Introduction to Photography, Workshop. For complete beginners.
Finally understand your camera — and start taking photographs you're proud of!
A relaxed, practical photography day for beginners who want to move beyond Auto, gain confidence and discover what their camera can really do.
Have you invested in a DSLR or mirrorless camera, but find yourself leaving it on Auto because you're not quite sure what all those other settings do?
Perhaps you've watched YouTube videos, read your camera manual or tried to work things out yourself, only to feel more confused than when you started.
Or maybe you simply love taking photographs, but feel there must be more you could do if only somebody would explain things in a way that makes sense.
You're not alone — and you don't have to figure it all out by yourself.
Join Emotive Capture Photography School for a friendly, hands-on day designed especially for beginners. Learn at your own pace, ask all the questions you've been afraid to ask and discover how to take more control of your camera.
No confusing jargon. No pressure to keep up with more experienced photographers. Just practical guidance, plenty of opportunities to experiment and the chance to grow your confidence in a relaxed, supportive environment.
Imagine what you could learn in just one day…
By the end of the workshop, you'll have a better understanding of how your camera works and how to start making creative decisions for yourself.
You'll discover how to:
Move beyond Auto. Understand your camera's key settings and begin taking more control of your photographs.
Make sense of aperture. Learn how to create a beautifully out of focus background or keep more of a landscape in focus. We will work in ‘Aperture Priority Mode’, for part of the lesson. This is the easiest way to improve your images!
We will briefly look at the exposure triangle. What does it all mean? We will touch on this, but don’t worry, our focus is on understanding ‘Aperture’
Get to grips with ISO. We will have a look at what ISO is, why this also matters in photography.
Focus with confidence. Learn how to focus on the subject that matters most in your photograph.
See the light differently. Discover how light can transform an ordinary scene into something much more interesting.
Improve your composition. Learn simple ways to frame your subject, create depth and make your photographs more engaging.
Most importantly, you'll have time to practice each new skill with guidance and support, rather than simply being told what to do.
“I have always loved the idea of Photography, but never really had the confidence to use anything but the auto settings. Emma taught me so much and did it so gently! she gave my confidence to not only know what settings to use but to take photos I LOVE!”
This isn't a classroom full of technical jargon. It's a day to discover what YOU can do with your camera.
I believe photography should be enjoyable, creative and accessible to everyone.
You don't need to arrive knowing your aperture from your shutter speed. You don't need to be confident. And you certainly don't need to worry about asking questions.
With many thanks to Emma Hough! Emma came to us a complete beginner and is now using Manual settings confidently! Emma is honestly an amazing photographer! Thank you for choosing Emotive Capture Photography School to help you.
With small-group tuition and individual guidance from Emma Holt BA(Hons), Founder and Head Instructor at Emotive Capture Photography School, you'll have the opportunity to learn in a way that suits you.
We'll take things step by step, allowing you time to experiment, make mistakes, ask questions and discover what works for you.
Because the aim isn't simply to learn a collection of camera settings. It's to help you feel more confident picking up your camera and excited about the photographs you can create.
A whole day dedicated to YOU and your photography
10.30am–3.30pm | In-person beginner photography workshop
This extended workshop gives you more time to learn, practise and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed.
We'll explore the essential camera settings, work with light and composition, and put what you've learned into practice. There'll be opportunities to ask questions, review your photographs and receive guidance along the way.
You'll be encouraged to experiment, explore your surroundings and develop your own creative eye.
You don't need to get everything right first time. That's part of learning!
Who is this workshop for?
This workshop is ideal if you:
Have a DSLR, mirrorless or Bridge camera (Please make sure you have the option to use your Camera in Aperture Priority mode). but aren't sure how to use it confidently.
Find yourself relying on Auto because the other settings feel confusing.
Want to understand your camera without getting lost in technical language.
Enjoy photography but feel frustrated that your photographs don't always match what you imagined.
Would love to develop your skills in a friendly, supportive group.
Want to spend more time outdoors, noticing the world around you and enjoying your photography.
Complete beginners are welcome. If you've never used anything other than Auto, that's absolutely fine!! (That’s what this Workshop is for!).
Meet your instructor
Hi, I'm Emma Holt BA(Hons), Founder and Head Instructor at Emotive Capture Photography School, and I'm passionate about helping people develop their photography.
I know that learning something new can sometimes feel daunting. My approach is friendly, encouraging and practical, with an emphasis on helping you understand the reasons behind your camera settings rather than simply getting you to press buttons!
I want you to leave feeling more confident, more inspired and ready to keep learning.
Image Emma Holt BA(Hons).
“Emma is a great teacher. I recently went on one of her Workshops and although I was nervous (Knowing next to nothing!). Emma put me at ease immediately. ”
Your workshop details
Workshop: Introduction to Photography. LIMITED PLACES.
Time: 10.30am–3.30pm
Location: Townley Park, Burnley, Lancashire. Meeting at ‘Park Life Cafe’ BB11 3RQ. (Please arrive 10mins early!) The Workshop will start on time!
Date: 28th November 2026.
Price: £97. per person. (This does not include refreshments/ Lunch/ Car parking).
Group size: Strictly, Limited to 6 participants only.
Suitable for: Beginners using DSLR, mirrorless cameras OR Bridge Camera. (Must have the option to use ‘Aperture Priority mode’ If unsure please contact us, before booking).
Please bring: Your camera, a suitable lens, a fully charged battery and a memory card. Bring any additional equipment you normally use, and wear clothing and footwear appropriate to the location and weather. You may also like to bring a Note book with you to make notes.
Please note; Lunch and other refreshments are not included in the price. We will pause for lunch at the Cafe, where you can still get advice on your Camera or Photography. Your Camera or equipment is not insured during the Workshop. Travel to and from the Location is not included.
Important information;
Emotive Capture Photography School, can not determine the Weather, every effort is made to ensure a Workshop goes ahead. If the Workshop has to be cancelled due to bad weather/ illness, an alternative date will be rescheduled or individuals may also use the deposit/balance paid towards an alternative Workshop or 1:1 Photography tuition. If the weather has changed for the worse later in the day, we appreciate how frustrating this can be, however, this is out of our hands, if this is the case we will carry on with the Photography Workshop inside ( Cafe/ Coffee Shop).
Q, What if I'm WORRIED, I'll be the least experienced person there?
Please don't let that stop you.
This workshop is specifically designed for beginners. You're not expected to arrive with a certain level of knowledge, and there is no need to compare yourself with anyone else.
Everyone learns differently. Some people pick things up quickly; others need to see something demonstrated a few times. Both are perfectly fine.
My role is to guide you, answer your questions and help you get more from your own camera.
You deserve to enjoy photography, whatever stage you're at.
“I learnt so much just from one Workshop and it really re-ignited my love for photography. I Would highly recommend!”