This two-day beginner’s level photography course is ideal for those with DSLR cameras who have never ventured off Auto mode. You will learn about your camera settings and Master the Magic of Manual Mode! Through a series of practical demonstrations and tasks, within the stunning setting of Westcott Barton, you will understand how using f-stops, ISO and apertures can enhance your photographs and produce a range of stunning images.
Becky Gouverneur is an experienced photographer and artist who now primarily works on producing detailed charcoal drawings from her own photographs. She is a qualified and experienced teacher and has taught photography in schools, colleges and privately for many years. She has a friendly approach and the ability to explain technical aspects in a clear and understandable way.
Upon arrival on Thursday afternoon around 3pm you will be greeted by the team at Westcott. After some time settling in there will be a briefing in the main studio at around 6pm where you will have an overview of the course and a quick tour of the location, followed by dinner at 7pm.
All meals are fully catered for.
Both days will be spent at Westcott enjoying the beautiful gardens, old buildings and many acres of land.
Breakfast is at 8.30am for a studio start at 9.30am.
After a brief tour of your camera and an overview of the basic functions, on the first day, including how to move away from the “fully automatic mode,” you will venture out into the beautiful gardens of Westcott Barton. While out on location we will regularly stop and gather together where you will be given demonstrations and a series of simple tasks or challenges to complete which will allow you to explore both your camera settings as well as different aspects of photography including composition, focus, colour and space.
If the weather does not allow us to be outside, a range of still life set ups will be available in the studio instead. Toward the end of the course we will spend some time looking at post-production editing techniques. No specialist software is necessary, but it would be beneficial to bring along a laptop for this, if possible.
At the end of each day, there will be time for group discussions, critiques and guidance as well as some more independent work around the interpretation of a set theme.
Dinner will be served at 6.30pm in the dining room of the main house each evening.
Tea, coffee and biscuits are readily available along with afternoon cake in the studio at any point in the day if you need to take a break.
The workshop format is structured but also informal and friendly with the opportunity to take breaks as and when needed with all tasks optional should you wish to pursue your own ideas.
- An understanding of the different camera modes (Manual, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority & Program).
- An understanding of how aperture, shutter speed and ISO affect a photograph.
- Knowledge of a range of composition techniques which can be used to improve your photography.
- A range of photographs demonstrating different technical aspects of photography.
- A DSLR (Digital SLR) camera with a full battery.
- An empty memory card to fit your camera.
- Charging cables.
- Your camera’s manual may be useful if you have it but this is not essential.
- A laptop with a card reader would be advantageous but not essential.
- A notepad and pen.
- Sunscreen, hat and warm clothing for the unpredictable British weather!
Becky is very happy to advise and answer specific questions on what to expect on the course via email: Becky.Gouverneur@gmail.com.
Accommodation and meals during your stay, including an evening meal on day of arrival and breakfast on day of departure.
Please click here to view a sample menu (PDF opens in new tab).
Single occupancy in secure room, with own bathroom facilities: £630 per person.
Single occupancy room or shared room (twin or double), but sharing bathroom facilities: £585 per person (minimum booking for two and both must be participating in retreat).
Non-participating partners sharing a course participant's room are welcome: £350 per person (includes meals) . This option is subject to availability.
We welcome non-residential participants on our retreats/courses - please enquire for further details.
The form can either be printed and completed by hand or filled out on your computer (Adobe PDF reader required). If the latter, please make sure you save the PDF once you have added your details and then email this back to us.
RETREAT BOOKING FORM (PDF) - please right click and save to your computer.
Please refer to our Location page for directions, if coming by car.
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If you are planning to travel by another means of transport please contact us for assistance.