Capital Photography Center

Capital Photography Center stands as one of the premier institutions for photography education in the Washington, D.C. area, offering an impressive range of in-person classes designed for photographers at every level—from absolute beginners to seasoned professionals. Whether you’re just learning to move beyond auto mode or refining your skills in specialized genres like portraiture, food, night, sports, or landscape photography, the center provides hands-on instruction in real-world settings. Courses also extend into digital post-production, including detailed training in Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop, ensuring students gain both creative and technical mastery of their craft.

Founded by Marie Joabar, a respected figure in the photography education field, Capital Photography Center builds upon her extensive experience as the former Education Programs Manager and Corporate Trainer at Penn Camera. During her tenure, Marie grew that company’s educational program from just three topics to nearly fifty, establishing it as one of the most comprehensive offerings in the region. Her commitment to accessible, high-quality instruction led to the creation of Capital Photography Center, which continues that tradition by offering classes tailored to a variety of interests and skill levels.

Students at Capital Photography Center benefit from learning with a faculty composed of some of the region’s most respected photographers and educators. The roster includes Eliot Cohen, former Program Head of Photography at Northern Virginia Community College; Chris Alvanas, Director of Photography at the Center for Digital Imaging Arts at Boston University; E. David Luria, founder of the Washington Photo Safari; and award-winning photographer Karen Messick, among others. Together, these instructors bring decades of professional and teaching experience into the classroom.

More than a school, Capital Photography Center is a thriving community where creativity, curiosity, and technical skill come together. Whether you’re pursuing photography as a career or a lifelong passion, the center provides the tools, mentorship, and inspiration to elevate your vision and confidence behind the camera.