Join Damien for an entertaining day of street photography tuition, learning and critique. Starting on London’s vibrant Southbank, we’ll capture the action of life beside the river against this area’s backdrop of diverse architectural styles that creates a massive range of atmospheres and possibilities. We’ll shoot in wide open plazas, narrow hidden streets and along the bank of the ancient river Thames.
This will be a fantastic tour of a collection of places that never fail to deliver first class subject matter – and with Damien’s careful tutorage you’ll be certain to come back with a head full of new ideas and ways of seeing, as well as a memory card of pictures that demonstrate the progress you have made during the day.
We always finish with a critique of the pictures of the day and a chat about what we have learned. Seeing what other photographers made of the same scenes you faced yourself can be an invaluable and mind-opening experience. This day is suitable for photographers of all levels, from complete beginners up. You will learn:
- How to see brilliant pictures in every day scenes
- How to tailor your exposure to emphasise your subject
- How to compose so the viewer will see what you what them to see
- How to get close to people in the street without bothering them
- How to combine place, people and conditions to create truly atmospheric images
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Your day will begin with coffee and a chat close to the National Theatre.
The closest tube stations are Waterloo, Southwark and Embankment.
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. 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.