National Geographic Masters of Photography

Course Overview

Photography is an art that requires insight and finesse to transcend mere snapshots. In “National Geographic Masters of Photography,” you’ll have access to 24 lectures taught by 12 top photographers from National Geographic. This series offers a unique opportunity to learn from master photographers who share their working methods and creative processes. Whether using a high-end camera or a smartphone, you’ll gain insights to improve your photography skills. The course is divided into units presented by pairs of photographers, providing diverse perspectives on achieving captivating results. Even for experienced photographers or art appreciators, the combination of gripping images and expert stories makes this course highly valuable.

Video Lectures

01: Redefine Adventure (Adventure)

Discover how Cory Richards’s approach to adventure photography has evolved to reveal the human element and culture of locales.

02: Broaden Your View (Adventure)

Explore creating dynamic results in adventure photography with compelling shots and studio-lit effects in the field.

03: Show What No One Has Shown (Adventure)

Head underground with Stephen Alvarez and explore breathtaking subterranean spaces and extreme terrain.

04: Set the Scene, Get Close (Adventure)

Learn to craft great scenes, zoom for impact, and understand the importance of lighting and research.

05: Understand the Animal (Wildlife)

Explore capturing emotion-filled images of elusive wildlife using essential tools and techniques.

06: Use All the Tools (Wildlife)

Learn techniques to make ordinary subjects extraordinary, such as using environment and eye contact.

07: Make a Difference (Wildlife)

Discover key ingredients for great photographs and how to use them to benefit endangered species.

08: Go Back, Get It Right (Wildlife)

Delve into building photo essays and making original wildlife images with expert advice.

09: The Joys of Nature (Landscape)

Explore storytelling in landscape photography from the Hebrides of Scotland to Kansas.

10: Exploring Landscapes (Landscape)

Return to previously visited landscapes and learn the “messy” process behind remarkable images.

11: Guide the Eye (Landscape)

Gain tips on shooting simple landscapes and creating mystery within your photography.

12: Moment in Landscape (Landscape)

Investigate the key elements of great landscape photos, focusing on light, composition, and moments.

13: Gaining Trust (People)

Discover the rewards of photographing people and explore a photo essay on human trafficking.

14: Uncover the Human Condition (People)

Learn the art of gaining permission and telling stories through individual photographs.

15: Build Relationships (People)

Explore visual storytelling by interacting with subjects despite challenging conditions.

16: Use the Background (People)

Learn to capture impactful images by using unconventional angles and thoughtful compositions.

17: Good, Bad, and Magic Light (Color & Light)

Understand lighting fundamentals and explore various types of light and their effects.

18: Wait and Work the Shot (Color & Light)

Discover the process behind National Geographic assignments and anticipate the perfect shot.

19: Compose with Color (Color & Light)

Explore the personalities of colors and practical tips for shooting at different times of day.

20: Write with Light (Color & Light)

Study how light shapes images and learn the importance of limiting flash use.

21: 50 Years of Telling Stories (Storytelling)

Learn about crafting successful photo essays and the storytelling process over decades.

22: Moment, Gesture, Place (Storytelling)

Dive into visual storytelling and discover ways to create a sense of place in your photos.

23: Engaging the World (Storytelling)

Explore capturing political issues, cultures, and moods in storytelling photography.

24: Raising Awareness (Storytelling)

Examine the impact of mobile photography and advocacy journalism in the digital era.