Taking better photographs is a snap with this first-hand look at the creative process of award-winning National Geographic photographers who have mastered the trade. During class, you’ll gain rich insight for your own images and develop a toolkit of simple but effective techniques to use again and again. Your journey begins with adventure photography, as you see how to reveal the culture of a locale through silhouette, leading lines, the vastness of a landscape and anticipation. Then, learn how panning and incorporating the environment will lead to better photos of wildlife in your own backyard. Want to harness light for more impact? Take a deep dive into the four kinds of light: diffuse light, sidelight, backlight and “magic” light, before learning the “personalities” of colors. Plus, conquer the three key elements of any great landscape — light, composition and the moment — and end class with simple strategies for emotionally compelling storytelling.

12 Photography Masters

Learn from 12 top National Geographic photographers: William Albert Allard is an award-winning photographer and writer who has contributed to National Geographic since 1964. Stephen Alvarez is an award-winning expedition photographer and filmmaker who has worked with National Geographic since 1995. Ira Block is an internationally renowned, award-winning photojournalist and filmmaker who has produced more than 30 stories for National Geographic magazine and its affiliates. Jodi Cobb has worked in more than 65 countries, documenting closed societies and disappearing cultural traditions. She has spent more than 30 years as an award-winning National Geographic staff photographer. Annie Griffiths is an award-winning National Geographic photographer and the Executive Director of Ripple Effect Images. Ed Kashi is an award-winning photojournalist, filmmaker and educator whose work is frequently featured by National Geographic. Michael Melford is an award-winning photographer who specializes in travel and landscape photography. He has worked with National Geographic for more than 30 years. Cory Richards is an award-winning photographer and filmmaker, specializing in adventure and expedition photography. He frequently contributes to National Geographic. Jim Richardson is an award-winning photographer, specializing in landscapes, global issues, and rural life, who has worked with National Geographic for more than 30 years. Joel Sartore is an award-winning photographer who has contributed to National Geographic for more than 25 years and lectures to audiences around the world. Steve Winter is an award-winning wildlife photographer specializing in big cats. He has worked with National Geographic for more than 20 years. Michael Yamashita is an award-winning photographer specializing in regional photography. He has worked with National Geographic for more than 30 years.