Here's a listing of the most frequently asked questions about our Online Photo Classes:
- Why should I take an Online PhotoClass from CMS Photography?
- How do Online Photo Classes benefit me?
- I'm a Beginner/Intermediate/Advanced photographer. Where do I start with the Online Photo Classes?
- I have a point-n-shoot camera, can I still benefit from the Online Photo Classes?
- Can I participate in the Online Photo Classes if I shoot film?
- I have an issue with my photography, but I don't see a class for that. What do I do?
- I get nervous when I hear the word "critique." What does the Online Photo Class image critique entail?
- What happens if I have a question while I'm reading my lesson or completing my exercise?
If you don't see the answer to your questions, please contact us at cms@cms-photo.com to have your question answered.
- Why should I take an Online Photo Class from CMS Photography?
Our Online Photo Classes are best suited for those who:
- Self-motivated.
- Passionate about learning more about photography skills and techniques.
- Are short on time.
- Unable to travel on specific dates. Online Photo Classes give you the ability to expand your photographic knowledge on your own time, whether that be in your own backyard tomorrow or on vacation to Paris in 2 months.
- Cost conscious. For what you'd spend on a nice dinner for two, you can improve your photographic skill and techniques.
- Want individual attention. You don't want to attend a workshop with 14 other photographers.
- Want to focus on improving a specific aspect of your photography, not wade through a lot of general information to get to your one single need.
- Want constructive feedback on your images from a professional photographer.
- Want to know what next steps will help you take your photography to the next level.
- Want to be creatively challenged.
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- How do Online Photo Classes benefit me?
Similar to a correspondance course, CMS Photography has packaged years of experience into individual Online Photo Classes you complete on your own time.
The benefits to the student are:
- Professional insight and input on specific areas of photography that are of interest or challenge to you. No need to pay thousands of dollars on travel and workshop fees to get the specific help YOU seek.
- The ultimate flexibility with your schedule and the opportunity to learn at your own pace. There's no deadlines, pre-set class schedule, or other restrictions. Everything happens when its convenient for YOU.
- Individual attention throughout the learning process. No large groups to deal with, just 1 on 1 attention for YOU.
- Ability to display their work online on CMS Photography's website. You gain recognition and exposure of YOUR work.
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- I'm a Beginner/Intermediate/Advanced photographer. Where do I start with the Online Photo Classes?
There's something for everyone with the Online Photo Classes!
The Beginner Series is best for those who are new to photography or just purchased a brand new camera. The Beginner Series focuses on basic camera controls and foundational photographic techniques. Exercises are designed specifically to give new or inexperienced photographers a chance to try out new concepts and practice until you feel comfortable with the concept.
The Intermediate Series builds upon the Beginner Series, such that you'll be applying your ability to control the camera and your knowledge of the basic photographic techniques in a variety of more challenging exercises. Through these more challenging exercises, you'll gain additional knowledge about new photography techniques and have the opportunity to practice your foundational skills.
The Advanced Series is for more experienced photographers who feel comfortable with the technical aspects of their camera and photography, and are interested in developing a personal style and executing their own personal vision. The exercises focus on exploring creative uses of a variety of photographic techniques to make exciting, unique images.
The Creative Series was designed for those interested in exploring the more artistic side of photography. Get a creative jolt! Exercises are completely focused on self-expression within the context of a specific theme. Because the emphasis is on artistic expression and not on developing technical skills, those who feel they are at the Intermediate or Advanced level will best benefit from the Creative series. We strongly recommend completing Online Classes #301- Telling a Story and #303 - Developing a Personal Style prior to starting the Creative Series.
We're constantly developing new Online Photo Classes so there's no end to what you can learn with CMS Photography's Online Photo Classes!
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- Can I participate in the Online Photo Classes if I shoot film?
Yes! It may take a little more effort on your part, but you can still participate in the Online Photo Classes.
After you complete the exercise, you'd simply need to "digitize" your film (slide or negative) using a film or flatbed scanner. Photo stores may also be able to help convert your film into a digital file.
Once you have a digital file, you would send the image in for critique as you would a regular digitally-captured image. It's that easy!
- If I have a point-n-shoot camera, can I still benefit from the Online Photo Classes?
Of course! Making successful, effective images is not about the equipment you have. It's about making the equipment you do have see like YOUR eyes and brain see the world. We'll teach the fundementals behind all those buttons on your camera, no matter what camera it is. And we'll give you tips on how to see better with your camera.
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- I have an issue with my photography, but I don't see a class for that. What do I do?
Contact us at cms@cms-photo.com or 480.726.7961. We develop custom Online Photo Classes upon request, so if you can't find what you're looking for, please let us know so we can help!
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- I get nervous when I hear the word "critique." What does the Online Photo Class image critique entail?
There's absolutely nothing to be afraid of in a critique session. Critique sessions are simply an opportunity for you to get
a subjective evaluation by a second set of eyes. A critique is intended to provide different insight and constructive suggestions aimed to improve one's photographs and overall photographic technique.
Sometimes, we're so close to our own images that we can't see exactly how to improve them.
Getting input from other photographers is a great way to get ideas to improve your own photography!
Please know that it's OK if the images you capture during the exercise are not perfect. Don't be hesitant or shy to share what you've accomplished or learned during your Online Photo Class.
We're focused more on introducing a new skill, establishing your technique, understanding the process, and encouraging your learning. Results will come with time and lots of practice, so we don't expect you to submit phenomenal images while you're learning.!
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- What happens if I have a question while I'm reading my lesson or completing my exercise?
Just call us at 480.726-7961 or contact us at cms@cms-photo.com. We're here for you as you learn more about photography.
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