Shoreditch must surely be one of the grooviest parts of London, and has become known as a hipster’s paradise. Full of creative people, the cool-grunge streets and vibrant wall art make the perfect backdrop for some really exciting and different-looking photography.

On this workshop Damien will take you through some of the most visually stimulating areas of the district and guide you on how to make sense of the scenes in front of you, how to frame them in your camera and how to get close to the action. Composing a coherent image when so much is going on can be difficult, but we’ll take our time to study the elements before us, and to determine what needs to be in and left out of the picture. Then we’ll work on exposure and timing to get the perfect photograph.

The skills we will work on will include:

• Making sense of a busy scene
• Creating striking compositions
• Exposing for impact
• Using depth for drama

Like all Damien’s workshops, this will be a day of learning and improvement that will suit photographers of any experience. The group will be small so Damien will have plenty of time to see to everyone and to customise the tasks of the workshop to address the areas you want to get better at. You will be tutored all day and won’t be left on your own.

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The day will begin at Liverpool Street station, which is just a short walk away from the centre of Shoreditch, and which gives us the chance to pass through Spitalfield market on the way there. Liverpool Street is on the Central, Circle, Hammersmith and City, and the Metropolitan underground lines.

The day will end in the Shoreditch area, and Damien will be able to direct you to the nearest or most convenient station for your trip home.

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.