Royal Hospital Chelsea photography project

About this course

The course uses the Royal Hospital Chelsea as a setting for developing photographic practice. Participants explore lens choice, framing and composition, sunlight on buildings, suitable times for exterior photography and the use of ambient light indoors. The Royal Hospital’s history and present-day community role provide context for the project, which involves photographing its buildings, gardens and interiors alongside resident Pensioners. Teaching combines lectures, demonstrations, practical exercises, discussions and project work. Individual tutoring and group critiques are used to review photographs and provide critical feedback.

What you'll learn

• Photograph interior spaces using available light
• Identify suitable times of day for photographing exteriors
• Choose focal lengths for wide-angle and detail images
• Apply compositional devices such as the rule of thirds
• Create a cohesive series covering the Royal Hospital’s exteriors, gardens and interiors

Is this course right for you?

This intermediate course is intended for learners developing beyond fundamental photography techniques. A beginners’ photography course and working knowledge of aperture, ISO and shutter speed are recommended. Participation includes practical work, group discussion and critiques, with some photography taking place outdoors.

• Learners should be able to follow written and verbal instructions, demonstrations and health and safety information
• Simple use of numbers, measurements and calculations is expected
• The course includes individual work as well as group critiques and discussion

Before you go

• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes because some sessions take place outdoors.
• Bring a working digital or film camera with manual aperture and shutter-speed settings.
• A tripod may be brought if available.