We spend a lot of our photographic lives trying to freeze motion to ensure that every detail of the subject is clear and sharp, but I’m not sure that’s actually how normal people really experience the world. As photographers we probably look a bit harder than most, but normal folk walk from one place to another rarely noticing other people at all. With their mind on more important things, other people appear in the consciousness as a faint blur of colour and light. So, that’s what this workshop is about – trying to capture those fleeting apparitions that give us a sense that the street is occupied by other humans to whom we haven’t paid much attention. Normal people can always tell you if a place was busy or quiet, and they’ll be able to tell you if people were rushing or strolling, but most won’t be able to describe a single person that passed them on their journey.

During this workshop we’ll explore the many different ways we can portray the motion of the street and the cool patterns, lines and shapes that can be created. We’ll look at a range of lighting conditions to see how relative brightnesses alter the way people appear in our pictures, and we’ll consider a range of other factors that transform a dull scene into something dynamic and visually stimulating. There will be a lot of experimentation and a lot of excitement as we see the results that are possible. Some images will be rubbish of course, but others will be strikingly artistic and compelling, and we’ll discover ways to shoot that perhaps we’d never considered before.  

You’ll learn:

• How to look explore motion in the street
• How to identify patterns and shapes you’d usually not notice
• How different shutter speeds impact the degree of motion recorded
• How to understand the influence of light on these situations
• How to see in a completely new way that will keep you entertained for hours

We’ll shoot in a range of locations, depending on the weather and the conditions of the day, and we’ll explore how surroundings and backgrounds offer potential for creating atmosphere in our images. There’s a lot to consider in this kind of work, but you’ll quickly be amazed at the results on your back screen.

You won’t need a tripod, but a Neutral Density filter will be needed. If you don’t have one let me know and I will be able to lend you one for the day. It will be useful to have a camera that offers some form of image stabilisation, either in-body or an optical system.

The course will begin with a coffee and a chat so the members of the group can get to know each other and so I can discover what you each hope to get out of the class. You’ll then head out for a series of lessons in specific locations so you can grasp new skills under my 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 further chat, so we can share our experiences and learn from each other’s mistakes and successes. There will be a break for a sandwich-style lunch about half way through the day.

The class will finish at 4pm, but if you need to leave before that time that can easily be arranged. It will be a small group, and everyone will get plenty of help and attention.

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Your course will begin with coffee and a chat in or close to the London Bridge Station

The closest tube station is London Bridge, which is also the closest mainline station and is just a short walk away.

At the end of the day we will be in much 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, but one with an in-body or optical image stabilisation system will make things a bit easier. This will allow longer shutter speeds without creating too much movement in the background, thought that can look effective too. If you are not sure your camera is suitable please feel free to contact me for a chat.

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. Zooms though, will be absolutely fine.

Fast maximum apertures won’t be of much benefit on this course, we we’ll be stopped down to f/16 or so most of the time. 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.

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.