Where to take Photography Classes near Fort Worth (4 Best!)

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best photography classes fort worth tx

I remember the first time I picked up a DSLR and found it to be a bit overwhelming. While I had a couple of photographer friends that gave some insight and taught myself once I had the basics down, I sometimes wish I had taken a local photography class!

Whether you’re hoping to take photography classes to meet new friends or to learn a new photography skill, in and around Fort Worth, you’ll find both group and individual photography classes at any and all skill levels.

So, if you’re looking to shoot your (camera) shot, you don’t have to venture out alone. Here are four options and some additional resources if you’re wanting to up your photography skills.

Map of the Best Photography Classes near Fort Worth

Best for a variety of classes & events: Fort Worth Camera

Fort Worth Camera has a little bit of everything. Their Button and Knobs Fundamentals is an introductory class that goes over things such as exposure, white balance, and lenses (Answering questions such as, “Which lens should you use for a close-up portrait vs a far away landscape?”) if you’re just getting started.

If you know the basics and are starting to learn your new camera or photo editing software, Fort Worth Camera also has classes for learning on Canon and Nikon cameras specifically, as well as an Adobe Lightroom class.

Additionally, there are lots of fun social photography related events, such as photo contests and themed weekend group photography meet-ups. Fort Worth Camera even offers rentals if you want to try out specific camera or video + audio equipment. If you’re looking for a central FW locale with a wide variety of classes and resources, Fort Worth Camera is it!

Best for learning studio photography: Photos on the Vine

Photos on the Vine is a family owned photography studio in east FW with bi-montly introductory photography classes, expert classes, private lessons, and a specialty in studio lighting classes.

Their Basic Digital Photography class focuses on learning the three basic (and most important!) elements of photography: aperture, ISO, and shutter speed. The class also teaches things like how to stop action and movement, and how to blur backgrounds. Open to both point and shoot and DSLR photographers, it’s a great introductory class in a more relaxed, creativity-focused, BYOB workshop setting.

Best for a variety of classes & events in Dallas: Dallas Center for Photography

Venturing outside of Fort Worth, Dallas Center for Photography (DCP) is the place to go if you’re looking for photography classes in Dallas. Located near the Dallas Design District, the not-for-profit center offers courses ranging from beginner photography classes to pet photography, and from studio lighting to darkroom processes. There’s even an iPhone photography workshop for those hoping to get the most out of documenting everyday moments without lugging around a DSLR.

DCP also runs the only nonprofit photographic gallery in North Texas, with exhibitions that highlight local photographers. As the website states, “[Our gallery] also fosters an appreciation for photography as an art and storytelling medium among a broader audience, making real the power of photography as a communication medium.” With recent exhibits such as the woman photographer centered, Memory is a Verb: Exploring Time and Transience, and Color Play, focusing on how photographers utilize color in a powerful way, DCP continues to be a community-centered space for photographers and appreciators of photography alike.

Best individual classes near Fort Worth: The ImageMaker Pro Photography Studio

Studio owner and a photographer/videographer with over 30 years of experience, Rob Robinson offers a basic principles photography class, made up of five 90 minute photography classes.

If you’re in or near Grapevine and looking for a one-on-one photography class, The ImageMaker Pro is a great option!

Other ways to start learning photography

If you’re not ready to take a photography class and want to start learning photography on your own, there are plenty of resources.

If you’re a beginner hoping to learn how to shoot manual, check out Youtube Tutorials such as How to Shoot Manual in 10 Minutes by Hyun Ralph Jeong and How to Pick the Best Aperture, Shutter Speed, and ISO Settings with John Greengo.

If you’re looking for written and visual inspiration, check out classic photography books from your local library. Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson and The Beginner’s Photography guide by Chris Gatcum are great starters. Your librarian will be able to help with recommendations as well.

Whether you’re taking a photography class in person in the DFW area or looking for online resources, remember that the hardest step is often getting started. Happy photographing!