Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of camera do I need?
All cameras are welcome! You don’t need anything fancy to take this course. DSLRs, point-and-shoots, camera phones, pinhole cameras made from oatmeal boxes – I have a strict equipment nondiscrimination policy. If it makes you happy to shoot with it, you've got the right gear for this class.
Tell me honestly: how good do I need to be for this?
Since Light Atlas is a conceptual photography course (not a technical class), photographers at every level are welcome. It's never too early to start seeing the world like an artist, so beginning photographers will feel right at home in the course. The only prerequisite is being comfortable with camera operations and knowing how to upload images to your computer.
I'm an experienced photographer. Is this class a good fit?
Experienced photographers often take Light Atlas to reinvigorate their vision when they're feeling stagnant (National Geographic photographers have even taken this class). Since Light Atlas is about overcoming blocks and deepening your relationship with your photography, even photographers with many years of experience will benefit.
How much time do I need to put in?
We each learn and process information at our own pace, so I’m hesitant to put a number on it, but you’ll likely make the most of this course if you spend about two hours a week on the lessons and your weekly assignment. If you miss a week, you can always catch up at your own pace.
Do I need to be online at specific times?
Because photographers from all different time zones sign up for Light Atlas, there are no live, scheduled lessons that you need to be present for (no uncomfortable Zoom calls or awkwardly scheduled webinars). You’ll get access to new lessons four days a week, but you can learn, post, and share whenever it works best for you. I’ll be with you in the online classroom Monday - Fridays, responding to your posts with ideas and feedback.
What happens if I fall behind?
Light Atlas is really flexible. There’s no such thing as falling behind. If you miss a lesson (or a few) because life gets in the way, you can catch up without missing a beat. Art doesn’t unfold on a timetable, so there is absolutely zero pressure to rush or force things in this class. You'll have access to all the lessons for three full years after the live course ends, so you can refer to them as many times as you like.
What do I need to access this class?
You'll need basic computer skills and solid internet access to navigate this course (if you can stream videos on your computer, you're in great shape). The online classroom is even mobile friendly, so you can easily navigate it with a mobile device if you’re on the go.
What’s the refund policy?
Light Atlas is a highly-rated course that many students take more than once. If you need to leave class for any reason, your registration is always transferrable to a future session of the same course. Or, you can transfer your prorated registration to 1-on-1 mentoring or a different e-course of your choosing. Registration isn't refundable.
How long do I get to keep Light Atlas?
You'll get access to Light Atlas for three full years - plenty of time to complete the course and revisit the lessons whenever you need a boost of inspiration.
I’ll be traveling during the class (and away from my computer), can I still participate?
Many students travel while taking the class. You’ll be able to access all the lessons, post images, and interact in our online classroom from a mobile device, so it’s easy to participate when you’re on the road.
