Youth Programs & Summer Camps |  Photography Classes |  
Film Classes | Digital Technology Classes | Workshops | Class Registration  | View All Classes

Please Note: Classes are subject to change,
please continue to check the website for the latest information on our classes

Winter 2008/2009
PHOTOGRAPHY CLASS SCHEDULE
(Scroll down or use tab for Filmmaking Classes)

INTRODUCTORY LEVELS

Intro to Photography (Film & Digital SLR):
(SLR means “Single Lens Reflex” These cameras have manual settings and removable lenses.)

Daytime Classes:
January Session D: Saturdays, January 17, 24, 31 and Feb. 14, 21, 28 (10am – 1pm)
Instructor: Jane Wiley
Location: Session D 2nd Floor Darkroom/Classroom

January Session E: Wednesdays, January 14, 21, 28, Feb. 4, 11, 18 (9am -12noon)
Instructor: Jane Wiley
Location: Session D 2nd Floor Darkroom/Classroom

Evening Classes:
March Session A: Tuesdays, March 10, 17, 24, 31 April 7, 14 (6-9pm)
Instructor: Emilie Knight

March Session B: Wednesdays, March 11, 18, 25, April 1, 8, 15 (6-9pm)
Instructor: Emilie Knight
Location: Sessions A & B meet in the 3rd Floor Barber Paint Studio

March Session C: Thursdays, March 12, 19, 26, April 2, 9, 16 (6-9pm)
Instructor: Jeremy Igo
Location: Session C 2nd Floor Education Studio

Costs: $250/members, $315/non-members

Exposure, Metering, Electronic Flash, and Filters for color corrections/ creative effects are all covered within this course. Understanding basic compositional principles will push your images to the next level. This class is hands-on and will include shooting assignments in downtown Charlotte and elsewhere. You will supply a 35mm film or digital camera (with manual controls), the instruction booklet for the camera, and a roll of slide film (either 200 or 400 ISO) and we’ll supply the rest! Class size is limited to 12 students.

Intro to Digital Photography (Point & Shoot Camera):
Session A: Wednesdays, January 14, 21, 28
Session B: Wednesdays, March 4, 11, 18)
Times: 6 – 9pm
Instructor: Steve Pepper
Location: TLF Darkroom/Classroom
Costs: $125/members, $160/non-members

Learn to maximize your point and shoot digital cameras with this three session basic digital course. Students will learn the basic functionality and features of their point and shoot digital camera. The instructor will also give students an overview of f-stops and shutter speed, file types and demonstrate how to download images into image manipulation software such as Photoshop. Students will also be given tips on how to improve their images through color balancing for different lighting situations. Students are required to bring their point and shoot digital cameras, manuals and all accessories to each class.

Intro to B&W Photography (Day Class):
Course Dates: Wednesdays, January 14, 21, 28, Feb. 4, 11, 18
Times: 9am - 12pm
Instructor: Mike Howard
Location: TLF Darkroom/Classroom
Costs: $195/members, $225/non-members
**Lab fees included in pricing**

Uptown Charlotte is the studio for this introductory course where you will learn how to shoot black and white photographs on the streets. In addition to learning the principals of design for shooting, you will also process your own negatives and create photographic prints in the The Light Factory’s darkroom! Bring your camera, 3 rolls of true black and white film (not b & w C-41), and any lenses or flashes that you want to understand. In class we'll tell you what type of black and white printing paper to purchase.

Intro to B&W Photography:
Session A: Tuesdays, January 13, 20, 27, Feb. 3, 10, 17
Times: 6-9pm
Instructor: Mike Howard
Location: TLF Darkroom/Classroom

Session B: Mondays, February 2, 9, 23 and March 2, 9
Times: 6 – 9pm
Instructor: Donna Bise
Location: TLF Darkroom/Classroom

Session C:Tuesdays, April 7, 14, 21, 28 and May 5, 12
Times: 6-9pm
Instructor: Mike Howard
Location: TLF Darkroom/Classroom
Costs: $195/members, $225/non-members
**Lab fees included in pricing**

Uptown Charlotte is the studio for this introductory course where you will learn how to shoot black and white photographs on the streets. In addition to learning the principals of design for shooting, you will also process your own negatives and create photographic prints in the The Light Factory’s darkroom! Bring your camera, 3 rolls of true black and white film (not b & w C-41), and any lenses or flashes that you want to understand. In class we'll tell you what type of black and white printing paper to purchase.

