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Photography Classes San Francisco

Discover a world of artistic expression with photography classes in San Francisco. From beginner courses in digital photography to advanced techniques in lighting and composition, learners will gain the skills they need to capture stunning images and unleash their creative potential.

9 classes in-person in San Francisco have spots left, and 11 classes live online are available.

All Day Private Digital Photography (San Francisco) Deal

All Day Private Digital Photography (San Francisco)

Digital Photo Academy

Master the art of digital photography with personalized instruction in San Francisco. Capture stunning images in various categories such as landscape, portrait, or architecture, while learning essential camera techniques and post-capture workflow tasks. Join us for a private session tailored to your specific needs and interests.

(146) All levels 15 and older
Now:
$540
Was:
$600
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Half Day Private Digital Photography (San Francisco) Deal

Half Day Private Digital Photography (San Francisco)

Digital Photo Academy

Unlock the full potential of your camera and capture stunning images with personalized instruction from Digital Photo Academy. Tailored to your needs and interests, this private photography session in San Francisco will guide you through camera settings, in-the-field shooting, and post-capture techniques. Discover the art of composition and enhance your photography skills with expert guidance.

(146) All levels 15 and older
Now:
$315
Was:
$350
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Master Your Digital Camera Controls (San Francisco) Deal

Master Your Digital Camera Controls (San Francisco)

Digital Photo Academy @ 983 Marine Dr, San Francisco, CA

Unlock the full potential of your camera and take your photography skills to the next level with an intensive workshop in San Francisco. Perfect for beginners and experienced photographers alike, this course will teach you everything you need to know about your camera's controls and functions. Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your photography game!

(146) All levels 15 and older
Now:
$81
Was:
$90
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Digital Photography Live In-the-Field @ Golden Gate Bridge Deal

Digital Photography Live In-the-Field @ Golden Gate Bridge

Digital Photo Academy @ 983 Marine Dr, San Francisco, CA

Explore the stunning beauty of the Golden Gate Bridge through the lens of your camera. Capture breathtaking shots of the iconic bridge against the backdrop of the San Francisco skyline and marina. Learn to tell a story with your photographs in this immersive in-the-field digital photography experience.

(146) All levels 15 and older
Now:
$112.50
Was:
$125
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Digital Photography Live In-the-Field @ Ferry Bldg Deal

Digital Photography Live In-the-Field @ Ferry Bldg

Digital Photo Academy @ 1 Ferry Building, San Francisco, CA

Discover the secrets of composition and processing in this hands-on photography class at the San Francisco Ferry Building and farmer's market. Join an expert instructor and learn how to choose the right lens, adjust settings, and use light to capture stunning images. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and enhance your photography skills in this unique live-in-the-field experience.

(146) All levels 16 and older
Now:
$112.50
Was:
$125
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Digital Photography Live In-the-Field @ Chinatown SF Deal

Digital Photography Live In-the-Field @ Chinatown SF

Digital Photo Academy @ 359 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA

Capture the vibrant charm of San Francisco's Chinatown through the lens of your camera. Experiment with depth of field and composition techniques in this mural-filled setting, and learn to create captivating images that blend tradition and modernity. Join us for an immersive photography experience in the heart of Chinatown.

(146) All levels 15 and older
Now:
$112.50
Was:
$125
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Digital Photography Live In-the-Field Workshop @ Golden Gate Park Deal

Digital Photography Live In-the-Field Workshop @ Golden Gate Park

Digital Photo Academy @ 100 John F Kennedy Dr, San Francisco, CA

Join us for an immersive photography experience in the vibrant landscapes of Golden Gate Park. Capture stunning images and enhance your compositional skills under the guidance of experienced instructors. Explore the art of photography in a dynamic outdoor setting.

(146) All levels 15 and older
Now:
$112.50
Was:
$125
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Digital Photography Live In-the-Field @ Embarcadero Deal

Digital Photography Live In-the-Field @ Embarcadero

Digital Photo Academy @ 1 Ferry Bldg, San Francisco, CA

Capture the bustling energy of the Embarcadero in San Francisco while learning new compositional techniques and how to use light and shadow to enhance your photos. Embark on a fun and exciting adventure with a professional photographer who will guide you through this photogenic locale, helping you access your creative point of view and improve your photography skills. Don't miss this opportunity to capture the beautiful scene and create stunning images.

(146) All levels 15 and older
Now:
$112.50
Was:
$125
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Digital Photography Live In-the-Field @ de Young Museum Deal

Digital Photography Live In-the-Field @ de Young Museum

Digital Photo Academy @ 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, San Francisco, CA

Experience the vibrant and chaotic charm of Chinatown through your lens as you capture stunning murals, architectural details, and exotic vendors in this Digital Photo Academy course. Learn the art of composition, experiment with depth of field, and create visually pleasing silhouettes in this exciting in-the-field photography experience. Join us at the corner of Bush Street and Grant Avenue to embark on this artistic adventure.

