Photo I: Aperture, Shutter Speed & ISO
ART-40629
Photo 1: Aperture, Shutter Speed, and ISO
9 Weeks | No Prerequisite
Capturing a memorable photograph takes more than just pressing a button! Being a form of visual art, photography is often defined by the vision of the photographer – what they see, how they see it and decide to show it to the rest of the world. As a photographer, your vision comes mainly from within, but a classroom teaching environment and a good mentor can help you get to the next level. This course was designed with that in mind, so you can develop competence and confidence as a photographer while mastering aperture, shutter speed and ISO.
Course Details
In Photo I, you will learn basic design and composition rules to capture more compelling images, as well as study fundamental photographic principles. Learn to make critical decisions in the selection of digital photographic equipment, as well as how to define and explain common digital photography terms and concepts. Lastly, gain essential understanding on how to effectively use digital camera settings for optimal results. Assignments will also be an integral aspect of learning in this introductory photography class.
The theories you learn in the classroom environment are, of course, best practiced — that is what assignments are given for. No amount of lecturing on theory is going to matter much until you put the theory to practice—so you will enjoy plenty of time putting what we learn into practice!
What You'll Learn
- Learn Camera Operations: Understand and use key camera settings, including aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and white balance, to capture stunning photos.
- Compose Images: Apply compositional techniques such as the rule of thirds, balance, and focal points to elevate your photography.
- Understand Exposure: Leverage the exposure triangle and bracketing techniques to achieve perfectly lit images in any scenario.
- Develop Digital Workflow Skills: Start to manage and organize your images effectively using Adobe Lightroom.
- Edit Your Work: Enhance your images with basic adjustments in Lightroom, including exposure correction, color grading, and black-and-white conversions.
- Capture Narratives Through Photography: Tell compelling visual stories by creating photo narratives and selecting images for continuity and impact.
- Experiment with Creative Techniques: Explore shutter speed for creative effects and use natural light for striking portraits.
- Build Confidence with Equipment: Gain comfort using essential tools like tripods, prime lenses, and external storage devices.
- Present Your Best Work: Compile and sequence your best work into a professional-quality portfolio for web or print.
Course Information
Equipment/Software: Fully adjustable DSLR camera, mirrorless camera with manual exposure mode, or prosumer camera. Creative Cloud Photography Plan required (or full Adobe Creative Cloud plan). Lightroom Classic needed (not Lightroom Creative Cloud).
Optional but Recommended: A prime lens (e.g., 35mm, 50mm, or 85mm) and a Tripod..
Flexible Enrollment: This course is a Required Course for the Photography: Images and Techniques Professional Certificate but is open to all students, even if you're not enrolled in the Certificate Program.
Academic Calendar: The Academic Calendar shows the open enrollment dates and term start dates for each quarter. Courses do not necessarily start on the first day of the term.
Course sessions
Section ID:
Class type:
This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.
Textbooks:
All course materials are included unless otherwise stated.
Policies:
- No refunds after: 4/3/2026
- Early enrollment advised
- No UCSD parking permit required
- No visitors permitted
Schedule:
Instructor:
Kendra Jekel
Kendra received her BFA and MFA from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, CA. While there she immersed herself in the study of various photographic techniques, concepts, and historical influences. This foundational education provided her with a strong technical background and a solid understanding of the artistic principles that underpin the medium.
Kendra began her freelance business over 10 years ago and has acquired clients both locally and nationally. She now focuses her work mainly on shooting seasonal menus for local restaurants and helping chefs and food bloggers grow their visual presence. Beyond her personal photography practice, Kendra is also an educator, sharing her expertise and passion for the craft with aspiring photographers.
With her unwavering dedication and a genuine passion for storytelling through the lens, Kendra continues to push the boundaries of photography, creating captivating imagery that leaves a lasting impression on all who encounter her work.
