Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What do I need to do to play along with a lesson?
A: A camera, digital photos, a Flickr account, and willingness to share your creativity! A personal blog and photo editing software are helpful, but not necessary.

Q: How do I get a Flickr account? Is it free?
A: You can create a basic Flickr account for free by visiting Flickr.com and clicking on the "Create Your Account" link. You will need to sign up for a Yahoo! id, if you don't already have one. When you have a free Flickr account, you can upload 2 videos and 100MB worth of photos each calendar month. For just $24.95 a year, you can upgrade to a Pro account which allows unlimited uploads and unlimited storage. You can do that here.

Q: How do I join the "Shutter School" Flickr group?
A: Once you have created your Flickr account, go to http://www.flickr.com/groups/shutterschool/, and click the "Join?" link. Send the group administrator a message asking for an invitation, and we will accept your request shortly!

Q: How do I add my photos to the "Shutter School" Flickr group pool?
A: Once you have uploaded photos to your account, the easiest way add a photo to a group pool is to go to the photo's page and click the "Send to Group" button between the photo title and the photo. Then choose the group you want to send it to, and you're done!

Q: How can I get my hands on some photo editing software?
A: Many printers and digital cameras come with some basic photo editing tools. If you are interested in getting something more professional, let us know and we'll be able to point you in the right direction. Many colleges and universities offer these kinds of software at greatly reduced rates, so if you're enrolled, this might be the time to take advantage of that discount.

Q: Do the photos I post have to be ones I have taken myself?
A: Yes, please only use photos you have taken.

Q: Do I have to be invited to play?
A: Nope. Jump in, sign up and have fun!

Q. What if none of my pictures are turning out very well. Should I go ahead and post them?
A. You bet! Chances are, someone else is having or has had the same problem and they may be able to give you some hints. Plus, this is supposed to be fun--no grades assigned, no failing!

Q: Must I participate in every lesson?
A: Nope. Join us for any lessons that you want to be a part of. Feel free also to look back at Archives to gain further photo insight. The point is to learn about your camera, not to be a stickler for the rules!

Q: Are there prizes?
A: The prize is learning to love your lens.

Note: If you have any questions regarding Shutter School, please leave a comment on this blog or on either Dancing Commas or Mommy's Treasures.