Top Photography Classes in Pasadena

If you’re interested in sharpening your photography skills, Pasadena offers a variety of options that cater to beginners, hobbyists, and aspiring professionals. Whether you want to better understand your digital camera, improve your portrait techniques, or master post-processing tools like Photoshop, Pasadena has several highly regarded programs and workshops. This article covers the top photography classes in Pasadena and also touches on how the creative community adds value to the Pasadena, CA, real estate market.

Pasadena City College (PCC) offers both formal academic tracks and accessible community-based classes through its Extension program. Students pursuing a career or serious interest in photography can enroll in PCC’s Photography Certificate of Achievement or Digital Image Editing Occupational Skills Certificate. These programs cover essential topics such as darkroom techniques, lighting, editing, and digital photography.

For those looking for non-credit courses, PCC Extension offers workshops like “Beyond Auto Mode,” a hands-on experience that teaches participants how to use manual settings. Scheduled for May 10, this workshop runs four hours and costs $75. PCC also partners with Ed2Go to offer online photography courses, including "Discover Digital Photography" and "Secrets of Better Photography." These courses are suitable for learners who prefer a self-paced, remote format.

Samy's Photo School in Pasadena provides a focused range of short courses and expert-led workshops. Located on Colorado Boulevard, the school is a go-to resource for those interested in advanced or niche topics. The school hosts events like “Compelling Family Portraiture with Canon,” “Next-Level Photoshop,” and “The Master Print,” all guided by experienced professionals such as Natasha Calzatti.

These sessions are ideal for students seeking specific outcomes, whether it’s building a professional portfolio or improving retouching techniques. Fees vary, with some workshops available at no cost and others ranging up to $225 depending on the topic and duration.

The Pasadena Photography Group hosts two-hour photo walks and a recurring “Beginners Guide to Photography” workshop for learners who benefit from a more casual, interactive setting. These events are suitable for all experience levels and offer hands-on learning with guidance from experienced instructors.

Classes are priced at $58 and offer practical instruction in a social format. Subjects range from exposure control to creative composition, making these workshops ideal for anyone looking to improve through practice.

ArtCenter Extension at the ArtCenter College of Design offers a series of photography and video workshops designed for students ready to take a more immersive approach. One example is the weeklong “Digital Photography and Video” course running from July 21–25. It focuses on visual storytelling, media literacy, and technical skill development.

These classes are ideal for advanced learners or college-bound students interested in building a professional portfolio. Tuition ranges from $750 to $795, depending on the specific course.

The Armory Center for the Arts supports visual arts education through rotating workshops and youth programs, including photography. Located in Pasadena, the center provides photography classes for beginners and intermediate learners, helping individuals improve their technique while exploring creativity. The center frequently updates its course offerings based on seasonal programs and community interest.

Although not located directly in Pasadena, the Los Angeles Center of Photography (LACP) is a respected nearby option that serves residents in the area. LACP offers structured photography classes and mentorship in genres such as street photography, photojournalism, and fine art. Many Pasadena-based learners find LACP a worthwhile resource for expanding skills beyond basic camera techniques.

Las Fotos Project is a nonprofit based in Los Angeles that provides photography instruction and mentorship for teenage girls and gender-expansive youth. While not a traditional photography school, its programs empower students to use photography as a storytelling tool. Some of its workshops and exhibitions have engaged students from the Pasadena area, further enhancing the region’s cultural scene.

Pasadena’s strong cultural and educational infrastructure—including access to top photography classes—adds appeal to its residential neighborhoods. Buyers interested in living in a city that supports the arts often find Pasadena’s creative environment to be a key factor in their decision-making. This cultural vibrancy complements the architectural diversity of homes in the area and often attracts professionals in design, media, and education.

For those relocating or expanding their living space in this market, working with a local real estate expert who understands both the lifestyle and housing inventory is essential.

Amy Engler has over two decades of real estate experience and has built her career around helping clients navigate the residential markets of Pasadena, Pacific Palisades, Brentwood, and the San Gabriel Valley. A lifelong Angeleno, Amy brings an insider’s perspective and deep market knowledge to every transaction.

She has consistently ranked in the top tier of agents nationwide, recognized by America’s Best for being in the top 1.5% of realtors across the country. Her performance has placed her among the highest producers at every agency she has worked with.

Amy specializes in luxury properties, particularly serving clients moving to the Pasadena area or transitioning to larger homes. Her clients value her reliable, detail-oriented approach and appreciate her ability to take extra steps to meet their needs efficiently.

Contact Amy Engler today for expert advice and personalized assistance navigating the Pasadena, CA real estate market.