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.
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.
Get ready to see the world from a whole new perspective. In this one-day workshop, we’ll explore the art of photographing the intricate details of everyday objects and nature, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. We'll review equipment essentials and the key techniques of lighting, composition and exposure needed to get that perfect macro photograph. We’ll also look at examples of close-up work, share some tips and tricks and then get some hands-on practice capturing visually stunning images. Participants need to bring a DSLR, mirrorless or superzoom bridge camera. A macro lens or close-up filters are helpful, but not necessary. Pre-requisite: basic camera and photography knowledge.
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. Level: ALL
Members: $106.57 + HST, Non-Members: $109 + HST (Prices include media lab fee). Sunday.
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 similar experience. Level: NS+. *Please note: there will be no class on February 15*
Members: $277.41 + HST, Non-Members: $285 + HST (Prices include media lab fee). Monday.
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. Level: BE
Members: $306.51 + HST, Non-Members: $315 + HST (Prices include media lab fee). Tuesday.
Discover the quiet energy and hidden beauty of a town after dark. Over the course of five evenings, you’ll use your camera to explore how light, atmosphere, people, architecture and movement shape the urban landscape once the sun goes down. Each night introduces a new creative focus, guiding you toward building a cohesive visual story as you venture out and photograph the town. Through hands-on photography and guided practice, you’ll develop techniques for creating compelling images filled with mood, depth, atmosphere and narrative. You’ll experiment with light, shadow and composition while photographing moments that emerge after dark. On the final day, we'll share our curated series that tells the story of the town at night through our own unique perspective. Participants need to bring a DSLR, Mirrorless or a Bridge camera. Prerequisites: Introduction to Digital Photography or similar experience. Level: NS+
Members: $199.69 + HST, Non-Members: $205 + HST (Prices include media lab fee). Tuesday.
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. Level: BE
Members: $306.51 + HST, Non-Members: $315 + HST (Prices include media lab fee). Thursday.
A better understanding of composition will help you create impactful photographs that are clearer and more expressive. It will also expand your visual language and draw your attention to new photographic opportunities. In this class, you’ll learn about compositional structures such as lines and layers, figure-ground and frame within a frame and how to mix and match them to enhance your creative photographic output. We’ll also explore a wide variety of visual elements including basic design, graphical elements, balance and texture and how these impact a final image. Sessions include discussions of the concepts and a look at sample photographs that demonstrate the compositional principles. There’ll also be photo assignments and constructive reviews of your working photos. Prerequisite: You should already be comfortable with the basics of using your camera (mirrorless or DSLR) and the basics of editing digital images. This is not a course on how to use your digital camera. Level: NS+
Members: $232.67 + HST, Non-Members: $239 + HST (Prices include media lab fee). Thursday.
