Introduction
Today’s cameras are smarter than ever, but great photography still relies on the person behind the lens. Foundation Craft is the dedicated first phase of your training, where we strip away the ambiguity of “Auto” settings and replace them with technical certainty. If you’ve reached the limits of your gear, you’ve realized that professional-tier images aren’t accidental—they are manufactured through technical precision and structural intent.
This isn’t about capturing “nice” pictures; it’s about building a bulletproof technical core. This course is built to give you full control over your camera—and more importantly, a solid foundation in the art and science of photography.
Course Description & Expectations
Whether you are a complete newcomer unboxing your first camera or a self-taught reacquaint looking to bridge the technical gaps in your knowledge, this is where your professional journey begins. Available in both collaborative group settings and private 1-on-1 sessions, Phase 1: Foundation Craft is your point of entry for building a solid photography foundation.
A camera is a mechanical tool; photography is the mastery of that tool. In this phase, we move beyond “shortcuts” to master The Mechanic’s Eye and The Art of Framing. You will delve into the scientific intricacies of light, the physics of optics, and the geometric armature of composition. From the very beginning, you will experience a sense of accomplishment as you leave the first lesson equipped with the ability to confidently operate your camera in full manual mode. By the end of this phase, you will have moved beyond the snapshot, possessing the technical mastery and structural blueprint required to eventually tell compelling, story-driven images.
This course is the first half of The Essential Photography Foundation course: Phase 1- Foundation Craft comprises two crucial chapters: The Mechanic’s Eye and The Art of Framing.
Our training program embraces a three-part format which includes theory, application and review/critique. The sessions are a mixture of theory and practice for the optimal learning experience.
Who is this for?
This phase is designed for anyone who wants to stop taking “snapshots” and start making deliberate, professional-grade images.
- The Newcomer: Perfect if you are unboxing your first camera and want to start with the right habits.
- The Self-Taught Hobbyist: Ideal for those who have been shooting for years but feel they have “gaps” in their technical foundation or struggle with consistent results.
- The Reacquaint: A supportive environment for those returning to photography after a long break who need a technical refresher.
Ready for Phase 2?
Mastering the mechanics in Phase 1 is your ticket to artistic freedom. Once you have built your technical blueprint, you will be prepared to progress to Phase 2: Intermediate Vision. There, we shift the focus from the machine to the mind, exploring artistic intent, visual storytelling, and painting with light.
Prerequisite
- Experience: None required. This course is designed to take you from absolute zero to technical proficiency.
- Mindset: Just an open mind and a curiosity to see the world through a different lens.
Equipment Requirements
- Any digital cameras with manual mode
- Lens, 35mm and above
- Memory card
- Tripod
Course Syllabus
PHASE 1 – FOUNDATION CRAFT
CHAPTER 1.1 – The Mechanic’s Eye:
- S1
The Exposure Engine
Mastering the Triangle
Meter & Focus - S2
Manual Command
Daylight Field Lab
Priority Logic
The Exposure Process - S3
The Professional Blueprint
Technical Errors
Digital Workflow - S4
Twilight Mechanics
Evening Field Lab
Light Observation
Low-Light Troubleshooting
CHAPTER 1.2 – The Art of Framing: - S1
The Visual Language
Beyond the Rule of Thirds
Essential Design Principles - S2
Geometry of the Frame
Field Lab I: Balance, Lines & Structural Composition - S3
Dynamic Perspective
Field Lab II: Depth, Layering & Point of View - S4
The Curated Eye
Comprehensive Critique
Post-Crop Intent
Recap
Course Fee
- 1-on-1 Lessons
$2100 | 8 sessions | 1.5 hour each
+ Lifetime text/email consultation
+ Personalized schedules & outlines
- Group Lessons
$640 | 8 sessions | 2 hours each
Key Benefits
- Learn from Industry Professional: Our trainer is a prolific professional photographer with decades of experience in the field, he’s ready to share his expertise and insights.
- Hands-on Practice: Put your knowledge into action with practical exercises and assignments that will sharpen your skills.
- Personalized Feedback: Receive constructive feedback on your work to help you improve and grow as a photographer.
- Access to Community: Join a supportive community of photography enthusiasts, where you can connect, share ideas, and collaborate.
- Makeup Options For Missed Lessons: If you are unable to attend a lesson, you have the opportunity to join future groups within a year to make up for the missed class.
About the Trainer
This course is designed and conducted by award-winning photographer and photography mentor Alan Lim of School of Photography Singapore. Alan has been a professional photographer for more than 30 years, his work has been showcased and published on numerous sites which some can be seen below:
www.alanlimstudio.com
www.lensculture.com
For inquiry and more info about the course schedule and outline please contact us at contact@sops.sg or WhatsApp us at +65 8133 5134