Do you want to finally take full control of your digital camera in all of its creative modes – including Manual operation?
DUE TO POPULAR DEMAND, WE ARE NOW OFFERING DAYTIME OR EVENING COURSES.
Come and learn from the professionals and find out why our Sydney digital photography courses book out!
If you are beginner with a Digital SLR or Mirrorless camera with manual capabilities and you want to take high quality digital images for a hobby, work, or to kick start a career in photography, then this is the photography course for you.
We explain the intricacies of the digital world in plain english, leaving you confident with your newly acquired technical and artistic skills. You will leave your digital photography course competent to shoot anything from portraits, products, landscapes, travel, or whichever genre you choose.
Check out some of the work by our past 8 week Beginner Photography Course participants in the Top 30 sets of images from each intake here
This course is an all encompassing one which covers every aspect of photography over a full 19 hours of tuition with one of our professional photographers.
Previous experience is not necessary for this course!
Understand your digital camera better through our digital photography course
On the 6th week of your workshop there is a *3 hour field trip around Sydney’s Harbour Foreshore late on the Sunday afternoon. This trip covers daylight, dusk, sunset and night photography where you practice all you have learnt with the support of your Tutor. All of this in addition to the studio demonstrations and practicals, allowing you to learn as you shoot.
On the final week of your digital photography course we examine the best of your imagery in a stunning digital slide show accompanied by music, pizza and soft drinks where we unwind and say farewell. We also have fantastic prizes on offer to some of our participants who make it into our ‘Top 30’ exhibition of images from your intake!
This course is for participants with any digital camera that has capability of shooting in manual mode. This is a ‘hands-on’ practical and fun digital photography course whether you are new to photography or making the transition from a ‘point and shoot’ compact camera or smartphone.
NOT SUITABLE FOR COMPACT CAMERAS WITHOUT FULL MANUAL CAPABILITY
CHECK OUT THE DATES IN THE DROP DOWN MENU WHEN YOU CLICK ENROL ONLINE. TAKE CARE TO SELECT THE CORRECT TIME FOR THE DATE YOU WANT
- You may attend your class via Zoom only when you absolutely cannot attend your scheduled class
* A final weather check will be conducted with the Bureau of Meteorology on the afternoon of your Field Trip. This may lead to the Field Trip being postponed in cases of unfavourable weather reports. The Field Trip may run in cases of light showers but not in persistent showers or heavy rain.
N.B. Classes are run subject to acquiring minimum numbers
FAQs
Who is the beginner photography course for?
Our beginner photography course at Sydney Photographic Workshops are fantastic classes for people who take the art form as a hobby, who want to kickstart their photography career and photography enthusiasts that wish to brush up on their foundation skills.
How much does it cost for the beginner photography course?
Our photography classes for beginners cost $395 overall.
Your fee includes the following:
- Professional Photographer for 19 hours tuition
- Workbook with notes / notepad
- Light refreshments throughout the class
- Studio equipment for demonstrations
- 3 hour photographic expedition field trip
Contact us for more information.
How long is the beginner course?
Our comprehensive beginner photography course runs for 8-weeks in total – which includes a 3 hour Field Trip on the Sunday of the 6th week. Our students can opt between two classes; a 7pm-9m course or a 12pm – 2pm course.
What can I expect to learn from the course?
Our beginner photography course is designed to provide you with practical and hands-on opportunities to better understand using the digital camera to create stunning images. From touching on your various DSLR or Mirrorless camera settings, expanding your creative eye with our 3-hour field trip to helping you acquire new artistic and technical skills, our photography courses for beginners covers a variety of niche areas of photography in an engaging, simplified way. Throughout a full 19 hours of tuition, you will be guided by some of Australia’s leading professional photographers. By the end of the course, you will have the confidence to take striking photographs from portraits, landscapes, travel and more.
What camera do I need for the photography course?
At Sydney Photographic Workshops, we require our students to bring a digital SLR, mirrorless or any other camera with manual capability to our beginners course. We also suggest our enrolled students take any camera accessories they may have from memory cards, fully charged camera batteries and tripod, lens hood, etc.
