Pittsburgh Photography Classes
Upcoming Classes
Private Lessons
Group Classes
Online Classes
Phone Classes
Pittsburgh Photography Class List
Here are current photography classes in Pittsburgh and online. If the class is hosted with a community partner you'll need to register on their websites. For example, if the class is at the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden you'll need to sign up on their website.
What classes would you like to see offered?
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Current Classes
Don't see any classes? Please contact me. Then I'll update you when classes are schedule. Too, be sure to join my mailing list. My free monthly newsletter features class listings and loads of great free content.
Unsure of what camera to buy? Be sure to read my camera buying guide
Private Photography Lessons Near Pittsburgh
Easily book private photography lessons online. Use the button below. Then select private photography class. After that, choose where to meet. Select the date and time that work best for you. Then just enter your details and you're done.
Fast, easy, online photography lesson booking.
Learn From A Professional Photographer
My name is Don Orkoskey. I'm a full time working professional photographer. You're here searching for photography classes near Pittsburgh. You're in the right place. All of my classes are taught by me. I'm a working professional and experienced teacher. Plus, I understand how to simplify complex concepts.
Since 2007 I've taught photography classes in Pittsburgh to people just like you. If you love photography and want to quickly improve your skills then sign up for one of my classes today.
No matter how frustrated you are with your camera; regardless of how upset you are that your photos just don't seem to come out right; I can help!
Wherever you are in your photography journey my photography classes can take your skills to the next level. From absolute beginner to serious hobbyist my photography classes will accelerate your skills. In fact, even fellow professionals can benefit. If you're looking to pick up new skills then sign up today. Quickly learn exactly what you're looking for.
Read these articles written to help you learn photography!
Ultimately, my goal is to make the complicated easy to understand. As such I teach you the fundamentals. These include all aspects of photography from the technical to the artistic. As a result you'll become a well-rounded photographer.
Together we'll have fun taking a lot of photos. However, when we're finished you'll feel much more confident. In fact, you'll create the types of photos you've always wanted to. Plus you'll do so with joy, love, and skills that I promise we'll build together.
Interested in becoming a professional photographer? Read this!
Contact Me About Photography Classes
Contact me about photography classes through this form. I can't wait to speak with you and help you improve your photography skills!
Looking to try film photography? Read my article on the best film cameras for 2023
Why Take Group Photography Classes
Here is why you should take group photography classes. First, the benefits of learning with a community of similarly skilled people is highly beneficial. Of course there are more reasons. Keep reading to find out if a group photography class is right for you.
Group Learning Benefits
Learning in a group offers great benefits. Often other classmates pose questions you might have not have thought of. While these are not always on the lesson plan they can offer opportunities to learn things beyond what's planned.
Additionally, having others at your level allows you to bounce ideas off them. In fact, I've seen real lasting collaboration come out of my classes. Too, having someone else who can help you understand is great. This is especially true when they just learned it themself.
A Variety of Photography Class Topics
My classes cover a variety of photography subjects. As such they go from beginner/introductory photography to more specialized and advanced classes. Therefore you can learn everything from landscape, wildlife, and macro photography to lighting and photo editing. Of course, you can also learn how to use your camera.
Photography Classes Are For Everyone
Group photography classes are for everyone. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Too, you can take any class regardless of the equipment you have. From phones to DSLRs and Mirrorless cameras, absolute beginners to working pros - my classes are for everyone.
Group Class Locations Near Pittsburgh
I offer a variety of group photography classes near Pittsburgh. Many are offered through community partners including the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, Phipps Conservatory, and others. Additionally, I've taught garden clubs, schools, and more. I also offer online photography classes to students around the world.
Host A Group Class With Your Organization
Do you need a photography class for your organization? I love creating classes for private groups and organizations. In fact, I really enjoy working with new community partners on group photography classes!
In the past I've partnered with groups including Garden Clubs, Scouts, Summer Camps, and more. I really enjoy these opportunities. As such, if your group is looking for a fun photography class contact me!
Private group classes are available on a variety of subjects. These include, phone photography, macro, and so many more. In addition, classes can be customized. Too, they can be interactive or presentation style. Plus, they can include practical time or just a lecture.
Private Group Photography Class Costs
Costs vary depending on time and equipment. I can provide a projector, screen, printed handouts, and more. Additionally discounted rates are possible for organizations with a social justice mission.
I can't wait to hear from you, find out about your group, and discuss the photography class that fits your organization the best.
