NEWS

Just released 2024 Photography Trips & Holidays

Thursday, February 8th, 2024

Hi Everyone, here are some of our Photography Holidays planned for this year. If like me you are fed up with the weather here in the UK and are desperate to explore pastures new then there is bound to be something in this email to look forward to.

Picos de Europa and Cabarceno Nature Reserve

Sunday 2nd to Sunday 9th June 2024

Cost £1995.00

The Picos de Europa is one of the few truly unspoilt areas of Spain that is still unaffected by large numbers of tourists. Do not confuse this area with holiday Spain! The contrasts within these 300 square miles of spectacular natural beauty that link Cantabria and Asturias are amazing. Looking up you’ll see a series of dramatic rocky peaks rising to well over 8,000 feet, their sharp jagged edges clearly defined against the pale blue skyline. Small mountain villages are tucked away in the higher slopes almost completely isolated. Looking down, the first signs of colourful mountain flowers begin to appear, increasing in frequency the lower you look amongst the rolling hills of lush vegetation. Deep gorges that plunge vertically down into deep river valleys, sparkling lakes, and magical forests make this a photographers paradise just begging to be explored.

New for 2024 are 2 full day visits to the Cabarceno Nature Reserve located 20 km south of Santander. This nature reserve is as close as you can get to seeing wildlife in their natural habitat and setting. It features many animals threatened with extinction, like African elephants, zebras and white rhinoceros along with bears, tigers, lions and much more.

Full details can be found here; https://www.imbercourtphototraining.co.uk/photography-holiday-spain

The Outer Hebrides and Isle of Harris

Friday 14th to Sunday 23rd June 2024

Cost £2200 approximately

Are you looking for a unique and exciting holiday destination that offers stunning natural beauty and plenty of opportunities to take amazing photographs? Then a photography holiday to these beautiful islands is the perfect place for you. The Western Isles/Outer Hebrides boast some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Europe, from rolling hills to rugged coastlines. An opportunity to photograph Puffins on the island of Mingulay and eagles hunting on the east coast of North Uist. Time will also be spent photographing the wide variety of sea birds on the beaches and of course searching for the elusive otters. The Isle of Harris is our next stop for its stunning seascapes and landscapes.

This trip is not on our website yet, I’m holding fire on booking everything until I see how much interest there is from you all. There will be a maximum of seven places available on this one and a full itinerary will be available in the next couple of days. We will travel from Glasgow to the west coast, catch a ferry to Lochboisdale on South Uist where we will stay for 2 nights. We then travel up to North Uist for three nights and then across to the Isle of Harris for 2nights and the back to the mainland and Inverness via the ferry to Ullapool.

Please let me know as soon as possible if you are interested in coming along, There are very few hotel options on the islands so I will need to secure rooms and ferry crossings within the next few days. Please let me know if you require any further information

Amazing India

Saturday 14th to Friday 27th September 2024

Due to the amount of enquiries I have been receiving re our India Rajasthan holiday I have managed to book another one in September. Our guided tour of Rajasthan goes beyond the typical tourist route, allowing you to capture iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal while immersing yourself in the authentic Indian experience and explore small villages and towns, meet the locals, and stay at enchanting rural heritage properties, including castles, old forts, and a night of luxury camping beside a beautiful lake.

The final two nights are spent at a beautiful hotel overlooking the lake in Udaipur, where the final scenes of the first Marigold Hotel were filmed. Two visits to Ranthambore National Park offer the chance to spot Tigers. Optional activities include an Indian Cooking course and horse riding at Bijaipur Castle. This trip guarantees to be a life-changing experience!

£2950 + flights PER PERSON single occupancy accommodation throughout

Full details can be found here; https://www.imbercourtphototraining.co.uk/photography-holidays-india/

Iceland

I hope to run two trips to the land of Fire and Ice in November and December this year, dates are to be confirmed. If you would be interested in this trip let me know and I will keep you updated throughout the year.

India Wildlife Tour February/ March2025

This one is in the early stages of planning so again for those of you who have already declared an interest and for those of you who also may be interested in this one, let me know and I will send you updates as things progress.


