Special Announcement
I’ve added a Photography Basics/Introduction To Photography class starting on Saturdays for the April series of classes.
Special Announcement
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Monday, March 23, 2026.
A photograph isn’t just a recording of something—it’s the result of understanding and
intention.
Specifically, understanding photography, understanding what we’re doing as photographers, and having a clear intent of communication.
What gives a photograph impact isn’t the subject alone, but our involvement in creating the photograph.
A big part of what allows us to get more or less involved is the exposure modes we
use.
Automatic exposure modes, including aperture- and shutter-priority modes, give us limited control while making the picture.
On the other hand, manual exposure mode gives us full control over the picture while making it.
Through choices of compositional elements, including camera operation and lighting, while working in manual exposure mode, we can fully express our compositional intent, which is Irvin by our intent of communication.
We’ve gotta consider the intent of the composition, why the photograph is being made, because our photograph isn’t so much about what we see; it’s about how we think about what we see.
When we do that, we create images that only we could create, and not only are our pictures seen as unique, they're also felt.
This is what transforms a photograph
into something meaningful and expressive.
A photograph is not reality itself; it is an interpretation of reality guided by awareness.
Working in manual exposure mode deepens that understanding.
By controlling aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, we control everything in terms of camera operation and compositional decisions.
Instead of relying on the camera to do our work for us, we take full responsibility for the outcome of the picture—allowing us to create with intention in any situation, in any light.
This consistency builds confidence and clarity in how we see and respond to the world around us.
Our best photography is not automatically created by an unthinking, unfeeling computer-driven algorithm inside our camera that does the work for us.
Our best photography is a deliberate act of creation by us, a human.
Remember, I’m here to help you understand photography so you can create meaningful, expressive photographs anytime, anywhere.
Ready to be a better photographer?
Register for an upcoming Photography Basics/Introduction To Photography class, book a series of private lessons, or explore the full lineup of classes designed and taught by me that’ll help you be a more confident, capable photographer.
No matter how
you study and practice with me, I’ll help you be a better photographer.
Ways to learn photography with me are listed below.