Photography

“My photography course was brilliant. I went from barely knowing my camera to feeling confident with settings, framing and light."

"In just a few sessions I really could see myself improving how I used my camera and now I feel I look at the world in a different way. Monia was great and always patient with us!"

-Testimonials from previous learners

Capacity Ireland’s Introduction to Photography Course for adult learners offers the opportunity to develop essential skills for shooting and editing your own photographs. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your techniques, the course covers the fundamentals of manual camera settings, including lighting, colour, composition, and subject posing.

Explore diverse photography styles such as portrait, product, food, action, architectural photography and photojournalism, while honing your creative vision. You’ll also gain hands-on experience in digital editing, using professional-grade software, to transform your images and bring your artistic ideas to life.

Apply here

Course Overview

  • Topics:

    • Understanding Your Camera: Explore manual settings (aperture, shutter speed, ISO).

    • Lighting Techniques: Natural light, artificial light, and using reflectors.

    • Composition Basics: Rule of thirds, leading lines, framing, and balance.

    • Genres of Photography: Portrait, product, food, action and architectural photography and photojournalism

    • Posing and Directing: Techniques for working with people and setting up shots.

    Learning Outcomes:

    • Master the core settings and functionality of a camera.

    • Apply basic and advanced principles of composition to create visually engaging images.

    • Adapt to different lighting scenarios to achieve the desired mood or effect.

    • Confidently shoot in multiple genres, tailoring techniques to each.

    • Direct subjects and set up scenes for compelling photographs.

  • Topics:

    • Introduction to Digital Editing Tools: Navigating industry-standard software (e.g., Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop).

    • Basic Edits: Cropping, exposure adjustments, contrast, and white balance.

    • Advanced Techniques: Retouching, color grading, and creating effects.

    • Organizing and Exporting: Managing photo libraries and exporting for print or web.

    • Presets and Workflow Optimization: Customizing presets for efficient editing.

    Learning Outcomes:

    • Navigate and utilize editing software for both basic and advanced adjustments.

    • Enhance photographs to meet professional standards in lighting, color, and clarity.

    • Organize a digital photo library for easy access and workflow efficiency.

    • Export photos in various formats suitable for different platforms (e.g., web, print).

  • Optional module where learners to create a portfolio of 8-10 photographs in their chosen genre(s), showcasing both their shooting and editing skills.

    Learning Outcome:

    • Apply all learned skills to produce a cohesive, high-quality photographic portfolio.

Timetable

18–22 hours over 10 weeks
9 x weekly 2-hour sessions and 1 x optional 4-hour final session
Starting Tuesday 10th February 2026, 1–5pm

  • Week 1 | Understanding Your Camera

    Week 2 | Lighting Techniques

    Week 3 | Composition Basics

    Week 4 | Genres of Photography 

    Week 5 | Posing and Directing

    Week 6 | Introduction to Digital Editing Tools 

    Week 7 | Basic Edits

    Week 8 | Advanced Techniques 

    Week 9 | Organizing and Exporting

    Week 10 | Portfolio Project