Developing photography skills

About this course

The course develops existing technical knowledge through work with manual camera functions, exposure, lens selection, lighting, shadow and composition. Participants explore different photographic themes and styles, including creative exposure effects, silhouettes and backlit images, while considering how to use light and flash effectively. Teaching combines tutor demonstrations, illustrated lectures and practical exercises. Learners work independently and with others, review their own and classmates’ images, and use Google Classroom to share comments, access materials and upload images for group critiques.

What you'll learn

• Operate aperture and shutter speed controls on a manually adjustable camera.
• Apply exposure readings in challenging conditions and use exposure creatively.
• Create silhouette images and manage backlit scenes.
• Select lenses for different photographic purposes.
• Use light, flash and shadow to shape images.
• Evaluate photographic work to identify strengths and areas for further development.

Is this course right for you?

Although labelled Beginner, the course is intended for learners with a basic technical grounding rather than complete newcomers. Participants need to understand ISO, aperture, shutter speed and white balance, and be able to change manual settings. The course includes demonstrations, independent tasks, paired and group work, discussion, image critique and simple calculations.

• Requires familiarity with manual camera controls and basic exposure terminology.
• Suitable for digital SLR, mirrorless or 35mm film camera users, but not point-and-shoot users.
• Includes independent photography alongside paired and group activities.
• Requires following written and spoken instructions and using simple measurements and calculations.

Before you go

• Bring a notebook and a digital or 35mm film SLR camera with any lenses available.
• A camera can be provided for use during class if needed, but equipment cannot be lent between taught sessions.
• Film users need to arrange film processing and printing independently; the provider does not sell or process film.