Making a leap from automatic to creative camera operation is one of the biggest steps we can take as photographers.

Recently, while working with a photographer who wanted to move beyond full auto, we explored the creative possibilities of aperture-priority (AV) and shutter-priority (TV) modes.

That was a huge leap—and it’s exactly what we get into in the Getting to Know Your Camera class.
 

These modes get us more involved with composition and open up access to focusing modes, metering patterns, and other camera functions that help us make more thoughtful pictures.

But if we want the most creative control, manual exposure mode is where it’s at.
 

That’s the focus of the Photography Basics/Introduction To Photography class.

Working in manual mode means every setting is a decision we make, not the camera. 

It’s about working thoughtfully, using the camera as a tool to create photographs that reflect our intent.

Wherever we are in our photography, making the leap from automatic to AV and TV modes is a significant move.
 

If we want to go further into manual, then all we gotta do is make another leap
 

The goal is always to help us make the best pictures we can—thoughtfully, creatively, and with intent.

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.