Cameras, Exposure, and Photography from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

WELCOME, OVERVIEW, and FUNDAMENTALS

Welcome to the Module One of Course One, where we will begin our journey together to gain the knowledge and skills that will help you take control of your photography! The world of digital photography presents so many "tech" options that it can be quite confusing. Throughout this Course and Specialization, we will be sorting through the various functions, menus, and also the good old focus and exposure and camera craft aspects, so you can build a foundation for success. We'll start with some Basics, and keep building!

Camera capabilities: differences and similarities

In Module Two we will survey different types of digital cameras that are in widespread use today, discuss their different capabilities and characteristics, and help you determine which might be most appropriate for the uses you plan to make of your photographs. Whether you need to make photographs to capture the important moments of personal experience with friends and family, or need to make photographs for purposes related to your employment or small business, you will find an overview of information to help you here. Along with the time you spend learning about cameras, you should continue to experiment with your own camera and your own interest in photography!

Setting up yourself and your digital camera: Menus, Settings, and baggage!

In Module Three you will be guided through the critical steps of "Setting Up" your Digital Camera. Digital cameras of all types offer many options to choose from, allowing you to customize the way the pictures are recorded and to be more successful in achieving your goals in photography. This is NOT just a checklist of functions, simply guiding you as to which buttons to push! You will learn the practical significance of what the settings mean and how they impact the way a picture looks, and how your camera works. You will understand not only HOW but also WHY! Whether you have a brand new camera or have been making digital photographs for a while, this information is critical to your success.

Picture Decisions: The Vantage Point and Frame

In Module Four we will turn to concepts related to the way photographs look, and how practical decisions that are unique to photography can have dramatic effect in terms of what their creative content might be. We examine the aspects of Vantage Point and Frame as essential choices that must be made by photographers no matter what their ultimate goal for image-making. We also introduce the Peer Review process for paid-Learners, and the ways we can learn about our own ideas through using "terms of art" in written reviews the photographs of fellow Learners.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

This course teaches the basics of digital photography, which is a standard skill used in many industries

Taught by Peter Glendinning and Mark Valentine Sullivan, both recognized photography experts

Builds a strong foundation for photography beginners

Introduces essential photography concepts like vantage point and frame

Guides students through camera settings and how they impact image quality

Helps students avoid costly mistakes when choosing a digital camera

Reviews summary

Helpful course on cameras

Learners say this course is insightful and thorough for photography enthusiasts of different levels. Some of the assignments provided help reinforce the course material. Students commend the instructors for their knowledge and ability to make the content engaging.

The instructors are knowledgeable and engaging.

"I find the instructors inviting ,experts in their subjectmatter and able to maintain my interest at a high level."

The course is helpful for both beginners and experienced photographers.

Weekly assignments help reinforce the learning material.

"Weekly assignment help imprint the learning material."

The material is insightful and thorough.

"I like the structure and content of the subjects, the articles and the assigments."

"A very through and comprehensive class."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Cameras, Exposure, and Photography with these activities:

Identify Camera Parts

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Familiarize yourself with the different parts of your camera, such as the lens, aperture, shutter, and ISO, to gain a solid understanding of how they work together.

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Read the camera manual and identify the different components.
Examine your camera and locate the major parts.
Practice adjusting the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO settings.

Organize Course Notes and Materials

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Keeping your course notes and materials organized will make it easier for you to review and retain the information you learn, enhancing your understanding of the course content.

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Create a system for organizing your notes, such as using a binder, notebook, or digital note-taking app.
Regularly review your notes and materials to reinforce your understanding of the concepts.

Exchange and Critique Photographs

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Seek feedback on your photos from fellow learners to gain valuable insights into your strengths and areas for improvement.

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Upload your photos to the online gallery.
Provide constructive feedback on other learners' photos.
Reflect on the feedback received and make adjustments to your photography.