(146) All levels 16 and older
Now:
$112.50
Was:
$125
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Adobe Photoshop Bootcamp

Noble Desktop - Virtually Online

Enhance your photos and create stunning graphics with this comprehensive Photoshop course. From removing unwanted elements to making precise selections, you'll master essential techniques to transform your images. Unleash your creativity and learn from industry experts at Noble Desktop.

(372) All levels 18 and older
$975

3 sessions

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Adobe Photoshop Private Training

Noble Desktop - Virtually Online

Learn how to retouch and color correct photos, combine images, and create graphics in Photoshop. This course covers the basic and intermediate features of Photoshop, such as color/contrast, photo retouching, layers, masks, filters, and saving files for web/video/print.

(372) All levels 13 and older

Anatomy of a Portrait

Penumbra Foundation @ Virtual Classroom

Discover the history and techniques behind the art of portrait photography in this online workshop. Through discussions, assignments, and readings, you'll delve into the philosophy of portraiture and learn how to capture the essence of your subjects through the lens. Uncover the secrets of this art form and elevate your skills with the guidance of industry experts at Penumbra Foundation.

(8) All levels 18 and older
$565

7 sessions

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Street Photography in the 21s Century: New Voices, New Strategies (Hybrid Learning)

Los Angeles Center of Photography @ *Virtual Classroom

Discover the new wave of street photography in the digital age and explore fresh perspectives on power, gender, and privilege. Join a workshop that challenges the norms of the genre and embraces the possibilities of the 21st century. Unleash your creativity and capture the essence of the modern world with ease and innovation.

(41) All levels 18 and older
$815

7 sessions

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Digital Photography: Smart Phone Skills

92nd Street Y @ Live Interactive Online Classroom

Unleash the potential of your phone's camera with this hands-on course at 92nd Street Y. Learn about hardware add-ons, apps for editing and networking, and the basics of composition. Capture stunning images and unlock your creativity with your smartphone.

(1060) All levels 18 and older
$120

2 sessions

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The Art of Photography: Your Creative Approach

Los Angeles Center of Photography @ *Virtual Classroom

Unlock the secrets of your creative process and expand your approach to photography in this transformative course at the Los Angeles Center of Photography. Join Ken Merfeld as he challenges your technique, explores your artistic identity, and helps you break free from tradition. Discover the keys to unlocking your creativity and revolutionizing the way you approach your work.

(41) All levels 18 and older
$515

6 sessions

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Textures and Patterns in Nature

Chicago Botanic Garden @ Online via Zoom

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of nature's textures and patterns. Discover how to artistically capture organic forms and design elements through the use of light, composition, and background. Enhance your photography skills with this intermediate-level class at the esteemed Chicago Botanic Garden.

(121) All levels 18 and older
$437

6 sessions

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Anthotypes & Other Organic Processes II

Penumbra Foundation @ Virtual Classroom

Take your organic photography skills to the next level in this advanced course at Penumbra Foundation. Dive into accelerated lumens and learn techniques such as cyanolumens and surface silvering out. Connect with plant material and explore the least toxic ways of working in this four-week journey of artistic exploration.

(8) Intermediate 18 and older
$570

4 sessions

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Ziatype

Penumbra Foundation @ Virtual Classroom

Learn the innovative Ziatype printing process, a variation on palladium, at the Penumbra Foundation. Discover how to control tone and contrast through sensitizer adjustments and create stable prints with a wide tonal range. Gain a deeper understanding of this versatile technique for producing unique and beautiful images.

(8) All levels 18 and older
$580

2 sessions

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How to Write an Artist Statement

Penumbra Foundation @ Virtual Classroom

Learn to effectively communicate the concepts and processes behind your artwork through the power of words. This course at Penumbra Foundation will equip you with the skills to craft a compelling artist statement, ensuring that your work is contextualized and understood by funders, galleries, and the public. Say goodbye to writer's block and share your artistic vision with the world.

(8) Beginner 18 and older
$365

2 sessions

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Digital Photography I

PhotoUno Photography School

Master the art of digital photography and unlock the full potential of your camera with PhotoUno Photography School's virtual beginner photography class. Join our knowledgeable instructors on Zoom as they guide you through essential techniques, from aperture control to tricky lighting situations.

(322) Beginner 18 and older
$290

5 sessions

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Reviews for Photography Classes in San Francisco

Photography Classes in San Francisco are rated 4.6 stars based on 2,070 verified reviews from actual CourseHorse.com purchasers.

