Lenses & Brushes - Upcoming Workshops

The Studio Journal

Yosemite

Hasselblad, Ilford Hp5

---

Mid-August at Lenses & Brushes

August always seems to be a month in between. Summer isn't quite over, but routines are beginning to return, school is starting back up, and we're beginning to look toward fall.

At Lenses & Brushes, we're filling that in-between space with opportunities to make, experiment and learn something new.

Over the next several weeks, you can work with paint, tear apart a watercolor just to put it back together again, step into the darkroom, make photographs without a camera, or simply give yourself a couple of hours to create.

And as always, you don't need to consider yourself an "artist" or "photographer" to join us. Curiosity is enough.

Gather & Paint: Come Make Something

Our Gather & Paint workshops are designed to be approachable, creative and a little different from a traditional art class. You'll learn techniques and get plenty of guidance, but there's room to experiment and make the project your own.

Paint, Tear & Bloom | Saturday, August 22

We're deconstructing watercolor!

We'll begin by painting sheets of watercolor paper with loose washes, colors and textures. Then comes the fun part: we'll tear those paintings apart and reconstruct the pieces into a completely new floral artwork.

It's part watercolor, part collage and a good reminder that sometimes making art means being willing to take something apart and see what else it can become.

Watercolor: From Flow to Form | Saturday, September 12

Watercolor has a reputation for being difficult to control—which is exactly what makes it so interesting.

In this workshop, we'll explore the balance between letting watercolor move naturally and learning when and how to guide it. It's a great opportunity for beginners to get more comfortable with watercolor and for experienced painters to loosen up and experiment.

Gather & Paint: Pet Portraits | Saturday, September 26

One of our favorite Gather & Paint workshops is back!

Email a photo of your favorite four-legged (or otherwise!) companion and spend the session creating a painted portrait. You'll receive guidance along the way while still having plenty of freedom to capture your pet in your own style.

No portrait-painting experience required.

Looking Ahead: Dried Flower Pumpkins | Saturday, October 3

A little preview of fall: we'll be decorating pumpkins with dried and pressed flowers for a beautiful botanical take on traditional autumn decorating that will last all season long.

Photography, Film & the Darkroom

You don't need years of photography experience—or even your own darkroom—to explore analog photography at Lenses & Brushes. Our photography workshops are designed to give you hands-on experience and help take some of the mystery out of film.

Alternative Photographic Processes | Wednesday, August 19

Photography doesn't always require a camera.

We'll explore alternative photographic processes and use light-sensitive materials to create images in a completely different way. If you're interested in photography, art, experimentation—or some combination of all three—this is a wonderful place to play.

The First Reveal: Black & White Film | Thursday, August 27

There is something pretty magical about opening a developing tank and seeing your negatives for the first time.

In The First Reveal, you'll learn how to hand-develop a roll of black & white film in our community darkroom. Bring a roll you've already shot, and we'll walk through the development process together from start to finish.

Exposure to Development | Thursday, September 10

Want to understand the entire film process rather than just one piece of it?

Exposure to Development begins with the fundamentals of shooting film and continues through developing your roll by hand. It's an opportunity to connect what happens inside your camera with what happens later in the darkroom—and to experience the process rather than simply send your film away.

World Cyanotype Day | Saturday, September 26

Save the date!

We're celebrating World Cyanotype Day with a day devoted to one of photography's most beautiful alternative processes.

We'll have demonstrations throughout the day featuring different ways to create cyanotypes, including pressed botanicals, photographic transparencies, cutouts and stencils.

You can stop in, learn how the process works and contribute a small cyanotype to a collective Lenses & Brushes artwork. If you'd like to make additional pieces to take home, you'll be able to do that too.

Bring a pressed flower, leaf, interesting shape or small object if you'd like to incorporate something of your own.

A Place to Try

One of the things I love most about Lenses & Brushes is seeing people walk through the door saying, "I've always wanted to try this."

That's really what this space is for.

You don't have to already know how to paint. You don't need to understand film photography. You don't need to be "creative enough." You can come in, ask questions, make mistakes, experiment and figure out what you enjoy.

Sometimes two hours spent making something is exactly what we need.

I hope you'll join us in the studio soon.

Heidi Lenses & Brushes Photography • Art • Community

Learn More

404 S 8th Street, L 100 208-590-2612

hello@lensesandbrushes.com

Teen Photography Classes: Photography Through Storytelling

Photography is more than just capturing moments. It is a journey of discovery, a way to see the world anew. For teens, this journey can spark a creative fire that grows with every click of the shutter. We gather light, shadow, and color to reveal stories that bloom from the ordinary. In this space, we develop not only skills but also a deeper connection to the world around us.

