When Is a Smartphone Photography Course Worth It?

Below are some scenarios in which you might find value in taking one of these courses.

Even if youve owned a previous machine from the same company, features change over time.

Hands With Painted Nails Typing on a Laptop on a Desk With Camera and Lenses

Veles Studio/Shutterstock

If youre interested in learning more about your specific devices features, taking a course could be worthwhile.

As you could imagine, I turned to the internet for help.

Youll learnhow to use the rule of thirds, how to pick your main subject, and more.

iPhone’s Camera app menu for aspect ratio, selecting 16:9

RSplaneta/Shutterstock

After becoming an advanced smartphone photographer, you might then decide to buy a DSLR or mirrorless camera.

If you find a topic that interests you, starting the course is risk-free.

If you later decide that it isnt for you, you have no obligation to complete the program.

Photo of a city taken on a smartphone

Before starting the course, you might always look at the modules and watch a preview if its available.

After doing that, youll usually have a pretty good idea of whether its worth pursuing further.

You may also find courses when using a free trial for apps like Skillshare.

A phone with droplets of water capturing a rainy scenery

RSplaneta/Shutterstock

When Is a Smartphone Photography Course Not Worth It?

There are some pretty good reasonswhy you should think twice about monetizing your hobby.

As you take more photos, youll naturally improve anyway.

Adjusting the ISO Settings on a Camera

If youre looking for courses related specifically to your gadget, you will probably get minimal value from them.

Sometimes, smartphone manufacturers will introduce new features via software updates.

In these circumstances, a course could be useful, or just reading online articles.

So, you may not get much out of them.

The best way to determine if a course is right for you is to look at its programming.

If you think that youll learn something useful, go ahead and take it.

If not, consider looking elsewhere.

If you are more advanced, consider reading theserules and formulas for professional photos.

So… Should You Take a Smartphone Photography Course?

Photography courses are useful if youre a complete beginner and want to learn about compositions and other basic elements.

However, you may not find much value if youre only interested in taking point-and-shoot-style pictures.

Similarly, many courses wont provide new information if you already have a good understanding of photography.