. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Look for courses and tutorials that are well-reviewed and taught by experienced photographers, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different resources to find what works best for you.
Pros and Cons of Online Photography Learning
Now we know that we can learn photography online but before going to any online resource, you should be aware of the pros and cons of online photography learning. I have listed a few of the major points which might be useful for you. Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of this method:
Pros:
- Convenience: The best part of online learning is to allow you to learn at your own pace and on your own schedule, which is great for people with busy lives or who live in areas without access to photography classes.
- Affordability: Online courses and tutorials are often much more affordable than in-person classes or workshops.
- Variety: There are a plethora of online photography resources available, so you can learn a wide variety of techniques and styles.
- Access to top photographers: Many online courses are taught by well-known photographers who may not be accessible through in-person classes or workshops.
Cons:
- Lack of hands-on experience: As mentioned earlier, online learning is not a substitute for hands-on experience. While you can learn a lot from online resources, you still need to practice what you’ve learned in order to truly master the craft.
- Limited feedback: While some online courses and tutorials offer feedback, it’s not the same as getting real-time feedback from an instructor or fellow students.
- Lack of community: While there are online photography communities and forums, it’s not the same as having a local community of photographers to connect with and learn from.
- Technical difficulties: Online learning relies on technology, which can sometimes be unreliable. Technical difficulties can disrupt your learning experience and be frustrating to deal with.
Tips for Beginner Photographers Learning Online
If you’re new to photography and looking to learn online, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- Start with the basics: Before diving into advanced techniques, make sure you have a solid understanding of the basics of photography. This includes things like aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and composition.
- Practice, practice, practice: As mentioned earlier, online learning is not a substitute for hands-on experience. Make sure you take plenty of photos and experiment with different techniques to truly master what you’ve learned.
- Find a community: Photography can be a solitary pursuit, but it’s important to have a community of like-minded individuals to learn from and share your work with. There are plenty of online photography communities and forums where you can connect with other photographers and get feedback on your work.
- Invest in gear wisely: While having the latest and greatest gear can be tempting, it’s important to invest in gear wisely. Focus on getting a good camera body and lens, and don’t worry too much about all the other bells and whistles.
6 THINGS BEGINNER PHOTOGRAPHERS SHOULD KNOW
Best Resources to learn online photography
There are many great resources available online for learning photography. Here are some of the best ones:
YouTube
YouTube is an excellent resource for learning photography, as there are many channels dedicated to teaching photography techniques and skills. Some of the most popular channels include B&H Photo Video, AdoramaTV, and Photography Life.
Udemy
Udemy is a popular online learning platform that offers a wide variety of photography courses. Some of the top-rated courses include “Complete Photography Masterclass: 4 courses in 1,” “Night Photography: You Can Shoot Stunning Night Photos,” and “Photography Masterclass: A Complete Guide to Photography.”
Skillshare
Skillshare is another online learning platform that offers a variety of photography courses. Some of the top courses include “Portrait Photography: Capturing Creative Portraits,” “iPhone Photography: How to Take Pro Photos On Your iPhone,” and “Product Photography: Styling Your Shoot for Success.”
LinkedIn Learning
LinkedIn Learning is an online learning platform that offers a wide range of courses on photography and related topics. Some of the top courses include “Foundations of Photography: Exposure,” “Portrait Photography: Business Portraits,” and “Advanced Photography: Flash.”
CreativeLive
CreativeLive is an online learning platform that offers live and pre-recorded classes on photography and other creative topics. Some of the top photography classes include “Portrait Photography Bootcamp,” “The Art of Wildlife Photography,” and “The Complete Guide to Wedding Photography.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to learn photography?
The best way to learn photography is through a combination of practice, experimentation, and learning from experienced photographers. Whether through online courses, in-person workshops, or self-study, the key is to consistently apply what you learn and strive to improve your skills.
Can photography be self taught?
Yes, photography can be self-taught. With the wealth of information and resources available online and in print, it is possible for individuals to learn the technical and creative aspects of photography on their own. However, receiving feedback and guidance from experienced photographers can be invaluable in accelerating one’s learning process.
How should a beginner learn photography?
A beginner can learn photography by starting with the basics of camera settings and composition, and then practicing with different subjects and lighting conditions. Online courses, books, and tutorials can provide guidance and inspiration, while joining a photography community or taking workshops can offer opportunities for feedback and collaboration.
How do I start photography with no experience?
To start photography with no experience, you can begin by familiarizing yourself with your camera’s settings and experimenting with different shooting modes. Learn the basics of composition and lighting, and practice regularly with different subjects. Utilize online resources and consider taking a beginner’s photography course to accelerate your learning.
Is photography hard to learn?
Photography can be challenging to learn, as it involves technical skills such as understanding camera settings and exposure, as well as creative skills such as composition and storytelling. However, with dedication and practice, anyone can improve their photography skills and produce high-quality images.
Conclusion
In conclusion, learning photography online can be a great way to acquire new skills, knowledge, and inspiration, and it offers many advantages for busy individuals who may not have access to in-person classes or workshops. The wealth of resources available online means that anyone can learn the technical and creative aspects of photography, regardless of their prior experience.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that online learning is not a substitute for hands-on experience and feedback. Aspiring photographers should make an effort to practice regularly and seek feedback from experienced photographers in order to truly develop their skills.
Ultimately, whether you choose to learn photography online or through in-person classes and workshops, the key is to stay committed to learning and to keep practicing. With dedication and perseverance, anyone can become a skilled photographer and create images that capture the beauty and wonder of the world around us.