Do you find yourself admiring some of the amazing photographs you see splashed across newspapers, magazines and the internet? Images can be so powerful, and their popularity and prevalence has been buoyed by the rise of social media and image-sharing apps such as Instagram.
As a parent, you probably take more photos now than you used to. If you really enjoy photography, you may have invested in a decent quality camera. Do you really know how to use it, or do you simply stick it on auto mode and hope for the best? If you’d like to get more from your photography and your camera, it could be worth considering booking on to a local photography workshop.
Kasia Burke is a highly-respected professional photographer and runs a popular photography workshop every month in Hitchin. She’s worked in the industry for twelve years and, along the way, discovered a real flair for teaching and sharing her knowledge with others.
In Kasia’s three-hour workshop, ‘Get Out of Auto Mode’, you’ll learn the fundamentals of photography, how to get more from your camera (whether it’s an SLR or compact) and where to find inspiration for your photography. Workshops are a mix of theory and practical and are delivered in straight-forward language – there is no complicated technical jargon to worry about.
We spoke to Kasia to find out a little more about her workshops, and about her ongoing passion for photography.
How did you get into photography?
I’ve always had an interest. As a child, my Dad and Grandad were both always taking photos. I always had a camera of one sort or another on my travels, and with friends and family. I didn’t ever think about pursuing it as a career, or even a serious hobby, until I was in my late twenties.
I was first inspired by images in the National Geographic and Sunday supplements. Photojournalism really interested me. When a photograph captures emotion and creates feeling for the subject, it is simply amazing.
What still excites you about photography after being in the profession for more than a decade?
I love that photography is so accessible for all and that nearly everyone has a camera, even on their phones, which are pretty good nowadays. I am always exploring new ways to arrange a composition for my still life work. I enjoy studying masters of still life in all mediums and get really inspired at art and photography exhibitions.
What would you say to encourage a mum who is keen to take better photos but not feeling confident about attending a workshop?
Sometimes we have to step out of our comfort zones. We need to experience new things in life and try stuff out. I still get nervous every time I meet new client, and every time I exhibit work. There’s always a moment of doubt but after the job or exhibition, I have learnt new things either about myself or my photography, and I continually move forwards. If we don’t try new things we’ll never progress. My workshops are fun and many of my students become friends with me, and each other, afterwards.
What kind of people typically book on to your workshops?
Most are between the ages of 30 to 60. There’s an equal mix of male and female. Most have a keen interest but don’t have the technological know-how to control the creative effects of their photography. Others have a bit of knowledge but need a refresher. Everyone has different interests including landscape, portraits, street photography etc. but the initial ‘Get Out of Auto Mode’ workshop suits all types of subject matter.
What would you say to inspire our mums to develop their photography skills?
Don’t worry about what other people think about your photos. Enjoy the time taking the photos as much as the result. Go to exhibitions or look online, buy big coffee table books, and spend time looking at images by the pros to inspire your own photography. Keep shooting for yourself and develop your own style.
Find out more
If you’re interested in taking a workshop and would like to find out more, please visit Kasia’s website and Facebook page.