Please note: This course is not suitable for compact cameras without full manual mode.
Why choose Sydney Photographic Workshops for the course?
Enrol in Sydney Photographic Workshops beginner photography course, and you can reap the benefits of learning from passionate professional photographers that offer unending support every step of the way. Each boutique workshop holds a maximum of 10 students and draws on current, real-world knowledge to ensure your learning experience is as engaging and hands-on as possible. As a Sydney Photographic Workshops student, you will experience the sensational curriculum of workshops created by our principal tutor and internationally awarded professional photographer, Daniel Linnet, Master Photographer, AIPP.
M Stevens –
Totally rad course. Came out of it with a much deeper understanding of how my camera works and how to use it. Comfortable environment to ask questions and the groups were well proportioned – definitely worth the money.
Emma McKenzie –
Thoroughly enjoyed the 8 week course with Fiona. Feeing very inspired to continue learning and photographing.
Dianna –
Had a fantastic time during the beginners course. I never thought I’d be shooting in manual but by the end of it I couldn’t go back to auto! It was a great balance of theory and plenty of practical skills we could apply straight away. Frank our tutor was lots of fun and very helpful and explained all the technical side really well. I would highly recommend a course with SPW you’ll surprised how much you’ll learn!
Piyanjali Michod –
Dear Daniel
Thank you for my second session of private tuition and patiently answering all my questions. You are a very personable coach. For the hard work you and Wendy put in to SPW, you deserve to reach the pinnacle of success you aspire. I will always remember SPW for a wonderful learning experience and hope I can impress my family with my new-found skills in composition and lighting. Yours will be the credit, mine the reflected glory!! I wholeheartedly recommend you to all photography students – the very best Australian Canon Master Photographer.
Piyanjali Michôd
Guy Duggan –
The course covered a lot of topics in a fun environment. The foundations were reinforced throughout the 8 weeks and makes me more confident with my camera.
Catherine Borchok –
I really enjoyed this course and learnt a lot about my camera. I am now using my camera in manual mode which I have never done before. The field trip was particularly valuable. I have also come to appreciate more about the composition of a good photograph. The final night was a nice culmination of everything we had learnt. The tutors were very helpful and didn’t mind how many questions you asked. I would definitely consider doing further courses with SPW.
Jutta Waiblinger –
Now that I’ve been taught to use my camera on manual, photos I take in beautiful holiday destinations will be as beautiful as the destinations, no more auto. What’s even more exciting is I take photos wherever I go at home, my love of photography has been re-igneted. Thank you Frank for teaching in an easy to understand way, thank you Daniel for an action packed field trip and thank you Wendy for streamlined organising. The journey of learning is only as good as the people you surround yourself by and I’ve been on a worthwhile journey with lovely talented professionals.
Vandana Dsouza –
Thank you Kim for such comprehensive and amazing classes. I feel confident to use the manual functions of my new 80D and 50mm lenses (and for your advice on helping me choose), for excellent coffees and the fabulous last session. I have learnt a lot and grown from the experience as a photographer. I also greatly value the 3-hr hands-on workshop with Daniel – not to be missed!!! Only one suggestion- please spend the first 15-20 minutes of each class on reviewing / providing feedback on photo tasks you set to the class as a group, so we may learn from our mistakes as we progress. However, I still have no complaints as it was a fabulous learning experience.
Brandon Cromhout –
This course has certainly given me a better understanding of the technical aspect of photography. I feel more confident that more of my photos will be keepers now! The course location and the presentations were great too.
Rob Gillan –
SPW provides a great environment to not only learn your way around your camera but enough of the technical and creative theory to not only leapfrog your capabilities but have a lot of fun doing it. Well worth the money and time spent.
Stephanie Azzopardi –
Such a great and very informative course . Teacher was very thorough and precise. Highly recommended !
Linelle Stepto –
The beginners class with Ben was great…….made me realise how much goes into an image, & how much I enjoy doing it….so I have signed up for another course.
Jessica Stephenson –
What a fantastic course this was! We were very lucky to have such an approachable and friendly tutor as Ben. The class was relaxed & open, not to mention comfy (beanbag central). I learnt a lot over the 8 weeks & think this course is a MUST for anyone wanting to know more about photography basics.
