New kid (ok, old kid LOL) on the block

[Scroller]

I am fairly new to the game... I have had my T3 for approx. 4 months. I have been having a great time with it, what I really want to do is portraits for people, I want to shoot portraits for people that cant afford a real photographer the difference is I wont charge them for what I do. Having said that I am wondering about your opinions, the local community college offers the following course would this be advisable or would I be wasting my time and money?

Introduces the processes, principles, and tools of digital photography. Topics include the development of technical and aesthetic skills, the elements of design and composition, camera technology, materials and equipment, within an historical and contemporary context.

I guess what Im looking for is to learn about lighting and how to become a photographer (somewhat decent, don't need to be a professional) that can shoot decently haha.
Thanks for your help.

 

[Designer]

Hey, welcome!

I would think twice about offering your services for free. My advice would just be a hobbyist, and don't try to fill a niche, even if you think you would be doing somebody a service. The reason is you open yourself up to all kinds of abuse. (legal, financial, etc.)

As to the college course; if you've go the money and the time, go for it. You will learn the basics at least, and from there you can begin to develop your favorite area of photography.

Additionally there are quite a few free videos and blogs on the internet that share a wealth of information. Some might be "iffy", but that is where your own experience will help you winnow out the BS from the gold.

 

[jaomul]

Welcome to the forum. Any course that you can learn from surely can't be bad. Enjoy

 

[KmH]

The course description you posted will get you the basics.

You will need to seek other instruction to learn the other skills needed to do portrait photography - photographic lighting, posing, image editing, location scouting, etc.

Direction & Quality of Light: Your Key to Better Portrait Photography Anywhere
On-Camera Flash Techniques for Digital Wedding and Portrait Photography

Off-Camera Flash: Techniques for Digital Photographers
Minimalist Lighting: Professional Techniques for Location Photography
Photographic Lighting Equipment: A Comprehensive Guide for Digital Photographers

Picture Perfect Posing: Practicing the Art of Posing for Photographers and Models (Voices That Matter)

Professional Portrait Retouching Techniques for Photographers Using Photoshop (Voices That Matter)
Light It, Shoot It, Retouch It: Learn Step by Step How to Go from Empty Studio to Finished Image (Voices That Matter)

Location Scouting and Management Handbook: Television, Film and Still Photography

 

[Scroller]

Thanks for the replies, I will take your advice and sign up. As for the free part...you are correct, my thoughts were towards friends not people I don't know, but you did raise good points. and KMH I look forward to going thru what you posted...as soon as I hit the post button in a second haha, thanks again everyone.