photography photography photography photography photography photography photography
1. Introduction to Photography
20. Introduction to Digital Photography
2. Photographic Equipment
3. Art of Composition
5. 101 Pro Tips for Better Photography
Photography Basics: A slow-paced lecture series designed for novices...including those who don't yet own a camera!  If you are planning to buy a camera (digital or film) or a new lens, or simply want to refresh your memory on how to use a camera you used many years ago, this will help bring you up to speed.  Each offers a gentle overview of photography.
6. Better People Pictures
7. Posing Techniques
8. Lighting & Studio Photography
14. Wedding Photography
8. Lighting & Studio Photography
11. Art and Science of Butterfly Photography
12. Turning Pro: Professional Challenges
13. Adverse Weather Photography
14. Wedding Photography
15. Creative Composition Techniques
16. Travel Photography
17. Macro Photography
18. PRINTING: Tips - Secrets - Insights
People Photography: Learn how to quickly and effectively photograph people, whether individuals, small groups, or large groups.  As a photographer it is up to YOU to take great photographs and the following classes will help you with both classroom instruction as well as outdoor experience (weather permitting), photographing live models.
Specialty Lectures: A series of classes of interest to photographers with specific interests.
20. Introduction to Digital Photography
10. Adobe Photoshop for Photographers
19. Introduction to Adobe Photoshop Elements
Digital Photography & Adobe Photoshop:  Introduction to Digital Photography (#20) is designed for anyone interested in digital cameras. Corey Hilz's class on Adobe Photoshop Elements (#19) is designed to introduce beginners to Photoshop Elements.  Jennifer Ashton Berman's classes on Adobe Photoshop for Photographers (#10) will help both beginners & advanced photographers.
4. Lighting the Subject
9. Aperture, Shutter Speed and Exposure
Improving Your Photography: A series of classes designed to help beginners and advanced photographers alike. Once past the initial novice level, you may want to advance your understanding of what it takes to produce really great images; these classes will help you.
13. Adverse Weather Photography teaches outdoor photographers how to succeed in a variety of different and difficult weather conditions, from rain to snow and dry desert to tropical humidity. No matter where you go on vacation, there is bound to be some rain, clouds, or other adverse conditions: you either stay in your room grumbling about the weather or you go out and take pictures that nobody else is taking! Learning how to deal with adverse weather will help set you apart from less prepared photographers $50 for this class.
12. TURNING PRO: Professional Challenges is a class for those interested in selling their photographs or hoping to become a professional photographer one day. Many subjects are highlighted, including portraiture, food photography, landscape, military photography, travel photography, and other subjects. You'll have a pretty good idea of what it takes to compete as a professional photographer in a specific area of photography after taking this course. $50 for this class.
11. Art and Science of Butterfly Photograph teaches individuals the rare skills needed to photograph the tiny and fast-moving butterflies found all over the world. Individuals taking this class will learn when, where, and how to approach butterflies as well as technical tips for maximum results. Students then get to practice photographing their new skills in the field.  Butterfly photography opens up new opportunities for nature photographers who have spare time on their hands (butterflies are usually active after birds have finished feeing). If you learn to photograph these fast-moving creatures you'll be able to photograph many other small subjects. $50 for this class.

This popular course is usually offered in during the summer months.  Each Sunday during the warm summer months, weather permitting, butterfly walks are held. Mona Miller, a member of the Washington Area Butterfly Club frequently accompanies the group and often releases newly emerged butterflies; an excellent subject for novice photographers since many newly released butterflies will sit still for a few moments while they soak up the sun. Those who take the class will have ample opportunity to practice photographing Meadowlark's many species of butterflies.

Serious students can purchase Art and Science of Butterfly Photography; by clicking on the link below:

Students can also purchase the book at Meadowlark's bookstore for $31.45 (including tax) before or after taking the class. The book offers much of the information provided in the class, but in much greater detail.

