What we’re about
Capital Photography Center offers the perfect blend of expertise, convenience, and personalized learning that will take your photography skills to the next level.
Founded in 2012 by Marie Joabar, a veteran in photography education, Capital Photography Center has a long-standing reputation in the Metro DC area for the quality and effectiveness of our classes.
With class sizes limited to 8 to 10 students, you'll receive the individual attention you need to learn at whatever level you’re at.
Theory is important but nothing beats hands-on experience. Our in-the-field classes take you to exciting locations across the DC area, from urban landscapes to nature settings.
From basic to advanced, from capture to edit, we've got you covered!
Class topics Offered:
-Photo basics to get you off auto mode
-Specialized classes in portrait, landscape, nature, street, and night photography as well as many other topics.
-Post-processing (editing) classes in Lightroom and Photoshop
-Flash and studio lighting and techniques
-Smartphone photography to tap into your creative side
-And more!
When you take a class with us, you're not just gaining knowledge - you're joining a community of passionate photographers. Share experiences, make connections, and find inspiration among like-minded individuals.
We look forward meeting you in a class or a Private Session and helping you along your photographic journey!
Upcoming events (3)
See all- CLASS: Photo Basics Part Two - PracticumNeeds location
THIS CLASS IS OFFERED THROUGH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER
PLEASE REGISTER WITH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER, NOT MEETUP!https://capitalphotographycenter.com/classes/class/2025-08-03-photo-basics-part-two-practicum
This beginner-to-intermediate class is perfect for anyone who wants to get a better grasp on setting exposure so they can comfortably leave the Auto mode behind and start making creative decisions with their camera.
We’ll cover the core elements of photography with real-time demos and hands-on practice.
Topic Covered:- Aperture - Control depth of field and background blur for portraits or landscapes.
- Shutter Speed - Freeze motion or creatively blur—great for action or night shots.
- ISO - Balance brightness and image quality in different lighting conditions.
- White Balance - Get natural colors, even under weird lighting like tungsten or
- fluorescent.
- Focal Length - Understand how lens choice affects perspective, compression and framing.
We’ll demo these differences live, so you can see the effect on your images instantly.
How the Class Works- Mini Lessons + Live Demos: Quick, clear explanations followed by real-time camera demos.
- Hands-On Practice: Work in pairs or small groups to experiment with each concept.
- Challenge Stations: Rotate through shooting setups designed to reinforce each lesson, including one focused on focal length!
Who It’s For:
If you’re just starting out and want to take full control of your camera, this class is for you.
We keep it approachable, hands-on and focused on real skills you’ll actually use.By the end, you’ll walk away with:
- A strong grip on the key camera settings
- Confidence using Manual Mode/Aperture Mode
- Better understanding of how lenses and settings work together to shape your shots
You bring the camera—we’ll bring the fun and creativity. Let’s shoot!
Prerequisite: Students should have first taken the Photo Basics- Getting Off Auto class or have a basic understanding of the exposure controls, ISO, Aperture and Shutter Speed. We will not be able to introduce you to these settings at this Part 2 class.Recommended Gear: Appropriate for any camera that can shoot in Manual Mode or Aperture Mode (DSLR, mirrorless, or advanced compact). Lenses in the range of 24-105mm (if you have that).
Questions about this class can be directed to Marie Joabar at info@capitalphotographycenter.com
Class Limit: 8-10
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THIS CLASS IS BEING OFFERED THROUGH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER
https://capitalphotographycenter.com/classes/class/2025-08-03-photo-basics-part-two-practicum - Photo Basics - Getting Off AutoNeeds location
THIS CLASS IS OFFERED THROUGH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER
PLEASE REGISTER WITH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER:https://capitalphotographycenter.com/classes/class/2025-09-07-photo-basics-getting-off-auto
Whether you want to capture cherished moments with loved ones, document game-winning action, or preserve the beauty of your travels, this beginner photography basics class provides the tools you need with hands-on practice.
Learn how YOU, not the camera, can control the ‘look’ of an image by choosing the appropriate settings. Understand which tools you can use to freeze or blur motion, and how to beautifully blur backgrounds to make your subject stand out.
This class is designed for those who want to learn more about photo basics to comfortably get off the Auto mode.
Topics Include:
- Camera Controls – Learn the most important settings that affect exposure
- ISO Settings
- Shutter Speeds – Control motion to add emphasis
- Aperture Settings – To affects the ‘Depth of Field’ or what is or isn’t in focus
- Manual Shooting Modes
- Focus Settings – Learn how to get tack-sharp focus in your photos.
- Resolution & Compression – Set your camera to capture the best quality images
- White Balance – Capture accurate and vibrant colors
- Fill Flash
- Lenses – Understand your lens options
- Composition – Learn tips for captivating photographs
Students are encouraged to bring their cameras. As we discuss camera features and menu settings, you can follow along and learn how to adjust them. An extra battery, memory card, and your instruction manual are also very helpful to have on hand at the class.
People who like this class might also enjoy the In-the-Field-Photography classes, especially the FIELDWORK classes, as a way to reinforce the material covered in the classroom.
Appropriate for DSLRs and Mirrorless cameras with manual exposure controls.
Questions about this class can be directed to Marie Joabar at info@capitalphotographycenter.com
• Important to know
THIS CLASS IS OFFERED THROUGH CAPITAL PHOTOGRAPHY CENTER, REGISTER HERE: https://capitalphotographycenter.com/classes/class/2025-09-07-photo-basics-getting-off-auto
