National Geographic Masters of Photography

Produced by The Great Courses in 2014, National Geographic Masters of Photography is an immersive visual course series that invites audiences to step behind the lens and learn the art and craft of photography from some of the most revered photographers in the world. It's a composition of 24 enlightening lectures that breakdown various elements of photography, making it an ideal series for both beginners and intermediate photographers looking to build on their existing skills.

This course features a league of National Geographic's top photographers, including industry veterans such as Forks Over Knives' director, Joel Sartore, and Pulitzer Prize winner, William Allard. By sharing their special techniques, personal experiences, and inspirations, these photography masters offer students an incomparable insight into understanding the fundamental mechanisms of capturing breathtaking images.

Each lecture covers an advanced photographic concept, ranging from the technical aspects such as lighting, exposure, composition, and post-processing to the philosophical and aesthetic elements like storytelling through imagery, creating emotional impact, and finding one's unique photographic style. Additionally, through profound personal anecdotes, the Masters of Photography series also explores the ethical dilemmas often confronted in professional photography.

One essential objective of the show is to promote the idea that anyone can develop the ability to take great photographs. Equipped with patient explanations and vivid examples, these detailed lessons aim at demystifying the journey of a photograph from the moment of capturing the shot to post-camera processing.

The series is set in various diverse and exotic locations across the globe, reflecting the prestigious experience and worldwide reach of the National Geographic photographers. However, the instructors also advocate that meaningful and captivating photographs can be taken anywhere – from remote Saharan landscapes to the comfort of your back garden.

A remarkable part of the course is that it transcends beyond the technicalities of a camera and delves into the abstract and artistic aspects of photography. It emphasizes the importance of a photographer’s vision, which when combined with technical acuity, can freeze fleeting moments into timelessness and transform mundane subjects into bewitching narratives. According to the masters featured, a photographer's unique perspective, personal connection to the subject and the power of patience often play a pivotal role in elevating photo-journalistic documentation to an art form.

National Geographic Masters of Photography is unique in its depth and breadth, offering an unrivaled look into the world of some of the most celebrated photographers. As part of this course, audiences will enjoy never-before-seen footage which includes the photographers working in their natural element, sharing their personal artistic journey and discussing their visual philosophy, endeavors, and challenges.

Accomplishing more than just teaching the technicalities of the photographic process, Masters of Photography urges viewers to think deeper about the subject, background, frame, and story of each image. Its primary goal seems to be inspiring and cultivating one's creativity through the power of compelling visual storytelling.

A special emphasis is laid on the ethical aspects of photography, which serves to remind viewers that, while their goal is capturing truly remarkable and powerful images, it is important to respect the subjects, cultures, locations, and stories that they are photographing. The Masters delve into discussions on the role of photographers as respect-oriented observers, and the importance of understanding and observing local customs and sensitivities whilst at work.

The series doesn't shy away from discussing the failures, rejections and the oftentimes challenging path that leads to a photographer's growth and success. These experiences help render a realistic picture of the world of photography, providing invaluable reassurances to budding photographers.

In conclusion, National Geographic's Masters of Photography from The Great Courses is an abundance of valuable photographic wisdom presented through interactive and engaging lectures. It offers a comprehensive exploration of what it means to be a photographer, bridging the gap between the technical, the artistic, and the personal elements of this expressive medium. It's not merely a course that teaches one how to be a photographer but rather, how to see the world like one. This series is an unmissable gem for photography enthusiasts as well as perfect for those looking to understand the language of images better. Whether you're an enthusiast, amateur, or an aspiring professional, this show will certainly enrich your artistic vision, craft, and understanding of photography.