Photo: Alicia Zinn
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As the holidays quickly approach, the search for the best gift is officially on. Why not give the gift of knowledge? Online learning is a great way to show someone how much you care by encouraging them to be the best version of themselves. Plus, purchasing a gift that’s centered around an experience is shown to make people happier in the long run.
There are a bevy of creative classes available on sites like Craftsy and CreativeLive. Whether you’re looking for art, photography, or career-oriented topics, you’ll find thousands of them on these sites. And because it’s the holidays, these places are having great deals. CreativeLive is having a Flash Sale with a selection of classes that are only $15, while Craftsy has a Black Friday promotion with some courses available at a 50% discount. With both of these sites, every class is available as a gift, too. How easy is that?
We’ve curated an offering of creative classes below. For even more recommendations, see what we’ve highlighted in the weeks past.
Scroll down to see our picks online learning this week!
Photo: JESHOOTS.com
Photography
Camera Buyer’s Guide, CreativeLive: Selecting the best digital camera for your needs can be confusing, but not with this class.
Portrait Photography Fundamentals, CreativeLive: Get the best shot possible with photographer Scott Robert Lim as your guide. He’ll show you lighting, posing, composition, and post processing techniques.
Another Look, CreativeLive: Are you a nature photographer? Submit one of your images for an on-air critique from legendary photographer Art Wolfe.
Family Group Posing, CreativeLive: Taking a picture of one person is hard enough, but what do you do when there’s a whole group?Photographer Vicki Taufer will show you the tricks of this trade.
Narrative Photography: Storytelling with Photo Essays, Craftsy: Learn how to create captivating photo essays that are both authentic and candid.
How To Use Photo Editing Apps Like A Pro, Brit + Co.: You don’t need to have Photoshop to professionally edit your pictures. This class introduces you to five free apps that will make your photos look stunning.
Photo: Matthew Henry
Art & Crafts
Paint Better Portraits From Photographs, Craftsy: Understand the essentials to creating a realistic portrait in oil paint—all from looking at a photograph.
Loosen Up: Techniques for the Painterly Approach, Craftsy: Embrace energy! In this class, learn how to loosen up your technique and create paintings that have spontaneity and life.
Intro to Screen Printing, CreativeLive: By learning screen printing, you open yourself up to a ton of creative possibilities. Get a crash course in the subject here.
Altered Books: Book Boxes, CreativeLive: Find a new purpose in old books when you transform them into artistic objects.
Recycle Your Art, CreativeLive: Your past artwork can find life in your current portfolio. See how you can “get more mileage” out of your earlier endeavors.
Getting Started With Colored Pencil & Watercolor, Craftsy: Learn to control this dynamic mixed media combo and create saturated pictures full of depth.
Travel Sketching in Mixed Media, Craftsy: Capture the heart of a place when you sketch it. Instructor Marc Taro Holmes shows you his fun and flexible techniques for getting the most out of when you sketch.
Photo: Matthew Henry
Creative Careers
Create Your Ultimate Business Plan, CreativeLive: Make your career goals come true when you build a business plan. Not sure how? Learn here!
Launch a Successful Crowdfunding Campaign, CreativeLive: Crowdfunding is a great way to get a project off the ground and propel your career forward. Set yourself up for success with Christopher Hawker’s tips.
Freelancing 101: Turning your Side Hustle into Cash, CreativeLive: Turn your side hustle into a profitable business when you take this class. It will show you how to price your work and develop networking skills to help you grow.
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