PHOTOGRAPHY
Photography classes at the Center introduce students to the basics of photography, both digital and developing in the darkroom. Multi-week classes and one or two day workshops are available for both beginner and advanced students. Offsite photography workshops at locations around the Valley are also a great way to gain outdoor/on location photography experience.
Note: Click the “Sign Up” button at the bottom of a class description to register through the Center’s Mindbody registration platform. A Mindbody account is required to register for classes at the Center. Questions about registration or financial aid? Call (602) 254-3100 or email contacts@phoenixcenterforthearts.org to speak to a Patron Services Associate.
Prior to arriving for in-person classes, students are required to digitally sign our Student Agreement.
Amateur to Artist: Digital Photography (6 weeks)
Date: April 07, 2026 5:30 pm - May 12, 2026 7:30 pm
Location: Phoenix Center For The Arts
Available Slots: 0/6
Description: This isn't a traditional photography course - it's a hands-on, fast-paced adventure designed to smash the barrier between "I just take pictures" and "I create art with intention and purpose." We're learning to go beyond auto mode, figuring out how light works, learning how to conceptualize a project, and building your first genuine portfolio. If you’re dedicated to learning photography and ready to stop guessing and start creating, this course is for you!
Materials: "First day:
A camera capable of ""manual mode"" (KEH.com recommended if purchasing)
Camera batteries/charger
Memory cards for camera
A memory card reader to upload photos
Something to take notes with
+ For the course:
A computer with internet access
Basic editing software (free version is fine but lightroom classic is recommended)
Estimate cost of materials: $50-500 depending on if camera is owned and which camera is purchased
Prerequisite: No Experience Required
Duration: 6 weeks
Ages: 18+
Cost: $145.00
Rediscovering Pinhole Photography
Date: April 18, 2026 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Location: Phoenix Center For The Arts
Available Slots: 12/12
Registration ends 2 days prior to the first class.
Students or Guardians must bring ID to the first class.
Instructor: Kirby Soderberg (He/Him)
Description: A hands-on workshop that explores the early pinhole method of photography prior to the addition of a lens. During this workshop, students will turn a paint can into a camera. They will make black & white negatives and prints with darkroom printing paper and chemistry.
Materials: All materials included
Duration: 4 hours
Prerequisites: No experience required
Ages: 18+
Cost: $50.00
Please arrive 15 minutes before class begins.
Getting a Grip on your Digital Camera (Thunderbird)
Date: April 21, 2026 6:00 pm - May 05, 2026 7:30 pm
Location: Thunderbird Arts Center
Available Slots: 5/9
Students or Guardians must bring ID to the first class.
Description: If your digital camera has been the bane of your creative expression or you just want to start taking better images, then this class is for you. Bill will help you understand both the creative settings of your camera and show you how to create better images. You are encouraged to bring a camera to class and Bill will help in getting your camera set up for getting the shots you want. This class will also help you get better photos even with your cell phone.
Materials: Should have a camera or cell phone for photos
Prerequisite: None
Duration: 3 weeks
Ages: 16+
Cost: $55.00
Please arrive 15 minutes before class begins.
Capturing the Human Form: Figure Photography
Date: May 09, 2026 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Location: Phoenix Center For The Arts
Available Slots: 10/12
Students or Guardians must bring ID to the first class.
Instructor: Kirby Soderberg (He/Him)
Description: Beginners and Advanced students are welcome to attend. This workshop focuses on the human form and how to create interesting shapes and lines utilizing the form. All will learn the basics of 3-point lighting and other light positioning to create different moods. Each student will have the opportunity to collaborate with the models and discover the poses that best fit ones style. Students walk away from this workshop with photos of the models and the knowledge and confidence to create interesting images of the human form.
Materials: Bring your own camera (digital or film) and be ready to shoot!
Duration: 4 Hours
Prerequisites: No experience required
Ages: 18+
Cost: $50.00
Arrival Time: Please arrive 15 minutes before the start of class to check in.