February 2026

Level 1 – Introduction to Photography: Technical and Creative

Facilitator: Deborah Dorman

Venue: Watsonia Library Community Room, 4/6 Ibbottson St, Watsonia VIC 3087
Commencement Date: Tuesday 17 February 2026
Time: 7:30pm – 10:00pm
Duration: 6 weeks × 2 hours

About the Course

A practical, hands-on introduction to digital photography covering camera operation, exposure, composition, and light.
Across six weeks you’ll learn how to move beyond auto mode, take control of your camera, and start creating more visually dynamic photographs.

Who this course is for

This course is designed for camera users with little or no photographic experience or knowledge.
It’s suitable for:

  • Digital SLR cameras
  • Mirrorless cameras
  • Other digital cameras with adjustable exposure controls

What you’ll learn

  • Exposure control – Aperture, Shutter Speed, ISO
  • Controlling subject movement and depth of field
  • Lenses – focal length and focusing
  • Image design and composition
  • Understanding and working with light

Course outcomes

By the end of the course, participants will:

  • Understand how to operate an adjustable digital camera with confidence
  • Understand the principles of exposure, light, and image composition
  • Have completed a series of practical tasks and exercises
  • Be better equipped to create expressive, well-composed images

Award: Statement of Participation

Materials

Participants will need:

  • A digital camera with adjustable exposure controls
  • Camera manual (printed or online)
  • A4 display folder
  • Ability to print digital files from practical assignments (at participant’s own cost)

Course Schedule

Week One

  • Getting to know your camera
  • Light, exposure and metering – aperture, shutter speed, ISO
  • Homework: Exposure exercise, creative “Words”

Week Two

  • Shutter speeds in detail
  • Stopping or showing movement, and panning techniques
  • Homework: Movement

Week Three

  • Lenses and focal length
  • Focusing and depth of field
  • Homework: Depth of field

Week Four

  • Light, composition, and design elements
  • Homework: Scavenger Hunt

Week Five

  • Practical class
  • Lighting and night photography
  • Painting with light
  • Homework: Printing

Week Six

  • Revision
  • Feedback on students’ photographs
  • Question and answer session
  • Post-production and printing discussion

Fees

  • Non-members: $280 – includes 6-month membership to DVPS.
    Early Bird Discount: $30 off if you sign up before 31 January 2026.
  • DVPS members: $200 (no Early Bird discount).

How to Register

To register, please click the register link below to complete a few details and we will be in touch.

Register for the DVPS Photography Course

About the Instructor – Deborah Dorman

Deborah DormanWith 30 years’ experience as a professional photographer and over a decade teaching at RMIT, Deb brings both deep
knowledge and a down-to-earth approach to her photography classes. She holds a Diploma of Photography and a
Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, combining industry experience with a strong foundation in adult education.

Before moving to Melbourne in 2010, Deb ran Wild Honey Photography, her portrait, wedding, and event studio on the
Sunshine Coast. Since then, she has led creative workshops, curated exhibitions, and guided group projects alongside
her teaching at RMIT. Her personal work focuses on nature and macro photography, with several solo exhibitions and
works held in public and private collections.

Deb is dedicated to helping learners develop both technical and creative confidence, encouraging curiosity,
experimentation, and thoughtful image-making in every class.