Photography enthusiasts and future pros can now learn from anywhere. Online platforms feature expert-led classes that fit any skill level. TakenbyMe notes that online courses allow you to “progress at your speed” and tap into expert knowledge affordably. Below are top online classes for hobbyists and ambitious shooters, all offering great value and flexibility.
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| Best Online Photography Classes for Hobbyists and Aspiring Professionals |
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MasterClass – Annie Leibovitz or James Nachtwey: MasterClass offers celebrity photography courses taught by icons. Annie Leibovitz (portrait expert) teaches narrative techniques , while photojournalist James Nachtwey covers storytelling under pressure. These courses focus on creative vision and composition rather than gear, inspiring you to think like a professional [photographer].
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Udemy – Photography Masterclass (Chris Parker): This is a mega-course (often $20–30) covering everything from camera settings to editing. Instructors Chris Parker and company explain how to “take amazing photos” in any scenario. It includes sections on manual mode, lighting, portrait posing, landscape shooting, and selling your work – a great all-in-one program.
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Coursera/edX – University Specializations: Programs like Michigan State’s Photography Basics and Beyond (Coursera) or Harvard’s free CS50 Photography class teach fundamentals systematically. These include quizzes and peer feedback, and often offer a certificate. They are ideal for hobbyists who like structured learning.
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Skillshare – Creative Short Courses: Skillshare hosts hundreds of bite-sized classes on niche topics: macro photography, smartphone photography, travel photography, etc. For about $14/month membership you get unlimited access. It’s perfect for exploring your interests (like learning portrait lighting or urban photography) without commitment.
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CreativeLive – Specialty Masterclasses: Beyond basics, CreativeLive has creative workshops (often recorded from live audiences). For example, it offers Annie Leibovitz’s class on Portraits, or Fine Art Photography with Brooke Shaden. These focus on artistry and technique. For hobbyists, CreativeLive’s free Monday classes and recorded sessions by pros (John Greengo, Mark Wallace) are gold mines.
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KelbyOne – Lighting and Editing Courses: KelbyOne (by Scott and Matt Kelby) is known for practical technical training. Hobbyists can start with free courses like Beginner’s Start Herescottkelby.com, then move to specialized workshops on studio lighting, portraits, and advanced Photoshop. The Kelbys teach clear, professional techniques that are especially helpful if you want to level up to pro work.
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New York Institute of Photography (NYIP): While mainly certificate-based, NYIP has online courses for serious amateurs. They cover digital cameras, composition, lighting, and business skills. Completing NYIP projects earns you feedback from mentors. Many aspirants use NYIP to prepare for professional gigs or to build a portfolio.
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Canadian Photography School – Online Programs: (Canada/International) Offers flexible online programs from introductory to pro level. Its courses (like Master Photographer Program) are self-paced ($35/week) and cover advanced techniques, making them accessible worldwidecanadianphotographyschool.ca.
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Udemy – Niche Classes (Landscape, Macro, etc.): Udemy has thousands of short courses on specific skills. For instance, courses on “DSLR Photography for Beginners”, “Portrait Photography Lighting”, or “Complete Macro Photography Guide” often cost under $20 on sale. These allow hobbyists to hone a particular area (like stunning landscapes or flower macros) at their own pace.
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Lynda/LinkedIn Learning – Professional Series: These subscription courses (around $30/month) are taught by industry pros. They offer series like “Learning DSLR Photography” or “Advanced Lighting”. They’re very systematic and well-produced, great for both thorough beginners and intermediates polishing skills.
Learn anywhere: Online classes let you study photography from home. Enroll today and practice immediately!
Whether you want to shoot as a hobby or plan to go pro, these online courses offer expert instruction and community support. As TakenbyMe notes, online classes “are taught by industry-leading photographers” and “you’ll learn from the best without the high cost of traditional education”takenbyme.arttakenbyme.art. Pick courses that match your interests, budget, and schedule, and you’ll be taking better [photos] in no time.
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