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Skills and Confidence Behind the Lens

Photography Courses

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Digital Photography for Beginners Courses

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Discover how to get the most out of your camera and start creating images you’re proud of. In this hands-on beginner-friendly course, you’ll learn the technical essentials of digital photography while exploring the creative choices that bring pictures to life. Guided by expert photographers, you’ll master manual controls, experiment with composition techniques, and develop your own photographic style through both studio learning and location shoots around London.

Whether you’re looking to document your travels, capture portraits, or explore artistic photography, you’ll gain the knowledge and confidence to take control of your camera and produce striking images.

Do I need my own camera?

Please bring a mirrorless camera, a DSLR camera or a compact camera with full manual controls. If you don’t have one, you can borrow a camera for use during class time.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

Over the duration of this course you will:

  • Master the exposure triangle: ISO, aperture, and shutter speed
  • Confidently handle a mirrorless or DSLR camera
  • Choose the right focal length and lens for different subjects
  • Work with manual and semi-automatic modes (M, A/Av, S/Tv, P)
  • Control depth of field and f-stops for creative focus
  • Capture motion — freeze the action or create movement effects
  • Use autofocus modes and focus points effectively
  • Apply composition techniques for balanced, engaging images
  • Understand JPEG vs RAW and choose the right file format
  • Set white balance for accurate colour in changing light

BENEFITS OF TAKING THIS COURSE

Learn the skills that turn snapshots into stand-out shots. This course gives you the confidence, control, and creative tools to capture images that truly reflect your vision.

  • Shoot with confidence: Understand exactly which settings to use and why
  • Unlock creativity: Use light, lens choice, and framing to tell stronger visual stories
  • Hands-on practice: Apply new techniques immediately in real-world scenarios
  • Personalised feedback: Receive supportive, constructive advice from your tutor
  • Solid foundation: Prepare for more advanced or specialist photography courses
  • Efficient workflow: Simple habits to improve consistency and results
✏️
Master Your Camera
Take full manual control and move beyond automatic mode
🔀
Light Like a Pro
Read natural light and set white balance for perfect colour
🙂
Pin-Sharp Focus
Select autofocus modes and points for precise results
⚙️
Compose with Purpose
Apply framing and visual balance to guide the eye
🎵
Sound & Vision
Capture clear audio and compelling visuals.
🎓
Motion Mastery
Freeze or blur movement for impact

USEFUL INFORMATION

1
Who is this course for?
Complete beginners or those with basic photography knowledge who want clear, practical instruction and guided practice.
2
Do I need my own camera?
Please bring a DSLR camera with full manual controls. If you don’t have one, you can borrow a DSLR for use during class time.
3
What else should I bring?
Your camera’s manual, fully charged battery, an empty memory card, comfortable shoes, and a light bag. A lightweight tripod and external flash are useful if you own them.
4
Will we be shooting outdoors?
Yes. The course combines classroom sessions with location shoots at London landmarks (locations may vary).
5
What will I be able to do by the end?
Manually set your camera for any scene, use lenses effectively, control focus and exposure, compose creatively, and work confidently in different shooting environments.
6
Do I need my own camera?
Please bring a mirrorless camera, a DSLR camera or a compact camera with full manual controls. If you don’t have one, you can borrow a camera for use during class time.

STUDENTS ON THIS COURSE MOVE ONTO

Many students use this course as a springboard to explore more specialised areas of photography. Whether developing a professional portfolio or simply refining your creative style, moving on to advanced classes allows you to deepen your technical skills, experiment with new genres, and produce work with even greater impact.

PHOTOGRAPHY SUMMER SCHOOLS

Take your pictures to the next level with our five-day Photography Summer School. Gaining a further understanding of the technical and aesthetic aspects of photography.

FIND OUT MORE
PHOTOGRAPHY SUMMER SCHOOLS

FILMMAKING SUMMER SCHOOLS

Use state of the art filmmaking and post-production equipment to write, direct and edit a short film in the Adult Filmmaking Summer School

