Photography - Beginners

Course intent

You will gain a basic understanding of how a digital camera works, so you can achieve the images you want. Any type of camera is acceptable – DSLR, ‘Bridge' and ‘Hybrid’ or ‘Mirrorless’ cameras.

Enjoy the well-being benefits gained through working in a friendly, creative learning environment.

N.B. Smartphones are not acceptable for this course – there are specific one-day workshops available for Smartphone photography.

What will we cover?

• How to get off the AUTO setting on your own camera and have more control over the picture taking process

• Using Exposure settings (Shutter Speed, ISO and Aperture) creatively
• Understanding basic composition
• A basic understanding of downloading, saving & presenting your images
• There will be opportunities to practise in class to hone your skills
• Safeguarding, Prevent & British Values

Learners will be inspired by the contemporary and historical context and will need to keep a sketchbook / notebook to record ideas, processes and progress, and the feedback they receive from the tutor.

There will be demonstrations, instruction, one-to-one tutorial guidance, group discussions and critiques.

So that learners make good progress with their personal learning goals, the tutor will work with you to complete the Individual Learning Plan.

For courses of more than one session, you will find you make the most progress if you attend every taught lesson and complete any self-directed study opportunities provided.

Who is this course for? Is there anything I need to know before joining?

The course is suitable for learners with no prior experience of digital cameras, those upgrading from an existing digital camera or those who have used 35mm film cameras. No particular skill with any type of camera is required, just a willingness to learn. You will need to bring your own Digital camera and instruction booklet.

As our courses are taught in English, please contact us if you have any concerns about your level of English.

What do I need to bring to the first class? Will there be any extra costs?

• your own Digital camera with a memory card, at least one lens and the instruction booklet.

• fully charged batteries
• a notebook and pen
• a sketchbook or portfolio to keep a record of your images as you progress
• an email address for receiving course notes

Your tutor will be able to give you impartial advice as to the purchasing of additional equipment

If you have any queries, please email the tutor at adultlearning@surreycc.gov.uk

What can I do when I finish the course?

In discussion with your tutor, you may like to progress onto further photography related courses:

There are other Photography courses available with SAL, one-day specific workshops as well as post-production courses using the latest camera and subject specific software.

Additional information

We welcome learners with additional needs and disabilities. When you enrol, please let us know if you would like to discuss your extra support needs with a member of the Supported Learning Team who will then contact you as soon as possible. If you are enrolling within 10 days of the course start date, we may not be able to contact you before your first class. Surrey Adult Learning values and supports equality and diversity by promoting fairness and respect at all times.

How to enrol

You can't currently enrol online for this course, so please call 0300 200 1044 to express your interest or to make an enquiry for further information.

Find another course

If this isn't what you're looking for, then we've got plenty more courses to offer!