Beginner’s Photography Courses at Painshill Park in Surrey – Unlock Your Photography Potential

Wednesday, January 31st, 2024

Why choose our photography courses in Surrey

Are you eager to explore the world of photography but unsure where to start? Immerse yourself in the art of photography with our specially crafted photography courses for beginner’s at Painshill Park in Surrey.

Our Painshill Park photography course for beginner’s caters to individuals who have recently acquired a DSLR or mirrorless camera or have been using these devices on automatic settings. Nestled in the picturesque Painshill Park, Surrey, our courses provide a friendly, easy-to-understand learning environment in plain English. Benefit from a blend of engaging classroom sessions and hands-on practical experiences against the stunning backdrop of Painshill.

Guided by our experienced trainer, Ashley, you’ll gain insights through simple explanations of various camera settings, focusing on crucial elements like shutter speed, aperture, and ISO. Learn to master these fundamental controls, crucial for capturing remarkable photographs.

PAINSHILL PARK PHOTOGRAPHY COURSE

 

What You’ll Learn:

  • Shutter Speed: Capture or freeze motion in your images.
  • Aperture: Choose whether your image background is sharp or blurred.
  • ISO: Understand the sensitivity of your camera’s sensor for diverse lighting conditions.
  • Composition: Learn the basics of how to compose your photographs.
  • Download & Edit images: Transfer your images onto a computer and some basic editing skills using software.

Our comprehensive photography course for beginner’s course extends beyond camera controls, covering essential aspects of composition, lighting, and insights into different lenses. This knowledge proves invaluable when considering future equipment purchases.

Furthermore, our course delves into post-processing techniques using tools like Photoshop or Lightroom. Enhance your images and ensure they look their best before sharing with others.

Highlights:

  • Practical Skills: Acquire hands-on experience for real-world applications.
  • Camera Mastery: Gain a deeper understanding of your camera’s capabilities.
  • Stunning Images: Develop the ability to create visually appealing photographs.

Upon completion, each participant receives comprehensive notes for future reference, and a certificate of attendance is available upon request.

Investment in Your Skills: The cost of this comprehensive course is £95.00. Secure your spot by booking online, or contact Ashley directly at 07703196114 or via email at ashley@imbercourtphototraining.co.uk.

Embark on this enriching journey to unlock


Beginners Photography Course – 1 Day Chichester Harbour West Sussex

Saturday, January 27th, 2024

 

A beginners comprehensive photography course at Chichester Harbour

Beginner’s Photography Courses at Chichester Harbour – Unlock Your Photography Potential

Are you eager to explore the world of photography but unsure where to start? Immerse yourself in the art of photography with our specially crafted beginner’s photography courses at Chichester Harbour.

Our Chichester Harbour beginner’s photography course caters to individuals who have recently acquired a DSLR or mirrorless camera or have been using these devices on automatic settings. Nestled in the picturesque Chichester Harbour, West Sussex, our courses provide a friendly, easy-to-understand learning environment in plain English. Benefit from a blend of engaging classroom sessions and hands-on practical experiences against the stunning backdrop of Chichester Harbour.

Guided by our experienced trainer, Ashley, you’ll gain insights through simple explanations of various camera settings, focusing on crucial elements like shutter speed, aperture, and ISO. Learn to master these fundamental controls, crucial for capturing remarkable photographs.

What You’ll Learn:

  • Shutter Speed: Capture or freeze motion in your images.
  • Aperture: Choose whether your image background is sharp or blurred.
  • ISO: Understand the sensitivity of your camera’s sensor for diverse lighting conditions.
  • Composition: Learn the basics of how to compose your photographs.
  • Download & Edit images: Transfer your images onto a computer and some basic editing skills using software.

Our comprehensive beginner’s course extends beyond camera controls, covering essential aspects of composition, lighting, and insights into different lenses. This knowledge proves invaluable when considering future equipment purchases.

Furthermore, our course delves into post-processing techniques using tools like Photoshop or Lightroom. Enhance your images and ensure they look their best before sharing with others.

