YouTube is a goldmine for aspiring photographers. It blends expert instruction with visual demonstrations and inspiration, all available for free and on-demand. But with thousands of options, choosing the right channels can be overwhelming. This guide spotlights the best YouTube channels for learning photography—including technical skills, creative inspiration, post-processing, and business advice—so you can speed up your learning and avoid information overload.
Why Use YouTube for Learning Photography?
Visual Learning at Your Own Pace
Videos make concepts like exposure, lighting, and composition far easier to understand than text-only resources. You can pause, rewind, and revisit lessons as needed.
Expert Advice and Diverse Perspectives
Top photography channels are run by industry professionals, passionate educators, and creative innovators. You’ll find a mix of technical tutorials, gear reviews, live shoots, and creative challenges.
Community and Up-to-Date Trends
Most channels allow comments and Q&As, enabling you to ask questions, get feedback, and participate in global communities. Creators often respond to trends, new gear releases, and audience requests quickly.
Top YouTube Channels for Learning Photography
1. Peter McKinnon
What you’ll learn: Storytelling, cinematography, lifestyle photography, editing tricks, and enthusiasm. Peter McKinnon’s energetic style blends tutorials with vlogs, motivation, and stunning visual storytelling. Ideal for beginners inspired by both photography and videography.
Popular topics: Camera basics, creative B-roll, Lightroom tips, gear reviews.
2. The Art of Photography (Ted Forbes)
What you’ll learn: Art history, deep dives into classic and modern photographers, composition, and project ideas. Ted Forbes’ thoughtful approach is perfect for anyone looking to go beyond button-pushing and delve into the creative and artistic side of photography.
Popular topics: Composition rules, photo critiques, photo book reviews.
3. Jessica Kobeissi
What you’ll learn: Portrait photography, posing, working with models, and shooting in different environments. Jessica’s videos are beginner-friendly and emphasize practical, real-world shoots—often comparing her results to those of other photographers for creative insight.
Popular topics: 4 Photographers Shoot the Same Model, portrait retouching, fashion photography.
4. Mango Street
What you’ll learn: Direct, concise photo and video tutorials, creative project ideas, and workflow tips. Daniel and Rachel’s quick, stylish videos make learning fun and accessible, focusing on working with limited gear and creative constraints.
Popular topics: Shooting with one lens, posing couples, short creative challenges.
5. Sean Tucker
What you’ll learn: Philosophy, aesthetics, and the personal growth side of photography. Sean’s channel is ideal if you crave depth, want to reflect on your motivations, or seek to develop a stronger artistic voice.
Popular topics: Storytelling, working with light, long-form interviews with creative professionals.
6. Tony & Chelsea Northrup
What you’ll learn: Detailed reviews, tutorials, and industry news. Their highly educational channel covers everything from gear comparisons and editing tips to in-depth tutorials on specific photographic genres.
Popular topics: Mirrorless vs. DSLR, editing in Lightroom and Photoshop, business advice.
7. Phlearn
What you’ll learn: Advanced photo editing, Photoshop, and retouching techniques. If you aim to master post-processing, Aaron Nace’s step-by-step lessons are pure gold, offering both basics and professional-level tricks.
Popular topics: Removing objects, color grading, creative photo manipulation.
8. Serge Ramelli Photography
What you’ll learn: Landscape, cityscape, and travel photography. Serge specializes in dramatic edits, HDR photography, and making the most out of basic scenes.
Popular topics: Long exposures, night photography, “before and after” raw to finished image.
9. Piximperfect
What you’ll learn: Photoshop mastery for photographers. Unmesh Dinda breaks down even the most complex editing tasks into simple, easy-to-follow steps, ideal for enhancing your creative vision.
Popular topics: Skin retouching, object removal, color correction.
10. SLR Lounge
What you’ll learn: A mix of genres—weddings, portraits, lighting, and business tips. SLR Lounge covers practical studio and location techniques for photographers wanting to go pro.
Popular topics: Studio lighting 101, client posing, behind-the-scenes workflow.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of YouTube Photography Channels
Use Playlists and Series
Most channels offer structured playlists; follow them in order to build foundational knowledge.
Take Notes and Practice
Pause videos, jot down key points, and try to immediately practice techniques on your own.
Avoid G.A.S. (Gear Acquisition Syndrome)
Many channels review equipment—but focus on skill-building and creativity before spending on gear.
Join the Community
Comment, ask questions, and share work inspired by lessons. Building relationships accelerates learning.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid on YouTube
- Overconsumption: Binging videos without practicing can lead to knowledge without skill.
- Chasing trends over substance: It’s tempting to only watch viral videos; focus on reputable sources.
- Conflicting advice: Photography is subjective; try different approaches and see what works for you.
Optimizing Your Learning Experience
- Subscribe to a handful of core channels, but occasionally check out new or niche creators.
- Use YouTube’s “watch later” and playlist functions to manage your learning path.
- Supplement with books, blogs, and real-world shooting.
Conclusion
YouTube has transformed photography education, making expert instruction available to anyone willing to learn. Choose channels that match your level, learning style, and photographic interests. Keep a balance between consuming knowledge and creating your own images. The journey is as important as the destination—start watching, start shooting, and watch your photography skills soar.