
Frequently asked questions.
General Questions
Who are your photography courses for?
My courses are designed for anyone who wants to improve their photography skills, from beginners who are just starting to learn about their camera to more experienced hobbyists looking to master specific techniques like understanding light, editing in Lightroom or organizing their digital photos.
Do I need a professional camera to take your courses?
Yes, it’s best to have a DSLR or mirrorless camera to take the photography courses. The price range, brand, or age of your camera doesn’t matter. I offer courses that cover a range of topics, ensuring you can learn and grow regardless of your equipment.
Where can I find more photography tips?
The blog is filled with "binge-worthy" content, including tips on composition, lighting, editing, and more. I regularly share new articles to help you continue your photography journey. In addition to this, you can find me on Instagram, TikTok, and Youtube. Links to the profiles are at the top and bottom of this page!
How can I get help if I have questions about a course?
I offer support for all students. The best resource is our student exclusive student Facebook page where you can ask questions, share your work, and so much more. If you have questions about any of my courses, you can email me at nancy@nancysmiley.com, and we will be happy to help you.
Which of your photography courses is right for me?
If you're a beginner who wants to get off of auto mode, start with the Mastering Manual Mode course. This will give you a strong foundation in the core concepts of photography. If you have a solid understanding of your camera but want to improve your editing and organization skills, consider our Lightroom Unlocked or Digital Declutter courses. For a comprehensive experience that covers both camera skills and business fundamentals, the Photography Fast Track course is the ideal choice.
Do I need any prior photography knowledge to take your courses?
No, the courses are designed to be accessible to everyone, including absolute beginners. I break down complex concepts into simple, actionable steps. If you're new to photography, starting with Mastering Manual Mode is highly recommended.
Will I become a better photographer by taking your courses?
Yes! My goal is to empower you to become a more confident and skilled photographer. The courses provide the practical knowledge you need to take control of your camera, capture beautiful moments, and create images you are proud of. I focus on cutting through the technical jargon to give you the skills you need to see real improvement.
How long does it take to complete a course?
Each course is self-paced, so you can learn at your own speed and on your own schedule. There are no deadlines, and you can revisit the lessons as many times as you like. I believe in lifelong learning, and the courses are designed to fit into your life, not the other way around.
Most courses will take 4 to 6 weeks to complete if you choose to do one lesson a day Monday - Friday. Again, you can take as much or as little time as you’d like going through the lessons, and you can go through your course more than once, or revisit any lesson at any time!
Will I have lifetime access to the course content?
Yes! Once you purchase a course, you have unlimited, lifetime access to all of the content, including any future updates. This allows you to learn at your own pace and revisit the material whenever you need a refresher.
What equipment do I need for your courses?
For the camera-specific courses, you will need a DSLR or mirrorless camera to get the most out of the lessons. For the editing courses like Lightroom Unlocked, you will need to have Adobe Lightroom installed on your computer.
Need help with something else? I’d love to hear from you! Reach out to nancy@nancysmiley.com