10. Adobe Photoshop for Photographers, a series of two class sessions, is taught by Jennifer Ashton Berman, a well established photographer based in Great Falls, Virginia.  Jennifer Berman is also an Adobe Photoshop certified instructor. This two-part series provides students with a more advanced insight into the Adobe Photoshop.  This class will be helpful to both beginning and intermediate digital photographers.  Sessions can be taken independently, space permitting, if the student has the prerequisite knowledge and experience with the Photoshop products.

The instructor also is available for individual or small group tutoring at $75.00 per hour.

For specific details about each individual class, please visit Jennifer Berman's website:

Jennifer Ashton Berman

See also: #19 Photoshop Elements which is designed for beginners.

 
9. Aperture, Shutter Speed, and Exposure: How do great photographers capture silky waterfalls? How do they stop a humming bird in mid-flight? How do they manage to get absolutely perfect exposures? How are they able to focus on just one object?  How do they blur the backgrounds so beautifully?  You'll learn the secrets to these questions by taking this course. Aperture, Shutter Speed, and Exposure is a specialized class that reveals the secrets for maximizing "depth of field" (the area in focus) and controlling motion that professionals and advanced photographers use to obtain truly crisp images with great details.  This class is aimed at more advanced photographers, who want to go beyond the "Program Mode" on their cameras ... and begin composing and taking their own images. $50 for this class.
8. Studio Lighting and Photography.  This is an opportunity for serious, advanced photographers to visit a working studio to learn how the lights were set up and how different lighting arrangement can produce spectacular portraits.  The camera is tethered to a computer for maximum efficiency and customer satisfaction and you will instantly see the results. This class will allow you to establish your own home studio with a full understanding of what's needed to make studio photography work for you!
 
Prerequisites: Students should complete the "Lighting the Subject," "Art of Composition," "Aperture, Shutter Speed & Exposure" and "Posing Techniques" before requesting a class.  This is a NON-SCHEDULED CLASS and students must make reservations with the studio. The class is limited to 2 students and will run for 3 hours.  The cost is $200.
 
CONTACT: Jim Goodridge, Owner-Photographer, JPG Photo Events.  Call 703-281-5441 (office) 703-340-9592 (cell) or email: jim@jpgphotoevents.com. View his website at: www.jpgphotoevents.com.
4. Lighting the Subject. Light is the key to photography. Understanding lighting makes a photographer uniquely creative. This course looks at different types of lighting and how it can be used to create more beautiful photographs. Do you know what the "Golden Hour" is and how to use it to create truly beautiful images?  What does it take to photograph fireworks? To capture neon lights at a carnival? Ever wonder why your snow scenes look blue?  Time is spent on dealing with color casts for both film and digital cameras. Digital Camera Owners: You will understand White Balance after taking this class! The class also covers flash photography and how to use tungsten or strobe lights for home studio use. $50 for this class.
1. The Introduction to Photography gives novice photographers, both film and digital camera owners, a quick understanding of how the camera works and what equipment can be used to produce photographs. The class also looks at techniques used to produce good photographs by highlighting a few of the concepts from other classes, such as Art of Composition and Better People Photography. Students who take this class will feel comfortable taking more advanced classes having a better understanding of the fundamentals of photography. $50 for this class.
2. Photographic Equipment takes a look at the lenses, filters, flash and other equipment used by professional photographers. Lenses, in particular, are critical to successful photography and a clear understanding of how they function can save you both time and money at the outset. Filters and flash are important tools. Film and the digital equivalent (White Balance) are also reviewed in this class which is designed to answer many of the most common questions posed by new photographers. Learn what professionals carry with them in their camera bags. Planning to buy a new lens? Flash? Tripod?  This class will teach you what to look for before you buy!  $50 for this class.
3. Art of Composition is a intense look at 25 different elements that professional photographers use to create extraordinary photographs.  The hardest job for any instructor is to teach the student how to "see" images.  This class provides an intensive, wide-range look at just about all of the elements available to produce great photos.  The instructor will show you the principles and how those elements worked; you'll immediately understand exactly what is meant by "Rule of Thirds," or "Power Points" of why you really must understand the role that lines play in good photography.  You'll learn about using color, patterns, framing, and a lot more to take your images from the ordinary to the extraordinary.  Students will immediately begin composing better images immediately after the course. Probably one of the most important class any photography student (beginner or advanced) can take.  This class teaches YOU how to see and compose. This class takes about 2 full hours.  $50 for this class.
CLASS DESCRIPTIONS

WILLIAM B. FOLSOM PHOTOGRAPHY, INC.
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Instructor Workshops: A series of classes offered by instructors on subjects they alone offer students.

