One year after...technical knowledge but hit and miss photos

It's been one year since I've gotten my Olympus E-P1 and a few lenses. I've learned quite a bit about the technical aspects of photography and integrated postprocessing via Lightroom into my photography as well.

However, my photos are still hit and miss, especially my photos of people.

My goal is to build a portfolio of meaningful documentary photographs of my life that I can look back on 50 years from now with my friends and family.

What can I do to improve my photography, especially my composition of people and context?

Have you considered, maybe, taking a class or two? Many community colleges and even some camera shops offer classes which may help teach and improve your basic understanding of composition.

I've been considering a class at my community college. It's $265 for 8 sessions, and says:

italics/Haven’t figured out your digital camera? This class teaches how to use the manual controls on your digital camera and improve your photos. Discover the purpose of depth of field, shutter speed, ISO, exposure, color theory, composition, white balance, black and white, portraiture, and how to get a quality digital print. Create a photographic series. A digital camera with full manual features is required. This class is for students who are new to photography.

There are several other classes available, but this one looks like the place to start for me. What do you guys thing? Worth $265?

Check out Jodi Coston's lessons on composition...

http://www.morguefile.com/docs/Classroom

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Seems fairly reasonable to me. I think the going rate in my area is about $200 to $250 for something similar. That said, community college classes, seem to be hit and miss depending upon who is teaching the class as well as who is taking the class.

Ultimately it all depends upon how much you get out of the class that determines whether or not it is a good value. Unfortunately the only way you are likely to know that is to dive in and give it a try.

Exactly what I was looking for, thanks!

Graystar said:

Check out Jodi Coston's lessons on composition...

http://www.morguefile.com/docs/Classroom

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