  • Master Your Digital Camera Controls (San Francisco)

    Anonymous review on 6/25/2023
    Great class
  • Half Day Private Digital Photography (San Francisco)

    Reviewed by Natalie C. on 6/7/2023
    Jerry Downs was an excellent teacher and great fun.
  • Digital Photography I

    Reviewed by Phillip S. on 2/9/2022
    The class was incredible and opened a new door for me after years of photography. Thanks to Francisco’s class I’m confident I can take my photography experience to a higher level.
  • Digital Photography I

    Reviewed by Carrie F. on 6/16/2021
    Francisco was an excellent teacher, and I learned so much during this time. Can't recommend highly enough!
  • Digital Photography I

    Reviewed by Meryl S. on 10/29/2020
    Amazing! I am a very visual learner so I was a bit nervous about a virtual class, but Francisco provided many visuals with EXCELLENT descriptions to help us learn. Within just 5 classes, I went from not knowing anything about photography (aside from auto) to knowing how to take real images on manual settings. I HIGHLY recommend this class, and I will be back to take advanced classes soon. Thank you!
  • Adobe Photoshop Bootcamp

    Reviewed by Anh T. on 11/21/2019
    Very enthusiastic instructor. Class was fun!
  • How to Write an Artist Statement

    Reviewed by Linda S. on 9/29/2019
    I loved the instructor Liz! Fabulous person!
  • Half Day Private Digital Photography (San Francisco)

    Anonymous review on 7/12/2018
    Very helpful. I learned a lot about how my camera worked.
  • Adobe Photoshop Bootcamp

    Reviewed by Matthew J J. on 6/14/2018
    The class gave a clear and concise overview of all Photoshop functions along with hands-on exercises to experience them in real time. The course is smartly put together and Michele (our instructor) was a delight!
  • Half Day Private Digital Photography (San Francisco)

    Reviewed by Isabella S. on 4/16/2018
    We had a private session with Jerry which was very informative. Our session was at the De Young Museum which was a perfect location for experimentation. Jerry not only showed us new technical skills, but taught us a new way of looking at the world. Thanks Jerry!

Discover the Best Photography Classes in San Francisco

You may have noticed some famous San Francisco backdrops in photos and wondered how to recreate such masterpieces or even develop an eye for such iconic images. There are levels to learning photography; while some start with taking photos of iconic landmarks, others can include improving your phone camera skills. No matter what level of photography you hope to learn, there is a class out there that can help.

Why You Should Learn Photography in San Francisco

San Francisco is the perfect backdrop for beautiful photographs. From Lombard Street, which is famous for its winding curves, to the notable Golden Gate Bridge, there are some iconic spots for spectacular photos. There are many opportunities to photograph great locations, so once you learn how to effectively use a camera, you can occupy your time taking pictures of these beautiful spots. Taking photographs of your favorite locations around the city can be a great hobby and one of the benefits of learning how to point and shoot accurately. Whether in an organized format or on your own, making a hobby using your camera is a great stress relief and productive use of your free time. Photography could also connect you with a new group of people. 

The American Photographic Artists SF is a professional organization comprising the San Francisco Bay Area, Northern California, Northern Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, and Alaska. They offer benefits for its members, such as education programs and essential business resources. Members range from professional photographers, photo assistants, educators, and students.

You could also check out the San Francisco Historical Photograph Collection at the San Francisco Public Library, an excellent location for photography enthusiasts to connect and enjoy a collection of photos of famous San Francisco street scenes, buildings, and famous San Francisco personalities. Appreciating photography gives you a newfound positive outlook for such events and a chance to connect with others. 

Finally, learning photography is a great way to introduce a new side hustle or even break into a new career. According to Indeed, photographers in San Francisco can make about 87% more than the national average. While it should not be expected that you will immediately make this amount after taking just one class, there is the potential to get to this level with some experience and perfecting of your skill. 

In-Person Photography Classes in San Francisco

In-person classes offer an excellent opportunity to advance your photography skills. San Francisco has many great schools to provide you with opportunities to learn. Aperture Academy is a school located in North San Jose that works closely with the National Park Service to acquire proper permits giving you access to great locations. Aperture Academy offers classes for beginners, intermediate and advanced students. They offer courses in diverse learning environments like mountain trails, beaches, parks, and even crossing rivers. 

