London in Black & White

Renowned the world over as one of the greatest capital cities, photography in London can be understandably challenging, where photographers often return home disappointed, having pounded the streets looking for compositions without any real focus and direction. This small-group photography workshop in London is designed to change all that and open your eyes to the wonderful, evocative and creative world of black and white photography. 

NEW: PRE-WORKSHOP 'IDEAS' AND EDITING TUTORIAL
Appreciating that, for some, photography in London can be a little daunting, I thought it would be helpful if, prior to the day, everyone received a pre-recorded 'ideas' and Lightroom editing tutorial where I give my thoughts and suggestions on photographing this amazing city and eventual post-processing. Such aspects will include the technique of long exposure, seeing and executing abstracts, filtration and B&W conversions.

TO BRING OR NOT TO BRING A TRIPOD...
This is entirely up to you. Admittedly, when I first started photographing in London, I wasn't particularly keen on the burden and weight of a tripod. However, those thoughts were soon pushed aside when I began bringing a very small, compact travel tripod that I lashed to the side of the bag. I barely noticed it was there and soon appreciated its benefits and the many creative opportunities it made possible. I now wouldn't be without one! Of course, the occasional refuelling in a cafe also helps! If you're still not convinced, I would suggest purchasing a table-top tripod or GorillaPod, as there are more than enough available surfaces to place them upon! 

Before photographing in earnest, we begin this London photography workshop in a cafe close to Monument where we will double check that our cameras are all set up for black and white photography and that you know, exactly, within its menu, where, for example, to find such things as the aspect ratio setting. All this is much easier (and more comfortable) to do in the warmth of a cafe as opposed to the hustle and bustle of the street! Also, though using my tablet to refresh, I’ll briefly reiterate what has been said and demonstrated in the recorded tutorial.

We'll then head off to a number of locations that I feel will give you the greatest variety and best opportunities. I don't like to rush; it's not a sightseeing tour, and although I have a route and plan in mind, how long we take and where we end up will be dictated by the pace of the group.  

Throughout the day, we'll look at the effect of light and the importance of contrast in black and white photography and how, through the use of sharp angles, shadows and leading lines, we can both captivate and lead the viewer through the frame. Amongst other aspects of the image-making process, we'll discuss exposure, filtration, live view focusing and exposure, and with such a small group, you are sure to receive lots of personal, constructive, one-to-one tuition. 

Finally…
Thank you very much indeed for considering this London in Black and White photography workshop. Should you have any questions - however small or insignificant you think they might be - then do drop me a line. I’m here to help and provide you with a wonderful, fun day of inspirational photography in the company of like-minded enthusiasts.