Course 4: Light and focus (online)

Language English

Duration 3h30

Group 7 pers. max

Level Beginner

Equipment Bridge or Hybrid · Digital Medium Format · Reflex Camera SLR

What you'll be able to do

During this fourth and final workshop on camera technology, the management of light, focus, as well as the use of manual mode will be on the program!

How it works?

This course lasts 3h30 and includes a theoretical explanation and exercises (within the limits of space of the house/apartment).
This beginner's course is part of a series of 4 introductory courses for beginners (available by videoconference and face-to-face, in different durations). These courses are offered separately: courses 1, 2, 3 & 4. By booking all 4 at the same time, you will receive a discount.
A meeting notice will be sent a few days before the date of each course, with the URL address to access the virtual classroom (no account to create, no data recording).
It is perfectly possible to attend two courses in the same day or four courses in the same weekend as these courses have been designed for this pace.

What you get?

During this fourth and final workshop on camera technology, light management, focus, and the use of manual mode will be on the program!

Initially, the management and measurement of light will be discussed; you will learn how to use the different modes and settings to interpret and shape the light in an image.

Focus management will also be discussed. To achieve precise focus on a moving subject, or on an off-centre element, mastering the different autofocus modes and the selection of collimators are fundamental.

Finally, the manual-shooting mode will be at the heart of the practical phase; the aim will be to familiarise yourself with this non-automated mode, to make its use more obvious. Of course, the exercises proposed by your trainer will also focus on light measurement and the use of autofocus.

This course will teach you to:

Measure light using the different modes (spot, matrix, centre-weighted)
Take pictures with backlighting
Focus using the different modes and choosing the right collimators
Use the manual shooting mode without difficulty

During this course, which is held by videoconference, small practical exercises are of course planned. In this respect, please make sure that you have your device loaded and equipped with an empty image memory card. Your teacher will establish the practice according to the environment of the house or apartment.

What to know before booking

What equipment should I bring for this course?

Bring your camera (DSLR or mirrorless) and its charger. Speedlights and light shapers are lent on site. If you own your own flash, bring it along — Inès will help you configure it.

Is this course suitable for complete beginners?

Yes. The group is limited to 6 people and the course starts from the basics of flash photography. No prior flash experience is required: you just need to know how to turn on your camera.

Where do we meet on the day of the course?

Meet at Place Sainte-Catherine in Brussels, in front of the church. The exact meeting point and Inès's number are sent to you by email once your booking is confirmed.

What happens in case of bad weather?

The course goes ahead in overcast or light rain — flash photography shines when natural light is scarce. In case of severe weather, Inès will offer you another date free of charge.

Can I give this course as a gift?

Yes. Choose the gift card option at checkout: the recipient receives a voucher valid for one year and picks their own date.

What is the cancellation policy?

Free cancellation up to 14 days before the course starts: you are fully refunded. This policy applies to all The Photo Academy courses, without exception.