FIND OUT MORE
FILMMAKING SUMMER SCHOOLS

Browse Courses

You can filter Courses by month and tutor

Date Day Time (BST) Duration Tutor Venue Price Booking
11 Jun 2026 - 16 Jul 2026
Thu
18:30-20:30
6 weeks
James Ross
Photoion Studio, Waterloo
£256.50
10% OFF
27 Jun 2026 - 28 Jun 2026
Sat
10:00-16:00
2 days (Saturday and Sunday)
James Ross
Photoion Studio, Waterloo
£285.00
08 Jul 2026 - 12 Aug 2026
Wed
18:30-20:30
6 weeks
James Ross
Photoion Studio, Waterloo
£285.00
18 Jul 2026 - 19 Jul 2026
Sat
10:00-16:00
2 days (Saturday and Sunday)
James Ross
Photoion Studio, Waterloo
£285.00
08 Aug 2026 - 09 Aug 2026
Sat
10:00-16:00
2 days (Saturday and Sunday)
Holly Falconer
Photoion Studio, Waterloo
£285.00
15 Aug 2026 - 16 Aug 2026
Sat
10:00-16:00
2 days (Saturday and Sunday)
James Ross
Photoion Studio, Waterloo
£285.00
25 Aug 2026 - 29 Sep 2026
Tue
18:30-20:30
6 weeks
Holly Falconer
Photoion Studio, Waterloo
£285.00
05 Sep 2026 - 06 Sep 2026
Sat
10:00-16:00
2 days (Saturday and Sunday)
James Ross
Photoion Studio, Waterloo
£285.00
19 Sep 2026 - 20 Sep 2026
Sat
10:00-16:00
2 days (Saturday and Sunday)
Holly Falconer
Photoion Studio, Waterloo
£285.00
10 Oct 2026 - 11 Oct 2026
Sat
10:00-16:00
2 days (Saturday and Sunday)
James Ross
Photoion Studio, Waterloo
£285.00
17 Oct 2026 - 18 Oct 2026
Sat
10:00-16:00
2 days (Saturday and Sunday)
James Ross
Photoion Studio, Waterloo
£285.00
07 Nov 2026 - 08 Nov 2026
Sat
10:00-16:00
2 days (Saturday and Sunday)
James Ross
Photoion Studio, Waterloo
£285.00
21 Nov 2026 - 22 Nov 2026
Sat
10:00-16:00
2 days (Saturday and Sunday)
Holly Falconer
Photoion Studio, Waterloo
£285.00
05 Dec 2026 - 06 Dec 2026
Sat
10:00-16:00
2 days (Saturday and Sunday)
Holly Falconer
Photoion Studio, Waterloo
£285.00
11
Jun
11 Jun 2026 - 16 Jul 2026
£256.50
Day:Thu
Time:18:30-20:30
Duration:6 weeks
Tutor: James Ross
Venue: Photoion Studio, Waterloo
Offer:10% OFF
27
Jun
27 Jun 2026 - 28 Jun 2026
£285.00
Day:Sat
Time:10:00-16:00
Duration:2 days (Saturday and Sunday)
Tutor: James Ross
Venue: Photoion Studio, Waterloo
08
Jul
08 Jul 2026 - 12 Aug 2026
£285.00
Day:Wed
Time:18:30-20:30
Duration:6 weeks
Tutor: James Ross
Venue: Photoion Studio, Waterloo
18
Jul
18 Jul 2026 - 19 Jul 2026
£285.00
Day:Sat
Time:10:00-16:00
Duration:2 days (Saturday and Sunday)
Tutor: James Ross
Venue: Photoion Studio, Waterloo
08
Aug
08 Aug 2026 - 09 Aug 2026
£285.00
Day:Sat
Time:10:00-16:00
Duration:2 days (Saturday and Sunday)
Tutor: Holly Falconer
Venue: Photoion Studio, Waterloo
15
Aug
15 Aug 2026 - 16 Aug 2026
£285.00
Day:Sat
Time:10:00-16:00
Duration:2 days (Saturday and Sunday)
Tutor: James Ross
Venue: Photoion Studio, Waterloo
25
Aug
25 Aug 2026 - 29 Sep 2026
£285.00
Day:Tue
Time:18:30-20:30
Duration:6 weeks
Tutor: Holly Falconer
Venue: Photoion Studio, Waterloo
05
Sep
05 Sep 2026 - 06 Sep 2026
£285.00
Day:Sat
Time:10:00-16:00
Duration:2 days (Saturday and Sunday)
Tutor: James Ross
Venue: Photoion Studio, Waterloo
19
Sep
19 Sep 2026 - 20 Sep 2026
£285.00
Day:Sat
Time:10:00-16:00
Duration:2 days (Saturday and Sunday)
Tutor: Holly Falconer
Venue: Photoion Studio, Waterloo
10
Oct
10 Oct 2026 - 11 Oct 2026
£285.00
Day:Sat
Time:10:00-16:00
Duration:2 days (Saturday and Sunday)
Tutor: James Ross
Venue: Photoion Studio, Waterloo
17
Oct
17 Oct 2026 - 18 Oct 2026
£285.00
Day:Sat
Time:10:00-16:00
Duration:2 days (Saturday and Sunday)
Tutor: James Ross
Venue: Photoion Studio, Waterloo
07
Nov
07 Nov 2026 - 08 Nov 2026
£285.00
Day:Sat
Time:10:00-16:00
Duration:2 days (Saturday and Sunday)
Tutor: James Ross
Venue: Photoion Studio, Waterloo
21
Nov
21 Nov 2026 - 22 Nov 2026
£285.00
Day:Sat
Time:10:00-16:00
Duration:2 days (Saturday and Sunday)
Tutor: Holly Falconer
Venue: Photoion Studio, Waterloo
05
Dec
05 Dec 2026 - 06 Dec 2026
£285.00
Day:Sat
Time:10:00-16:00
Duration:2 days (Saturday and Sunday)
Tutor: Holly Falconer
Venue: Photoion Studio, Waterloo