Intro to Photoshop Lightroom (2.0)
Course Dates: Wednesdays, April 7, 14, 21, 28
Times: 6 – 9pm
Instructor: Michael Dawson
Location: Darkroom/Classroom
Costs: $195/members, $225/non-members

In this course, you will learn how to use Photoshop Lightroom to import, catalog, keyword, tag, edit, print, and export images. We will explore different workflow methods and techniques to process your images for different media. This course is designed for photographers with basic computer experience who are planning on using Photoshop Lightroom as their mainstream photo software. Students in the class will work on Macintosh computers. The class size is limited to 5 to 7 students. Students are welcomed to bring their own laptops (Mac or PC) loaded with the software to class. Students need to bring a CD or flash drive with 15 images.

Intro to Photoshop Elements (Getting Started):
Course Dates: Thursdays, January 15, 22, 29, Feb. 5, 12
Times: 6 – 9pm
Instructor: Geoff Love
Location: TLF Darkroom/Classroom
Costs: $225/members, $280/non-members

This introductory course will start you on your way to editing and manipulating your own digital pictures using the popular image editing program, Adobe Photoshop Elements. You will learn how to use powerful editing tools to color correct photos, apply filter techniques, and crop pictures to print at home or to send to your favorite digital photo lab. Come to class with some digital images ready to fix-up or manipulate! This class uses Macintosh desktops and seats are limited to 7.

Intro to Photoshop CS3:
Pre-requisite: Basic computer skills
Course Dates: Thursday, February 19, 26 March 4, 11
Times: 6 – 9pm
Instructor: Geoff Love
Location: TLF Darkroom/Classroom
Costs: $195/members, $225/non-members

In this course, you will learn how to use Photoshop CS3 for editing, resolution, basic re-touching, levels, re-sizing and saving images. We will also include basic workflow methods and techniques to simplify your process. This course is designed for photographers with basic computer experience who are ready to go digital by learning the basics of imaging software and digital techniques. Students in the class will work on Macintosh computers. The class size is limited to 5-7 students. Students are welcomed to bring their own laptops (Mac or PC) loaded with the software to class.

Portraiture (I & II):
Prerequisites: Intro to Photography (Film & Digital SLR)/Equivalent Experience
Session C: Thursdays, January 15, 22, 29, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26, March 5
Times: 6 – 9pm
Instructor: Emilie Knight
Location: 3rd Floor Studio Classroom
Costs:$275/members, $345/non-members

In this extensive 8-week course, you will learn the important elements of creating a successful portrait. This course will include hands-on training in posing your subject, camera angle, composition, and lighting (both natural and studio.) After this course, you will know how to control these various lighting situations for desired effect on portraits. Class size is limited to 10 students.

Photoshop I: Introduction to Digital Workflow -
Pre-requisite: Intro to Photoshop or Equivalent Experience
Course Dates: Mondays, January 5, 12, 26, February 2, 9, 23
Times: 6 – 9pm
Instructor: Jessica Milligan
Location: TLF Darkroom/Classroom
Costs: $250/members, $315/non-members

This course is a workflow based class where you will learn how to utilize CS3 & Bridge for editing large batches of images, resizing, batch processes, RAW conversion and adding image adjustments. We will also cover creating & playing actions, color correction, toning, converting images into B&W, and the various image formats and the pros and cons of each. Basic retouching and skin tone correction will also be covered as well as learning basic keyboard shortcuts. This course is designed for photographers with basic computer experience who are already shooting digital and who want to learn how to maximize their workflow efficiency.Students in the class will work on Macintosh computers. The class size is limited to 5-7 students. Students are welcomed to bring their own laptops (Mac or PC) loaded with the software to class.

Digital Photography I (SLR):
Prerequisites: Intro to Photography (Film and Digital SLR)/equivalent exp.
Course Dates: Thursdays, January 15, 22, 29, Feb. 5, 12, 19
Times: 6 – 9pm
Instructor: David Iannarelli
Location: 3rd Floor Art Studio
Costs: $250/members, $315/non-members

Explore the new frontier of Digital Photography beginning with an overview of F-stops and shutter speeds and how to apply them to your digital camera. You will learn how to evaluate an exposure with the histogram feature, modify the camera meter’s exposure and set proper color balance. David will walk you though the features of your digital camera. He will also help you choose the best file formats and resolution settings to use. You will touch on flash uses, file management and best file setup procedures for printing at your favorite photo lab. You only need your digital SLR camera and the desire to improve your photographic skills. This course will include weekly out-of-class shooting assignments.

