h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

I had the opportunity to go on a subsidised Photographic course over the weekend, and had a really good time.

As I'm still classed as a Partner (or retired member of staff) with my old employer, John Lewis, I still receive all the benefits and saw an intensive photography course advertised, at £275 but I could claim half the cost back under 'leisure learning'.

As I've set myself a challenge of doing something one evening a week, and a weekend event per month, I applied.

And I was amazed how much I'd forgotten, been misinformed, or never knew. I knew about the Aperture, Shutter Speed, ISO triangle, but not how it worked. The tutor explained it beautifully, with loads of examples.

Also he explained 'The Zone Of Focus' which is similar, and different, to depth of field

Possibly the best thing I learnt is that to 'Make' (not take) the best photograph I must use 100 ISO exposure, and that the lowest possible shutter speed, without a tripod, is 1/30th of a second. There was lots of other useful information, but it was more about taking excellent photographs, rather than about composition. In fact, composition wasn't mentioned until the end of the course.

However Sunday was assignment day. We were divided into pairs, and had to compose a portrait of each other, but using their camera. Interestingly, out of 15 Students, all had Canon, except 2 Nikon and one Panasonic, After that, we had to hit the streets for two hours taking photographs, but a MAXIMUM of 36. But each one had to be taken at 100 ISO, and at the widest and narrowest aperture. Also there had to be a texture shot.

It was a challenge for me. To keep below 36 (I took 40). But also to pick my subject carefully. There was also an option of trying Panning, of which my example had a commendation.

After 90 minutes I was worn out, and had also learnt my limitations, but was far more appreciative of how difficult it is to Make a good photo.

And I thought I had a pretty good eye, but some of the photographs were truly remarkable, especially the winning portrait.

And the reason for being skint? On Sunday I took my tripod, and realised how cumbersome and awkward it was to carry it, along with my rucksack and camera.

Then he demonstrated the one he uses. Ultra lightweight and compact. The Gitzo traveller. A true gem of a tripod.

So, by shopping around, I tracked down the pan-head (not a pro's recommendation but very useful for me) and tripod from two separate dealers, was just under £600 but, with Gitzo's scrappage scheme I can claim £100 back. S that's the tax rebate gone. I only realised how important it is to get a good tripod was when I tried to take a photograph this evening, using the techniques taught, at 17.00, and the shutter speed was so slow, that the amount of camera shake was awful.

Would I recommend it? Definitely. It was a bit like having a refresher driving test. And totally enjoyable.

Next up is a 4 hour night-photography course around the Houses of Parliament and the Southbank.

BRING IT ON! I'm ready!!!!

MMF with added anorak!

You can never stop learning stuff, can you? And it's so satisfying when you do. Well done, you.

Aw! Thanks, TC. I did enjoy it but, the assignment? That was scary.

To have a digital camera, on manual, and only able to take 36 shots? Weird. And suddenly so many things I wanted to photograph.

I'll post my dire assortment on Flickr, so you can have a look...

Hope you are well, and wishing for a German Meet!



MMF

That sounds like a totally fabulous course - looking forward to seeing your pictures.

Taking 36 shots - that takes me back to the old days!! I remember when I went to Russia I could only afford 8 rolls of film. So difficult to pace yourself, but then, back then we didn't look at everything on a titchy LCD.

MMF, so pleased you have found something to interest and inspire you and get you out and about among like minded people.

Enjoy

Websailor