Highlights:

  • Practical Skills: Acquire hands-on experience for real-world applications.
  • Camera Mastery: Gain a deeper understanding of your camera’s capabilities.
  • Stunning Images: Develop the ability to create visually appealing photographs.

Upon completion, each participant receives comprehensive notes for future reference, and a certificate of attendance is available upon request.

Investment in Your Skills: The cost of this comprehensive course is £95.00. Secure your spot by booking online, or contact Ashley directly at 07703196114 or via email at ashley@imbercourtphototraining.co.uk.

Embark on this enriching journey to unlock your photography potential – book your place today!


Photography for beginners – a comprehensive one day workshop

Monday, January 15th, 2024

Photography for beginners - a comprehensive one day workshop
Photography for beginners – a comprehensive one day workshop

Photography for beginners – a comprehensive one day workshop

Introduction:

Welcome to Imber Court Photo Training, where our offer transformative and comprehensive one day workshop for beginners. Our aim is to empower individuals to move beyond automatic settings on their DSLR or mirrorless cameras, providing a deep understanding of various camera settings. Led by Ashley Gardner, a seasoned professional trainer and photographer with over 35 years of experience, our workshops promise a blend of theory, practical application, and post-processing skills.

Unraveling Camera Settings

Our photography course for beginners kicks off in the classroom, where participants receive clear explanations and examples illustrating the importance of different camera settings. Ashley guides attendees individually through their cameras, ensuring a hands-on understanding of each setting. The day then transitions outdoors, allowing participants to apply their newfound knowledge in the stunning landscapes of Painshill Park and Chichester Harbour.

Camera Settings Mastery:

  • Shutter speed, aperture, ISO, white balance, and exposure compensation.
  • Practical application in various scenarios.
  • Basic Editing Techniques:
  • Introduction to essential post-processing skills.
  • Downloading and backing up images.

Instructor Expertise

Ashley Gardner, our proficient trainer and photographer, brings decades of experience to the table. Imber Court Photo Training is proud to be a member of the Trading Standards Buy with Confidence scheme, boasting consistently excellent feedback.

Practical Details

  • Accessibility:
  • No age restrictions; wheelchair-friendly locations.
  • Maximum of 8 attendees per class.
  • Locations:
  • Beautiful landscapes, folies, and wildlife.
  • Seascapes, wildlife, and boats.

Post-Course Support

  • Feedback and Advice:
  • Email your images post-course for personalised feedback from Ashley.
  • Ongoing support for photography queries.
  • Buying advice

Course Conclusion

At the end of the day, participants gain practical skills, a deeper understanding of their cameras, and the ability to create stunning images. Each attendee receives comprehensive notes for future reference, and a certificate of attendance is issued upon request.

Booking Information

The cost of this comprehensive course is £95.00. Secure your spot by booking online at https://www.imbercourtphototraining.co.uk/photography-courses/, or contact Ashley directly on 07703196114 or via email at ashley@imbercourtphototraining.co.uk.

Embark on this journey to unlock your photography potential – book your place today!

Ashley Gardner Course Trainer

IMPROVER’S 2 DAY PHOTOGRAPHY COURSE CHICHESTER HARBOUR

Monday, January 8th, 2024

Improve your Photography skills in this area of outstanding natural beauty: Our 2 Day Improvers photography course; an Immersive Photography Course based in Chichester, West Sussex and the South Downs National Park.

Are you a photographer seeking to elevate your craft amidst stunning natural landscapes? Look no further! Join us for an exhilarating 2 day Improvers Photography Course set amidst the picturesque beauty of Chichester Harbour, West Sussex and the South Downs National Park. This exclusive program is meticulously designed for photographers eager to enhance their skills in capturing landscapes, seascapes, wildlife, and beyond.

From the serene Chichester Harbour to the majestic South Downs National Park, our course is a dynamic exploration of diverse environments, offering an abundance of subjects to capture. Imagine the breathtaking coastline, the tranquil harbours alive with boats, the rolling hills of the South Downs, and the vibrant wildlife nestled within.

