A hive of activity and cultural diversity, Camden is a fascinating place for the street photographer. Not only are the people interesting, but the place offers varied and brilliant locations that allow us to combine those interesting people with excellent quality background features. The streets are packed with humanity and light, and the markets provide a chaos of colour, shape and form that conceal yet more people in tiny compartments and around brightly decorated corners.

This really is an exciting location, and with Damien’s help you’ll learn how to make the most of what it offers. The day is about seeing and making the pictures you imagine appear on the rear of your camera. These are some of the things you should expect to learn:

• Spotting scenes that are interesting
• Understanding the potential in unfolding situations
• Positioning yourself to create dynamic compositions
• Seeing exciting light
• Working with the light to make it the subject

Camden is a place that never fails to throw up fabulous opportunities and this course is aimed at helping street photographers of all levels of experience to sense, plan and capture those moments in a way that leads to meaningful and impactful images.

The day will begin with a coffee and a chat so the small group can get to know each other and so Damien can discover what you hope to get out of the class. We’ll then head out for a series of lessons in specific locations so you can grasp new skills under Damien’s watchful and attentive eye. Although you will have the freedom to photograph what you like, this will be a structured class of learning, not just a walk around a famous area of London. Each class ends with a friendly and constructive critique of the pictures taken, so we can share our experiences and learn from each others’ mistakes and successes.

The class will finish at 4pm, but if you need to leave before that time that can easily be arranged. The class will be suitable for photographers of all levels of experience, from complete beginner upwards. It will be a small group, and everyone will get plenty of help and attention.

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The group will meet close to Camden Town underground station, though the meeting point isn’t far from Camden Road mainline station.

At the end of the day we will come back to the same area, and Damien will be able to direct you to the closest station from the final location.

Exact start and end locations, as well as timings, will be communicated to all students by email ahead of the day to help with route planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camera will I need?

Almost any camera will be suitable for this course. Small light cameras are the most suitable for street photography, but any DSLR will also be absolutely fine. A digital camera will allow you to see the results of what you are learning and to assess your on-going success, but it is quite possible to work with film if that is your preference.

What lenses will I need?

Focal lengths between 24mm and 90mm (full frame equivalent) are most suitable for street photography. You won’t need long lenses or extreme wide angles, unless they are part of your photographic style. Try not to bring too many. Damien uses a standard lens most often, but also likes a 24mm and an 85mm, and prefers fixed focal length lenses for their faster maximum apertures. Zooms though, will be absolutely fine. If you have any specific questions about kit please feel free to get in touch.

Will I need a flash or a tripod?

No, and no.

What about the weather?

Street photographers aren’t afraid of a bit of bad weather so unless it pours with rain or it gets too cold we will stay out shooting. Should things get too bad we’ll find somewhere undercover or inside to carry on the day, but please do check the weather forecast before the day so that you can dress appropriately.

Footwear

These courses aren’t long hiking days, and in fact we often don’t travel very far at all, but you will be on your feet for a lot of the time so please wear shoes that are comfortable. We stop for breaks so you won’t be on your feet all day, but you will need to be comfortable so you can concentrate.

Diet

If you have any special dietary requirements please let Damien know at the time of booking so we can make sure you are catered for.

What is included?

Street courses generally include tea/coffee at the beginning and the end of the day, and a sandwich-style lunch.

Students are responsible for their own equipment and for ensuring they have appropriate insurance.

If you have any other questions about the day, or any other courses I offer, please feel free to email me here.