Teaching photography or conducting workshops can be a great way to share your skills and earn money.
And along the way, you will also learn a thing or two from your participants.
You don’t have to start big; start with your friends and family.
Soon, you will gain the confidence to conduct bigger classes.
When it comes to teaching classes, here’s our game plan to help you get started.
First, choose an area you’re familiar with.
Image Credit: Ter-burg/Wikimedia Commons
Knowing the area well lets you accommodate and work with people with different physical abilities.
Also, it’s wise to know about popular cameras, lenses, and smartphones from major brands.
Folks are going to ask for help with their gear.
For example, some may not know whether theirs is a full frame or crop sensor camera.
If you’re familiar with famous brands, you could quickly guide them.
Find apps that canshoot in manual modefor people using mobile phones.
Image Credit: Ter-burg/Wikimedia Commons
So consider the traffic and start well ahead of what your map says.
Allow time for parking, buying tickets, and so on.
You will also have time to improvise if your favorite spot is crowded or taken for some reason.
If you’re actively photographing in the workshop, they may have doubts and need help with camera parameters.
So, don’t cram too much content that you are pressed for time.
So, have some images or physical prints with you to show them.
Check Your Pace
A few minutes into the class, observe the participants and test whether they follow you.
Not everyone has mastery ofthe exposure triangle.
If they look confused, slow down.
Now and then, stop and ask if they are in line with you.
Take time to explain things in detail.
Usually, people from different walks of life will sign up for your classes.
So expect participants of all skill levels in your workshop and be empathetic toward the needs of various participants.
Avoid Recommending Brands
Every photographer has a preference for a particular brand of cameras and lenses.
But, it is not a good idea to recommend your favorite brand to the participants.
Remember, you’re a photographer, not a camera expert.
Sometimes, when you say a fact, your participants may say they heard a contradicting thing.
It may seem like they are challenging your expertise, but keep calm and clarify your statement.
So, give a clear title and agenda for your program.
Some participants may be more interested in videography or vlogging, for example.
you’re free to still give general tips but keep it concise.
So bring your backup camera or a basic camera if you have one.
This way, your primary camera is safe at home in case of accidents.
And, you’ve got the option to connect with your participants easily with similar gear as them.
Your participants are paying for your time, so pay attention to them.
Help them with their composition and camera controls.
you’re able to come back later to take photos for your use.
Don’t Forget the Wallflowers
Not all participants will be upbeat and friendly.
Some shy folks may not be very talkative in a group setting.
Ace Your Photography Workshop
Running a photography class is for sure a rewarding experience.
Plan well and go with an open mind; you will have a blast.
