Learn Art Photography Live with Martin Osner

You don’t need to wait for a scheduled class to start your journey into art photography. Our self-paced online course provides instant access to all lessons, allowing you to learn at your own pace, revisit modules anytime, and develop your skills without restrictions. This is the most flexible and comprehensive way to master art photography.

For those who prefer a live, interactive experience, a limited number of Zoom classes are available. These sessions offer real-time feedback and direct mentorship, but spaces are strictly limited and fill up quickly.

Choose the Learning Experience That Suits You Best

Option 1: Self-Paced Online Course (Recommended)

• Start immediately – No need to wait for a scheduled class.

• Full course access – Learn at your own pace with structured modules.

• Revisit lessons anytime – No need to rely on notes or recordings.

• One-time payment for lifetime access.

  The self-paced online course is the best choice for those who want instant access without waiting for a scheduled class. With lifetime access to structured modules, you can learn at your own pace, revisit lessons anytime, and fully absorb the techniques without relying on class recordings. At $690, it offers the best value and the most flexible learning experience.

Option 2: Live Zoom Course (Limited Spaces)

A complete six-module course presented over eight weeks, designed for those who prefer a live, interactive learning experience. With only 8-10 students per class, this course offers real-time mentorship, feedback, and guidance from Martin Osner.

Schedule: Thursdays, 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM (GMT+2 / CAT)
Course Fee: $1,850
Enrollment: Waitlist Only (Course begins once 8-10 students are confirmed)
Deposit: No deposit is required to put your name down. Once the course dates are confirmed, a 50% deposit (refundable should the course not go ahead) will be required to secure your place. The remaining balance is payable 48 hours before the course starts. Only serious applicants will be considered.

What to Expect from the Live Zoom Course

The Live Zoom "Getting Started in Art Photography" Course is an immersive eight-week learning experience offering direct interaction with Martin Osner in a structured, small-group setting. Designed for those seeking personalised mentorship and real-time feedback, this course provides a deeper level of engagement than a self-paced program.

Course Structure & Timeline

✔ 6 Modules Presented over 8 Weeks – Taught step by step to build your skills progressively.
✔ Sessions Scheduled on a Thursday – 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM (GMT+2 / CAT).
✔ Live Feedback from Session 3 Onwards – Submit work for class critique and mentorship.
✔ Interactive Discussions – Ask questions, share insights, and learn from fellow students.

Martin Osner offers his Live Zoom "Getting Started in Art Photography" Course on a limited basis, scheduling classes only when a complete group of 8 to 10 students is confirmed. Due to his professional commitments and teaching schedule, these sessions are arranged based on his availability and the readiness of a committed class.

While Martin continues to offer live Zoom sessions for those who prefer real-time interaction, he strongly recommends the self-paced online course as the most comprehensive and flexible learning experience. The online course covers everything taught in the Zoom course, with the added advantage of revisiting lessons anytime, unlike the entire class recordings and craft technique demonstrations provided in the Zoom format.

If you want to join a Live Zoom Course, you can put your name down with no obligation. Once a full class is confirmed, a 50% deposit (refundable should the course not go ahead) will be required to secure your place. The remaining balance is payable 48 hours before the course starts.

This process ensures that only serious participants enrol, maintaining small class sizes for a highly personalised learning experience. Once the course reaches capacity, dates are scheduled, and the course begins within two weeks of notification. with your enrolment,t you will receive three months of complimentary access to the Academy's Inspire Community and access to the class group.

How the Live Zoom Course Works

Getting Started in Art Photography – Your Step-by-Step Journey

This live Zoom course is structured into six lessons over eight weeks designed to expand your creative and technical skills while guiding you toward mastering unique artistic craft techniques.

Week 1: The Artistic Potential of Photography

Understanding the Medium – Explore photography's expressive and creative possibilities as an art form. Handpainting and Embellishing a Photograph – Enhance your images using paint, textures, and mixed media techniques.

