For the everyday moments


This course is for those that the words “aperture”, “shutter speed” and “ISO” sound like a foreign language, but one they would like to learn to speak. It is for those that are captivated by photographs that tell a story and dream of capturing the beauty of their own everyday life. In this course, you will find original content written in everyday language to help you go from shooting in Auto to thriving in Manual.

What is covered:

This course will help you go very from the very, very beginner (maybe you only know how to turn your camera on) to understanding all those dials on your camera and shooting in the Manual settings!

  • General rules for composition
  • How to tell a story with your photographs
  • How to capture moments, not poses
  • Lighting: how to work with the lighting you have available
  • The basics of shooting in Manual: ISO, Shutter Speed, Aperture - what they do, how they work, and when to use them
  • Basics of editing DSLR photos
  • Tools and extras to make the most of your photos after you shoot them
  • Practice suggestions to help what you learn sink in


What you need:

  • A DSLR camera (mirrorless will work too, just some minor differences)
  • Internet access



Go at your own pace

While we recommend taking about a month to slowly work through the content and practice, the course is designed to go at your own pace. Slow it down or speed it up. It is your call!

Not for professionals

Though plenty of students have gone on to start photography businesses, this course is written for the person wanting to capture the beauty of daily life not client sessions.

More than just technical

We dive into the technical side of photography, but we don't stay there. Understanding composition and storytelling are just as important as knowing Manual settings.

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Our Story

In 2009 SnapShop DSLR began as an in-person workshop in my living room. A few years later the course moved online. After many years of teaching and 5000+ students, I’ve continued to add and edit the content you will find in this course. I love helping individuals gain a basic understanding of their cameras in order to be able to capture the beauty of their everyday lives and would be honored to come alongside you in your photography journey. ~ Ashley