In 1858, renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted won an important design competition to comprehensively improve and expand this celebrated park with an innovative master plan they named the Greensward Plan. From that pivotal moment through today, Central Park has maintained its powerful international appeal, drawing visitors from nearby neighborhoods and travelers from distant parts of the world to experience this remarkable urban oasis. Indeed, numerous dedicated photographers have built careers around capturing the exceptional beauty, distinctive charm, and delightful whimsy found throughout this iconic destination. Digital Photo Academy cordially invites you to discover this visual paradise for yourself.
The class meeting point will be at the corner of Seventy-ninth Street and Central Park West, positioned directly across from the main entrance to the American Museum of Natural History. Your first stop will be the impressive Belvedere Castle, originally constructed in eighteen sixty-nine as a strategic watchtower overlooking the city, and miraculously maintained in immaculate condition through the present day. The castle provides an ideal setting for learning architectural and perspective photography principles and additionally offers multiple scenic overlooks and panoramic viewpoints throughout the structure.
Your group will also visit Shakespeare's Garden, where you will receive detailed instruction in macro photography techniques. You will aim your camera lens at numerous colorful plant and animal specimens. Furthermore, you will learn the dynamic panning technique, which photographers use to convey fast motion and effectively isolate subjects from background elements within the photographic frame. An abundance of photographic subjects awaits you, including the expansive Great Lawn, the Swedish Theater, and countless excellent portrait opportunities. Consider the street musicians, talented performers, dog walkers, international tourists, and local artists you might encounter and photograph. Throughout this three-hour guided excursion, you will experience the park with fresh eyes and perspectives while building friendships with fellow photography enthusiasts who share your passion.
Each Composition in the Field workshop begins with an instructional lecture from one of our experienced teaching professionals, followed by a guided exploration through one of numerous photogenic locations. Digital Photo Academy operates workshops in twenty-plus cities across diverse venues and settings. Options include street photography locations, magnificent interior spaces, farmers' markets, zoos, landscapes, and numerous other environments. The photographic examples included represent a collection of both student and instructor images from diverse locations and venues throughout the United States and Canada.
You will enjoy the full three-hour learning experience, develop skills to photograph strategically and intentionally, capture significantly more compelling and interesting photographs, and gain foundational knowledge to advance your photographic abilities in the future. This foundation will serve you well whether you are traveling internationally, documenting a special birthday celebration, or photographing everyday moments in between.
Please note that if a class must be canceled due to inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances beyond our control, we will gladly work with you to arrange an alternative class date. If you need to cancel your enrollment and request a new class date, please contact us directly. A $25 transfer fee will be applied unless we receive at least three days advance notice before your scheduled class.