Developing photography skills

What is the course about?

This course is an ideal follow-up to our Beginner's photograph course, or for anyone with a basic technical grounding. As well as revising and refreshing existing knowledge, you will learn new, more advanced skills - from exposure use to selecting the right lens - and practise how to apply them across different themes and styles of photography.

What will we cover?

- Revision of manual functions of the camera.
- Exploring themes and different styles of photographs.
- Experimenting with exposure readings.
- Use of different lenses.
- Looking at lighting and the use of shadow.
- Image composition.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- Use the shutter speed and aperture controls (f-stops) on your camera effectively
- Expose images correctly in relatively challenging situations, and use exposure as part of the creative process
- Create silhouette images and deal with backlit situations
- Know what type of lens to choose
- Use light (including flash) and shadows to enhance your images.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This course is ideal for those who have completed our 'Photography for beginners' course - but you can join us without having done so, as long as you understand ISO, aperture, shutter speed, white balance and know how to change these on your digital SLR or 35mm film camera (not a point-and-shoot camera). You will need to have manual functions on your camera (i.e. be able to change the aperture and shutter speed settings).
You'll need to be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information, and will be invited to take part in group discussion. You should be happy using numbers and be able to do simple measurements and calculations.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

In a supportive group environment, through demonstrations, illustrated lectures, individual and group practical exercises and individual assistance. You will regularly receive and be invited to contribute to positive critical feedback on your own and each other's photographs.
The course also uses Google Classroom (an online teaching resource) for you to share comments with your class, download course material and upload images for group crits.
Google classroom login help.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Please bring a notebook, a digital or 35mm film SLR (or mirrorless or advanced compact) camera with whatever lenses you have. If you do not have a camera you will be provided with one for use during the class. The City Lit has a range of cameras, tripods, lenses, speed lights and studio lighting (if appropriate to the course) that you are welcome to borrow during the taught hours of the class. We are unable to lend out equipment between taught sessions. If you are using a film camera you will need to pay for up to five rolls of film, together with processing and printing - you can use colour or black and white. (Please note we do not sell or process film at City Lit).

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

You can develop your interest in photography further through a range of creative and practical photography courses at City Lit, from wildlife or fashion photography, to starting your own photography business. Browse the full list on the web site to get inspired.