Some people have no problem using their camera and seem to have an innate ability to take fantastic photos.

But most of us are more comfortable with a camera after taking a few lessons or a course. If you’re one of these people, here are a few things you should know beforehand:

What You’re Getting Into: Do some research to find the right photography class! Think about what you like, what you would like to develop more in your photography or what you’d like to learn about. Use that information to choose your course. Knowing what you’re signing up for will not only ensure you enjoy yourself, but it will make life a lot easier for the workshop organizers and your classmates.

Where You Put Your Camera Manual: We know it’s big and boring-looking, but the camera’s manual can really help you troubleshoot your technology. Chances are, your instructor won’t be able to work with you one-on-one to figure out exactly how the different focus modes work on your specific camera. So, knowing how your equipment works (or at least knowing where you can find the manual online) can help.

Be Ready to Go Beyond the Assignment: When you’re first learning, you’ll probably need to take more photos than you think for your assignments. If you are taking a traditional darkroom class and a teacher asks for four final images, you will probably shoot at least two rolls of film. If you aren’t happy with the results, keep shooting! It’s the only way to learn.

Get more tips for your photography class here, from PopPhoto.com, and here, from Outdoor Photographer. To get your pictures digitized visit ScanMyPhotos