Join us for a six-week journey into the world of photography, where you’ll not only get to know your camera inside and out but also develop a deeper understanding of what makes a truly compelling image. This creative and practical course is designed for beginners and enthusiastic hobbyists who want to move beyond automatic settings and start taking more intentional, beautiful photographs.
Each week, we’ll meet for a relaxed and hands-on session. You’ll explore both the technical and creative aspects of photography—from understanding light and exposure to experimenting with colour, composition and focus. You’ll learn how to take control of your camera and start shooting with confidence, whatever your subject.
We’ll begin with the fundamentals: how to navigate your camera settings, what different buttons and dials do, and how to store, organise and even print your photos. If you’ve never looked at your instruction manual before, don’t worry—we’ll do it together! You’ll learn about the exposure triangle (shutter speed, aperture and ISO), and how to balance these settings to create different effects. We’ll explore how your camera sees light, and how you can work with it to get great exposures every time.
As the course progresses, we’ll look at the art of photography too—how to compose your images, work with colour, and sharpen your focusing skills. There’ll be a mix of theory, discussion, and plenty of hands-on shooting, both indoors and out. We’ll touch on editing and printing, with a practical shoot in week six covering still life, portrait and outdoor photography.
Each week, you’ll be given a simple task to complete at home, with time to share and discuss your images in the next session. If you’d like to connect with others outside the course, there will be a private Facebook group where you can ask questions, share progress, and get gentle mentoring throughout.
Dates: Monday 2nd June , every Monday for 6 weeks
Time: 2:00–4:00pm,
Location: HUT on the Green,
What to bring: A camera [if you have one!] its best to learn on your own camera - if you dont have one, we may be able to help and have some equipment we can loan. Get in touch to find out more [and don't rush out and by an expensive, fancy camera!]
Michaela is a Scottish photographer and printer who runs her creative practice from her home studio in North Tyneside, specialising in capturing the essence of people and places. An active member of the RPS (Royal Photographic Society) she also sits on the judging panel for SheClicks - a worldwide photography community with over 16,000 members. In 2015 she was awarded the BIPP Press & PR photographer of the year, and in 2025 became a ‘Sigma Creator’ a brand ambassador for the high end Japanese camera and lens manufacturer. Her film and digital work has been exhibited internationally with collectors in the UK, Europe, the US and New Zealand. Her work is licensed through Getty Images.
She is passionate about teaching and inspiring others on their photography journey.
This is a relaxed, friendly, and supportive course that welcomes beginners and gently encourages confidence. Whether you’ve just bought your first camera or want to get more creative with one you’ve had for years, this course will help you see the world through a new lens.
Booking is essential—spaces are limited.
