Whether you use a DSLR camera or simply take photographs with your smartphone, this six-week course will help you develop your photography skills and take more creative, confident and high-quality photographs.
Course outline
Through learning essential photography principles, you will develop your creative eye and make the most of your camera. With support from an experienced instructor, the course will help you understand the techniques behind great photographs and enhance your current approach to photography.
Over six weeks, you will explore everything from visual culture, composition and exposure to creative photography techniques and post-production editing. You will develop practical skills that can be applied to a wide range of photographic subjects and styles.
By the end of the course, you will have a stronger understanding of the principles of photography and greater confidence in creating your own images.
Tutor profile
Neill Cockwill is a Senior Lecturer and Media Development Manager at Edge Hill University, where he has studied, taught and worked for more than 30 years.
An experienced educator and practitioner, Neill teaches photography to first-year students across the department, combining technical expertise with a passion for visual storytelling. As a photographer and writer, Neill’s work has been exhibited internationally.
He is a co-author of Soviet Ghosts (2014), created in collaboration with renowned urban exploration photographer Rebecca Bathory. The book combines Rebecca’s striking photography of former Soviet satellite states with Neill’s evocative prose, exploring the history, atmosphere and legacy of these forgotten places.
Session outline
Over the six weeks, you will cover:
- Behind the image – understanding visual culture and how photographs communicate.
- Mastering composition – learning how to create stronger and more engaging images.
- Understanding exposure – exploring the relationship between light, aperture, shutter speed and ISO.
- Creative photography techniques – experimenting with different approaches to image-making.
- Introduction to post-processing – discovering how editing can enhance and develop your photographs.
Course information
Please note that all of our community CPD courses are aimed at adults and you must be over 18 to join.