An ongoing frustration with photographers is focusing.

In other words, getting something specific to be the sharpest thing in our photograph.

We’ve all gone through focusing stuff—looking at our pictures and wondering why what we wanted sharp isn’t sharp.
 

Although sometimes it is, most of the time it’s not because of a malfunctioning camera.
 

And after we rule out blur caused by camera or subject movement, the only thing left is that it’s a focusing issue the only thing left is that it’s caused by our misunderstanding about focusing.

It’s about us not knowing how to use our camera effectively and efficiently when it comes to focusing.
 

It’s about the focusing modes and focusing areas we choose, and if they’re compatible with what we're photographing and what we want to communicate in our photographs.

When we focus with clear compositional intent—choosing exactly what we want to be the sharpest thing in our photograph—our compositions get a lot stronger.
 

It’s not about letting the camera decide.

It’s about us choosing what should be sharp, every time we make a picture.

If we’re having a rough time with focus, learning how to use our camera’s focus settings thoughtfully can make all the difference.
 

That’s why we cover this in the Photography Basics/Introduction To Photography class, and it’s also something we can dig into with a series of private lessons tailored to our needs.

If we wanna be better photographers, understanding focus modes and areas gives us more control—and helps us make the pictures we want.

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.