The final night is a really cool idea, it allows you to see other peoples work & have your own forecasted… the wine helps too 🙂
Sue –
A great course. I finally know how to work my camera and what makes a great photograph. the classes were highly informative and the excursion really cemented the course content. Thoroughly enjoyed myself and am looking forward to taking better photos in the future.
Melinda –
I really enjoyed this course and am glad I now know how to use my camera, albeit a little slowly! The course is very logically set out over 8 weeks with simple explanations and practice. I recommend it!
Raymond Zhang –
Really enjoy the whole course from very beginning. Well designed structure where gives me practice experience at start. Very interested planned where gives me on field experience too. High Recommended to other people who is interested to know photography.
Kevin Yates –
We had a great time on the course. The tutor was very good, understanding and helpful. The atmosphere was conducive to learning and the course was good value for money. I highly recommend it.
Michael Kaissis –
This course has developed my skills across a broad range of specialist photography areas. The practical component used in conjunction with the theoretical element was perfectly balanced and has further ignited my passion for photography. I would strongly encourage beginning photographers to commit to this course. The teachers have a wealth of knowledge and have created a course that is tailored to your needs. They are also very willing to help even if the class is going over time!!! #takebackcontrol
Tim Matthews –
I was a complete beginner at the start of the course and now after 8 weeks I feel very confident with all those manual controls on my DSLR. Plus I’m much more aware of the key elements it takes to put a good shot together. Our tutor was very knowledgeable and creative, which was an excellent mix.
Annaleise –
Really enjoyed the 8 week course. Met some great people who we still go out an take photos with and gained so much practical knowledge. Thank you for providing such an incredible course.
Mariana Montoya –
8 week Beginners course was really enjoyable and helpful, I feel a lot more confident using my camera now. Thanks Frank for being such a great tutor; not only approachable and knowledgeable but funny too 🙂 Also want to thank Glenn and Wendy. Excellent course, and good atmosphere. For anyone interested in photography I highly recommend this studio!
Lee-arne Salmon –
Great course and Kim, was a fantastic tutor. Now feel way more confident with my camera and I feel that I am no longer just a “happy snapper”. Looking for the next course to do as I feel there is still so much to learn. Thank you
Jenna –
Had such a great experience whilst taking part in the 8 week beginners course. It Taught me the basics about how to use my digital camera but also stretched my learning and creativity. Loved looking at the final products of my photos as well as everyone else in my course.
Nicolas Raggio –
Great teacher, friendly atmosphere, professional teaching delivery when it comes to technical aspects of photography. Great value, and you will definitely walk away learning how to use your camera.
Jennifer Winstanley –
Great course, covered all the fundamentals in an easy to understand format and hands on practice.
Good to now have more creative control over my photographs and a better understanding of all the camera buttons!
Glenn was a great tutor, clear and concise information and endlessly patient!
Kim –
Enjoyed the course and learnt a lot. Looking forward to the introduction of an intermediat course. Value for money and I now can utilise my camera.
Maria Astakhova –
I wanted to say “Thank you” for the wonderful courses you run at your place. The approach, attitude and mood are so friendly and encouraging! I will definitely do Portraiture course and maybe Travel at some stage.
Demerson –
Great experience with great tutors. The techniques learned will certainly help me in my journey of photography. In addition, Wendy and Daniel are very kind people and I am sure that they will try their best so you can have a great experience and learning environment. I highly recommend the courses offered.
Madelyne –
I walked in not knowing how to use my camera or what any setting meant. I left feeling confident I can now create a decent photo. Kim was very helpful and knowledgeable as was Frank on our field trip. Would love it if there was an intermediate class to continue as I feel there’s so much more to learn.
Cameron Herbert –
I really enjoyed this course – found it helpful to divide up the basics into 8 bite sized pieces, rather than do it all at once over a weekend or similar. Each 2 hour session was clearly and logically presented, and the supporting material was excellent. It would be great to see a similar intermediate course put on, to build on the basics I’ve learnt. The West Pymble venue was convenient and comfortable.
