2025 SPRING PHOTOGRAPHY SESSIONS ARE HERE!

The Dixie is proud to offer seasonal photography sessions under the instruction of Jim & Carol Veneman. Read more about current class offerings by scrolling down the page.

Image by student RodgerJowers

WINTER SESSIONS

Over the years, photography has evolved a lot. What often took considerable time and even some physical effort has been simplified to a tap on your phone’s screen.

There are moments when a quick, instinctive click can provide a beautiful image without much thought. But let’s face it: those moments are the exception, not the rule. At times our photographs don’t quite match the vision we had in mind. The subject, the light, and even the moment might all be right there in front of us, but something just falls short.

We all want to make photographs that reflect the important moments in our lives in memorable ways. Whether you're just beginning your photography journey or have had years of experience, these upcoming classes are designed to help you open your eyes, your mind, and most importantly your heart, to new ways of seeing.

And don’t worry about the gear – any digital camera will do, from your smartphone to the latest professional model. What matters most is the vision and creativity you bring to your work.

WINTER SESSION #1 (6 WEEKS)

Thursdays: January 16 - February 20

  • 5:30 - 7:00p CT

  • $185 / per student / per 6-week session

  • Exhibit will follow Feb 20's Class

  • Registration & payment are taken at the beginning of the first class

WINTER SESSION #2 (6 WEEKS)

Thursdays: February 27- April 3

  • 5:30 - 7:00p CT

  • $185 / per student / per 6-week session

  • Exhibit will follow April 3's Class

  • Registration & payment are taken at the beginning of the first class

Each of the sessions are designed for everyone, regardless of skill level. Someone new to photography will be introduced to seeing beyond the surface of the world around them and will be given some technical ideas to move them forward. Those with prior photography experience will be challenged to move their photography to the next stage, by applying where they have been to the next stop on their visual journey.

The sessions will be a mixture of in-class photography, along with weekly projects. The time will be designed for anyone with an interest in photography, from the beginner, to those with years of experience. The camera you use for this class really won't matter, whether it's your phone or a digital camera. 

MEET THE INSTRUCTOR, JIM VENEMAN

For over twenty years Jim has served as a university professor of photojournalism. He has covered many national and international stories. In 2011 he received the National Press Photographers Association’s highest award for teaching photojournalism, the Robin F. Garland Educator Award.

For more than 10 years Jim and Carol have taught photography at the Dixie Carter Performing Arts Center and in an after-school program at the Huntingdon Middle School, introducing students of all ages to the idea of seeing beyond the backyard fence. 

STUDENT WORK - 2021 SPRING SESSION

The gallery above includes photography by Jim Veneman’s 2022 Spring Students: Teresa Carter, Rodger Jowers, Patsy Hathorn, Lorri Skelton, Laurie Pierce, Laura Sherrod, Joy Williams, Jessica Lambert, Gary Clark, and Charles Leslie.

STUDENT WORK - 2021 SPRING SESSION

The gallery above includes photography by Jim Veneman’s 2021 Spring Session 1 Students: Michelle Sanders, Jennifer King, Teresa Carter, Laura Sherrod, Becky Ruteldge, Angela Hedges, Laura Sherrod, Dusty King.

STUDENT WORK - 2020 FALL SESSION 2

The gallery above includes photography by Jim Veneman’s Fall 2020 Students: Charles Leslie, Rick Jahnke, Rodger Jowers, Lorri Skelton, Becky Rutledge, Jessica Burns, Laura Sherrod & Teresa Carter.

STUDENT WORK - 2020 FALL SESSION 1

The gallery above includes photography by Jim Veneman’s 1st Fall 2020 Session: Ashley Reed, Paula Walls, Laura Sherrod, Charles Leslie, Lance Clark and Teresa Carter.