6 Free Photography Classes in New York City

Keep reading to learn more about our list of free photography classes in New York City. If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing the world around you with ease, but you don’t want to spend a ton of money, look no further.

You might be wondering how, in a city like New York— as expensive and vast as it is— anyone can find anything for free. Well, now you’ve come to the right place. We’ve compiled a list of every class offered in The Big Apple that doesn’t charge students for lessons in basic photography skills. These courses are offered through different companies and in different areas of the city, so check them all out and see which is the best for you!

If you are interested in spending a bit more to further your photography education, you can also check our list of 20 beginner photography classes in NYC.

In order to create our list of cost-free photography classes in NYC, we consulted Luzenta as our main source. This site is extraordinarily helpful, and offered a wealth of information on numerous classes in and around New York City. The list isn’t sorted in any particular order, but most importantly all of them are completely free.

Keep reading to learn more details about how you can sign up for one of 6 free photography classes in New York City.

6. BH Photo & Video

6.1 The Wireless Photographer Sponsored by Westcott

Today, we live in a world where almost everything is digital, including our cameras. Today’s cameras have the ability to communicate wirelessly with other devices. The main topic in this workshop is to learn the best ways to use our modern wireless devices and technology to share images. You will learn how to control your camera and how to get the best out of it.

6.2 Capturing The World  – The Art And Practice of Travel Photography Sponsored by Leica

In this presentation, you will learn some technical skill, as well as some tips on how much effort you need to put into a position in order to get the most of a single picture. In order for the image to be maximized, you will learn how to do research, pick the optimal time and the place where you should be to capture the best environment, and how to plan a potential shot in advance. The topics discussed will be essential skills, preparing for a shoot, the story behind the picture, the maximum potential of the image, preferred equipment, and editing when out in the field.

It is recommended that the attendees complete an online registration before showing up for either of these classes.

5. Come and Meet Us

The average class size in the Come and Meet Us class that ranks 5th on the list of free photography classes in New York City is 9 people. At PhotoUno, the photographers are dedicated to helping students find their creative side and learn how to shoot better photos. The Come and Meet Us event is a great opportunity for staff to introduce you to the school and discuss their courses, seminars, events, and instructors. During the one-hour event, you are encouraged to ask questions. Before you show up, make sure you are registered. There are no make-up classes if you miss this one.

4. Quick Start for VariCam

We are continuing our list of free photography classes in New York City with The Quick Start for VariCam class that has an approximately 12 people in attendance. The teacher is Corey Christian, and he will teach you the fundamentals of prepping and operating a VariCam. This half-day class will guide you through features like focus, lens mounting options, firmware, and common shooting methods in the field. You will be more familiar with your camera after this class, as it will teach you all of the functions on your device.

3. Fuji Instax Partner Portrait Workshop

In this program, that ranks 3rd on the list of free photography classes in New York City, students will learn how to use a Fuji Instax camera. You will learn how to take advantage of every moment and create beautiful instant photos. You will be using a pre-selected theme during this class, but it will give you the opportunity to learn how to use your device to its maximum potential in order to create a unique and beautiful photograph. At the end of the course, you will go home with two unique images you shot. This class is aimed at teens ages 13 to 18, and it is presented by the International Center of Photography.

2. Focus Control and Lytro Workshop

The very first camera with the ability to refocus an image wherever you want is the Lytro Camera, also known as the Light Field camera. Images captured can be also shared on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and Lytro. In this class you will get to know the basics of the focus control, lenses, field, and your device itself. You will be provided with Lytro cameras to utilize during the duration of the class, so make sure you are registered beforehand.

1. Learn Photography with PhotoManhattan

PhotoManhattan offers a photography seminar a few times per month where those who participate will get the chance to learn as much as possible about shutter speed, aperture, focal length, film speeds, and a light meter for both digital and film cameras. You will get the chance to learn how to use and understand your camera completely in its manual mode and start shooting absolutely beautiful images. You can master your techniques for shooting indoors and outdoors using the greatest backdrop imaginable: the streets of the New York City.

Thanks for staying with us through our list of 6 free photography classes in New York City. The next time you go on a vacation, support your kids at their dance recital, or attend a holiday party, you’ll be sure not to miss out on any great photo opportunities with your new expanded knowledge of great photography practices.