Eight other activities

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Explore Online Photography Tutorials

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Taking advantage of online photography tutorials can help you learn new techniques and improve your skills, broadening your understanding of photography and its various aspects.

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Search for online photography tutorials on topics that interest you.
Watch the tutorials and take notes on the techniques and tips that you learn.
Practice the techniques that you learn in your own photography.

Take Photos with Different Vantage Points

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Experiment with different vantage points to capture unique and creative shots. This will help you understand how perspective and angle can dramatically impact your photographs.

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Choose a subject and take photos from various angles.
Analyze how the different angles affect the composition and emotional impact.
Select your best shots and share them with other photographers for feedback.

Capture Images to Practice Composition

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As you capture images with your own camera, you'll be able to apply the concepts you learn about composition and frame to your own work, helping you to develop a stronger understanding of these principles.

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Choose a subject and scene that you find interesting and visually appealing.
Experiment with different compositions and frames to see how they affect the look and feel of your images.
Take note of the elements of composition, such as lines, shapes, and colors, and how they can be used to create a visually appealing image.

Read 'Understanding Exposure' by Bryan Peterson

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This book provides a comprehensive overview of exposure, one of the most important concepts in photography, helping you to gain a deeper understanding of how to control the light in your images.

View Understanding Street Photography: An... on Amazon

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Read through the book, paying close attention to the chapters on exposure.
Take notes on the key concepts and techniques that you learn.
Apply the techniques you learn to your own photography.

Practice Adjusting Camera Settings

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By practicing adjusting the settings on your camera, you'll become more comfortable with how they work and how they affect the exposure and overall look of your images.

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Set your camera to manual mode.
Adjust the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO to see how they affect the exposure of your images.
Take note of the different effects that each setting has on the image, such as the depth of field and the brightness of the image.

Join a Photography Study Group

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Participating in a photography study group will allow you to connect with other students who are interested in photography, share your work, and learn from each other.

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Find or create a photography study group.
Meet regularly with the group to discuss photography, share your work, and learn from each other.

Volunteer as a Photographer

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Volunteering as a photographer can provide you with hands-on experience, allowing you to apply your photography skills while also giving back to your community.

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Identify organizations or events that you can volunteer your photography services to.
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteering opportunities.
Show up on time and be prepared to take photos of the event or activity.

Create a Photography Portfolio

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Putting together a photography portfolio will give you a chance to showcase your best work, allowing you to present your photography skills and style in a professional manner.

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Select your best photographs.
Organize your photographs into a cohesive portfolio.
Create a website or online gallery to display your portfolio.

Career center

Learners who complete Cameras, Exposure, and Photography will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Photographer

Photographers capture and create visual images using cameras and other equipment. They work in various settings, such as studios, outdoor locations, and events, to produce images for commercial, artistic, or personal purposes. This course may be useful for Photographers, as it provides a solid foundation in the technical and creative aspects of photography, helping them improve their skills and expand their artistic vision.

See salaries and explore the career path for Photographer

Photo Editor

Photo Editors select, edit, and prepare photographs for publication in magazines, newspapers, websites, and other media. They work closely with photographers and other creatives to enhance the visual impact of stories and articles. This course may be useful for Photo Editors, as it provides a comprehensive overview of photography fundamentals and advanced techniques, which can help them make informed decisions and effectively edit images.

See salaries and explore the career path for Photo Editor

Fine Art Photographer

Fine Art Photographers create and produce photographs that are primarily intended for aesthetic or artistic purposes, rather than for commercial or journalistic use. Their work is often exhibited in galleries, museums, and other art spaces. This course may be useful for Fine Art Photographers, as it encourages exploration of vantage point and frame, which are essential considerations in composing visually compelling and meaningful photographs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Fine Art Photographer

Product Photographer

Product Photographers specialize in capturing images of products for advertising, marketing, and e-commerce purposes. They work with clients to understand product features and create visually appealing images that highlight the product's benefits and desirability. This course may be useful for Product Photographers, as it provides insights into lighting techniques and composition, which are crucial for creating effective product photography.