PAYMENT OPTIONS

You are welcome to join the course up to the second class.

ONLINE & PHONE PAYMENTS

Online – To book your selected class/course online, just click Book Now next to your chosen class/course.

Phone – We would be happy to take your booking over the phone, just call us on 020 7042 8833 .

CASH & CHEQUE PAYMENTS

Cash - You are welcome to pay cash, just come and see us at our office: City Academy, 10 Herbal Hill, London EC1R 5EG.

If you book 2 or more different classes/courses at a time we can offer you a 10% discount. If you wish to take advantage of this offer please enter 2ORMORE in the promotional code box when booking online or quote code when booking over the phone. Please note that this offer cannot be applied when you are booking two or more of the same class/course.

INDUSTRY TUTORS

City Academy tutors are experienced artists and performers that work in the industry. If your tutor's availability changes at short notice, our team will arrange for a suitable replacement and notify you in advance.

CANCELLATIONS POLICY

We offer a full refund or full credit of your original course if you cancel at least 72 hours before the start of your booking.

We cannot offer any refund if you cancel less than 72 hours before the start of your booking, or if you do not attend.

(For more information please see our terms and conditions)

PHOTOGRAPHY SUMMER SCHOOLS

Take your pictures to the next level with our five-day Photography Summer School. Gaining a further understanding of the technical and aesthetic aspects of photography.

FIND OUT MORE
PHOTOGRAPHY SUMMER SCHOOLS

FILMMAKING SUMMER SCHOOLS

Use state of the art filmmaking and post-production equipment to write, direct and edit a short film in the Adult Filmmaking Summer School

FIND OUT MORE
FILMMAKING SUMMER SCHOOLS
Photoion Studio, Waterloo
Photoion Studio, Waterloo
Closest Station: Waterloo
Closest Bus Stop: Imperial War Museum / Elephant & Castle / Newington Causeway

PHOTOGRAPHY SUMMER SCHOOLS

Take your pictures to the next level with our five-day Photography Summer School. Gaining a further understanding of the technical and aesthetic aspects of photography.

FIND OUT MORE
PHOTOGRAPHY SUMMER SCHOOLS

FILMMAKING SUMMER SCHOOLS

Use state of the art filmmaking and post-production equipment to write, direct and edit a short film in the Adult Filmmaking Summer School

FIND OUT MORE
FILMMAKING SUMMER SCHOOLS

All City Academy tutors are experienced professionals from theatre, film/TV and performance industries. So whilst they're training you they may also be rehearsing for a West End show or working on a movie. We like that and we do believe it makes a difference in class.

James Ross
James Ross
Holly Falconer
Holly Falconer

PHOTOGRAPHY SUMMER SCHOOLS

Take your pictures to the next level with our five-day Photography Summer School. Gaining a further understanding of the technical and aesthetic aspects of photography.

FIND OUT MORE
PHOTOGRAPHY SUMMER SCHOOLS

FILMMAKING SUMMER SCHOOLS

Use state of the art filmmaking and post-production equipment to write, direct and edit a short film in the Adult Filmmaking Summer School

FIND OUT MORE
FILMMAKING SUMMER SCHOOLS