Photography Classes by National Geographic Photographers

National Geographic Photography Classes

National Geographic photographers are in an elite class and are widely considered the greatest photographers in the world. National Geographic is the official magazine of the National Geographic Society that has been published since 1888. National Geo has articles about history, geography, science, and world culture. However, the magazine is best known for its high-quality photojournalism. It sets the highest standard for photographers and makes extensive use of dramatic photographs.

Several outstanding National Geo photographers are now offering photography classes.

The Great Courses

Craftsy has teamed up with The Great Courses to bring you these National Geographic photography classes. The Great Courses (TGC) is a series of college-level audio and video courses produced and distributed by The Teaching Company, an American company based in Chantilly, Virginia. They are sometimes referred to as the Netflix of learning.

Production and instruction quality on photography classes from The Great Courses is a cut above courses offered on other platforms. Two fans of Great Courses include Microsoft founder Bill Gates and Star Wars creator George Lucas.

Fundamentals of Photography

Fundamentals of Photography by National Geographic photographer Joel Sartore is a comprehensive photography class that goes beyond point and click. There are 24 individual lessons. Topics include: Camera Equipment, Lenses & Focal Length, Shutter Speeds, Aperture & Depth of Field, Ambient Light, Color, Composition, Background & Perspective, Composition, and much more.

The class includes a 167-page course guidebook and 24 Streaming HD video lessons with anytime, anywhere access. Joel Sartore has more than 30 years of experience. In addition to National Geographic, Joel’s images have appeared in Time, Life, Newsweek, and Sports Illustrated.

Fundamentals of Photography II

Fundamentals of Photography II is the second photography class offered by National Geographic photographer Joel Sartore. In this photography class, the instructor will take a deeper dive into the secrets of powerful photography. You’ll learn how to find the perfect shot in the midst of crowded problem areas. The class includes a 129-page course guidebook and 24 Streaming HD video lessons with anytime, anywhere access.

Topics include; Understanding Light, Working With Light in a Landscape, Taking Photos Under & Around Water, Photographing Reflections & Reflectivity, Photographing Shadows & Backlighting, Human Portrait Photography, Animal Photography, and much more.

National Geographic Masters of Photography

National Geographic Masters of Photography is taught by 12 award-winning National Geographic photographers. In this masters of photography class, you’ll discover foolproof methods for better photography and will develop skills for landscapes, wildlife, portraits, and beyond. The course includes 24 Streaming HD video lessons with anytime, anywhere access, class materials (including a complete course guide).

Topics include; silhouettes, leading lines, panning, wildlife photography, sidelight, backlight, storytelling, and much more. Learn from 12 top National Geographic photographers!

The Art of Travel Photography: Six Expert Lessons

Joel is famous for shooting in some of the rarest and most challenging travel locations in the world. In this six-lesson course, he will teach you the best tips in travel photography for harnessing light, choosing subject matter, and reflecting your unique perspectives.

You will learn how to put a spin on travel location shots, including mastering silhouettes and backgrounds. Joel will also show you how to create mystery and art in your travel photography. 

National Geographic Guide to Landscape & Wildlife Photography

Join National Geographic photographers Melford and Laman on a journey to capture captivating photos of the natural world. They’ll share their tactics for taking photos that are brighter and more than just “in focus”. This course has 24 sessions and 12 hours of instructional videos for you to learn landscape and wildlife photography from these great photographers.