Photographers who are familiar with photography can't understand why working in automatic exposure mode is so popular.
 

Why would people who want to express themselves allow a camera to take away their ability to express themselves?

The answer is that if we don't understand photography, it's easier to trust a camera's algorithms than ourselves.

The camera in automatic mode will get us an ok picture
 

Still, it lacks the humanity and expression that only a human can provide.

Automatic exposure mode is easy, highly simplified, and predictable- all the things that humans look for when we're seeking the easy way to do something.
 

The challenge for all of us is that while it's easier to trust automatic exposure mode in the short run, it ultimately disappoints us because it can't fully communicate human expression.
 

We've gotta learn photography so we can trust ourselves to fully express ourselves.
 

The trust we earn with ourselves by learning photography (camera operation, composition, and observing and describing light) while working in an annual exposure mode gets us involved in the complexities of photography and takes more effort, but in the long run, it's worth it because we can thoughtfully and intentionally, fully express ourselves through our photography.

The Photography Basics/Introduction to Photography class classes are available for registration, or you could get the same instruction as a series of Private Lessons.

However you choose to study and practice with me, I’ll help you become the best photographer you can be.

And if you’re not sure which class fits your needs, just ask—I’m always happy to help.

About Sam

Sam D'Amico, a professional photographer and photography instructor, helps anyone who wants to be a better photographer. 

He'll work with his students to increase their understanding of camera operation, composition, light, and lighting. 

Sam started working as a professional photographer in the mid-1980s.

Most notably, from 1992 to 1997, while working as a freelance photographer, he photographed over 500 assignments for the New York Times.

Additionally, Sam received awards for his work while exhibiting his photographs in shows. 

Sam began teaching photography professionally in 1998 through the Highland Park, N.J. recreation department. 

In 2002 Sam moved to Washington, D.C., and began teaching at the accredited Washington School of Photography in Bethesda, Md.

It was in 2003 that Sam developed his curriculum and started teaching classes in Washington, D.C. 

In 2018 and 2022, the Sam D'Amico Photography Classes were voted the "Best of DC" art class by the readers of the Washington City Paper. 

Many photography teachers spend a lot of time teaching about DSLRs and rules of composition that create homogenized, rigid photographs.

On the other hand, Sam teaches about camera operation, thought process, and the individual photographer's visual communication intent. 

This approach to teaching allows his students to use ANY camera (yes, even the camera on their phone) and break free of the rules of composition.

Approaching the creative process this way allows for fluid and spontaneous photographs unique to the photographer creating them.

Sam encourages his students to find their ways as photographers. 

He instills the skills in his students that result in creative, engaging, and unique compositions that reflect the photographer's intended one-of-a-kind visual expression.