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Welcome to Visualdo. The Best School of Photography

This is the best school of photography in Nairobi, Kenya to learn courses in beginner photography, advanced photography and pro photography. Whether you want to understand your camera or to take professional photos, or to master photoshop and lightroom for editing the photos, we have the complete photography course that will help you become a pro photographer.

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About Visualdo School of Photography

Our complete photography course is a 3 part series where you begin learning at the Basic(Beginner) Level then Advanced Level and finish with Pro level.

The BEGINNER LEVEL will help you understand your camera and how to take professional photos with it. With weekly field work, projects and workshops, you will acquire all the skills for immediate entry into the job market and to work as a professional photographer.

The ADVANCED LEVEL takes the knowledge in beginner course outline to the next level. You’ll learn everything from stops, histograms, advance flash photography, light modifiers, advance techniques and tricks to perfecting your photographs using adobe photoshop and adobe lightroom. Graduates will be able to work in studios, weddings and wildlife.

The PRO LEVEL immerses you to the business world of photography where you will be able to work in studios, products, events, weddings, landscape, sports, wildlife photography and any genre of photography. By finishing the pro level, students attain a diploma in photography.

Basic Photography Course outline

The following are the courses units covered in Basic.

  • History
  • Exposure Triangle
  • Camera, Controls & Settings
    • Types of Cameras
    • Buttons and Menu
    • Camera Modes
    • Exposure Compensation
    • Manual Focusing
    • White Balance
    • File Formats
  • Composition Techniques (Types of shots)
  • On Camera Flash Photography
  • Intro to Adobe Photoshop and Photo Editing

Particulars

  • Intakes: January, April, July, September
  • Duration of study: 3 months
  • Fees: Ksh42,000 (payable in 2 instalments of Ksh21,000 each)
  • Grade: Open enrollment

Requirements

  • Paid Non-refundable Application Fees of Ksh2000
  • Submitted Application Form
  • 1 Passport size photo
  • Copy of National ID or Passport (or wait list)
  • KCSE Certificate results (Diploma entry grade is C-, Certificate is D-)
  • Short course entry grade is any grade
  • Pay your semester school fees before starting class
  • PAY VIA MPESA: Paybill number: 4107253 Account number: Student name
  • Maximum of 2 installments are allowed per semester
  • After payment send the confirmation to +254.798.325.330
  • Hostels are not part of school fees
  • TVET (KNEC) Exams fees – paid later
  • PEARSON Exams fees – paid later
  • PROJECT / LAB / ACTIVITIES fees – paid later

COMPLETE COURSE OUTILNE

Our course is divided into a 3 part series as shown below:

CERTIFICATE
3 months
ADVANCED CERTIFICATE
4 months
DIPLOMA
4 months
  • History of Photography
  • Exposure Triangle
  • Camera, Controls & Settings
    • Types of Cameras
    • Buttons and Menu
    • Camera Modes
    • Exposure Compensation
    • Manual Focusing
    • White Balance
    • File Formats
  • Composition Techniques (Types of shots)
  • On Camera Flash Photography
  • Intro to Adobe Photoshop and Photo Editing
  • Advanced Photoshop
  • Advanced Lightroom
  • Lenses & Filters
  • Stops & Histogram
  • Autofocusing
  • Sensors
  • RAW vs JPEG
  • Light in Photography
  • Off Camera Flash Photography
  • Event Photography
  • Creative Photography
  • Outdoor Photography
  • Indoor Photography
Go to Advanced
  • Advanced Flash Photography
  • Resolution and Quality
  • Light Modifiers & Metering
  • More Advanced Photoshop
  • Portrait Photography & Studio Photography
  • Photography Genres (Wildlife, Sports, Events, Landscape, Product)
  • Photography Softwares
  • Graphic Design
  • Video Editing
  • Digital Marketing
  •  Photography Business
  • Attachment
Go to Diploma

PHOTOGRAPHY IN A NUTSHELL

Photography is the art, science, and practice of creating images by capturing light with a camera. It involves various techniques, equipment, and skills to produce visual representations of subjects ranging from people and landscapes to objects and events. Here are the key aspects in becoming a photographer:

1. Fundamental Concepts

Light
  • Natural Light: Sunlight, moonlight, and other sources of natural illumination.
  • Artificial Light: Light sources such as studio lights, flash, and LED lights.
Camera
  • Types of Cameras: DSLR, mirrorless, point-and-shoot, film cameras, and smartphone cameras.
  • Lenses: Various lenses such as wide-angle, telephoto, macro, prime, and zoom lenses impact the perspective and field of view.

