Photo Basics

Whether you just unboxed your first camera or you’ve been shooting for years, Photo Basics breaks down the fundamentals in a fun, no-fluff way. These lessons make complex topics feel simple so you can build confidence and start creating awesome images—fast.

Whether you just unboxed your first camera or you’ve been shooting for years, Photo Basics breaks down the fundamentals in a fun, no-fluff way. These lessons make complex topics feel simple so you can build confidence and start creating awesome images—fast.

Learn how ND filters help you create stunning, motion-filled landscape shots—especially with waterfalls or bright scenes. You'll understand when and why to use a 3-stop, 6-stop, or even a 10-stop filter, and how they let you shoot with slower shutter speeds in bright light to capture motion blur.

When lighting conditions shift fast, what should you adjust first—ISO, shutter speed, or aperture? In this episode, Rich and Kaci break down their go-to camera settings and reveal how muscle memory and a clear priority list can take the panic out of changing light.

When lighting conditions shift fast, what should you adjust first—ISO, shutter speed, or aperture? In this episode, Rich and Kaci break down their go-to camera settings and reveal how muscle memory and a clear priority list can take the panic out of changing light.

Struggling with exposure? This Photo Basics live demystifies metering modes—explaining how your camera decides what’s “correct” brightness and when to use spot, center-weighted, or evaluative metering. Whether you're shooting backlit portraits or balanced landscapes, this episode helps you choose the right mode for any lighting scenario and take better control of your exposures.

Shooting the moon? In this Tech Talk, David and PJ explain why lunar photography isn’t as tricky as it seems. Learn how to apply the sunny 16 rule to get crisp, detailed moon shots—and why overexposing leads to a glowing blob. Perfect prep for lunar eclipses or your first astrophotography attempt.

Overwhelmed by lens choices? In this Photo Basics episode, PJ and Nata reveal the essential lenses they trust to run full-time photography businesses—nothing extra. Learn how to simplify your gear, invest smart, and build a lean lens kit that fits your style—whether you shoot weddings, real estate, or anything in between.

Think you can fix everything in post? Think again. In this Photo Basics, PJ and Kaci break down the exposure triangle and reveal what editing can’t save—like motion blur or missed focus. Learn where you can rely on Lightroom and where your in-camera settings still rule the shot.

Not everything can be “fixed in post.” In this Photo Basics, PJ and Nata break down what you can—and can’t—rescue with editing. From blurry focus to blown-out highlights, you’ll learn which mistakes are dealbreakers and how to avoid them in-camera. A must-watch for anyone who wants to stop relying on Photoshop to save the day.

Ready to ditch Auto? In this Photo Basics session, David and PJ revisit the exposure triangle—ISO, shutter speed, and aperture—and share why fresh batteries matter more than you think. Plus, get a sneak peek at how upcoming camera models like the Canon R50 and R100 will be added to the Master Your Camera training.