This class will teach you how to finally take control of your camera and capture photos you’re proud of — faster than you ever thought possible.

Using simple explanations and hands-on practice, you’ll learn how to shoot in manual mode, understand light and composition, and confidently capture the kind of photos you’ve always wanted to take. Whether you’re using a DSLR, film camera, mirrorless camera, or just your phone, this class will walk you through every core concept of photography with clarity and speed.

You’ll follow a step-by-step path from beginner to confident creator — mastering shutter speed, aperture, and ISO, learning how to use natural light in any setting, and editing your images like a pro using Lightroom or free mobile apps.

We’ll explore several styles, including portrait photography, street photography, travel photography, mobile photography, and even nature and wildlife photography. By the end of the class, you’ll build a portfolio of your favorite shots and have a clear idea of your next steps — whether that’s shooting for fun, sharing your work, or even turning your skills into income. You’ll also learn how to prepare and post your work on Instagram, one of the best free platforms for building reach and traction as a beginner photographer.

This class is for complete beginners looking to get faster results without the overwhelm.

What you’ll be able to do

INSTANT CAMERA CONFIDENCE — Start shooting with purpose from day one, no matter your gear
MANUAL MODE MADE EASY — Learn aperture, shutter speed, ISO in simple steps — then master them
PRACTICE PROJECTS — Apply everything you learn with fun, short hands-on challenges
MASTER LIGHT IN ANY SETTING — Use natural light to create stunning photos indoors or outside
CAPTURE EVERY MOMENT RIGHT — Know when to use manual, priority, or auto modes with confidence
EDIT LIKE A PRO, QUICKLY — Clean, powerful workflows for Lightroom and mobile apps
FIND YOUR SHOOTING STYLE — Portrait, action, street, or wildlife — learn each with clear, guided lessons
CREATE A PORTFOLIO THAT SELLS — Curate your best shots and attract paid work or recognition
REAL-WORLD CAMERA TIPS — Phones, DSLRs, film cameras — what gear works best and how to use it
KNOW YOUR GEAR ESSENTIALS — Tripods, reflectors, batteries, lights — what you really need
LEARN PHOTOGRAPHY FASTER — Avoid the 20-hour rabbit hole and gain real skill in a structured, efficient way

With over 10 years of photography experience, I’ve worked across events, commercial projects, and travel storytelling — capturing moments everywhere from London to Germany and Norway. I’ve shot on both digital and film cameras, developed a deep eye for light and composition, and used tools like Lightroom and Photoshop for nearly a decade.

From photographing political events to documenting life on a cruise ship, my projects have always focused on telling real stories with purpose and clarity. And with over 5,000 students in my online classes, I know how to teach creative skills in a way that’s structured, practical, and easy to follow — even if you’re picking up a camera for the first time.

No experience necessary. All cameras welcome. Let’s get started.

Tamara Hatcher

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