Best Online Photography Courses

Skillshare offers a vast library of photography classes covering various genres, techniques, and skill levels. With a subscription-based model, you gain access to thousands of courses taught by industry professionals and experienced photographers. The platform emphasizes hands-on learning through project-based assignments and encourages community interaction through forums and feedback sessions. This broad approach is great for dabbling and discovering what you want to specialize in. While the quality varies, the sheer volume of content makes it a valuable resource for continuous learning and skill development. The platform's accessibility and affordability make it a popular choice for beginners and hobbyists.

CreativeLive distinguishes itself through its live workshops and courses taught by renowned photographers and industry experts. The platform offers a mix of free and paid content, allowing you to sample courses before committing to a purchase. CreativeLive focuses on practical skills and real-world applications, with instructors often demonstrating techniques in live studio settings. The interactive format encourages audience participation and provides opportunities for Q&A sessions. While the live courses are a highlight, the on-demand library offers a wealth of valuable content for photographers of all levels. The platform's emphasis on high-quality production and expert instruction makes it a premium learning resource.

LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com) provides a comprehensive collection of photography courses covering a wide range of topics, from basic camera operation to advanced editing techniques. The platform's integration with LinkedIn makes it a valuable resource for professional development and career advancement. Courses are taught by experienced instructors and often include downloadable resources and practice files. LinkedIn Learning emphasizes structured learning paths and skill-based assessments, allowing you to track your progress and demonstrate your expertise. The platform's focus on career-oriented skills makes it a popular choice for photographers seeking to enhance their professional profile.

Udemy offers a vast marketplace of photography courses taught by independent instructors. The platform's open structure allows anyone to create and sell courses, resulting in a wide range of topics and teaching styles. Udemy often features discounted prices and lifetime access to purchased courses. While the quality can vary, the sheer volume of content and affordability make it a popular choice for budget-conscious learners. It's an excellent resource for finding niche topics and specialized skills. Be sure to read reviews and preview course content before making a purchase. Udemy's flexibility and affordability make it a great option for self-directed learners.

The Photography Institute offers structured online photography courses designed to provide comprehensive training and certification. The courses cover a wide range of topics, from basic principles to advanced techniques, and are taught by experienced professionals. The institute emphasizes practical skills and hands-on assignments, with personalized feedback from instructors. The structured curriculum and certification options make it a valuable resource for photographers seeking to enhance their credentials and pursue professional opportunities. However, it is a more significant investment than some other options. The Photography Institute is a good choice for dedicated learners seeking a formal education.

KelbyOne is a subscription-based platform offering a wide range of photography and photo editing courses taught by industry experts. The platform features a strong emphasis on Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom, making it a valuable resource for photographers who rely on these tools. KelbyOne offers a mix of tutorials, workshops, and live events, providing a comprehensive learning experience. The platform's focus on practical skills and real-world applications makes it a popular choice for photographers seeking to improve their post-processing workflow. The community is very active and supportive. KelbyOne is a great choice for those heavily invested in the Adobe ecosystem.