CLASSES
Beginners Photography Course
Weekly Classes - Coventry
Lightroom Photo Editing Course
Weekly Classes - Coventry
RPS Accreditation
Online Mentoring for RPS
Photography Mentoring
Monthly Assignments
Free Online Photography Course
Foundation Course - 60 Free Modules - Instant Access
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it really free?
Yes. The full course is free to access — no credit card required. Optional paid services (like 1-to-1 help) are available, but not needed to complete the course.
Where should I start?
Begin with core camera control topics (Exposure → Aperture → Shutter Speed → ISO), then move to Composition & Framing. Each module is bite-size and builds logically.
How do I sign up?
Click the orange Sign up — Free Online Course button below to register instantly.
Can I download the lessons?
Yes — use the printable 1-page field checklists included in many lessons. For a single download that collects the modules, grab the course eBook: Free Photography Foundation eBook.
Do I need any specialist equipment?
No — any camera (or phone) will work. A tripod, spare battery and a simple reflector can make practice easier, but they’re optional.
Can I do the course on a phone?
Yes. For the best experience (diagrams, side-by-side images and PDFs), a laptop or desktop is recommended.
How long does it take?
There are 60 bite-size modules (about 10–15 minutes each). Expect roughly 60–100 hours including practice assignments.
What’s included with each module?
Clear explanations, diagrams and examples, plus a printable 1-page checklist and a short practice exercise. Advanced lessons add editing tips and shooting workflows.
Can I learn at my own pace?
Absolutely — everything is self-paced. Dip into a single topic or follow the suggested sequence to build skills progressively.
New: 1-Page Field Checklists
We’ve added downloadable, single-page checklists to each lesson so you can put the theory into practice—fast. Every sheet distils the essentials you’ll need in the field:
- Quick principles you can glance at on location
- Where to find subjects and when to shoot
- On-location setup (modes, metering, WB, stabilisation)
- Do / Don’t guidance to avoid common mistakes
- 15-minute field exercises to build muscle memory
- 5-minute editing tips to finish cleanly
New sheets are being added regularly—check back for fresh downloads.
Academy Membership Plans
3 Membership plans to help you learn photography and make significant progress
Free to access to the online 101 Foundation Course - Self-Learning
Online supported learning with regular feedback from Alan and part of an Academy Community Q&A
Personal Mentoring with online and or face to face time with Alan over 12 months to help you achieve your goals
“I just wanted to thank you for this course... I’m a retired Veteran with plenty of time but no money and you’ve made it possible for me to follow my new passion... ”
101 Foundation - Online Photography Course - Academy
Alan Ranger’s FREE 60-module online photography course for beginners is the fastest and easiest way to learn the basics of photography with your digital camera.
You will get free access to all modules, theoretical lessons with guides and practice assignments to hone your camera craft and composition when taking photos.
Take a look at a sample of lessons
→ What is ISO in Photography
Noise vs brightness; when to raise ISO; keeping detail clean.
→ What are Leading Lines in Photography
Guide the viewer’s eye; place lines to build depth and story.
→ Are Camera UV Filters Worth It?
Pros/cons, image quality implications, when protection makes sense.
→ What is Contrast in Photography
Global vs local contrast; using light/shadow to add impact.
→ What is Exposure in Photography
Aperture, shutter, ISO — balance for consistent, correctly lit photos.
→ Mastering Photography Composition Rules
Rule of thirds, balance, framing & more — make shots look intentional.
1.
Who is this for?
Everyone who wants to improve their photography
Beginners, Amateurs or anyone who needs a refresher on any topic
Anyone with a digital camera
2.
What do you get?
Free access to all free 10 min modules
Articles, advice, recommendations and exclusive content
Updated regularly
Free lifetime access to all modules
Theory and practical learning guides
3.
How do you learn?
Free lifetime online access to all modules when they are released an updated
Read which topics you want to understand more about
Create a schedule of reading and practice that suits you
Use the practical assignment guides to get out with your camera and cement the theory
Contact Alan if you want personal feedback and input on images taken or camera settings
Practice with a Tool
Try these interactive calculators while you learn.
4.
What is the content?
5 groups of key (10 Min) modules to learn photography
15 Key Camera Setting Modules
10 Essential Gear and Accessory Guides
10 Composition Guide Modules
10 Photography Genre Topic Guides
15 Practical Assignments
5.
Next Steps
Sign up to the Academy Members area - you will then gain free access
Once you are registered and have verified your account, you will gain instant access to all the free online photography modules
Access the 5 Steps / Content modules for Self-Learning at a pace to suit you
📚 Continue Learning
- Next lesson: What is ISO in Photography
- Next lesson: What is Exposure in Photography
- Next lesson: Mastering Photography Composition Rules
- Personal support: 1-to-1 Zoom Help
Start Your FREE Photography Course Today
. 60 Self-Paced Photography Classes
. Downloadable Class Notes and Assignments
. Lifetime Course Access
. Delivered by an Experienced Photography Tutor
£ FREE Access
>>> Start your FREE Online Photography course Today - Join Now
15 Key Camera Setting Modules
10 Essential Gear and Accessory Guides
10 Composition Guide Modules
10 Photography Genre Topic Guides
15 Practical Photography Assignments