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Digital Imaging Technician

Digital Imaging Technicians work with digital images, editing, enhancing, and manipulating them for various purposes, such as advertising, publishing, and medical applications. They use specialized software and techniques to improve the quality and consistency of images. This course may be useful for Digital Imaging Technicians, as it provides a comprehensive overview of digital cameras and their functions, which can enhance their understanding of image capture and quality.

See salaries and explore the career path for Digital Imaging Technician

Museum curator

Museum Curators are responsible for planning and managing exhibitions, collections, and educational programs in museums and galleries. They work with historians, artists, and other professionals to develop exhibitions and ensure the preservation and accessibility of cultural artifacts. This course may be useful for Museum Curators, as it provides a deeper understanding of photography techniques and their relevance in museum settings.

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Camera Operator

Camera Operators are responsible for operating and controlling cameras in various settings, such as film and television productions, documentaries, and live events. They adjust camera settings, frame shots, and follow instructions from directors to capture high-quality footage. This course may be useful for Camera Operators, as it provides a foundation in camera operations and emphasizes the practical application of camera craft.

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Social Media Manager

Social Media Managers plan, develop, and execute social media strategies for businesses and organizations. They create and share content, manage social media accounts, and engage with followers to build brand awareness and drive traffic. This course may be useful for Social Media Managers, as it provides an understanding of the visual aspects of social media content and how to use photography effectively to engage audiences and achieve marketing goals.

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Journalist

Journalists gather, analyze, and report on news and current events for various media outlets, such as newspapers, magazines, websites, and television. They use various storytelling techniques to convey information and perspectives to the public. This course may be useful for Journalists, as it provides insights into the use of photography in journalism, emphasizing the importance of capturing compelling images that support and enhance news stories.

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Fashion Photographer

Fashion Photographers specialize in capturing images of models, clothing, and accessories for fashion magazines, websites, and advertising campaigns. They work closely with designers, stylists, and models to create visually appealing and impactful images. This course may be useful for Fashion Photographers, as it emphasizes the importance of composition and lighting, which are crucial elements in fashion photography.

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Graphic designer

Graphic Designers create visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. They develop the overall layout and production design for various applications such as brochures, magazines, websites, and marketing materials. This course may be useful for Graphic Designers, as it provides a foundation in photography fundamentals, which can enhance their ability to incorporate visually effective images into their designs.

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Marketing Manager

Marketing Managers develop and execute marketing strategies to promote products, services, or brands. They conduct market research, identify target audiences, and create and implement marketing campaigns across various channels. This course may be useful for Marketing Managers, as it provides a foundation in photography, which can help them understand the visual aspects of marketing and create more effective visual content for their campaigns.

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Web Designer

Web Designers create and maintain websites, ensuring their visual appeal, functionality, and accessibility. They work with clients to understand their needs and develop designs that align with the website's purpose and target audience. This course may be useful for Web Designers, as it provides insights into the use of photography in web design and how to select and incorporate images effectively to enhance the user experience.

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Exhibition Designer

Exhibition Designers create and design exhibitions, displays, and installations in museums, galleries, and other public spaces. They work with curators, historians, and artists to develop concepts and execute designs that effectively convey ideas and engage visitors. This course may be useful for Exhibition Designers, as it provides insight into the use of photography in exhibition design and how to leverage camera techniques to enhance the visual impact of exhibits.

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Art Director

An Art Director collaborates with clients, visual artists, and technical teams to plan and design visual content for various media. They contribute by influencing the overall aesthetic of a project and ensuring that the visual elements are consistent with the brand or message. This course may be useful for those interested in Art Direction, as it provides insight into camera functions and their impact on the final image. Additionally, the exploration of vantage point and frame can enhance one's ability to create visually compelling content.

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