Photography Class in Dayton for Beginners
Learn how to use your digital camera with confidence in a small-group, hands-on class taught by professional photographer Dan Cleary
The next in-person photography class is Sunday, April 19, 2026 at Dan’s office in The Event Connection, 4140 Linden Ave. Dayton, Ohio 45432
Taught by Dan Cleary • Professional Photographer • 35+ Years of Experience • Small Class Size
35+ Years Experience
Learn from a working professional photographer and teacher
Beginner Friendly
Perfect for people who want to get off Auto and finally understand their camera
Small Group Classes
A relaxed, supportive learning environment with time for questions.
Hands -On Learning
Is This Photography Class Right For You?
- You own a DSLR or mirrorless camera and want to understand it better
- You are tired of leaving your camera on Auto
- You want to take better family, travel, landscape, or everyday photographs
- You feel confused by aperture, shutter speed, and ISO
- You want a live, in-person class instead of trying to figure it out alone online
If that sounds like you, this class was made for you.
Stop Feeling Overwhelmed by Your Camera
Many people buy a good camera and then never learn how to use it. The buttons, menus, and settings can feel confusing quickly. This class helps simplify photography so you can stop guessing and start taking stronger photographs
What You Will Walk Away With
- A clearer understanding of your camera settings
- Confidence in using aperture, shutter speed, and ISO
- Better control over blur, sharpness, and exposure
- Greater success photographing people, places, and everyday moments
What You Will Learn in This Class
Dan breaks photography down into simple, understandable steps so you can begin using your camera with more confidence
Aperture
Learn how aperture affects depth of field and how to blur or sharpen the background
Shutter Speeds
Understand how to freeze motion or create blur for action, sports, kids, pets, and moving subjects
ISO
See how ISO affects exposure and image quality, especially in lower light
Exposure
Learn how aperture, shutter speed, and ISO work together to control the brightness of your image
Composition
Discover simple ways to improve your photographs through framing, balance, and visual design
Light
Learn how to see and use better light for stronger photographs
Class Details
Next Class: April 19, 2026
1 pm – 4 pm
The Event Connections Building
4140 Linden Ave. Dayton, Ohio 45432
$119 for one person
$189 for two people
What To Bring
- Your digital camera
- A fully charged battery
- Your camera manual if you have it
- A notebook and pen if you like taking notes
- Your questions
If you are not sure whether your camera is right for the class, contact Dan before registering.
Meet Your Instructor, Dan Cleary
Dan Cleary is a professional photographer, teacher, and author with over 35 years of experience. He teaches photography to beginners and developing photographers in a clear, practical, and easy-to-understand way. Dan aims to help people feel less intimidated by their camera and more excited about photography.
- Professional photographer for 35+ years
- Teacher and workshop instructor
- Author of photography educational materials
- Known for making photography easier to understand
You can find Dan’s commercial photography at ClearyCreativePhoto.com and his fine art photography at ClearyFineArtPhoto.com
What People Have Said
“I just took an amazing photography class with Dan Cleary, and I found it very informative and helpful, especially for my business. I now have a clearer understanding of how I can use my camera.”
Pamela Gray
“This class made my camera feel much much less intimidating. I left feeling more confident and excited to create new photographs.”
Peggy Powers
“I received a gift certificate from a friend for this class. Dan is patient, knowledgeable, and easy to learn from. I am so glad I took this photography class.“
Mary Martin
“Dan’s work and professionalism are second to none! I would highly recommend him for any of your photography needs!“
Becky Edgren
“Dan is one of the most knowledgeable photographers I’ve ever met and does and outstanding job. I wouldn’t recommend anyone else!“
Andrew Banks
“Dan is nationally known for his creative photography.”
Robert Kirchner
Frequently Asked Questions:
Will we go over everything on my camera? Everyone attending the class should bring all their camera equipment so Dan can explain all the settings.
I want to know more about landscape photography. Dan will answer everyone’s specific questions. He will go over the settings for all aspects of landscape photography.
I want to take better photos of my kids’ sports. During the class, Dan will explain the best shutter speeds and apertures for sports photography.
What kind of camera should I bring? Bring your DSLR or mirrorless camera. If you are unsure whether your camera is a good fit, contact Dan before class.
Do I need photography experience? No. This class is built to help people who are just getting started or who feel unsure about camera settings.
Will I learn how to get off Auto mode? Yes. A major goal of the class is to help you understand the settings that give you more control over your photographs.
Can I bring a friend or spouse? Yes. There is a special rate for two or more people registering together.
Where is the class held? The class is held at my office in The Event Connections Building, 4140 Linden Ave. Dayton, Ohio 45432.
What if I have questions before or after I register? You can contact Dan directly through this link.
Not Ready To Register Yet?
Get information on upcoming class dates and a free downloadable copy of Dan Cleary’s 7 Quick Camera Tips.
2026 Schedule Dates For Classes
Sunday, January 11th – Sunday, April 19th – Sunday, June 14th – Sunday, September 20th