2. Technical Elements

Exposure
  • Aperture: The opening in a lens that controls the amount of light entering the camera, affecting depth of field.
  • Shutter Speed: The amount of time the camera’s sensor is exposed to light, influencing motion blur and freezing action.
  • ISO: The camera sensor’s sensitivity to light, affecting the brightness and noise levels in an image.
Focus
  • Autofocus: The camera’s ability to automatically adjust focus on a subject.
  • Manual Focus: Manually adjusting the focus ring on a lens to achieve the desired sharpness.

3. Composition

  • Rule of Thirds: Dividing the frame into a 3×3 grid and placing key elements along the lines or intersections.
  • Leading Lines: Lines that guide the viewer’s eye through the image.
  • Framing: Using natural or artificial frames within the scene to focus attention on the subject.
  • Symmetry and Patterns: Creating balance and visual interest through repetition and symmetry.

4. Types of Photography

  • Portrait: Capturing the likeness and personality of a person or group.
  • Landscape: Depicting natural scenery and environments.
  • Street: Documenting everyday life and candid moments in public spaces.
  • Macro: Close-up shots of small subjects, revealing fine details.
  • Wildlife: Photographing animals in their natural habitats.
  • Event: Capturing moments at events such as weddings, concerts, and sports.
  • Commercial: Creating images for advertising, products, and business use.
  • Fine Art: Expressive and conceptual images created for artistic purposes.

5. Post-Processing

  • Editing Software: Programs like Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, GIMP, and Capture One.
  • Basic Adjustments: Cropping, straightening, exposure correction, contrast, and saturation.
  • Advanced Techniques: Retouching, color grading, using layers and masks, compositing.

6. Historical and Cultural Significance

  • Documentation: A photographer serves as a means to document and preserve moments, events, and history.
  • Art Form: A photographer is recognized as a significant and influential form of visual art.
  • Communication: Photos convey messages, tell stories, and evoke emotions, making them powerful tools for communication and expression.

Conclusion

Been a photographer is a multifaceted discipline that blends artistic vision with technical proficiency. It offers endless possibilities for creative expression, documentation, and communication, making it a valuable skill and form of art in modern society.

Becoming a photographer can be a fulfilling and rewarding career or hobby, offering numerous benefits and opportunities. Here are some compelling reasons to consider pursuing photography:

1. Creative Expression

  • Artistic Outlet: Photography allows you to express your creativity and unique perspective through images.
  • Storytelling: You can tell powerful stories and convey emotions, capturing moments that can resonate with viewers.

2. Career Opportunities

  • Diverse Fields: Opportunities in portrait, wedding, fashion, commercial, documentary, and fine art photography.
  • Freelance Flexibility: Ability to work as a freelancer, setting your own schedule and choosing your projects.
  • Specialized Roles: Roles such as photojournalist, studio photographer, or wildlife photographer.

3. Personal Growth

  • Skill Development: Master technical skills like camera settings, lighting, and editing.
  • Problem-Solving: Learn to overcome challenges, such as tricky lighting or uncooperative subjects.
  • Attention to Detail: Sharpen your eye for details and composition.

4. Emotional and Psychological Benefits

  • Mindfulness: The process of taking photos can help you stay present and mindful.
  • Stress Relief: Engaging in a creative activity can reduce stress and improve mental health.
  • Self-Expression: Photography provides a medium to express your thoughts and emotions.

5. Cultural and Social Impact

  • Raising Awareness: Use photography to highlight social issues, environmental concerns, and cultural stories.
  • Connecting People: Photography can bridge gaps between different cultures and communities, fostering understanding and empathy.

6. Preserving Memories

  • Documenting Life: Capture important moments, milestones, and everyday life.
  • Legacy: Create a visual record that can be shared with future generations.

7. Continuous Learning

  • Evolving Field: Photography is constantly evolving with new techniques, technology, and trends.
  • Workshops and Courses: Continuous opportunities for learning through workshops, courses, and tutorials.

8. Travel and Exploration

  • New Places: Photography often takes you to new places and environments, whether locally or globally.
  • Adventure: Discover and capture the beauty of different landscapes, cultures, and events.

9. Community and Networking

  • Meet Like-Minded People: Join photography clubs, online communities, and attend events to connect with other photographers.
  • Collaboration: Opportunities to collaborate with artists, models, and other professionals.

10. Financial Potential

  • Earning Opportunities: Potential to earn money through commissioned work, selling prints, stock photography, and teaching.
  • Business Ownership: Run your own photography business, providing services to clients and customers.

Conclusion

Becoming a photographer offers a blend of creativity, professional opportunity, personal growth, and social impact. Whether you choose to pursue it as a career or a hobby, photography can enrich your life and the lives of others through the powerful medium of visual storytelling.

