DSLR cameras
2013. Photography is now more accessible to the general consumer than ever before. The digital SLR market is so competitive that many entry level cameras start as low as £250. The term ‘weekend photographer’ has grown from an inappropriate name for budding photographers to a worldwide epidemic.
All DSLR cameras will have the standard functions of Auto, Manual, Shutter priority and Aperture priority, as will most Bridge cameras. We all know the auto function; it does what we want the camera to do – most of the time – judge the scene, expose and then capture.
But we are not in control. It’s time to turn the dial from auto to something a little more challenging.
Education
Training in photography is vital to becoming a better photographer. Whether it’s a full time course at university, a 1 day course at the weekend or from watching tutorials online, there is something for everyone. There is no point in spending all that money on a DSLR to have it constantly set on auto.
If you can’t take a year off to study at a university, short photography courses are the next best thing. Full time education can be very time consuming and expensive, short photography courses offered by many companies around the UKare cost effective, reasonable on your time and most importantly they can be tailored to suit your photography requirements. Online tutorials can often be the easy route to take but you cannot ask questions if you do not understand something and they may not show you everything you need to know.
What course to take
Whether you are an absolute beginner or you just need to brush up on your compositional skills there is a course for you. Here is a brief sample of some of the course available to you.
- Introduction to photography or beginner’s photography are the most popular courses due to the amount of DSLR’s purchased. Getting to know your camera is first step to taking great photos. Learn about aperture, shutter speed, ISO, etc. Participation in these courses are usually kept to low numbers.
- Some introduction to photography courses will delve into other subjects like composition and lighting. While these may be more intense they will be better value for money and you can come away with a lot of new knowledge.
- 1-to-1 courses normally include all of the beginner’s course information, but you get the tutor all to yourself. You will get to ask any questions you have and work on any particular areas you like with the tutor’s full attention.
- Street photography courses are quite a popular option once you have mastered your basic camera skills. Learn how to capture that special moment before it disappears, you have to see the photograph before it happens. Important areas like composition and lighting are covered in a city environment.
- After you’ve taken your images they are often left sat on your computer never to be seen again. A lot our images may need a little bit of work to brighten them up or change the image to black and white, etc. With a digital workflow course, these topics and many more are covered. It’s important to know what you can do with your images after they’ve left your camera.
Be inspired
Whilst taking these courses will better your photography skills, what may be more important is the opportunity to find inspiration. Talking with professionals and fellow budding photographers can be all that you need to get your creative juices flowing. Armed with a better knowledge of how your camera works – now your mind is not hindered by trying to think of what shutter speed or f stop you need to be using – you’re free to concentrate on the more artistic side of photography.
At Studio8 we offer a range of courses designed for all levels. Please give me a call or drop me a line for more information.
Adam Flynn