HoustonPhotowalks Photography Club

Join us online for a beginner-friendly photography class on Monday, July 27, from 7:00–9:00 PM. We’ll focus on how camera settings help you create a specific look, solve common problems, and make more intentional photographs.

EVENT DESCRIPTION

Many Camera 101 classes explain aperture, shutter speed, and ISO but stop before showing how those settings affect the final image. That leads to some confusion and difficulty remembering all the key camera setting details.

We will still cover those 3 topics, but instead of focusing on technical details and numbers, I'll show you how to create stunning photographs, and how those settings can be manipulated to achieve artistic results. Same content, different way to teach it.

This class is great for new photographers and anyone ready to start using modes beyond Auto. You do not need to understand every button, menu, dial, or photography term before attending.

This class connects the settings to real creative goals, such as freezing motion, adding motion blur, softening a background, controlling what stays in focus, and avoiding blurry photos caused by a slow shutter speed.
We’ll also cover composition, backgrounds, fill flash, focusing techniques, and ways to keep practicing.

The goal is to help you understand the ideas behind the settings without overwhelming you with technical language.
DSLR and mirrorless cameras will have the features discussed in class. Many advanced point-and-shoot cameras will also work. You may want to keep your camera nearby so you can compare its buttons, icons, and mode dial with the examples shown during class.

WHY TAKE THIS CLASS?

Modern cameras include many menus and features, but photographers usually rely on a smaller group of settings to create most of their images. This class focuses on those useful tools and explains when and why to use them.

• Learn how aperture, shutter speed, and ISO work together to affect brightness, motion, focus, and image noise.
• Discover why a blurry photo may be caused by camera movement or a slow shutter speed—not missed focus.
• Connect creative ideas like bokeh, motion blur, leading lines, and fill flash to practical camera choices.

IMPORTANT INFO

• This is an online Zoom class.
• The class is designed for beginners and early photography enthusiasts.
• No specific camera brand or model is required.
• Class notes from the presentation will be available to download after the class, so you don't even have to take notes!
• A Q&A session will be included at the end.

ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR

• Joe Lippeatt is a Houston-based photographer and the leader of HoustonPhotowalks.com. Since 2009, he has led more than 800 photography events, including classes, photowalks, and hands-on learning sessions.

• Joe enjoys helping new photographers get past the confusing parts of camera settings. His teaching style focuses on practical examples, clear explanations, and showing how camera choices affect the final image. He will also share both successful photos and mistakes so students can see how the concepts work in real situations.

RSVP AND PAYMENT INFO

Join Houston Photowalks for an unforgettable 7-night Alaska photography cruise departing Seattle in August 2026.

We’ll mix guided excursions, classes, and free time so you can capture the wild beauty of Alaska your way.