Art In-Person: Beginning Photography

The Power of Photography: Using Photography for Personal Expression and Lasting Memories
Three In-Person Sessions
Thur., Mar. 13, 20, 2025, 6:30-8:30 pm MT
Downtown Photo Shoot, Sat. Mar. 15, 9-11 am

Whether you’re using the latest mirrorless camera with all the bells and whistles or a 5-year-old cell phone to take photos, some things remain true about the image-making process. In this 3-session course, professional photographer and popular Enrichment Program instructor Scott Dressel-Martin explores what makes a great photograph, how to choose your gear to meet your needs, and how you can express yourself and your ideas through photography. In short, he draws on his decades of experience to show you how to become a better photographer.

In the first session, Dressel-Martin covers subject matter, what gear is best in what situation and how to set your own personal standards of quality and expression. Next, explore concepts of composition to make your images more interesting and impactful. In the second session, you take part in a photo field trip in Denver where you get hands-on help with your photography. And in session three, you survey methods of image post-production to get the most out of your pictures and enjoy a group critique of a few of your photos to help expand your thinking about photography and improve your images.

Please note, this class is a total of six hours: two hours in the classroom with lectures, discussions, and questions and answers; two hours of photo shooting in the field, including hands-on assistance, answers to specific camera questions and instructor guidance; and two hours in class with supportive critiques and feedback. The shooting session occurs at Union Station the morning of the St. Patrick’s Day parade to allow for lots of fun subjects!

“My goal with this class is to inspire you to maybe shoot a little more, shoot a little differently,” Dressel-Martin says. “I want you to view the world with wider eyes when you step outside.”

Scott Dressel-Martin is the author of Light Grows the Garden: The Denver Botanic Gardens. He is the official photographer of the Denver Botanic Gardens and he also helps a select group of institutions promote their missions and tell relevant and moving stories. As a photographer and filmmaker, Dressel-Martin has worked around the world. He began his career in photojournalism and has been published internationally.