7. POSING TECHNIQUES - This class is an offshoot of our "Better People Photography" where students wanted more information: how to place feet, how to make their subjects look thinner, how to make people look more interesting and attractive by careful posing while standing, seated, leaning, or lying down.  This class will show you what "feminine poses" really work and how they differ from "masculine poses."  The lesson is followed by a hands-on photo opportunity with a model or several models.  This is a great chance to practice your techniques, including how to get maximum results from you "fill flash" techniques.  This class typically starts at 10:00 AM and finishes outside closer to 1:00 PM. Cost: $50

MODELS: If you would like to have your photographs taken for FREE, please contact William B. Folsom at 571-213-8696.  In exchange for your Model Release images taken at the event are yours to keep.  A great way to expand your portfolio!

5. 101 Pro Tips for Better Photography is a relaxed class for both beginners and amateur photographers alike. Join the photographer as he shares 30 years of mistakes and successes that will allow you to avoid making those same costly errors. You'll gain experience, time, and insight from these quick, easy to understand vignettes. This class is especially helpful for beginners.  $50 for this class.
6. Better People Photography is designed for those photographers who are not satisfied with the "Say Cheese" approach photography. This course shows students how professionals work to create truly unique images of individuals, couples, small groups, or large groups. This course is especially helpful to individuals wishing to break into photography because posing techniques for religious or other functions is a time critical requirement that must be mastered by any successful photographer. $50 for this class.

Special Notice: We usually have several models available to photographed. Each model will sign a "Model Release" allowing students to use their images in their portfolios in exchange for providing the model with their images. This is a great way for new photographers to learn how to improve their posing techniques while expanding their portfolios. This is a MUST course for serious photographers interested in portfolio photography!

MODELS! This is a great opportunity to build up your modeling portfolio at NO COST!  Contact William B. Folsom at 571-213-8696.

14. Wedding Photography - Essentials for Beginners is designed for photographers who wish to break into the lucrative wedding photography market.  The course will take you step-by-step through an entire wedding and will provide you with tips on what you MUST cover, what to anticipate, problems, and how to take photographs that will please your customers.  The class includes posing techniques for the bride and groom, family members, and bridal party. As a wedding photographer you MUST know how to pose brides and how to organize groups shots quickly and effectively.  $50 for this class.

BRIDES! If you would like to learn what to expect from a wedding photographer, you are invited to attend this class as an observer at no cost. (space permitting).

FREE BRIDAL PORTRAITS! If you are willing to pose for the class in your wedding gown, we'll take photos of you for NO COST!

Please contact William B. Folsom at 571-213-8696.

6. Better People Pictures
14. Wedding Photography
15. Creative Composition Techniques
17. Macro Photography
10. Adobe Photoshop for Photographers
10. Adobe Photoshop for Photographers
19. Apple for Photographers

15. Creative Composition Techniques is offered by Corey Hilz. Learn to see beyond your initial photograph and improve your photographic vision. We'll explore how to visually construct your images with effective use of color and natural light. Corey will show you how to expand your photographic vision with artistic interpretations of your subject. His illustrated lecture will demonstrate the technical and creative aspects to developing images with impact. Participants will find the principles discussed applicable to all areas of nature photography, from landscapes to flowers to abstracts.  $50 for this class.

17. Macro Photography is given by Corey Hilz. Discover the small yet fascinating pieces of the world! Learn what equipment to use and when to use it so you can capture the best close-up photographs. Corey will discuss and demonstrate macro lenses, extension tubes, screw-on close-up lenses as well as other tools of the macro trade. See examples of how to capture realistic or abstract images. His illustrated lecture will demonstrate the technical and creative aspects to successful close-ups. The skills you'll learn can be applied to any subject of macro photography.  $50 for this class.

