Michigan State University

Photography Basics and Beyond: From Smartphone to DSLR Specialization

Create photographs you will be proud to share.. Build a solid foundation in digital photography, growing in knowledge from camera to composition!
Length Over 6 months
Effort 4 hours per week
Price Free
Subject Art, Design
Level Beginner
Languages English
Video Transcripts English

About this Specialization

Whether your camera is a Smartphone or DSLR, a Compact or Mirrorless model, you will learn to gain control of exposure and understand fundamentals of composition, while exploring documentary and creative concepts to make the kinds of photographs you have always wanted.

This Specialization covers a broad range of fundamental principles in photography, from camera control to principles of composition and creativity, providing you with a foundation for growth in making photographs you’ll be proud to share.

In the Capstone you will develop a final project of photographs related to your individual needs, whether practical or purely expressive, and share ongoing feedback with fellow learners.

In addition to the awarding of a Certificate of Specialization from Michigan State University, each Learner who subscribes to and completes the entire Specialization, including Capstone, will receive substantial discounts on equipment, accessories, and membership benefits through Industry Partners from among the premier manufacturers of photography equipment: Fracture, Gary Fong, Gyst, Lensbaby, LensPen, Lume Cube, Photo District News, PhotoVideoEdu.com, Pixsy, and Think Tank.

What you'll learn

  • Social Media

  • Photography

  • Copywriting

  • Writing

Course syllabus

COURSE 1

Cameras, Exposure, and Photography


COURSE 2

Camera Contro

l

COURSE 3

Principles of Photo Composition and Digital Image Post-Production


COURSE 4

Photography Techniques: Light, Content, and Sharing


COURSE 5

Photography Capstone Project

Meet the instructors

Peter Glendinning

Professor

Art, Art History, & Design

Mark Valentine Sullivan

Associate Professor

Music / Innovation Hub