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PHOTO 07 — Digital Photography Basics

Quarter: Winter
Instructor(s): Joel Simon
Duration: 6 weeks
Location: Online
Date(s): Feb 2—Mar 16
Class Recording Available: Yes
Class Meeting Day: Mondays
Grade Restriction: No letter grade
Class Meeting Time: 7:00—9:00 pm (PT)
Please Note: No class on February 16
Tuition: $385
   
Refund Deadline: Feb 4
 
Unit(s): 1
   
Enrollment Limit: 45
  
Status: Open
 
Quarter: Winter
Day: Mondays
Duration: 6 weeks
Time: 7:00—9:00 pm (PT)
Date(s): Feb 2—Mar 16
Unit(s): 1
Location: Online
 
Tuition: $385
 
Refund Deadline: Feb 4
 
Instructor(s): Joel Simon
 
Grade Restriction: No letter grade
 
Enrollment Limit: 45
 
Recording Available: Yes
 
Status: Open
 
Please Note: No class on February 16
 
Today’s digital cameras, including mobile devices, offer a world of creative image-making opportunities, but their potential is realized only when you know how to use them effectively. This course will address the three fundamental aspects of compelling images: story, composition, and light. We will then demystify your camera's technical features—knobs, dials, lenses, and menu options—and explain the creative impact each has. With these techniques and tools, you’ll be better equipped to make powerful digital photographs. The course covers how cameras portray motion through shutter speeds, depth of field with apertures, white balance, file types, metering modes, autofocus, shooting modes, and the optimal use of built-in automation. You will also explore essential workflow components: downloading and resizing images, file organization, digital enhancement, and sharing your photos. Lecture content will be reinforced with hands-on practice sessions. Assignments will invite you to take, post, and share your imagery, enhancing our collective learning throughout the course.

This course is designed for those with little or no experience in photography. Students should have access to a digital camera. While cameras with individual controls are preferred, mobile device cameras are also welcome.

JOEL SIMON
Documentary and Fine Art Photographer

Joel Simon studied with Leo Holub, founder of Stanford's photography program, and Sam Abell and has worked as an editorial and fine art photographer for four decades. He has lectured on more than 65 trips with Stanford’s Travel/Study program. His work has been published in Vanity Fair, Time, GEO, Condé Nast Traveler, STANFORD magazine, and Sunset. His work can be viewed at joelsimonimages.com.

Textbooks for this course:

There are no required textbooks; however, some fee-based online readings may be assigned.