Gregory Dean Photography

• For more information call us at 541-905-1259 or email at gdean2001@gmail.com.
• Merchant is solely responsible to purchasers for the care and quality of the advertised goods and services.

Taught by experienced photographer and trainer Gregory Dean Specht, this photography course is designed to help you move beyond the basic “nuts and bolts” of camera operation and into the creative realm of image making. Whether you're using a DSLR, mirrorless, or even a high end compact camera, this course emphasizes how to use your camera as an artistic tool to “paint with light.”

With over 75 years of photographic techniques still relevant today, you’ll learn how to take full control of your camera’s settings to craft images that are intentional, expressive, and visually striking.

Course Overview

Duration: 4 hours total (divided over two sessions)

Format: Live, in-person hands-on training

Customizable Topics: Portraits, Pets, Architecture, Landscapes, and more

Class Breakdown

First Class: Exposure, Color & Camera Control

Hour 1: Getting Comfortable with Your Camera

• Learn your specific camera’s controls and layout
• Understand different types of lenses and how to identify them
• Learn how to clean and maintain your camera using tools like air blowers and lens brushes
• Identify your memory card type and manage digital storage

Hour 2: Taking Creative Control

• How to turn flash on/off based on lighting needs
• Master the white balance setting for accurate color
• Understand exposure settings (shutter speed, ISO, aperture)
• Learn why manual control leads to better image results

Second Class: Composition, Lighting & Technique

• How to hold your camera for sharper photos
• Use selective focus and focus hold to highlight your subject
• Frame shots using natural surroundings like doorways or foliage
• Keep vertical lines straight for polished compositions
• Use exposure lock to handle backlit or dark-colored subjects
• Capture flattering outdoor portraits in sun and shade
• Photograph people (both familiar and strangers) in real-world settings
• Take stunning photos in large indoor spaces without a flash
• Master close-ups of flowers, art, and textures
• Decide when to shoot in black & white for mood and style
• Incorporate strong lines, symmetry, and visual balance
• Control depth of field using aperture priority
• Confidently experiment with camera features you’ve avoided

By the end of this course, you'll have a stronger grasp of how to use your camera with purpose and creativity no matter what subject you're shooting.