Fundamentals of Photography

Fundamentals of Photography is an all-encompassing educational TV series from The Great Courses. Released in 2012, this thought-provoking, comprehensive, and visually gripping show is designed to give enthusiasts of all skill levels the technical and aesthetic knowledge they need to venture out into the world of photography.

The show is taught by professional photographer and National Geographic Fellow, Joel Sartore, who has over thirty years of experience in documenting the world's natural history. He brings to life the most critical aspects of photography, giving viewers a solid foundation to explore their passion, whether it be for personal fulfillment or as a professional pursuit. Through the show, Sartore offers insightful lessons, personal anecdotes, and practical tips that reinforce the core principles driving the art of photography.

Fundamentals of Photography comprises 24 half-hour episodes. Each episode delves deep into a specific theoretical and practical element of photography. Sartore takes viewers through the importance of light, compositional techniques, movement capture, equipment selection, post-production, outdoor and wildlife photography, and many other concepts. The show captivates audiences by showcasing stunning visuals from Sartore’s extensive portfolio, adding an engaging visual element to the wealth of information offered.

The inaugural episode lays the groundwork by defining what good photography means. It helps viewers appreciate the skill and creativity involved in this art. Interjected with Joel's anecdotes from his numerous assignments, the episodes take you on a global journey, from the icy realms of the arctic to the lush Amazon rainforests, all the while teaching valuable lessons on how to capture the stunning beauty of the natural world.

The show emphasizes the technical details crucial to mastering photography. Sartore walks viewers through aspects like understanding the camera controls and settings, the qualities of light, exposure, and the use of flash. He explains how different camera settings impact the final image. One can learn how to effectively use shutter speed, depth of field, and other technical elements to enhance their photos.

Sartore also discusses the aesthetic aspects, teaching viewers how to develop their unique artistic expression. He talks about elements of composition, finding difficult shots, creating a strong narrative, and exploring different photographic styles. Moreover, he provides crucial tips on self-editing and post-production techniques to perfect the images even after the shutter is clicked.

Fundamentals of Photography is not only about the basics of photography but also teaches how to tackle real-world challenges involved in indoor and outdoor photography, as well as capturing portraiture and landscapes. From handling tricky lighting situations to struggling with fast-moving subjects, from photographing at night to shooting in bad weather, the show provides an overview of every potential situation an aspiring photographer might come across.

One of the significant features of Fundamentals of Photography is its hands-on teaching approach. Sartore encourages viewers to actively practice their skills, apply the techniques taught in the series, and build their vision. This interactive element of the show makes it a fun, engaging, and immersive learning experience.

The series is accessible to photographers of all skill levels. Whether you're just starting with a simple point-and-shoot camera, learning to use a high-end DSLR, or you're an experienced photographer hoping to broaden your understanding and hone your skills, there's something for everyone in the Fundamentals of Photography.

This show is a masterclass from one of the greatest photographers of our time, teaching viewers to immerse themselves in the art, science, history, and philosophy of photography. Throughout the series, Joel Sartore’s passion for photography shines brightly, inspiring those who engage with it. No wonder then, that Fundamentals of Photography remains a beloved asset among photography enthusiasts, eight years after its original broadcast. Through this visually stunning and intellectually engaging series, The Great Courses has created an excellent resource for anyone interested in photography, from beginners to professionals.