Enrolling on a digital photography course

Digital photography courses are a great way of finding out more about photography and learning new techniques. Courses differ around the country, so this article takes a look at what to look out for when you are enrolling on a digital photography course.

Key considerations

Location is your first consideration for courses in the UK. Have a look around to see what is available and where. You want to choose somewhere that is easy to get to. Community centres and adult education centres offer open courses like this all year round and so, you should be able to find one in your locality. Course content
Look at the content of the camera courses. Courses vary and you will want to make sure that you are signing up for one that suits you. Different levels; beginner, intermediate, advanced might be on offer, so select the course that you feel most comfortable with. Practical skills
A good range of content might include camera types, lighting principles, exposure, taking digital pictures, studio work, working outdoors and how to print and scan. Photo manipulation software may be covered as well as how to display your work and store and archive it. Practical skills could include setting up your own photography business or how to go about finding work. Accreditation
Check to see whether the course is accredited. Will you receive a certificate at the end of it? This may not be important if photography is just your hobby, but if you are looking to work professionally, a recognised qualification can be very beneficial.

And some more

Will you need to bring along your own camera or do the course providers have some on site? Find out what camera you will need and the basic requirements of your equipment. What other accessories will you be expected to have? Costs
Photography can be costly if you have to purchase equipment for your course, so find out what is needed as well as the actual cost of the course. Courses can range from free to expensive. Hence, shop around for the best deal before enrolling. Your tutor
One final thing to look for is your tutor’s credentials. Have they got experience of different types of photography? Have they got working knowledge of having their own photography business? Tutor’s backgrounds vary and you will be there to learn from them. Thus, you should check that the course they are offering will meet your needs.