Photography I: Composition and Content
Pre-requisites: Intro to Film/Digital SLR or Intro to Point and Shoot/equivalent exp.
Session A: Thursday, February 5, 12, 19, 26 March 5
Times: 6 – 9pm
Location: Middleton McMillan Gallery, First Floor Spirit Square
Instructor: Sarah Baron
Costs: $195 members, $225 non-members

This course is based on conceptual assignments that will push you to consider how composition and content function in photography. Exploring your vision and choice of subject matter will assist in developing your personal style. Students will shoot assignments outside of class and bring in prints weekly to be viewed and critiqued. Before each shoot, we will examine master photographic works in slide shows that exemplify different photographic approaches. The class will conclude with a final critique in which students will have a five print series printed and mounted.

Creative Digital Photography and Photoshop
Pre-requisites: Intro to Film/Digital SLR or Intro to Point and Shoot/equivalent exp.
Session A: Wednesday, February 4, 11, 18, 25
Times: 6-9 pm
Instructor: Jen Crickenberger
Location: TLF Darkroom/Classroom
Costs: $195/members, $225/non-members

Students will concentrate on adding concept and mood to their images through use of creative shooting techniques and Photoshop manipulations. Viewing master works and completing conceptual, personal assignments will assist in pushing your images to the next level. After you’ve taken pictures, editing techniques will be used to visually communicate the intended mood or concept of the images. Color alterations, Levels, Modes, Curves, Image Filtration, Masks, Selections, and all Photoshop tools will be introduced. You will also learn how to collage and layer multiple images, adjust opacity levels, create an image layout, and add text to your multi-image collages. This class will assist the fine art photographer in the creation of compelling photographs and emotional collages but those interested in the lighter subject matter of portraits of friends and family, greeting cards and/or digital scrapbooks are welcome! The same tools and rules apply! Class size is limited.

Digital Photography II (SLR): Shooting RAW
Prerequisites: Digital Photography I (SLR)
Course Dates Session B: Tuesdays, February 17, 24, March 3, 10, 17, 24
Times: 6 – 9pm
Instructor: David Iannarelli
Location: TLF Darkroom/Classroom
Costs: $250/members, $315/non-members

This course is the next step for the digital photographer that wants to learn how to become proficient with exposure settings, white balance, fill flash and shooting and processing camera RAW files. You will find out how to set up your camera’s custom functions and menu features to help streamline your shooting methods (workflow). You will start off shooting in your camera’s JPEG file format and move into using your camera's RAW file format. David will show you how to process these JPEG and RAW files using the latest computer applications (Photoshop and Photoshop Elements). You will also explore: black & white conversions, file management, renaming files, archiving procedures, color management using ICC profiles, monitor to print matching, printing solutions and paper types. Bring your digital SLR camera and some basic knowledge of Adobe Photoshop CS, CS2, CS3 or Photoshop Elements 4, 5 or 6 photo editing software and the desire to improve your photographic skills. This course will include weekly out-of-class shooting assignments and a final class assignment.

FILMMAKING AND VIDEO EDITING CLASSES

(back to top)

The Light Factory Announces a New Film Series for Cinephiles!

Film Appreciation: I Love that scene when.....
Course Dates: Tuesdays, February 3, 10, 17
Time: 6:30-9:00pm
Instructor: Jim Yost
Location: Middleton McMillan, 1st floor Spirit Square
Cost: $5 members/$7 non-members

Starting in February, The Light Factory (TLF) will begin a new film series for the film lover! To launch this new series TLF will be showing three films from innovative and influential directors followed by a moderated discussion. If you are one of the many who not only love to watch film, but love to talk about them even more, this series is essential! Come enjoy popcorn and light refreshments in a relaxed atmosphere while gleaning the experience necessary to view film with a critical and appreciative eye. No matter what your experience with films, this series will be entertaining, engaging and enriching.

Intro to Editing
Course Dates: Feb. 7, 14, 21 28, March 7
Times: 1pm – 4pm
Instructor: Jeff Seegers
Location: TLF Darkroom/Classroom
Costs: $195/members, $225/non-members

This class will introduce you to the basic concepts of video editing using Final Cut Pro. Come with your own video footage ready to practice editing. You will learn how to create a cohesive movie using your video clips. In this course, you will learn how to capture and log your footage, slice it, manipulate it, add sound, and more

LIFE LEGACIES- Your Family's Story on Video
Course Dates: Saturday, February 7, 2009
Class Time: 9am – 5pm
Instructor: Cristina Cassidy, video writer/producer.
Location: 2nd Floor Classroom Darkroom or Middleton McMillan Gallery
Cost: $95/members, $125/non-members

How many times have you thought about sitting down with an older family member to get them to tell their personal story, but you didn't know how or where to start? Maybe you don't feel as if you have the technical skills, or don't know the right questions to ask. The LIFE LEGACIES one day workshop is designed to answer those questions, and more.

