Visual Literacy Through Photography: Decode, Create, and Communicate with Images – Live Online Class for Ages 13-15
Visual Literacy Through Photography: Decode, Create, and Communicate with Images – Live Online Class for Ages 13-15
In our image-saturated culture, we are constantly surrounded by visuals—but how many of us truly understand them? This seven-week course is designed to help teens analyze, create, and critique photography in a way that goes beyond technical skills.
Why This Course Stands Out
Photography as a Language: Teens will learn how images tell stories, evoke emotions, and shape perception, making them more visually literate and critical thinkers.
Beyond Technical Photography: Unlike standard classes that focus on settings and equipment, this course helps students explore how images communicate ideas, shape opinions, and reflect culture.
Hands-On Projects & Discussions: Students will not only create their own compelling images but also analyze and deconstruct the visual narratives around them—from photography to social media and advertising.
This is not just a class on how to take a photo—it’s about understanding the power of photography as a visual language. If your teen is interested in the deeper meaning behind images and how to use photography for storytelling and impact, this course is the perfect fit.
AVAILABILITY
Saturdays, 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM EST
Apr 12, Apr 19, Apr 26, May 3, May 10, May 17, May 24
LOCATION
Instruction will be provided through the Zoom platform. Students should have a webcam and the ability to download zoom on their computer, phone, or tablet. Once you register for the class, you will be sent an e-mail with the Zoom URL to log in to the class.
CUSTOM SCHEDULING
If your homeschool group or school would like to schedule a custom session at a different time, I’d be happy to work with you to make that happen. Please feel free to contact me to discuss options and details.
What You’ll Learn:
Understanding Visual Language: Explore the elements of visual language, such as color, composition, and symbolism, and how they affect the meaning of an image.
Photography Techniques: Learn essential photography skills, including camera settings, lighting, and composition, to create images that effectively communicate your ideas.
Analyzing Images: Develop critical thinking skills by analyzing and discussing photographs from different genres, cultures, and time periods, learning to recognize the stories and messages behind them.
Visual Storytelling: Discover how to craft compelling visual narratives by combining multiple images or creating single impactful photographs that tell a story.
Cultural and Social Perspectives: Examine how photography reflects and influences cultural and social perspectives, and learn how to use your own photography to express your views on important issues.
Who Should Take This Course:
This course is ideal for teens aged 13-15 who are interested in photography and want to deepen their understanding of how images work. Whether you’re a beginner or have some photography experience, this course will help you see the world in new ways and improve your ability to communicate through photos.
Course Format:
The course combines practical photography assignments with discussions, critiques, and weekly activities. Each week, students will engage with different themes and techniques, both in capturing images and in analyzing them. Opportunities to share work and receive feedback from peers and the instructor will help students refine their skills and broaden their perspectives.
Why Take This Course:
In today’s visually driven world, being able to understand and create meaningful images is a valuable skill. This course will empower students to think critically about the images they see and to use photography as a way to express their ideas and perspectives. By the end of the course, students will have developed a portfolio of work that showcases their growth in visual literacy and photography.