Photography classes at Dundas Valley School of Art emphasize photography as art practice, encouraging you to explore the various avenues of expression available through the use of this flexible medium. Introductory courses are designed to help you gain control of your camera as a tool. As you progress, the focus shifts to helping you develop a unique vision and voice – from learning how the camera sees, to considering the aesthetics of image and translating subject into photographic visual language.
“I take photos differently now than I did before. I think about light, shadows, background, angles. I now understand what makes a photograph interesting.” – DVSA photography student
GETTING STARTED
Our digital photography courses for the Hamilton and Burlington region are structured to build progressively and deliver a solid photography foundation. Introductory courses place an emphasis on understanding and gaining control of the camera and increasing your confidence in using the exposure modes to improve results.
Photography concepts explored include camera functions and modes, ISO, shutter speed, f/stop, histograms, focusing, lenses, composition and lighting techniques as well as a basic introduction to digital image processing. Feedback from instructors and fellow classmates will help develop your “eye” and personal style. Class sizes are small (maximum 12 students), providing a good student/teacher ratio. Lessons are designed to be hands-on with your camera and paced accordingly to allow absorption of the material.
We have a 12 station media lab that features Mac computers, an LCD projector for displaying images and a professional quality colour printer. You will need to bring a camera to class, but we recommend holding off on camera purchases; consult first with your instructor for guidance.
NEXT STEPS
In the Intermediate to Advanced photography classes, you’ll be exposed to new techniques and concepts and a variety of approaches that introduce an increasing level of complexity and challenge. Project examples include a consideration of the aesthetics and inspiration of the photo masters, greater in-depth instruction on photo editing software and the development of digital image management skills.
As you progress, the focus becomes less on the technical aspects of using your camera and more on broadening your vision and exploring the possibilities of the photographic frame. Field work, assignments based around photographic concepts and critiques of your images that invite positive group feedback offer opportunities for hands-on and engaged learning. Our instructors, all of whom are working artists and photographers, offer mentorship and creative guidance in DVSA’s welcoming and supportive environment.
For those looking to further their skills, a variety of shorter workshops are provided throughout the year offering specialized instruction in landscape, still life, portrait and macro photography, lighting techniques, digital image editing/organization software and more.
Elevate your photography by developing your creative voice and shooting with intention. In this course, we’ll dive into the art of photography with a focus on vision, style and storytelling. You’ll learn what makes a photograph truly impactful—and how to train your eye to see and capture compelling images with purpose. Through guided instruction and thoughtfully designed assignments, you’ll explore how inspiration fuels creativity, and how composition, light and subject matter work together to tell a visual story. Each exercise is crafted to spark your imagination and build the skills needed to take your photography to the next level. Perfect for burgeoning photographers ready to start creating meaningful, expressive work. Prerequisite: Introduction to Digital Photography or permission from the instructor. *Please note: there will be no class on October 12*
Members: $335.61 + HST, Non-Members: $345 + HST (Prices include media lab fee). Monday.
Not to be confused with Lightroom, Lightroom Classic (LrC) is Adobe’s most popular, non-destructive Raw image editing software. It provides photographers with an easy way to import, organize and edit all their digital Raw files. In this course, you’ll learn the system for managing folders and organizing image files, as well as how to edit exposure, apply lens corrections, set white balance, crop your image, batch process multiple images, create and apply your own LrC Presets, create B&W photos and much more. Step-by-step instructions are provided and serve as a helpful resource once the course is done. Students must bring their own laptop (Apple or PC) with the current subscription version of Lightroom Classic installed. Suitable for photographers with all levels of experience. *Please note: there will be no class on October 12*
Members: $232.67 + HST, Non-Members: $239 + HST (Prices include media lab fee). Monday.
Creating a strong photograph in the outdoor environment is an art process that takes some practice. In this outdoor/indoor course, you’ll learn how to overcome challenges in lighting, composition and other factors to create great landscape or nature photographs. We’ll travel to a variety of locations in the area to do fieldwork and be in the studio for feedback sessions on our images. You must have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, a basic understanding of photography (not for beginners) and access to a car for class field trips. *Please note: there will be no class on September 30*
Members: $232.67 + HST, Non-Members: $239 + HST (Price includes a media lab fee). Wednesday.
In this beginner level course, you’ll develop a solid foundation by using your digital camera in class and receiving feedback on your photos. Fully understand shutter-speeds, apertures, ISO, histograms, focusing and the various exposure modes available to create better quality images. We’ll also cover how to safely transfer and backup your photos. Bring your camera, or if you are looking to purchase, hold off until after the first class as we’ll review various makes and models.
Members: $335.61 + HST, Non-Members: $345 + HST (Prices include media lab fee). Thursday.
Abstract photography is about capturing something visually in a way it would not usually be viewed—the focus being on shape, contrast, colour, form, pattern and texture. In this one-day workshop, we’ll define abstract photography, study examples that work and review key elements, techniques and challenges. A shooting session within walking distance of the school will be followed by a group share of our photo roll and a discussion of what worked and what didn’t. You’ll come away with a slew of new ideas and techniques designed to refine your photographer’s eye. Participants should have some basic photography knowledge. Bring your camera—DSLR, point & shoot or phone will do.
Members: $106.57 + HST, Non-Members: $109 + HST (Prices include media lab fee). Sunday.
Phone cameras can take photos that rival images created with more complicated and expensive pro models. The trick? Learning HOW to take better photographs. In this one-day workshop, we’ll solidify our understanding of how our iPhone camera works—its strengths and limitations. We’ll delve into what good photographers know: that composition, lighting and timing are what make a great picture. Following our classroom session, we’ll spend some time using our phones to take pictures and see what we can learn from the results. Bring your iPhone.
Members: $106.57 + HST, Non-Members: $109 + HST (Prices include media lab fee). Sunday.
Do you find photo editing intimidating? This beginner workshop will provide you with the skills to successfully start editing your photographs and take them to the next level. Using Adobe software, we’ll start with the basics—learning how to convert RAW files to JPEGs, fixing exposure, colour correcting, cropping and object removal. You’ll also expand your creative options by learning how to turn your photographs into effective black and white images. It’s a day sure to add a real shot of confidence to your photo work. Participants should bring their own digital photographs to edit in the workshop.
Members: $106.57 + HST, Non-Members: $109 + HST (Prices include media lab fee). Sunday.
Composition is the foundation of every unforgettable photograph. Before you press the shutter, you’re already making artistic decisions—what to frame, what to leave out and how to arrange the world in front of you? This workshop is your introduction to mastering those choices with clarity and intention. Over two inspiring days, you’ll explore the first 19 essential rules of photographic composition. Through clear, beginner-friendly lessons, image studies and hands-on shooting sessions around town, you’ll train your eye to notice more, choose more deliberately and create images with impact. You’ll leave the workshop with new confidence, a stronger visual awareness and the ability to create more intentional, compelling photographs—one rule at a time. Open to all levels. Bring your camera (DSLR/mirrorless, point & shoot or smartphone all fine). Some basic photography knowledge is recommended.
Members: $164.77 + HST, Non-Members: $169 + HST (Prices include media lab fee). Sunday.