Led by Ashley Gardner, a seasoned photography expert, this 2 day improvers photography course caters to all skill levels. Whether you’re a novice looking to grasp the basics or an enthusiast seeking advanced techniques, our program is tailored to refine your artistry. Through engaging workshops, hands-on sessions, and personalised guidance, you’ll learn the nuances of composition, lighting, exposure, and storytelling in photography.

Theory comes to life as we embark on field trips to iconic locations. Capture the golden hour as it bathes the landscapes in a warm glow, freeze the motion of wildlife in their natural habitats, and frame the dynamic interplay between land and sea. Our outdoor classroom provides the perfect canvas for honing your craft.

Explore a myriad of photography genres, from the sweeping vistas of landscapes to the intimate details of macro photography. Engage with the ebb and flow of the tides, seek inspiration in the rich biodiversity, and master the art of composing visually captivating images in any setting.

Unlock the potential of your lens and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of Chichester’s natural wonders. This 2 day Improvers Photography Course is an opportunity to sharpen your skills, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and create captivating visual narratives under the guidance of experienced mentor.

Spaces are limited, so secure your place now and embark on a transformative journey through the lens! Join us in Chichester, where every snapshot is a masterpiece waiting to be captured.

Chichester Harbour Photography Courses

ONE TO ONE PHOTOGRAPHY TRAINING

Thursday, December 21st, 2023

One-to-One Photography Training with Imber Court Photo Training

Our dynamic new photography mentoring course

Immerse yourself in a tailored photography learning experience with Imber Court Photo Training, offering personalised one-to-one photography training sessions for photographers of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner seeking a solid foundation or an experienced photographer looking to enhance specific skills, we’ve got you covered.

Key Features:

  • Flexible Duration: Choose between a full or half day, customised to meet your individual requirements.
  • Preferred Locations: Enjoy your training day at picturesque Painshill Park in Cobham, Surrey, or the scenic Chichester Harbour in West Sussex. Alternatively, we can arrange sessions at other locations to suit your preferences.

For Beginners:

If you’re new to photography and grappling with camera settings, spend a day with our expert, Ashley. Gain a deep understanding of fundamental concepts, including shutter speed, aperture settings, ISO, white balance, exposure compensation, and focus modes. Build a strong foundation that empowers you to navigate your camera with confidence.

For Competent Photographers:

For those already proficient in the basics, embark on a practical day in the Chichester area of West Sussex. Customise the session to cover specific areas such as composition and editing. Elevate your skills with hands-on experience in a picturesque setting.

For Aspiring Professionals:

If you’re on the verge of turning professional or need assistance with a budding business, explore a day dedicated to mastering studio lighting setups.

Bring a Friend or Partner:

Feel free to bring a friend or partner along for an enriched learning experience. A small additional charge applies for additional participants.

For further details or to discuss your unique requirements, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. Elevate your photography skills with personalised guidance from Imber Court Photo Training.


Give the Gift of Photography: Imber Court Photo Training Gift Vouchers this Christmas

Friday, January 20th, 2023

Whatever the occasion, our photography course gift vouchers will make the perfect surprise for the beginner and seasoned photographer
Wildlife Workshop

Photography Course Gift Vouchers

Give the Gift of Photography: Imber Court Photo Training photography.

Are you on the hunt for the perfect Christmas gift for your loved ones? Look no further! Imber Court Photo Training is delighted to offer you the perfect solution – Photography Course Gift Vouchers that allow your friends and family to unlock their inner creativity and capture memories like never before.

Why Choose Imber Court Photo Training Gift Vouchers?

Imber Court Photo Training is a name synonymous with photography excellence and knowledge. Our team of experienced and passionate photographers are committed to helping budding photographers of all levels enhance their skills, explore their creativity, and capture life’s beautiful moments. With our gift vouchers, you can give the gift of photography education and inspiration this Christmas.

What Makes Our Gift Vouchers Special?

