Absolutely. BlueHour’s Photo Fundamentals was designed specifically for beginning photographers. You don't need to understand camera settings or photography terminology before you start. We'll build your skills one lesson at a time, from understanding your camera to creating photographs with intention.

Any modern interchangeable-lens digital camera will work. Throughout the course we'll explain concepts rather than teach one brand. These concepts apply to all camera brands. Most of the examples will be based on modern mirrorless cameras.

You'll first learn what Aperture, Shutter Speed, and ISO actually do. Once those concepts make sense, you'll learn an easy decision-making process that helps you confidently shoot in Manual mode whenever you choose.

No problem.

Photography is a journey, not a race. Lessons build on one another, but you'll always be able to watch the video recording and study previous material, ask questions, and continue learning at your own pace. After taking part for a few weeks, you will be able to schedule an included private lesson with the community leader where you can iron out any problems you might encounter (with additional sessions available for purchase).

Yes. Each lesson includes simple exercises designed to help you practice one new concept at a time. The goal isn't perfection—it's building confidence by using your camera. The next lesson will begin with a debrief of the previous lesson and open Q&A so that everyone learns together.

Almost everything. The skills you'll learn apply to landscapes, wildlife, portraits, travel, family photography, sports, macro, and everyday photography. The principles stay the same—the subjects, locations and stories you want to tell change.

Definitely. Many photographers have used Auto mode for years but never fully understood why the camera made certain decisions. This course explains those decisions so you can begin making creative choices yourself. Our goal is to take you on a journey so you will move from “Auto-to-Artist”! At the end you will be confident with your camera and making images with intention.

Yes. While you'll learn how your camera works, you'll also learn how photographers think. You'll discover composition, storytelling, intentional decision-making, the OSCAR process, and how to plan successful photo outings before you even leave home.

YouTube teaches individual topics. Photo Fundamentals teaches photography as a complete learning journey.

Every lesson builds naturally on the previous one, so you're never left wondering what to learn next. You'll also be part of a supportive community where you can ask questions, complete assignments, and grow alongside other beginners. You will learn weekly from an award-winning instructor who loves to teach.

By the end of the course, you'll understand:

• How your camera works 

• How to confidently adjust camera settings 

• When to use different autofocus and drive modes 

• How to compose stronger photographs 

• How to use aperture, shutter speed, and ISO creatively 

• How to create consistently sharp images 

• How to choose the right lens 

• How to plan successful photo shoots 

• Most importantly, you'll know why you're making each photographic decision—not just which button to press.

On Mondays at 7 PM EST. You can access them by clicking the zoom link in the Calendar View - you will also be reminded a day before via email.

If you miss a lesson - no problem. You will however need to review the slide deck of the lesson you missed, and complete the assignment for that lesson as well. These can be accessed on the Classroom Page.

Join the community “Photo Fundamentals.” Upon your registration, you’ll automatically be enrolled in the next “semester” scheduled for the 12-week program.