Digital Photography: The Camera
Adult Class | Registration opens Tuesday, October 20, 2026 8:00 AM EDT
In this foundational course, students will learn how to harness the creative and technical power of a digital camera, combined with the professional workflow of Adobe Lightroom Classic. Through weekly sessions that blend discussion, presentations, and hands-on camera work (both indoors and outdoors around the Fleisher neighborhood), you’ll build the core skills needed to capture compelling images and manage your digital workflow. Depending on class interest and pace, a field trip may also be scheduled to further enrich your learning experience.
Students are expected to have reliable access to a camera throughout the semester. While many camera types are welcome, models with interchangeable lenses—such as DSLRs and mirrorless systems—are highly recommended to take full advantage of the techniques taught. The first class will include an orientation to various camera types and recommendations to help you optimize your gear.
What You Will Learn:
- How to operate your camera using essential controls: aperture, shutter speed, and ISO
- Understand and apply foundational photographic concepts such as equivalent exposures
- How to create long-exposure images and practice “painting with light” techniques
- The use of Lightroom Classic to edit, process, enhance, and export your photographs
- Best practices to organize, catalog, and manage your photo library using Lightroom Classic’s tools
Who Is This Class For:
True beginners and anyone looking to strengthen their digital photography skills. No prior experience necessary, but regular access to a digital camera is essential. Questions about whether this class is right for you? Email adulteducation@fleisher.org.
Accessibility Note: This studio is only accessible by stairs. For access needs or accommodations, contact adulteducation@fleisher.org.
- Please bring the following supplies to the first class:
- A digital SLR (DSLR), mirrorless camera, or point-and-shoot camera with manual controls. Most camera types are welcome, but a camera with an interchangeable lens is recommended to take full advantage of the techniques covered in class. Camera recommendations will be discussed during the first session.
- Please bring an external flash or hard drive to class or be prepared to save your work on a cloud-based storage alternative. Fleisher's computers are shared tools and the hard drives are cleared regularly to keep them in good working condition.
- Memory card
Vladimir Hartman
Vladimir Hartman graduated from The Graphic School of Prague with a bachelor’s degree in photography. Realizing that communist Czechoslovakia was not a good place to be an artist, he escaped to Austria where he waited in a refugee camp for political asylum for his journey to the United States. Once in Philadelphia, he attended the Art Institute of Philadelphia and began to work for a photography and graphic design company. He taught for 18 years at the Antonelli Institute and is currently an adjunct professor of photography at Harcum College.
Languages: Czech