Contact me to discuss the benefits of hosting one of my photography classes for you and your group.
Benefits of Private Photography Lessons
My private classes are 90 minutes to 2 hours each. No matter where you are in your photography journey I can help you master the skills you want in order to create the types of photos you want to make. Even if you've never picked up a camera before I can take you from absolute beginner to confident photographer in just a few weeks.
What You'll Learn
Here is some of what you'll learn in my introductory photography class:
Technical Aspects of Photography
- Exposure
- Focus
- Camera Settings
- Lens Choice
- Color
- Contrast
Artistic Aspects of Photography
- Design Principles
- Artistic Composition
- Visual Storytelling
Beginners Classes
Here is what to expect in beginners photography classes:
Understanding Photography
- How to use your camera
- Introduction To Composition and Aesthetics
Advance Classes
Here is what to expect in advanced classes:
Wildlife Photography
- Lens and Equipment Selection
- Location Scouting
- Wilderness Safety
Landscape Photography
- Landscape Composition
- Bracketing & Compositing
- Weather & Location Prep
Macro Photography
- Finding Subjects
- Choosing Macro Equipment
- Macro Lighting
- Focus Stacking
Photography Class Topics
Regular photography class topics include the following:
- Abstract Nature Photography
- Bird Photography Workshop
- Compact Flash Lighting
- Camera Buying Workshop
- Introduction to Photography
- Large Format Photography
- Phone Photography
- Photography Storytelling
- Photoshop & Lightroom - Post Processing Your Photos
- Macro Photography
- Posing Models
- Camera Buying Workshop
- Street Photography
- Studio Lighting
My Teaching Experience
I teach photography classes in Pittsburgh and online. My first class was a nature photography lesson in Frick Park back in 2007. Additional classes soon followed. Meanwhile I studied and worked with great mentors including Dr. Alice Wilder and Ernie Dettore learning about educational practices.
Because of their guidance and leadership I successfully collaborated with the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh on a three year project. In addition, I worked with a number of other institutions teaching kids art and photography. Finally, I began to work with more regularly hosting classes with community partners such as Phipps and the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden.
As a full-time professional photographer I use the information that I teach every day. Therefore you can trust me to help you improve your photography skills quickly. Additionally I have been teaching photography, art, and more for nearly 2 decades. My classes are fun, interactive, and informative. I make sure to teach you how to solve problems when they arise. You learn how to create amazing photographs in the most challenging of conditions.
Pittsburgh Nature Photography Meetups
Students on a Nature Photography Walk in Frick Park point at a bird they're trying to photograph
Every month I lead the Pittsburgh Nature Photography Meetup. Usually we meet in Frick Park.
First, check the class list above for more information. Then make sure you arrive on time. We do leave at the posted time. In other words, please show up early if possible.
These meetups typically begin at 9:00 or 9:30 on a weekend morning. We meet in an easy to find place. For example, near the fountain by the Frick Environmental Center. Because these are sometime held in different locations check the information for the meetup you're attending.
Due to these meetups being FREE they're a great opportunity to learn photography. Join us for an enjoyable time. Explore nature and learn from other photographers. Of course, donations are welcome. In fact, these help me to continue to do the administrative work of organizing these meetups.
Everyone Welcome
Everyone is welcome at these nature photography meetups. This is true regardless of skill level, age, or camera equipment. In fact, the walks we do are adjusted to meet the mobility levels of attendees.
That's because photography is for everyone. Plus nature photography is a wonderful way to learn. Therefore please be respectful of other attendees.
Need a new professional headshot near Sharpsburg?
Since these are not a formal class there isn't a lesson plan or agenda. However, I am more than happy to answer questions. Plus I'm always pointing out subjects, suggesting composition, and giving technical tips.
That said, if you want more extensive help please sign up for a private lesson. In addition, please be respectful of my time and allow others to ask questions.
This Pittsburgh Nature Photography Meetup is the only free monthly photography-centered nature walk in the Pittsburgh area. Come increase your skills as a photographer. Learn more about nature photography and find out about other nature photo opportunities.
Because we have abundant parks and wild areas the chances to practice are endless. Therefore, join my monthly adventure creating amazing nature photos in Pittsburgh. Experience Pittsburgh's changes of seasons in a new way. Plus, improve your nature photography skills at the same time.
Why Nature Photography Is For Everyone
- Nature never criticizes your pictures. Relax and experiment.
- Nature is patient. Take your time photographing it.
- Nature is beautiful. You appriciate it more through nature photography.