Studying at Visualdo Institute can offer a unique and enriching experience. Here are several reasons why you might consider pursuing your studies at Visualdo Institute:

1. Reputation and Expertise

  • Renowned Faculty: Learn from experienced and acclaimed photographers and industry professionals like Joewell Photography.
  • Accredited Programs: Benefit from programs recognized from TVETA.

2. Comprehensive Curriculum

3. State-of-the-Art Facilities

  • Modern Equipment: Access to the latest cameras, lenses, and lighting equipment.
  • Professional Studios: Well-equipped studios for various types of photography, including portrait, product, and fashion.

4. Hands-On Experience

  • Practical Assignments: Regular projects and assignments that provide real-world experience.
  • Workshops and Field Trips: Opportunities to learn outside the classroom and gain practical insights.
  • Internships and Collaborations: Partnerships with industry professionals and businesses for internships and collaborative projects.

5. Creative and Supportive Environment

  • Community of Artists: Be part of a vibrant community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about photography and visual arts.
  • Mentorship and Guidance: Personalized mentorship to help you develop your style and portfolio.
  • Critiques and Feedback: Constructive critiques to improve your skills and artistic vision.

6. Career Development

  • Portfolio Building: Assistance in creating a professional portfolio that showcases your best work.
  • Job Placement Services: Career services that help you find job opportunities and internships in the photography industry.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connections with alumni and industry professionals through events and seminars.

7. Innovative Learning Methods

  • Blended Learning: A mix of traditional classroom instruction and online learning resources.
  • Interactive Classes: Engaging lectures, discussions, and hands-on workshops.
  • Guest Lectures and Masterclasses: Learn from visiting artists and photographers who share their experiences and insights.

8. Personal Development

  • Creativity and Innovation: Encourage and nurture your creative potential.
  • Critical Thinking: Develop the ability to analyze and interpret visual information critically.
  • Confidence and Professionalism: Build confidence in your skills and professional demeanor.

Conclusion

Choosing to become a photographer and study at Visualdo Institute means immersing yourself in a comprehensive, supportive, and innovative educational environment. You will gain not only technical skills and artistic knowledge but also the professional development and industry connections necessary to succeed in the field as a photographer.

Becoming a photographer involves understanding both the technical and artistic aspects of capturing images. Here’s a guide to get you started:

1. Understanding the Basics

Camera Equipment
  • Types of Cameras: DSLR, mirrorless, point-and-shoot, smartphone cameras.
  • Lenses: Wide-angle, telephoto, macro, prime, and zoom lenses.
  • Accessories: Tripods, external flashes, reflectors, filters.
Technical Fundamentals
  • Exposure Triangle: ISO, shutter speed, and aperture.
  • Focus: Auto-focus vs. manual focus, depth of field.
  • Composition: Rule of thirds, leading lines, symmetry, framing.
  • Lighting: Natural light, artificial light, light direction, and quality.

2. Learning the Techniques

Exposure Control
  • Aperture: Controls the depth of field.
  • Shutter Speed: Freezes or blurs motion.
  • ISO: Affects the camera’s sensitivity to light.
Composition Techniques
  • Rule of Thirds: Dividing the frame into a 3×3 grid to place points of interest.
  • Leading Lines: Lines that guide the viewer’s eye through the image.
  • Symmetry and Patterns: Creating balance or highlighting repetition.
Lighting Techniques
  • Natural Lighting: Using sunlight effectively.
  • Artificial Lighting: Using flash or studio lights.
  • Light Modifiers: Reflectors, diffusers, and softboxes to shape light.

3. Post-Processing

  • Software: Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, GIMP, Capture One.
  • Editing Basics: Cropping, straightening, adjusting exposure, contrast, saturation.
  • Advanced Editing: Retouching, color grading, using layers and masks.

4. Specializing in Different Genres

  • Portrait Photographer: Focusing on individuals or groups.
  • Landscape Photographer: Capturing natural scenery.
  • Street Photographer: Documenting everyday life and society.
  • Macro Photographer: Close-up shots of small subjects.
  • Event Photographer: Weddings, concerts, and other live events.
  • Product Photographer: Highlighting items for advertising.
  • Wildlife Photographer: Capturing the wild animals

5. Developing Your Style

  • Experimentation: Try different genres and techniques.
  • Inspiration: Study the work of famous photographers.
  • Portfolio: Build a collection of your best work

6. Professional Development

  • Workshops: Attend in-person or virtual photographer’s workshops.
  • Mentorship: Learn from experienced photographers.
  • Networking: Connect with other photographers, models, and clients.

Conclusion

Been a photographer is a vast and rewarding field that combines technical skill with creative expression. Start with the basics, practice regularly, and continuously seek out new learning opportunities to develop your unique style and expertise.