These emails come with the intent of helping you be a better photographer. But if you're tired of hearing from me, unsubscribe.

And if you want more photography stuff to read, there's a place on the interwebs where past emails I wrote are stored. You'll find 'em in the "Newsletter Hub."

Remember, I'd like to know what you want to know about photography. So, if you have any questions, email me at sam@samdamico.com. And for what it's worth. When you send me an email, unless someone's lookin' over my shoulder, I'm the only one that sees it.

Relying on the rules of composition is the easiest way to create intentional compositions.

But just because relying on rules makes photography easy doesn't mean it makes our photography better or makes us better photographers.

Relying on rules of composition is problematic.

Problem #1: Rules homogenize our imagery.

Problem  #2: They limit the use of our imagination.

Problem #3: Rules are formulaic and produce predictable, standardized, run-of-the-mill compositions.

Problem #4: Rules are forced aesthetics that stifle our creativity and prevent us from finding our own ways as photographers who produce photographs that are unique to the way each of us thinks about what we photograph.

I could go on, but you get the idea.

Excellent photography visually communicates stories, possibilities, facts, emotions, opinions, etc.

Excellent photography doesn't rely on rules of composition.

Excellent photography relies on us understanding photography.

Understanding photography means knowing how to operate our cameras to make intentional compositions that work with whatever light we have.

When we understand photography, we can create unique work using our unique minds.

When we do that, we create one-of-a-kind compositions based on how we think about what we see instead of simply photographing rote, rule-based images of what we see.

The Introduction To Photography class starts soon. 
  
More ways to study and practice photography with me are below.

Call me if you need help determining the best course for you.

I'll help you be a better photographer—study and practice photography with me. 

Currently scheduled classes are below.

Smaller classes mean better learning, so class sizes are limited to 5 participants plus me.

But smaller classes also mean spots fill up quicker, so sign up soon. 

And what if the timing doesn't work for you in any of my scheduled group classes? Private in-person lessons suited to your schedule are always an option.

And remember, we learn and improve by doing, so practice making at least one picture daily.