- Nature is great at teaching you to make better photos.
- Nature forces you to improve. It gives you beautiful things you want to photograph.
- Nature is abundant. We find nature in the tiniest of places from mud puddles to national parks.
- Nature is full of stories waiting to be told. It's easier to tell those stories before trying to tell our own.
For those reasons and more I know that nature is a wonderful place to learn photography.
Street Photography
Are you interested in learning street photography? I host occasional fun street photography meet-ups in Pittsburgh. Downtown Pittsburgh street photography meetups often start at Point State Park. Alternatively, we may start in Market Square.
After meeting we explore downtown. As downtown Pittsburgh is a great place for street photography these photography walks attract large numbers. Consequently, street photography walks require registration and a small fee.
Pittsburgh has incredible buildings and artwork. As such, these provide the perfect backdrop for street portraits. Additionally, downtown Pittsburgh is full of a diverse group of people from a range of backgrounds. In fact, there are always friendly people who are more than willing to be photographed. If you're interested in a street photography walk in downtown Pittsburgh then contact me.
Online Photography Classes
First, they allow you to take a class no matter where you are in the world. As a result, you get access to teachers you'd otherwise not have access to.
Second, taking photography classes online give you the opportunity to learn without spending time traveling to class.
Third, online classes in photography are typically less expensive. This is because they lack the in person practical time that in person photography classes offer. However, that time is made up for with a great amount of time focusing on techniques and your results.
Learn Photography Online
Additionally, if you're immunocompromised online learning is a great way to engage with others while keeping your risk of infection low. Covid is still out there. Plus, there are lots of other reasons you might need to avoid getting sick. That said, it shouldn't stop you from learning a new skill or hobby.
While some prefer in person classes, online classes are still a great option. Of course, this lesson was driven home in 2020. Plus, with all the starts and stops we had during the pandemic - online classes were a great outlet. Getting to meet and have some sense of normalcy with tools like Zoom made things more bearable. This is especially true in those early and very scary days.
Online Photography Class Listings
Check out my current class list which includes online classes. If you don't see the class you want then please contact me. Then we can talk about what you want to learn. I'm happy to share information and we can talk about group as well as private lessons.
Learn Fine Art Photography
Do you want to learn how to create fine art photography? What about how to use photography in your art? Or perhaps learn photography to capture your art or otherwise enhance your art practices. I'm available for fine art photography consultation, or to teach you how to incorporate your photography into your fine art practices. Contact me with the form below and we can discuss.
Other Photography Classes in Pittsburgh
There are additional photography classes near Pittsburgh. In fact, there are some truly amazing local photography teachers. So, be sure to check them out.
Additional Photography Classes in Pittsburgh
Here is a list of additional photography teachers and institutions. If the link doesn't work I recommend googling them. After all, sometimes they change the webpage their classes are listed on. I try to keep these up-to-date. However, it's not my first priority.
Other Classes and Teachers Near Pittsburgh
Community College Of Allegheny County - CCAC offers a variety of photography classes. Additionally, you may be eligible for financial aid.
Pittsburgh Center for the Arts - PCA is in Shadyside. They offers a lot of art classes including sculpture, painting, and photography.
Manchester Craftsmen's Guild - MCG is a wonderful place in Manchester. They offer free photography classes for PPS students.
Premier Imaging - The folks at Premier are a great bunch of people. Too, they offer a variety of classes including how to get your camera off of auto. Plus they've got a lovely store. It's full of all sorts of fun photography products.
Terry Clark - Terry is an all-around amazing human being. He's also a wonderful teacher and mentor. Terry and I often run similar classes. That said, he's too great a treasure to not mention here.
Review Your Classes
If you sign up for a class from someone above please let me know. I would love to hear what you thought of their classes. If you took a class and really enjoyed it contact me to tell me why. Then, I'll share that information with other students.
Likewise, if you had a bad experience let me know that too. If I hear enough negative things I'll remove that instructor from my list. That said, please understand that this information is not a ranking or rating system.
Add A Photography Class Listing
Let me know if any classes are missing. For instance, if you know of another photography teacher contact me. My goal is to increase awareness of all of the great photography teachers in Pittsburgh. So, if one is missing, let me know so I can add them.
If they're not on my list then it just means I don't know about them. In fact, a lot of photographers teach one-off classes. As such I don't find out about them in time to share them. Additionally, if someone starts a new class I may have missed it.
I love that you want to learn photography. Therefore I'm happy to share all of this information. That's why this list exists.