The Charleston Center for Photography

This intermediate digital photography class is designed for photographers who already understand the basics of exposure and camera operation and are ready to take greater creative control of their images. After a quick review of aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and basic camera settings, we’ll dive deeper into the techniques and tools that help experienced photographers create more intentional, professional-quality photographs.

Topics include shooting in RAW vs. JPEG, mastering Manual Mode, and setting up your camera to make manual shooting faster and easier in the field. Students will learn how to choose the best aperture or shutter speed for different subjects and lighting situations, understand metering patterns, and use the histogram as a powerful exposure tool—including advanced techniques like “Expose to the Right” (ETTR).

We’ll also explore back button focus for improved focusing control, advanced composition techniques to strengthen visual storytelling, and creative shooting methods such as High Dynamic Range (HDR) photography, exposure bracketing, panorama shooting, night sky photography, and intentional camera movement (ICM).

Whether your goal is to improve technical confidence, expand your creative vision, or move beyond automatic settings, this class will help you gain the skills needed to consistently create stronger, more dynamic images.

Students should already be familiar with the basics of operating their camera and have access to a DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual controls.