The Focal Point Class 2025 is a free, six-month online photography course covering camera basics, lighting, composition, post-processing, and advanced techniques. Updated for 2025, it includes structured lessons, assignments, feedback weeks, and a final project. Join a global community of photographers to develop skills, refine your vision, and create impactful work.
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Unit 0: Getting Started
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Before We Start
Start your photography journey with Focal Point Class 2025 by connecting with our community and resources. Join the subreddit, Discord server, and subscribe on YouTube to prepare for a successful year of learning and growth.
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Six Months of Photography
The six-month course is structured into bi-weekly units with lessons and exercises to keep you on track. . The course concludes with a final project, supported by teachers, mentors, and peers, with lessons designed to help you make the photos you want to make.
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FAQ
The FAQ page provides answers to common questions about the course, covering topics like how to join, participation requirements, accessing resources, and connecting with the community.
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Meet your Teachers
Meet your teachers (and mentors!) who will guide you through the course. Each teacher and mentor brings their own perspective and has expertise in varying genres and areas of photography.
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Setting Yourself Up for Success
Reflecting on why you joined helps you stay motivated and aligned with the lessons. Use your Learning Journal to write down your goal and select a photo you’re proud of, noting why it stands out to you. These reflections will guide your progress and be revisited during the course to track your growth.
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Assignment 1
Kick off the class by introducing yourself, sharing your goals for the course, and a bit about your photography journey.
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Unit 1: Introduction
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Understanding Photography
Photography is a mix of science, technology, and art, focusing on both technical skills and creativity. This lesson encourages you to get comfortable with your current gear, experiment with settings, and remember to enjoy the process while staying mindful of your goals and well-being.
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Inspiration
Inspiration is key to growth in photography. Seek inspiration from diverse sources such as galleries, books, and online platforms. Let’s look at some resources available to you.
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Feedback
Feedback is necessary in order to grow as a photographer. Being able to hear constructive, actionable advice about your own work will show you blindspots in your process. In this lesson, we’ll talk about the best ways to receive and give feedback.
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Assignment 2
Get inspired! Create a new photo, and share what you’re passionate about.
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Unit 2: The Gear
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Unit 3: Photography Basics
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Unit 4: The Art of Photography
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Unit 5: Post Processing
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Unit 6: The Decision Process
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Unit 7: Inspiration
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Unit 8: Taking Your Camera Skills Further
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Unit 9: Personal Projects
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Unit 10: The Art of Photography 2
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Unit 11: Exploration
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Unit 12: Conclusion
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Unit 13: Final Project