Week 2: Layering and Abstract Techniques

Abstract Impressionism with Paint Overlay – Transform your photographs into painterly, expressive compositions using advanced overlay methods.

Week 3: Alternative Processing & Experimental Techniques

Solvent Luminant Transfer – A technique similar to the Polaroid Lift and Transfer, creating unique, ethereal photographic prints. The Art of Solarization – Explore light manipulation and reversal effects to achieve stunning, surreal imagery.

Week 4: Assignment Break

A one-week break to allow more time for practical work and assignments.

Week 5: Advanced Image Transfers

Gel & Spray Transfers – Learn how to lift and transfer photographic prints onto various surfaces for a textured, artistic effect. Bas Relief – Experiment with depth, texture, and sculptural elements to add a three-dimensional quality to your images.

Week 6: Assignment Break

A one-week break to allow more time for practical work and assignments.

Week 7: Experimental Monochrome Textured Transfers

Black Powder Transfer – Use powder-based techniques to create gritty, high-contrast prints with a dramatic impact.

Week 8: Montage & Multi-Layered Photography

Photo and Mirror Montage – Combine photography, reflection, and composition techniques to create multi-layered, conceptual images.

Each week builds upon the previous one, ensuring you develop technical mastery and artistic expression.

Student Showcase - Getting Started in Art Photography

Be Inspired by Our Students' Incredible Work!

See how Martin Osner’s students have transformed their photography into breathtaking works of art. Their creativity, dedication, and growth are a testament to the power of this course. Let their journeys inspire you to take the next step in your own artistic development!

Real Stories, Real Transformations: Leslie Hoyt’s Journey

Leslie Hoyt began her journey with the Getting Started in Art Photography course, which ignited her passion for artistic photography. In this exclusive interview with Ralf Armbrüster, co-founder of the Art Photography Academy, Leslie shares how the course transformed her creative approach, opened doors to new opportunities, and set her on a path toward fine art photography.

Frequently asked questions about the Art Photography Course Presented on Zoom

Do I need prior photography experience to join?

No, the Getting Started in Art Photography course is designed for photographers of all levels, including beginners. The structured lessons will guide you step by step, making it accessible even if you have no prior experience in art photography. However, a proper understanding of general photography is highly recommended. Suppose you are not fully confident using your camera manually or understanding exposure, composition, and basic techniques. In that case, we suggest first taking the Essentials Photography Course or the Advanced Photography Course to build a strong foundation. If you're unsure whether this course is right for you, we highly recommend watching the video above: "Is This Course Right for Me?" to help you decide.

What equipment do I need for this course?

You don’t need high-end equipment to get started! A DSLR, mirrorless camera, ideally with full manual control. Although the course focuses on artistic expression and creativity rather than technical perfection, a good-quality camera will enhance your experience.

After enrolling, how long do I have access to each course?

Once you enrol in either the Self-Paced Online Course or the Live Zoom Course, the course is added to your library, where you have ongoing access. You can refer to the content anytime, even after completing the course.

What’s the difference between the online course and the live Zoom class?

The online course ($690) is self-paced, includes 6 months of Inspire Community access, creative challenges, and a monthly live Q&A with Martin Osner.
The Zoom class ($1,850) is a live, interactive course with only 7 students, weekly 2-hour sessions over 6 weeks, and four personal evaluations during the live class from Martin.

Will I Get Personal Feedback on the Online Course v.s. the Zoom Class?

Yes! While the Getting Started in Art Photography online course is self-paced, students still have the opportunity to receive personal feedback from Martin Osner during the monthly live Q&A sessions. To receive feedback on your work, you’ll need to email your questions and images to Martin prior to the scheduled session. During the live meetup, he will review and provide insights on your submissions.

What Happens if I Can't Attend a Live Zoom Course Due to Scheduling Conflicts or Unforeseen Circumstances?

