Adult Opportunities

Minimalism in Macro Photography

Refine your photography by creating minimalist close-up images.

Content Detail

Photographing the landscape in close-up as a minimalist art form can seem as simple as using a leaf or a drop of water as a subject, but understanding how to use the background and depth of field are essential to making a minimalist image.

Participants will be encouraged to set up low to the ground to find the perfect small subject and strong background to capture a close-up, yet restrained image.

This three-session photography course includes introduction to minimalism, a field session, and critique. Students will:

  • Draw inspiration from reviewing images from minimalist photographers
  • Practice composition techniques to yield a well-defined minimalist image
  • Get personalized feedback through a supportive critique session

Participants have the chance to experiment with camera settings in a classroom setting and get on-the-spot direction and feedback from a professional photographer.

Participants should have a digital camera and a zoom or macro lens.

This program meets in person at the Arboretum.

Instructor: Cora Jacobs, photographer

Age: 16 and older

Course number: P315

Instructor

Cora Jacobs, photographer

Cora Jacobs is both a nature and a street photographer. She has been teaching at The Morton Arboretum since 2012. She served as the managing editor for Allium, A Journal of Poetry & Prose and taught magazine editing and production at Columbia College Chicago.

What to Know

This program meets indoors and outdoors.

For the outdoor session on Saturday, check the forecast and dress for the winter weather. Wear comfortable, sturdy boots or shoes and plan to walk more than a mile on uneven terrain.

Please bring a fully-charged digital DSLR camera and manual, a notebook and pen, water, and a snack.

Program Schedule

This program meets the following three times.

Wednesday, March 12, 2025, 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, March 15, 2025, 9:00 a.m. to noon
Wednesday, March 19, 2025, 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Thornhill Education Center (Parking Lot 21), West Side

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