16. Travel Photography is offered for anyone traveling overseas for business or on a dream vacation.  This is an especially valuable class for those who are not seasoned travelers.  Don't spend a fortune on an exotic safari without learning a few tips that will guarantee you better images upon your return home! As a former diplomat and government official, William B. Folsom traveled to over 60 countries and lived abroad for 20+ years. He shares his insight on how to quickly, safely, and successfully navigate many cultures and come home with great photographs.  He'll share those techniques and tips during his lecture.  $50 for this class which starts at 10:00 AM and is expected to finish at 12:00 Noon.

20. INTRODUCTION TO DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY. 

This class is ideal for those individuals thinking about buying a digital camera!  Don't buy any new digital camera until you've attended the course.  You will learn exactly what each kind of digital camera can do (limitations and strengths) and all of the various options available in different systems.  You can then purchase your new camera knowing what to expect and you'll be able to discuss the system with the salesman with some understanding of the various terms used to describe digital cameras.

This class is perfect for those who already own a digital camera, but don't understand all of the many great (and very complicated) features it offers!  This class will help you understand the almost all of the exciting features of your digital camera.  We'll explain White Balance, focusing, shutter and aperture controls, TTL, exposure, bracketing, the best format to work with, histograms, and many more insights into your system.  You'll leave the class with a better appreciation of what you can do with your digital camera and suddenly you'll find yourself able to fully appreciate your own camera!  Price per student is $50.00 and classes start at 10:00 AM and end at 12 noon.

Students who already own a digital camera are encouraged to bring it AND their MANUAL to obtain the most out of the class.

19. INTRODUCTION TO PHOTOSHOP ELEMENTS:

Learn how to adjust, enhance and manipulate your photographs using Adobe Photoshop Elements. Elements is an affordable program for editing, adjusting, enhancing and manipulating your photographs. Corey will demonstrate how to use Photoshop Element's tools and identify important features. Topics covered include: cropping and straightening your photos, adjusting saturation and contrast, eliminating red-eye, removing unwanted elements, converting to B&W, sharpening, resizing, making selections and non-destructive adjustment techniques.

All participants will receive a CD with the images Corey uses in the class. Participants are encouraged to bring a laptop with Photoshop Elements installed to follow along as Corey demonstrates the techniques. If you bring your laptop you can work on the images at the same time Corey does. Otherwise you'll be able to practice on the images when you get home. Unfortunately we are not able to provide computers for participants. Even if you don't have a laptop, much can be gained by attending the class and observing Corey using Elements.

This information packed four and a half hour class will help you become familiar with the features and layout of Photoshop Elements, as well as teach you shortcuts, tips and tricks.

What is the difference between "Photoshop Elements" and "Photoshop?

This can be a little confusing because the names are similar, but “Photoshop” and “Photoshop Elements” are two completely separate programs. Elements is a full-featured program for photographers looking to edit and enhance their photographs. Photoshop is much more advanced, with many additional features for professional-level control over your images, and it's pretty expensive. If you don’t have either program we recommend starting with Elements. The good news is if you start with Elements and then decide to move up to Photoshop, you can upgrade for a reduced price!

Pack a lunch for this 4-1/2 hour course (10 AM to 2:30 PM). Cost $100.

See also #10: Adobe Photoshop offered by Jennifer Berman.

18. PRINTING: Tips, Secrets & Insight is for photographers who have taken a really great photograph only to disappointed when the print simply failed to capture the beauty of the original image.  Printing is a complex business and obtaining high-quality images requires the photographer to understand how to calibrate his or her camera, monitor, and printer!  In addition, there are many other secrets to obtaining a exceptional prints, such as choosing the right printer, paper and inks.  These are just a few of the insights into printing you will gain.  The class covers both simple and complex printing issues and should be attended by those who demand higher quality prints that accurately reflects their photographic skills.  $50 for this class which starts at 10:00 AM and ends around 12:00 Noon.