Exploring Teen Photography Classes: A Path to Creative Expression

Teen photography classes open doors to a vibrant world where imagination meets technique. These classes invite young artists to explore their surroundings with fresh eyes. They learn to frame a scene, to catch the fleeting dance of light, and to reflect emotions through their images.

In these sessions, teens experiment with different styles—from candid street shots to serene landscapes. They discover how to use natural light to illuminate their subjects or how to create mood with shadows. The process encourages patience and observation, qualities that nurture creativity beyond the camera.

Practical tips for teens starting out:

• Start simple: Use a smartphone or a basic camera to focus on composition.

• Look for patterns: Lines, shapes, and textures can add depth to photos.

• Play with angles: Shoot from high above or low to the ground to find unique perspectives.

• Practice daily: Even a few shots a day help develop an eye for detail.

  
  

These classes also foster a supportive community where teens share their work and grow together. Feedback is gentle and encouraging, helping each student to bloom at their own pace.

Teen photographer capturing nature in golden hour

The Art of Seeing: How Teen Photography Classes Inspire Growth

Photography is a language of light and shadow, and teen photography classes teach how to speak it fluently. We learn to observe the world with intention, to notice the subtle shifts in color and form that others might miss. This mindful seeing becomes a form of meditation, a way to slow down and appreciate the beauty in everyday moments.

In class, teens explore themes that resonate with their experiences—identity, community, nature, and change. They gather inspiration from their surroundings and translate feelings into images that speak volumes without words.

Creative exercises to try:

• Photo walks: Wander through neighborhoods or parks, capturing moments that tell a story.

• Themed projects: Focus on a single idea, like “reflections” or “movement,” to deepen creative thinking.

• Light experiments: Shoot at different times of day to see how light transforms a scene.

• Editing play: Use simple editing tools to enhance mood and highlight details.

  
  

Through these lessons, teens develop confidence and a personal style. They learn that mistakes are part of the process, each one a stepping stone toward mastery.

What is the 20 60 20 Rule in Photography?

The 20 60 20 rule is a simple yet powerful guideline that helps create balanced and engaging compositions. It divides the frame into three horizontal sections:

• 20% foreground: This area anchors the image and adds depth.

• 60% middle ground: The main subject or action usually occupies this space.

• 20% background: Provides context and completes the story.

  
  

By applying this rule, teens learn to arrange elements thoughtfully, guiding the viewer’s eye through the photograph. It encourages them to think beyond the center and explore how different parts of the frame interact.

How to practice the 20 60 20 rule:

1. Visualize the frame: Imagine dividing your viewfinder into three parts.

2. Place your subject: Position the main focus in the middle section.

3. Add interest: Use the foreground and background to support the story.

4. Adjust and shoot: Move around to find the best angle that fits the rule.

   
   

This technique is a stepping stone toward more complex composition skills, helping teens build a strong foundation for creative growth.

Demonstration of the 20 60 20 rule in photography composition

Nurturing Creativity Through Photography Lessons for Teens

When teens engage in photography lessons for teens, they enter a world where creativity and technical skill grow hand in hand. These lessons are designed to inspire curiosity and encourage experimentation. They provide a safe space to explore ideas, make mistakes, and discover new ways of seeing.

The process is as important as the final image. Teens learn to slow down, to reflect on their choices, and to appreciate the journey of creation. This mindful approach nurtures resilience and a lifelong love for art.

Key benefits of photography lessons:

• Builds visual literacy: Understanding how images communicate meaning.

• Enhances problem-solving: Finding creative solutions to capture the perfect shot.

• Boosts confidence: Sharing work and receiving positive feedback.

• Encourages storytelling: Using photos to express personal narratives.

  
  

These lessons also connect teens with mentors and peers who share their passion. This community becomes a source of inspiration and support, helping each young artist to flourish.

Beyond the Frame: Growing Through the Art of Photography

Photography is a mirror reflecting not just the world but also ourselves. As teens learn to capture light and shadow, they also illuminate their own inner landscapes. The camera becomes a tool for self-expression, a way to explore identity and emotion.

Through photography, teens develop patience, focus, and empathy. They learn to see beauty in unexpected places and to appreciate the fleeting nature of moments. This growth extends beyond the classroom, enriching their lives in countless ways.

Ways to continue growth after classes:

• Create a photo journal: Document daily life and personal reflections.

• Join photo challenges: Participate in themed contests or social media projects.

• Explore different genres: Try portrait, landscape, macro, or abstract photography.

