I often get asked “Would a one day photography course be enough?”

Well you may as well ask me how long a piece of string is.

If you want to change careers and become a world renowned photographer then you may need a little more than a single day long photography course. However if you are an avid enthusiast of photography who wants to improve their skills and explore their creativity, then this is a perfect choice. 

I’ve written this blog to share how a one day photography course can massively benefit you as a photographer. But also whether this type of course is the right path to take depending on your goals and preferences.

What are your photography course goals?

What do you want to get out of a photography course? There are so many ways you can have an educational experience that will help you upskill. You just need to find what is right for you.

Why do you want to do a photography course?

Do you want to:

• Learn more about photography
• Challenge yourself
• Get expert guidance
• Get the tools to be more creative
• Be pushed out of your comfort zone

What do you ultimately want from this experience? 

Think about whether you want to commit to a period of training, a structured course, self teaching or a jam packed session with loads of one to one teaching.

What does a one day course include?

There are so many different options available for one day photography courses. I am going to highlight the different types I offer and what they include, but this is by no means an exhaustive list.

One day workshop

I regularly run a small one day workshop on the South Coast of England for a maximum of 10 people. I limit the numbers so that everyone can get quality one to one time.

We start the day with a meet and greet and then launch into a tutorial where we cover:

• Why cameras get it wrong
• Controlling exposure
• How to use different lenses and zooms for brilliant photos
• Simple strategy for amazing compositions

By the end of the tutorial you will have these fundamentals. We then pick a spot for lunch before spending the afternoon putting what you learnt into practice. 

This is a great opportunity for specific questions and mentoring time too.

I love this small knit workshop because it is so accessible for beginners. The opportunity to learn so much in a short amount of time and whet your appetite for improving your photography.

One to One day

A one to one day is much more hands on because you get your teacher to yourself. This means that the whole day will be about your photography journey with no exceptions.

The one to one photography day usually covers the following:

Camera controls and settings

• Composition & light
• Which lens to use
• Finding images
• Decisive moments
• Thinking like a photographer (not merely someone with a camera)
• Managing Lightroom files
• Post production
• Confidence

I am always happy to add or take away around your needs to make sure you’re getting the most out of the experience. 

If you’re looking for a steep learning curve that is designed entirely for you then a one to one day would suit you down to the ground!

Have a watch of Steve Bray’s feedback...

Benefits of a one day photography course

Teaching photography is a passion of mine. It is so important to me that people who join the courses are excited about what they will get out of the experience.

But what are the benefits of a one day photography course?

Like minded people

If you’re part of a small 10 person workshop you’re mixing with fellow enthusiasts. Picking up their tips, sharing yours and bonding over your shared love for photography. 

If you opt for a one to one day then I guarantee your passion will be shared by your tutor!

A quick skills assessment

A one day photography course gives you an ideal opportunity to assess where you are on your journey. What have you learnt? What do you need to dedicate more time to? When you’re part of a structured course, by the end of the tutorial time you will have a great idea of where you need to focus more of your attention. 

A taster session

If you aren’t quite ready to commit to a full on course then a one day workshop is a great choice. You can get a feel for your teacher’s skills, experience and teaching style before you take on a heavier commitment. 

One to one help

The beginners workshop has a maximum of 10 attendees so you are guaranteed that one on one time. This isn’t something you get in the chunkier courses so it’s a fantastic opportunity to pick my brain!

Priceless practical skills

I’m not one for lecturing, so after we cover the basics I love getting the group out there. Challenging yourself and trying new things while your teacher is right there to adjust, assist and help is an experience like no other course can give you!

It’s FUN!

The one day photography courses are face to face, hands on and closely guided. A really amazing experience if you’re a budding photographer eager to learn! 

If you’re ready to jump in and take your photography to the next level, take a look at the exciting workshops I offer using the link below. 

Like everything else, Covid has thrown a spanner in the works :( and I’ve really missed hosting the workshops - getting to work alongside others who share my enthusiasm really is a joyful experience. But I always look on the brightside, and I know it won’t be long until we’re able to safely come together again with our cameras at the ready.

One thing I will mention is that if you are interested, please do get in touch as soon as possible. Due to the delay caused by the pandemic, there are lots of photographers eager to get back out there and I can only offer so many spaces.

So get your place reserved! If we cannot hold the workshop you can rest assured that you’ll get a full refund, of course.