An example of a diverse learning environment provided at the Aperture Academy is the San Francisco Zoo Photography course. This 5-hour workshop is spent at the famed San Francisco Zoo. Students will spend the entire day sharpening their skills, getting comfortable with your equipment, and working with various lightning and outdoor conditions. Be sure to bring your DSLR camera, tripod, and meals for the day. Another location-based course is the San Francisco & Marin Headlands Photography workshop. This workshop starts and ends at the famous Golden Gate Bridge. Still, you will cover a lot of iconic and photographable locations in San Francisco. Students can expect to learn how to hone their composition skills, learn about their camera, and how to balance a scene. Students should bring their camera, lenses, tripod, extra batteries, memory cards, comfortable clothing and shoes, and money for lunch. Be prepared for a day full of adventure and learning. 

The Digital Photo Academy offers nationwide workshops taught by accomplished photographers. Schools are located all over, with San Francisco being one of the prime locations. One of the most popular courses offered by DPA is the Live in-the-field seminars. These lessons take students out of the classroom and into the field. Around the city, there are some incredible spots to get real-life photos in the elements. For example, the Digital Photography Live In-the-Field @ Golden Gate class teaches students how to focus their lens on the bridge alone or capture the natural elements of local seagulls, dog walkers, and palm trees in the background.

Additionally, the Digital Photography Live In-the-field @ Fisherman’s Wharf immerses you in everyday life at the Fisherman’s Wharf. Students can capture shoppers, people riding the cable car, and even watch the playing sea lions. For both in-the-field courses, students can expect a three-hour session where they learn to shoot strategically and walk away with some good photos. The seminar can be used to expand your photography skill or as a great excursion if you are on vacation or have a birthday party idea. Each class begins with a talk from an experienced DPA instructor and then ends with a fantastic walk through one of the photogenic locations. 

Isla Studio Photography is based in the San Francisco Bay Area. Established in 2009, this studio specializes in architecture and fine art photography, and they teach beginners classes on weekends. Students can attend a course to learn basic digital photography skills or refine their existing skills. One course of interest is the 2hr Photography Walk Next to GG Bridge seminar. Students will take a 2-hour, light stroll next to the Golden Gate Bridge and capture fantastic shots. By the end of this two-hour adventure, students will be able to apply concepts such as long exposures, depth of field, aperture, shutter speed, rule of thirds, and metering. There will be an opportunity to ask equipment-specific questions too. The Beginner’s Photography class is a prerequisite for this course, or at least solid knowledge of shutter speed, aperture, ISO, and manual mode. 

Virtual Photography Classes 

While in-person classes are the most traditional way to learn almost anything, especially photography, online classes have come a long way. Online classes allow students to take classes from anywhere, opening up class options. Students can now consider a class with their favorite New York-based photographer from the comfort of their home in Chicago. Even if you live in the same city where the course is offered, a virtual classroom reduces travel, saving you time and money. No more commuting to class and paying for parking; log into your course, preferably at least 5 minutes before the start, and enjoy the class from your living room. There can be challenges with an online class versus an in-person option, specifically needing your materials. Some in-person courses offer materials or equipment for students.

In contrast, online, the expectation is that you have the materials at home. Another challenge could be the need for instant feedback from an instructor. In a virtual space, it could take longer to receive critiques or even positive feedback from your instructor, causing it to take longer for you to learn from your mistakes. 

Even if you are located in San Francisco, a virtual option gives you access to classes based in Chicago, for example. The Creative Fine Art Digital Photography course is a six-session course offered by the Chicago Botanic Garden. Virtually, students will discover how to see and convey their creative vision of the world through their photographs. Students must be familiar with basic camera functions and a digital SLR or mirrorless camera with manual controls for aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. 

If you’d like to stay local virtually, the Contemporary FA Photography: Discovering Your Voice course is an online class that meets five times and teaches students a plethora of information. The class starts by examining the works of prominent fine arts photographers, helping students develop their vocabulary and working knowledge of the medium. Students will also study how classic styles of photography have informed contemporary photographs. By the end of the course, students will leave with a greater appreciation of photography, a deeper connection with their artistic voice, and a clearer understanding of what they want to communicate through their photographs. There are weekly assignments and even guest speakers to offer their perspectives. 

Private Group Photography Classes in San Francisco

A private group photography class in San Francisco is a great way to connect with friends or plan an unforgettable team-building event for a business. CourseHorse has live online group classes they can deliver to you and help make your next event that will be talked about for a long time. If you check out their site but don’t see any pre-planned photography classes, no worries; CourseHorse still has you covered. You could always reach out to CourseHorse using their website’s contact form and plan your event with a free virtual event planner. CourseHorse doesn’t charge any booking fees, and you will receive confirmation within 24 hours of booking. Their process makes it easy to plan an event, and you can watch it come together seamlessly. The event planner must know the event’s date, group size, and description when booking. You can even change your group size after booking if needed. CourseHorse makes planning convenient and covers all the steps to pull off a seamless event.

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