Photo 101 | Introduction to Photography

Photo 101: Introduction to Photography

Instructor: Dr. Sara Leikin

Photo 101 is the first class in our three-part Introduction to Photography series and is designed for beginners or anyone looking to build a stronger foundation. Whether you’ve never touched a camera or are just starting to explore photography, this class will help you understand the essentials and get you thinking like a photographer.

Led by photographer and educator Dr. Sara Leikin, this session focuses on the “why” behind photography, how images work, how photographers see the world, and how light, composition, and storytelling come together. The emphasis is on understanding concepts first, so you feel confident when you pick up a camera later.

In this class, you’ll learn:

• What photography is and how it communicates ideas
• Composition basics for stronger, more intentional images
• How to “see” light and understand its impact on a photo
• The exposure triangle and how the pieces fit together
• An overview of camera types and lenses
• How to think creatively and make photos—even without a camera

About the Instructor
Dr. Sara Leikin is a photographer, educator, and lifelong storyteller who fell in love with photography as a way to slow down and really see the world. She’s especially drawn to travel photography, night-scapes, and the small details that tell a bigger story. With a background in education, Sara loves helping photographers at all levels build confidence, understand the why behind their camera settings, and discover their own visual voice.

You can explore her work at saraleikinphotography.com.

What to bring:

• No camera required
• Just yourself and something to take notes with

This class sets the stage for the entire series, welcoming, approachable, and designed to give you a solid foundation before moving on to hands-on shooting and editing.