• Share your work: Build a portfolio or exhibit in local galleries or online.

  
  

Each image is a step on a path of creative discovery. With every frame, teens gather new insights and reveal more of their unique vision.

Photography is not just about pictures. It is about connection, curiosity, and the joy of making. It is a craft that invites us to play, to experiment, and to grow.

Let us pick up our cameras and begin this beautiful journey together.

Mastering the Basics of Digital Photo Tips

Photography is a dance of light and shadow, a language spoken through images. When I first picked up a camera, I was drawn by the magic of capturing moments that bloom into memories. Today, I invite you to join me on a journey to master the basics of digital photo tips, where every click reveals a new story, every frame reflects a fresh perspective.

Unlocking the Power of Your Camera: Essential Digital Photo Tips

The heart of photography beats within your camera. Whether you hold a sleek mirrorless model or a trusty DSLR, understanding your tool is the first step to creating images that sing. Start by exploring your camera’s settings. Learn to adjust the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO - these three pillars shape the light that dances onto your sensor.

• Aperture controls the depth of field. A wide aperture (small f-number) blurs the background, making your subject pop. A narrow aperture (large f-number) keeps everything sharp, perfect for landscapes.

• Shutter speed freezes or blurs motion. Fast speeds capture a hummingbird’s wings; slow speeds turn waterfalls into silky ribbons.

• ISO adjusts your camera’s sensitivity to light. Lower ISO means cleaner images; higher ISO helps in dim light but can add grain.

  
  

Practice these settings in different environments. Watch how the light changes your image’s mood. Let your camera become an extension of your eye, ready to capture the world’s subtle whispers.

Adjusting aperture settings on a camera dial

Composing Your Vision: Digital Photo Tips for Stunning Images

Composition is where creativity blooms. It’s the art of arranging elements within your frame to guide the viewer’s eye and evoke emotion. Here are some digital photo tips to help you compose with intention:

1. Rule of Thirds - Imagine your frame divided into nine equal parts. Place your subject along these lines or their intersections to create balance.

2. Leading Lines - Use natural lines like roads, fences, or rivers to draw the viewer into the scene.

3. Framing - Surround your subject with elements like branches or windows to add depth.

4. Symmetry and Patterns - Capture repeating shapes or balanced scenes for a harmonious feel.

5. Negative Space - Embrace empty space to highlight your subject and create a sense of calm.

   
   

Don’t be afraid to break the rules. Sometimes, the most compelling images come from unexpected angles or unconventional framing. Let your intuition guide you.

Using leading lines in nature photography

What do digital photographers do?

Digital photographers are storytellers who use light and technology to capture moments that might otherwise slip away. They gather inspiration from everyday life, nature, and human connection. Their work involves more than just pressing a button; it’s about developing a vision and nurturing it through practice and patience.

They experiment with settings, angles, and lighting to reveal the essence of their subject. Post-processing is another vital step, where images are refined and enhanced to reflect the photographer’s unique voice. But above all, digital photographers create experiences - moments frozen in time that invite viewers to feel, reflect, and dream.

Lighting: The Soul of Every Photograph

Light is the painter’s brush in photography. It sculpts shapes, adds texture, and breathes life into your images. Learning to see and use light effectively is a cornerstone of mastering digital photo tips.

• Golden Hour - The hour after sunrise and before sunset bathes your scene in warm, soft light. Shadows stretch and colors glow.

• Blue Hour - Just before sunrise or after sunset, the sky takes on a cool, mysterious tone.

• Harsh Midday Light - Can create strong contrasts and deep shadows. Use it creatively or soften it with diffusers.

• Artificial Light - Experiment with lamps, candles, or streetlights to add mood and drama.

  
  

Observe how light interacts with your subject. Does it illuminate textures? Does it create silhouettes? Adjust your position or settings to harness its power.

Developing Your Style and Growing as a Photographer

Photography is a journey without a final destination. As you master the basics, your style will begin to emerge - a reflection of your vision and voice. To nurture this growth:

• Practice regularly - Shoot daily or weekly, even if only with your phone.

• Experiment boldly - Try new subjects, techniques, and perspectives.

• Seek feedback - Join communities or workshops where you can share and learn.

• Reflect on your work - Notice what moves you and why.

• Keep learning - Read, watch tutorials, and stay curious.

  
  

Remember, every image you create is a step forward. Your creativity will flourish when you embrace the process with patience and joy.

Mastering the basics of digital photography is not just about technical skill. It’s about opening your senses to the world’s beauty and telling your story through light and shadow. So gather your camera, step outside, and let your creativity bloom. The world is waiting to be seen through your eyes.