Classes

Tom Kennedy is an accomplished photographer with extensive experience capturing both everyday moments and artistic compositions. He has worked across digital and film formats, combining technical expertise with a passion for storytelling through images. In his classes, Tom emphasizes hands-on learning, encouraging students to practice techniques as they discover their own style. He believes photography is as much about observation as it is about equipment, and he guides students to see beauty in both simple and complex subjects.

Whether introducing beginners to the basics or helping more advanced students refine their skills, Tom’s teaching is supportive, inspiring, and practical. His goal is for every student to leave class not only more confident with their camera, but also more excited about the art of photography.

Tom speaks at HOAs, civic clubs, and interest groups. He teaches regular classes at the Ocean City Art League and South Coastal Library.

Click the logos to see currently scheduled classes. Detailed course descriptions are listed below.

Course Offerings

  • Introduction to iPhone Photography

    Cell phones and tablets have become the most-used cameras, more than actual cameras themselves!

    In this class, we will discuss some of the advantages and disadvantages of using these devices for photography. Additionally, we will discuss understanding composition and using light to capture professional photos, as well as how to share photos and move them from your iPhone, iPad, and laptop.  We will demonstrate special features of the iPhone and practice using shortcuts, cropping, and improving your photos with the built-in apps on your device. 

    No experience is necessary.  Bring your iPhone and/or iPad to class to participate in the hands-on demonstration and practice. If the iPhone is your primary camera, this class is a must!

  • Advanced iPhone Photography

    The basic functions taught in the Introduction to iPhone Photography are the building blocks for understanding and executing advanced techniques.  Students who have taken my introduction class will not have a problem with this class. If you are comfortable with the parts/functions of the iPhone and the basic compositional skills of photography, you will be fine with the contents of this class.

    The class will focus on common compositional mistakes, framing photos, and advanced iPhone applications. We will discuss and practice the nine adjustments and techniques to use before and during a photo. Understanding and leveraging the post-developing functions will enhance the final quality of your photo.

  • Introduction to the Art of Photography

    Would you like to understand how professional photographers shoot great panoramas, portraits, and action photos? Would you like to raise your photographic skills to the next level?  Sign up for the Introduction to the Art of Photography workshop.

    The student will learn how to shoot high-quality photographs by studying basic photographic principles and techniques.  This beginner’s level workshop will cover topics ranging from photo composition and lighting to aperture, shutter speed, and ISO.  Our discussion will also include descriptions and uses of the controls and modes on most DSLR cameras.  We will end the workshop with a review of popular editing software. 

    Students are encouraged to bring their cameras to class, but cameras are not required. Beginner photographers, as well as anyone who has never participated in a photography class, will benefit from this workshop. No experience is necessary.

  • Digital Photography

    If you are new to photography or would like to take your present skills to the next level, this class is for you. If you have never attended a formal photography class and are using a digital camera in “auto mode” to take photographs, wondering what all the other dials and settings are for and how to use them, this class is for you.

    The workshop will address in depth the use of shutter speed, aperture settings, understanding ISO, and just how they work together to produce a great photo. What the camera does when you select landscape, sports, night, portrait, and A, P, or S modes will be reviewed, along with how to use them effectively.

    This class will improve your current photographic skills, no matter your current level.  If you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, please bring it to class along with your lenses. Cameras are not necessary to participate, but they will enhance the learning experience.

  • Intermediate Photography

    If you have basic or advanced knowledge of photography, this class is for you. Students will learn and understand how professional photographers shoot great panoramas, portraits, and action photos.

    This workshop will include topics ranging from unique photo composition, compositional mistakes, landscape settings, photographing wildlife, and metering.

    The workshop will also cover using the controls and modes on most DSLR and mirrorless cameras, selecting the right lenses and when to use them, and a photographer’s basic equipment.

    Students are encouraged to bring their cameras, iPads, and iPhones to class; however, cameras are not required.  Basic experience is required.

  • Essential Photography Equipment What’s Needed to get started in Photography

    If you enjoy using a DSLR or mirrorless camera, thinking about getting more involved in photography, wondering what you should know, or what equipment to consider moving forward, this class is for you.

    This class is designed to help you choose or consider what is best for you while staying within your budget.  Our discussion will cover topics such as: what is the best camera for you; essential lenses; which memory cards to buy and how to maintain them; tripods; filters, speedlights, and computer software. 

    Examples of all the equipment discussed will be displayed during the class.