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B.Tweenz Photo Academy


B.Tweenz Photo Academy

At B.Tweenz Photo Academy, tweens develop and grow their artistic and technical photographic skills through demonstrations, lessons, and hands-on activities. A relaxed, fun atmosphere combines with serious learning to help each student realize his or her potential as a visual storyteller.

No fancy cameras are required! Students can use whatever image capturing device they have whether it's a DSLR, mirrorless camera, point-and-shoot, or smartphone/tablet. The experience is more about how to use the tool that you already have combined with your imagination to create compelling images.

Meet the instructors - For years, Jonathan and Bonnie have presented workshops and seminars to their fellow professional photographers. They're super excited to offer this fun learning experience to TWEENS! Bonnie's 20 years experience as a music educator (middle school and elementary grades) gives her the educational savvy to provide an organized, enjoyable, positive experience for the B.Tweenz Photo Academy participants. Jonathan and Bonnie have over 40 years of combined experience as professional photographers and can't wait to share their enthusiasm for photography with your tween.

2020 Academy dates are March 6, 13, 20, 27, April 3 from 4:00-5:30 pm. Classes are held at Burton Photography located at 166 Chapel Hills Rd. Boone, NC. (Studio entrance is in back.)

Tuition is $150 with a $25 discount for early registration. Use code B.TWEENZ at checkout (valid through February 10).

Join the fun!!!

B.Tweenz Photo Academy has filled all available spaces. We'd love to have you on our waiting list in case someone has unexpected circumstances that prevents their participation. We'll also notify you about future Photo Academy Opportunities! Please click on the link and enter your contact info. Thanks!!!


B.Tweenz Waiting List and Mailing List

B.Tweenz Photo Academy Curriculum Overview

Week One:

Why Photography? A little history and a look to the future.

Pictures have SuperPowers! How do images affect our lives?

You be the Judge – explore all the aspects of an award-winning photograph:

The twelve elements of an award-winning photograph: Impact, Technical Excellence, Creativity, Style, Composition, Presentation, Color Balance, Center of Interest, Lighting, Subject Matter, Technique, Story Telling


Week Two:

Understanding Composition

Rule of Thirds – find the strong points

Golden Ratio – explore the sweet spots

Pick a side – moving your subject away from the middle.

Point of view – mix it up.

Crystal clear – your picture has a purpose.


Week Three:

More Composition

Color harmony – let’s sing together.

Power of color – colors evoke specific emotions.

Color complements – everyone hold hands.

You’re framed! – framing your subject.

Fill the Frame – when it’s good and when it’s not.

Follow the leader – leading lines.


Week Four:

Understanding the Three Kings

Shutter Speed – fast, slow, blurry, sharp

ISO – bright, dark, noisy, clean

Aperture – let the light in


Week Five:

Exploring Portraits – applying previously covered concepts to photographing people.

Light, Background, Expression.

Reflections, silhouettes, angles, and focal length.

Wrap Up!


Join the fun!!!