Doug Cotton –
Fantastic course Frank had answers to all questions and in depth knowledge of subject matter. I would recommend this course to any one who wants to get away from point and shot auto settings.
Nadine Sickert –
I loved the course! My skills have improved so much and I feel so much more confident. Now I am taking my camera everywhere I go. Kim did a fabulous job in developing our skills and becoming more confident in using the camera settings. I would love to join a course for post production in Lightroom in Pymble area. Unfortunately, Alexandria will be too difficult for me.
David Armstrong –
Really enjoyed the course and am encouraged to take my photography more seriously. Kim did a great job of developing the skills of the participants. Would be interested in a Lightroom course but Alexandria will be difficult.
Lucia Braham –
Excellent course content. Covers all bases and elementary techniques. I really appreciated the way that the course encouraged creativity. Incredibly friendly and knowledgeable staff and tutors. I highly recommend this course.
Maja skundric –
Ah-mazing! The course over and beyond exceeded my expectations , last
Spw night was a very nice touch. Happy to say my can is now in manual! Thanks spw!!
Andrew Barton –
I really enjoyed the classes and learned a lot throughout the course. The sessions were well thought out and well presented. I have noticed a marked improvement in my photography as a result of the course. Kim is a knowledgable teacher who was very approachable and helpful. I would recommend it to anyone looking to improve their skills.
Sharon Daniel –
Thank you so much for the past weeks. I have learnt so much during the time and found it to be a thoroughly enjoyable experience. I look forward to possibly in the future undertaking more workshops.
Megan –
Very pleased. Every week I got a lot out of it. Surprised how much value I got for my money
Martine Hefford –
I like who it covers all the basics (nobody feels stupid). Moved at a pace to match the group, covered areas we all understood quickly + spent longer on the areas we wanted more understanding.
Mary Kosanic –
I came into this course with no knowledge of manual use of camera or of anything else really. Now I am feeling a lot more confident and taking photographs with a completely new approach. Fiona is a great teacher. Very patient and informative and the whole atmosphere at SPW is very friendly and welcoming and it was nice to meet such interesting people also. I would definitely recommend SPW. Thank you Fiona, I am definitely more confident and enjoying my photography.
Deborah-Ann Allan –
SO glad I did the Sydney Photographic Workshops full course. I now know my way around my own camera, not just general knowledge from the internet – the course is a mixture of learning, application and DIY practice which is perfect. Groups are small so you receive individual attention and course includes a field trip as well as the studio work. Such good value for money – and learning from a professional photographer like Ben, I not only have a new respect for photography generally, I feel more confident to take my own shots in manual. For anyone remotely interested in photography, take this SPW course!
Jeff –
a great course for getting on top of the basics and moving into the technical side of camera use , Fiona was a excellent teacher.
Deborah Wotherspoon –
As a green ‘point and shoot’ photographer I now have more understanding and confidence to turn the dial. The composition and editorial tutorials were excellent. The field day was so worthwhile
Roslyn Baldwin –
My camera is now in ‘manual’ – how cool is that? Thoroughly enjoyed the lessons and the workshop.
Marie Le Hur –
8 week beginners course – I learnt a lot, laughed a lot and really enjoyed the whole thing. Thanks Frank.
Rebecca Stephenson –
I was very impressed with the course. The content was useful, informative and easy to follow. Our coach was fantastic at explaining things in detail; allowing us beginners to understand why we were doing things a certain way.
Emma Bailie –
The team and atmosphere at SPW are warm and encouraging. Ben, especially was really approachable and made sure no-one in the class was left behind. The Final Night was a really nice touch. I highly recommend this course and SPW.
Peter Groch –
Enjoyed the course, as I was able to build on the knowledge I already had acquired. For budding photographers, who are looking to up skill their knowledge, I would recommend this course.
Jennifer Ciardi –
Totally enjoyed it. Individual attention given, no matter what make of camera. I can’t believe I now know my way around my Nikon. Thank you.
Prem Sandhu –
I felt value for money. Tutor very helpful and very knowledgable. The company is lucky to have such a tutor. I am more confident after the workshop.