London street photography

What is the course about?

This course will introduce you to the theory and practice of street photography - capturing contemporary urban life in a spontaneous and naturalistic way with no interaction between photographer and subject. You will learn about the history of the genre and its top practitioners, different creative approaches, and technical skills from narrative and composition to super-quick reflexes. We will boost your confidence in snapping candid shots of strangers by taking you out to practise on location in London's most vibrant areas, developing your critical and visual awareness as well as an understanding of photography as a means of communication. During the course you will also have the opportunity to contribute to the course blog and participate in online forums.

What will we cover?

- Traditional and contemporary approaches to street photography, both in colour and B&W.
- History of documentary photography and an overview of the work of influential contemporary practitioners.
- Practical, ethical and legal considerations.
- Specialist techniques for quick reflexive picture-taking.
- Narrative and composition, telling a story with a single image.
- Online street photography collectives.

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

- Have a better understanding of the evolution of street photography in the last 100 years
- Feel more confident about taking candid photographs of people in public
- Have developed your own photographic technique
- Show evidence of developing observational skills and quicker reflexes
- Have a better understanding of the legal framework for taking photographs in public.

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

Ideal for those who have completed our Beginners Photography course, or for anyone with a basic understanding of ISO, aperture, shutter speed, white balance and how to change these on your digital SLR or bridge camera (i.e. not a point-and-shoot camera). You must have manual functions on your camera (i.e. be able to change the aperture and shutter speed settings).
You should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions to support demonstrations, hand-outs and for health and safety information, and be prepared to take part in group discussion. You should be happy using numbers and able to do simple measurements and calculations.

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

You will be taught through a series of talks, handouts, demonstrations and practical exercises. You are encouraged to practise in your own time to embed the skills and information covered on the course. 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. See below for the instructions on how to log on. Google classroom log in help.

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

Please bring your camera and ideally a notebook. If you don't have your own camera, City Lit has digital SLRs and tripods which you are welcome to borrow during the hours of the course.
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When I've finished, what course can I do next?

City Lit runs over 70 different photography courses, from wedding and wildlife photography to darkroom processing and using software packages. Browse the website or prospectus to get inspired.