Frank Berna has been a photography instructor at FGCU Academy for over ten years, and has taught over 200 classes to thousands of students during this period.
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FGCU Academy (formerly the Renaissance Academy) of Florida Gulf Coast University programs promote personal revitalization for adults through learning, creativity and social engagement.
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The main campus, Naples Center, is located at 704 Goodlette-Frank Rd, Suite 330, in downtown Naples. Certain courses may be offered at other locations as noted. To register, or for additional information, visit https://www.fgcu.edu/academy/ or call (239) 434-4737.
2026 Winter Class Schedule
From Snapshot to Masterpiece: The Art of Photography
NC8575 – Naples Center/OL8576– Online via Zoom
January 29, Thursday, 9:30am-12:30pm
$50/$60 non-member
Great photographs are created, not just taken. While photography is a personal and creative art, certain principles can help transform everyday snapshots into striking images. This lecture explores the essential elements of light, exposure, and composition that work across all styles and subjects. Learn how to apply time-tested guidelines to enhance the mood, clarity, and impact of your photographs, whether you are using a smartphone, a mirrorless camera, or a DSLR. Through clear examples and practical tips, you will discover how small adjustments can elevate your photography from ordinary to exceptional. All skill levels are welcome.
Mastering Photoshop Elements: Essential Tools and Techniques (3-part Series)
Option 1:
NC8577 – Naples Center
February 9,11,13, Mon/Wed/Fri, 1-4pm
$100/$120 non-member
Option 2:
NC8578 – Naples Center
March 23,25,27, Mon/Wed/Fri, 1-4pm
$100/$120non-member
Unlock the creative potential of your photographs with Adobe Photoshop Elements. In this interactive, hands-on course, you will learn a range of essential tools and techniques to enhance and transform your images. Working with your own laptop and the latest version of Photoshop Elements, you will practice RAW conversion, straightening horizons, adjusting colors, and perfecting portraits by minimizing wrinkles and blemishes. Explore the power of layers, remove or add objects, change specific colors, and convert images to black and white or sepia. You will also learn how to combine elements from different photos and add text for captions or artistic effects. Designed for those with basic computer skills, this lecture will help you bring your creative vision to life.
iPhone Photography Essentials: From Snapshots to Stunning Shots
Option 1:
NC8579 – Naples Center/OL8580– Online via Zoom
February 26, Thursday, 10-11:30am
$35/$42 non-member
Option 2:
NC8581 – Naples Center/OL8582– Online via Zoom
April 7, Thursday, 10-11:30am
$35/$42 non-member
Option 3:
FG8583 – FGCU Campus, Bldg AB9 (Ft. Myers)
April 22, Wednesday, 1-2:30pm
$35/$42 non-member
Transform your everyday snapshots into photographs you are proud to share. This lecture shows you how to take control of the iPhone Camera and make creative choices with composition, light, and timing. Learn when to use Wide, Ultra Wide, and Telephoto lenses; how to set focus and exposure; and how to work with Night, Portrait, Live Photo, Burst, and Panorama. Discover steady shooting tips, quick actions, and simple accessories that make a big difference. This lecture then moves to editing in Photos: crop and straighten, adjust color and exposure, apply filters with care, and use versioning to undo changes. Finish with smart organization: albums, favorites, people and places, search, shared albums, and iCloud Photos for backup. You leave with a clear checklist and practice ideas so your next photo looks intentional, not accidental.
Understanding Your Mirrorless and Digital SLR Camera (3-part series)
NC8584– Naples Center
March 2, 4, 6, Mon/Wed/Fri, 1-4pm
$100/$120 non-member
Digital cameras offer more creative possibilities than ever before but navigating their many settings can feel overwhelming. This course guides you step-by-step through the essential controls and features of mirrorless and digital SLR cameras, making them work for your artistic vision. Learn how to master exposure, white balance, file formats, and focus modes to produce consistently better images. Discover techniques for more effective flash photography and how to select the right shooting options for different subjects and lighting conditions. Whether you are capturing landscapes, portraits, or action shots, you will gain the knowledge and confidence to move beyond “auto” mode and fully explore your camera’s creative potential.