This workshop will give you basic skills in how to conduct in-depth interviews with family members or anyone else whose story you want to capture on video. We'll discuss how to research and structure your project, what kinds of interview questions to ask, and how to conduct effective interviews to capture those special moments. We'll look at ways to make your project more visually interesting through the use of additional footage, photographs and family documents. We'll also talk about technical considerations: What kind of camera should you use? What about lighting and sound? How do you edit your project, and what kind of software is available to help you do that?

The LIFE LEGACIES workshop will be led by Cristina Cassidy, a Charlotte-based video production specialist, who offers video tributes and client testimonials as part of her media services. Before moving to Charlotte two years ago, Ms. Cassidy was head writer/producer for a video production company in Northern Virginia that specialized in broadcast media for the overseas market. She is the executive producer for a feature-length documentary entitled Concerto for Two Brothers that is presently in production. She co-produced and edited a short film entitled Stick it to Me that was screened at the 2008 Charlotte Film Festival, the 2008 Amelia Island Film Festival in Fernandina Beach, Florida, and the Rockport Film Festival in Rockport, Texas. Ms. Cassidy is delighted to be living in the Queen City with her husband and three dogs.

Short film work sample

Intro to Digital Cinematography
Course Dates: February 2, 9, 23 and March 2
Time: 6:00-9:00pm
Instructor: Linnea Beyer
Location: BB&T Room, 1st floor Spirit Square
Cost: $195 members/$225 non-members

Uncover the creative possibilities of your digital video camera and learn how to control the motion picture image on both a technical and narrative level. Gain experience in the technical concepts of operating digital video cameras and develop a familiarity of basic visual film grammar, composition, color, lighting, and continuity. This class will include lectures, shooting assignments, hands-on demonstrations, analysis of film sequences, and group critiques which will provide you with a foundation of cinematography skills. Class size is limited.

INTERMEDIATE LEVELS-Film

(back to top)

TELL ME MORE: Documentary Interviewing Techniques
Course Dates: Saturday & Sunday, March 28-29, 2009
Class Size Limited – 8 students
Instructor: Cristina Cassidy, video writer/producer.
Location: WTVI Public Television Studios
Cost: $125/members, $160/non-members

Cristina Cassidy, is a Charlotte-based video production specialist. Before moving to Charlotte two years ago, Ms. Cassidy was head writer/producer for a video production company in Northern Virginia that specialized in broadcast media for the overseas market. She is the executive producer for a feature-length documentary entitled Concerto for Two Brothers that is presently in production. She co-produced and edited a short film entitled Stick it to Me that was screened at the 2008 Charlotte Film Festival, the 2008 Amelia Island Film Festival in Fernandina Beach, Florida, and the Rockport Film Festival in Rockport, Texas. Ms. Cassidy is delighted to be living in the Queen City with her husband and three dogs.

Description: Two-day in-house workshop for video professionals--writers, producers, directors, editors, camera operators, audio technicians. Anyone who is part of the video production team can benefit from this workshop. It is designed for beginners and experienced interviewers alike. Classroom time will alternate between lecture and hands-on training. The workshop is designed to be informative and interactive, and will include classroom exercises to get participants to experience the art of interviewing, not just talk about it.

Objective: To assist writers and producers (and other video production professionals) in determining their individual interviewing styles, developing and improving their skills, and providing them with the opportunity to practice these skills in a workshop setting.

 

Workshops

(back to top)

The Business of Wedding Photography Instructor: Richard Israel Course Dates: February 7 Times: 9am-4pm Location: The Light Factory’s Knight Gallery Costs: $95/members, $125/non-members

 

 

 

 

Whether you consider yourself a pro or the new kid on the altar, professional wedding and commercial photographer Richard Israel leads a hands-on discussion on the startup and management of a wedding and portrait photography business. This full day workshop offers wedding and portrait photographers the opportunity to discuss a wide variety of topics including the right equipment, how to simplify workflow and improve your post processing to give that bride the “perfect picture”. In addition, the class goes beyond the art of the picture and discusses proper marketing and customer service to boost success for your business. Richard Israel is a charlotte based photographer and has been shooting for over 20 years. Through his experience in the London fashion scene, Israel turned his passion towards wedding photography and hasn’t turned back since.

Class Registration

---

GALLERY TOURS AND DARKROOM DEMONSTRATIONS

Any group interested in visiting The Light Factory is welcome to call and schedule a tour and darkroom demonstration. For students, we offer 30-minute gallery talks, which include activities designed to educate and interest young people about the art on view. In addition, The Light Factory offers darkroom demonstrations which are a basic introduction to photography. One adult per 10 children is a requirement.