NOTE: Class skips February 11 and 18 This course is perfect for beginners, hobbyists, community artists, and photographers who want to move beyond snapshots and create more meaningful images. No prior photography experience is required. Artists working in other media who are interested in incorporating photography into their creative practice are especially welcome. Great photographs begin with seeing. The Art of Photography explores photography as a creative and expressive medium, emphasizing observation, composition, light, and visual storytelling over equipment. Designed for photographers and community artists alike, this hands-on course welcomes anyone interested in using the camera as a tool for artistic exploration and personal expression. Open to film photographers, digital camera users, and smartphone photographers, the course encourages students to develop their own visual voice while strengthening both technical skills and creative confidence. Through weekly shooting assignments, discussions of influential photographers and artists, image critiques, and guided exercises, participants will learn to create photographs with greater intention and impact. Topics include composition, the language of light, perspective, timing, color and black-and-white imagery, editing and sequencing, and the development of a personal style. By the end of the course, each participant will complete a small portfolio that reflects both technical growth and an evolving artistic vision. Students should bring: * A film camera, digital camera, or smartphone capable of taking photographs. * A notebook for ideas, assignments, and critiques. * Access to a method for sharing digital image files. Film photographers are responsible for processing and digitizing their own work before class critiques. Digital photographers and smartphone users should bring edited image files for discussion and portfolio development.