Loading...

Course Description


You’ve taken our beginning photography course, or you might just want to participate in an immersive photography class, now here is the chance to put your technical skills to use in a very creative way. This course is an adventure of visual exploration with other students and the instructor, who is available to help with any technical questions. The main objective of the course is to immerse yourself in the process of learning to see photographically with unique neighborhoods for your backdrop.
Photography is just the art form to capture the unscripted urban moments, revealing the spontaneous and authentic essence of city life. Chicago, recently acclaimed by Time Out as the most beautiful city in North America and the second most beautiful city globally, offers an unparalleled canvas for photographers of all skill levels.


Just a short train or car ride from the suburbs, Chicago presents photographers with a rich tapestry of photographic opportunities. The city's diverse neighborhoods, unique architectural landscapes, and vibrant population provide endless inspiration for both emerging and experienced photographers.


The nine-session course blends online instruction with immersive on-location experiences. Four
On Saturday morning expeditions, we will explore downtown Chicago and its interesting neighborhoods. Beginning with a 7:30 AM meeting at Ogilvie Train Station, each session will run until noon, allowing participants to work with the most flattering morning light. Studying famous Chicago photographers reveals their interest in the unique, deep shadows that the City is famous for.

Previous students enjoyed the course so much that many have taken it several times because of the group dynamics and the abundance of photographic opportunities.


 

Course Outline


This course goes beyond the flood of generic photography saturating social media. Participants will learn to see the world through a photographer's lens, mastering techniques that transform ordinary scenes into compelling visual narratives. Drawing from Henri Cartier-Bresson's concept of the "Decisive Moment," students will explore two complementary approaches:

  • Capturing fleeting, spontaneous interactions with intuitive-quick reflexes
  • Developing a more contemplative style that emphasizes careful composition and deliberate
  • image-making

The curriculum focuses on training the eye to recognize the extraordinary within the ordinary, seeking out quirky details, unexpected juxtapositions, and moments that reveal the city's wonderful, hidden character.


In our evening online sessions, we will have a class review of the images made from the previous Saturday's excursion.

 

Notes


Practical Tips:
• Wear comfortable walking shoes
• Bring a backpack with appropriate weather gear
• Bring a water bottle
• Be prepared to see Chicago neighborhoods and its people in an entirely new way

 

Testimonials

Chicago’s Best Photography Teachers
If you’re suspicious of photographers who want you to invest in a trip to Kauai in order to take beautiful landscape shots, you’re already more perceptive than most and perhaps you just need to get to Harper College. A photographer in the U.S. Army and a graduate of Columbia College, Harold Rail makes a living in photojournalism, commercial, and creative photography, so the man has the chops. A decade's long dedication to Zen Buddhist practice informs his images with knowing nano-second captures of infinity – and, honestly, where else can you get the combo of experience and artistry? Rail champions the art of photography teaching affordable classes for children, teenagers, and adults at Harper College. See the eccentricity and enthusiasm that blooms in his photographic work on exhibit at the new Hyatt Centric in Chicago, too. Jacqueline Runice, Travel/Event Writer USA Today 10 Best


I really enjoyed working with Jim, he was open about many techniques, and getting info about being in the profession was very interesting and eye-opening. He made us all feel comfortable and excited about us learning and moving forward. B. L.


I learned a lot in the photography class. He taught by example and we had a lot of hands-on experience in class. He was able to talk to the various levels of experience each student had in class and to the variety of camera models we each had. S. L.


Harold is a great instructor, who makes his classes very interesting and full of creative energy! V. W.


I took Photo 202 with this instructor, the class was very informative and educational. His time and attention to all our questions/issues was outstanding! This was my first class I took on photography . I thought I knew a lot but I was pleasantly surprised with all the knowledge I was able to take away from it. My hats off to him for a great learning experience, only regret there's not a level 300 class. T. M.


I am very satisfied now after I finish the class. Our teacher is great. He teaches us everything from scratch, answers all the questions we have and giving us some challenging homework for every week. I Feel thankful. I've learned a lot and I can say that I am much much better photographer now than I was before. Recommend for everyone who wants to learn about photography! Y. Z.


Harold is an excellent photography teacher. His assignments were interesting and helpful in improving my photographic skills. I would highly recommend his teaching skills. M. F.
 

Loading...
Enroll Now - Select a section to enroll in
Section Title
Chicago’s Distinctive Neighborhoods Photography
Type
Online: With Live Meetings
Days
W
Time
6:30PM to 8:30PM
Dates
Jun 25, 2025 to Jul 23, 2025
Type
Class Meets Offsite
Days
Sa
Time
7:30AM to 12:00PM
Dates
Jun 28, 2025 to Jul 19, 2025
Schedule and Location
Contact Hours
20.0
Location
Course Fee(s)
Tuition and Fees non-credit $375.00
Instructors
Section Notes

Minimum 5 / Maximum 8


 

Required fields are indicated by .