Are these workshops for me?

There are an awful lot of photographers offering workshops, some with more experience than others, and it can be difficult to decide on with whom to book. Below are a few important factors to consider before you make up your mind whether my workshops are suitable for your requirements.
• First of all browse through my work to make sure that you like the kind of images that I produce – if you don’t, it is unlikely that my way of seeing the world will be of much help to you.
• My approach to landscape photography is very much about taking your time to explore a location, to get a feel for it. Machine-gun photography rarely produces good results. Successful images need care and thought.
• This considered approach can be frustrating for relative beginners who are still getting to grips with their cameras.
• My workshops tend to concentrate on vision - seeing the picture, composition and the importance of light. Consequently they are probably more suitable for photographers who are already familiar with the technical operation of their camera and who want to develop their own vision. Technical issues such as exposure and use of ND grads will still most likely be covered but “Camera Basics” are more appropriately taught elsewhere.
• I treat clients as adults. If you want to be told where to stand, how to set your camera up, what to point it at and when to press the shutter – look elsewhere. You learn much more from trying out your own ideas and discovering what works and what doesn’t. I will undoubtedly talk about what I would do in the particular location and may well show you where I have taken a successful image before (and explain why it worked) but the ultimate decisions have to come from yourself.
• Photography with a group can be frustrating as patience is required while you wait for someone to move out of your view. I only take out a maximum of 4 clients in order to minimise such issues but even then it is important to be considerate towards each other.
• Photography with a group is an enriching experience. Everybody sees things differently and their ideas can help spark ideas of your own. Sometimes you can learn as much from your colleagues as from your tutor and workshops are a great opportunity to chat about photography.
• Be realistic in your expectations. A half-day workshop is not going to transform your photography overnight. However I would hope that the immersion in photography, and perhaps a different way of thinking, will sow some seeds that have a longer lasting impact. After 20 years I still have plenty to learn.
• Post workshop I will provide feedback on a selection of your images.
• Remember landscape photography is very much in the hands of the weather. I choose locations that suit the time of year or day but also ensure that there are different options available should the ‘big view’ be a wash out. It is important that clients are flexible to changes in plan to suit conditions.
• My prices are competitive because I offer ‘no frills’ workshops. You are paying for time in the field with an experienced photographer, not for a glossy brochure, nice meal and a stay in a lovely hotel.
• If you need any more information, please don’t hesitate to contact me.