Photography Classes held by John Locus

With 50 years of experience John has a vast knowledge of photography. He teaches both beginner and advance photography classes along with hosting several photo safaris during the year.

John has conducted condensed versions of his regular classes at local libraries and park districts. If this is something your company would be interested in please contact the studio at 618-345-2005.

Both the classes and safaris make excellent gifts for the photography enthusiast in your family or circle of friends.

 
 

Beginner Photography Class

The beginner photography class is an engaging and comprehensive 8 week course. Classes are held on a weekday evening in the classroom adjacent to our studio in Collinsville, IL. Classes are limited, ensuring a personalized and focused learning experience.  We welcome students of all ages please contact us for more information.

Requirements: 

To achieve the best results, students will need a DSLR or mirrorless camera (Rentals are available)

What you will learn: 

  • Solid Understanding of Basic Photography Concepts 

  • Understanding of your camera buttons and functions 

  • Exposure Triangle

  • ISO

  • Shutter Speed 

  • Aperture 

  • Depth of Field 

  • Focus Points 

  • Manual Exposure Compensation 

  • Rule of Thirds 

  • And more… 

Bonus: 
Every lesson is recorded on Video, allowing you the flexibility to watch or review a class. 

Join us to unlock your creative potential and enhance your photography skills!

Advance Composition Class lead by John Locus

The advanced photography class is an engaging and comprehensive 4 week course. Classroom sessions are held on a weekday evening in the classroom adjacent to our studio in Collinsville, IL. Classroom sessions will take place from 7:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M., while outdoor shooting sessions will commence at either 5:00 P.M. or 5:30 P.M. and continue until dark. The course structure consists of a balanced approach, with half of the time dedicated to classroom learning and the other half spent shooting in the field.  Classes are limited, ensuring a personalized and focused learning experience.  

Requirements: 

There are no prerequisites however we expect you to have a good understanding of your camera and gear. We will not be going over basic camera knowledge or settings. 

To achieve the best results, students will need a DSLR or mirrorless camera (Rentals are available)

What you will learn:

The first lesson will focus on introducing multiple techniques, while the second lesson will emphasize the practical application of those skills. The third session will feature further classroom discussion, and the final lesson will involve utilizing everything learned in a real-world setting. 

Subjects that will be taught: Leading lines, forced perspective, strong diagonals, symmetry, asymmetry, pareidolia, balance, foreground interest, natural vignette, limited color paletts, mimicking patterns and shapes, reflections, simplistic composition, lines, shapes, patterns, and shadows, the rule of odds, how to break all conventional rules and much more….

Bonus: 

Every classroom lesson is recorded on Video, allowing you the flexibility to watch or review a class. Outdoor lessons will not be recorded. 

Join us to unlock your creative potential and enhance your photography skills!

Reviews from past students:

“The beginning class was very informative. I learned about my camera and all its settings. My photos had more life after learning how to use different settings.”

“Learned to utilize the manual settings instead of relying on the "auto" setting.” -DL

“ I very much enjoyed John’s classes and learned a lot, well worth the money!!” -GP

“I have learned so much from John” -VDP

“The beginning class really solidified my love for art” & “The advanced class furthered my skill level and widened the range of what I could do” -Julia S

“I did attend the beginner photography class. What I learned definitely made me more comfortable with the features of my camera. I was finally able to "create images" rather than simply "take pictures" & I attended the advanced class on Composition.  I feel learning some of these techniques elevated my photography to a higher level."- CB

“I took John’s beginner class. It was perfect, learned so much about my camera, how to be the best photographer I could be. My biggest downfall is I haven’t used it like I should. I have to refer to the great notes he gave class. When time permits, would love to take a refresher course.” -SC

“I have learned so much from John!” -VP
"I attended the Advanced composition class in 2024. I enjoyed the class and learned so much. I was quickly add the techniques that where discussed into my everyday photography. We went on a mini photo safari to practice the techniques that John discussed during the class.” -MB

Camera Rentals

Camera rentals are available for both Photo Safaris and Photography Classes. To rent a camera kit, you will be required to sign an agreement, and all equipment must be returned following the safari or final class. Renting a camera provides you with an opportunity to test the equipment before making a personal investment. Please contact the studio for pricing on rentals.

 
 

Camera rentals include;

Canon Rebel Camera

Camera manual

Two lenses (18-55 mm & 75-300 mm)

Memory Card

A battery

Charger for Battery

Bag to carry all the equipment