If you are unable to attend a session, you will have access to recordings of the live lessons. However, because the Zoom classes are interactive and highly personalized, we strongly recommend attending all sessions to benefit from direct feedback and engagement. If you anticipate scheduling conflicts or an unpredictable routine, we recommend enrolling in the Online Course, where you can learn at your own pace without the constraints of a fixed schedule.

What If I Decide to Continue Learning After This Course?

After completing Getting Started in Art Photography, you can progress to Going Further in Art Photography, which completes the Art Photography level of your training. From there, you can advance to our Fine Art Photography and Masterclass courses, designed for those looking to develop a gallery-ready portfolio and take their work to an exhibition level. Each step builds on the previous one, allowing you to grow at your own pace and refine your artistic vision step by step. The Going Further in Art Photography Course is also available as a live Zoom option.

Once my complimentary access to the Inspire Community ends, Will I lose access to the course material and video tutorials?

No, not at all! You will retain full access to the course material after your complimentary Inspire Community membership expires. However, once your subscription lapses, you can no longer engage with community posts or participate in creative challenges. If you’d like to regain access to the Inspire Community and continue benefiting from its features, you can reinstate your membership at any time.

Do I Need to Understand Photoshop to Take This Course?

No, prior Photoshop knowledge is not required. This course primarily focuses on handcrafted techniques to create art photography. While some Photoshop techniques are introduced, they are typically used as an addition to a handcraft method, rather than the foundation of the process. For any Photoshop-based techniques covered in the course, step-by-step video tutorials are provided to ensure easy learning. If you’d like to deepen your understanding of Photoshop in the context of art photography, we also offer a dedicated course: Photoshop for the Artist.

Do I Need a Studio or a Large Workspace to Take This Course?

No, you can enjoy this course from the comfort of your own home. While having a dedicated studio is unnecessary, you will need some essential equipment such as a home printer, light table, art materials, and a tripod. Feel free to contact us for more information regarding the essential equipment and supplies needed. The beauty of this course is that it allows you to explore art photography without requiring a large workspace, making it accessible to everyone, no matter where you are.

We understand that choosing the right learning experience is important. Below are answers to some of the most common questions about our Live Zoom Art Photography Course and Self-Paced Online Course. If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us.

What is the difference between the Self-Paced Online Course and the Live Zoom Course?

The Self-Paced Online Course allows you to start immediately, learn at your own pace, and revisit lessons anytime. It is the most flexible and comprehensive option. The Live Zoom Course follows the same structured content but is taught live over eight weeks in a small group setting, offering real-time feedback and mentorship from Martin Osner.

How do I join the Live Zoom Course?

Put your name down on the waitlist. We will confirm the course dates once we have 8-10 committed students. A 50% deposit will then be required to secure your place. Your deposit will be fully refunded if the course does not go ahead.

When do the Live Zoom classes take place?

Live classes are held once a week on Thursdays from 3:00 PM – 5:30 PM (GMT+2 / CAT). The course runs for eight weeks and includes six structured modules.

How much do the courses cost?

• Self-Paced Online Course: $690 (one-time payment for lifetime access).

• Live Zoom Course: $1,850 (includes real-time mentorship, group discussions, and feedback on your work).

Do I need to pay a deposit for the Live Zoom Course?

No deposit is required to put your name down. However, once the course dates are confirmed, a 50% deposit is required to secure your place. This deposit is fully refundable if the course does not go ahead. The remaining balance is due 48 hours before the course starts.

Can I switch from the Live Zoom Course to the Self-Paced Online Course?

If you have already started the Live Zoom Course but find that you cannot attend all the modules, you have the option to transfer to the Self-Paced Online Course. However, no refund will be issued, as your enrollment in the Zoom course secures a place that cannot be replaced.

How do I know if the Live Zoom Course is right for me?

If you prefer real-time interaction, direct mentorship, and structured weekly sessions, the Live Zoom Course is a great option. However, if you want full flexibility, instant access, and lifetime learning, the Self-Paced Online Course is highly recommended.