CHOOSING THE RIGHT COURSE FOR YOU

Six things to think about when choosing your workshop or photo holiday

1 Getting teacher’s attention

The tutor’s time is one of the most expensive costs of a workshop, so the more people there are on the course, the less expensive it is. A high student-to-teacher ratio is not always a bad thing, but it can limit your picture-taking opportunities in some locations and with some genres. If you want more time from your tutor, look for courses that offer one-to-one training – these can be a lot less expensive than you think.

2 Location, location, location

You can go on photographic holidays almost anywhere in the world. This not only means that you get to see and photograph exotic places and wildlife, but you also get to spend time with other photography enthusiasts. How far you go, of course, will greatly affect the travel costs. But the costs of meals and accommodation may actually prove to work out cheaper the farther you roam.

3 What do I want to achieve?

Picking a course that is the right level for you is key. Some courses are designed to give people confidence with using their cameras, and to show them how to use basic features. Others are designed to force seasoned enthusiasts out of their comfort zone.

4 How is the time spent?

Check the itinerary carefully, and ask questions if you are unclear about what each day entails. On some courses you will be expected to get up before dawn, and keep shooting until after dusk – which may be perfect for some, but not for those who are expecting some rest from their holiday. On some workshops, you may spend more time travelling by car or on foot than you do actually taking pictures.

5 How fit do I need to be?

If you are shooting mountains, you may need to do some climbing! Most courses give a pretty accurate idea of how fit you will need to be in order to keep up with the others and reach the locations with ease.

6 Teaching experience

Many top photographers supplement their income by taking photographic courses, but this does not mean they are natural teachers. So if you need practical help as well as inspiration. Look for feedback from people who have already been on the course and see what they have to say about their experience.