Introduction to Self Portrait Photography - Flatford Mill

Description

As photographers, we are often capturing photos of other people (and let’s face it, also sometimes hiding from the lens). Photographing yourself can be an incredible way to get to know yourself better, to see yourself differently, or to document a life change or event. Self-portraiture can also be art, commentary or simply a great way to practice new techniques and skills. You’re always conveniently available to be your own model, so join me to explore the art of self-portrait photography and learn the process of creating self-portraits which tell a story. We’ll dive into examples and possibilities, talk about useful kit, gather inspiration and catch ideas in the classroom, then head out for a practical, hands-on shooting session so you can put your ideas and concepts into practice. With a focus on stories and always considering the final image or series before we start shooting, we’ll cover the following things: -Mood & emotions: Every shoot starts with knowing what it is you want to convey in your final image, and getting clarity on this informs every other step of the process. - Setting the scene: thinking about location, environment & surroundings, light & shadow, framing & composition in the context of your subject (you!) and each story you want to tell. - Storytelling elements: wardrobe, props & styling, and how they contribute to the story you’re telling. - Practical techniques: while I’m not teaching actual photography basics, you’ll learn tricks for getting focus & depth of field right when photographing yourself, and have a chance to try out my self-portrait kit essentials. - Posing, expressions & movement: whether your intended final image is super wide or intensely close up, you’ll want to think about poses and expressions to convey the mood, story or emotion that’s at the heart of your photo. We’ll explore playing with shutter speed and intentional blur or movement, too. We’ll talk through editing (as I always shoot for my edit!), though we won’t edit on the day, this workshop is focused on the stories & taking the photos. By the end of the day, you’ll have some shots ready to start editing, and the notes and knowledge to continue your self-portrait adventures! What to bring: - Digital camera (ideally interchangeable lens DSLR/mirrorless, but as long as it’s not a phone, it’ll be fine). - Batteries. - Memory card(s). - Lenses, if you have them. - Notebook & pen. - Any items of clothing you may want to include in a self-portrait. Refreshments are included, but please bring lunch with you. If you have one, but these are all optional: - Flashgun - Tripod - Remote for the camera - Battery-operated LED continuous lights - If you’re likely to want to wear makeup/face paint/anything of that kind, please bring your own with you. - If you have anything which you think might help you tell a story, or which you’d like to perhaps incorporate into a self-portrait, please bring it with you – nothing valuable, breakable or likely to get lost, though, please, as we will be moving around. Previous examples have been books, something from a collection, a favourite mug, hats… anything goes! About your tutor: Clara Watkins Carla Watkins is a fine art photographic artist with a love of the ethereal, nostalgia and magic. She’s also a professional mermaid – yes, really! A former librarian with a vivid imagination and a lifelong love of reading, she weaves stories into photographs which could have walked off the pages of a book – and which invite you to find your own stories within them. She lives and works on the north Essex coast (which suits her mermaid heart), is often her own model, and her work pulls together memory, magic and wonder.

What's included in the price?

- Expert tuition. - Free Wi-Fi. - Hot and cold drinks. - Refreshments are included for all, but please bring lunch with you.

Cancellation policy

Strict - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 8 weeks before the course starts

Maker

Field Studies Council

with Craft Courses since 2012

Message the tutor

Inspiring creativity through nature. The Field Studies Council offers a range of art and craft courses led by experienced tutors in stunning natural settings. From our historic Flatford Mill to Bishops Wood and Amersham, our courses invite you to explore your creativity and learn new techniques. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, you’ll enjoy hands-on learning in a welcoming, supportive environment.