  1. Versatile Options: Our gift vouchers can be tailored to suit a variety of interests and levels of expertise, making them perfect for both beginners and experienced photographers.
  2. Flexible Redemption: Recipients can use their gift vouchers for a wide range of our photography courses, workshops, and events, giving them the freedom to choose the experience that suits them best.
  3. Exclusive Discounts: Imber Court Photo Training offers exclusive discounts on our photography courses for voucher recipients, so they can make the most of their experience.
  4. Expert Guidance: Our team of photography experts is always on hand to provide guidance and support, ensuring that your loved ones get the most out of their photographic journey.
  5. Trading Standards Buy with Confidence Scheme: We are proud members of the Trading Standards Buy with Confidence Scheme, which means that when you purchase our gift vouchers, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are dealing with a reputable and trustworthy photography training provider.

How to Purchase Imber Court Photo Training Gift Vouchers

Purchasing our gift vouchers is quick and easy. Simply visit our website at www.imbercourtphototraining.co.uk and navigate to the Photography Courses section. From there, you can select the desired course or workshop, add a personalized message to the booking form, and proceed to checkout. You’ll receive a beautifully designed, printable voucher that can be gifted to your loved one. It’s the perfect way to show them that you care about their passion for photography.

Perfect for All Occasions

Our gift vouchers are not just for Christmas. They make an excellent present for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion where you want to give a meaningful and memorable gift.

This Christmas, give the gift of creativity, learning, and endless possibilities with Imber Court Photo Training gift vouchers. Whether your loved ones are just starting on their photography journey or are looking to refine their skills, our courses and workshops will provide them with the knowledge and inspiration they need to succeed.

Visit www.imbercourtphototraining.co.uk to purchase your gift vouchers today, and make this holiday season truly special for the photography enthusiasts in your life.

Imber Court Photo Training – Capturing Memories, Inspiring Creativity, and Sharing Knowledge.

Imber Court Photo Training is proud to be a member of the Trading Standards Buy with Confidence Scheme, ensuring a trustworthy and reliable service for our valued customers.


Badger & Tawny Owl Photography Course in Sussex

Wednesday, October 5th, 2022

Are you an aspiring wildlife photographer looking to improve your skills? Or a photographer looking to expand their photography style to include wildlife photography? Our Owl & Badger photography course may be just the thing for you. This photography course is suitable for both beginners and seasoned photographers alike looking to improve their skills in capturing stunning images of badgers and owls in their natural habitats.

Our wildlife photography courses are at a private wood on the borders of East and West Sussex and are ideal for photographers of all levels. Alongside our professional photographer and trainer, you will not fail to capture wonderful wildlife images of tawny owls and badgers. This wildlife photography course runs throughout the year and is delivered during the evenings. A maximum group size of three photographers who are guaranteed a magical atmosphere and experience.

We also offer small group Kingfisher photography workshops from August through to October. You can register your interest via our contact form and we will let you know when they arrive.

Our wildlife photography course gallery

Check out some of the stunning images you can capture during this course and after in your life as a wildlife photographer. Down below, we have highlighted some of our students’ photos captured during one of our wildlife photography courses.


PHOTOGRAPHY HOLIDAY TO INDIA

Friday, July 22nd, 2022

SEPTEMBER 2024 DATES JUST RELEASED

photography ho;liday to India

 

Discover the Colours of Rajasthan

Imber Court Photo Training is thrilled to announce our photography holiday to India in September 2024, specifically to the most colorful state in the world’s most colourful country. A must-visit destination that offers an unforgettable blend of photography, history, culture, and the warmth of its people.

Plan your photographyphotography holiday to India with us. Our guided tour of Rajasthan goes beyond the typical tourist route, allowing you to capture iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal while immersing yourself in the authentic Indian experience. Explore small villages and towns, meet the locals, and stay at enchanting rural heritage properties, including castles, old forts, and a night of luxury camping beside a beautiful lake.

The final two nights are spent at a beautiful hotel overlooking the lake in Udaipur, where the final scenes of the first Marigold Hotel were filmed. Two visits to Ranthambore National Park offer the chance to spot Tigers. Optional activities include an Indian Cooking course and horse riding at Bijaipur Castle. This trip guarantees to be a life-changing experience!

Your Photography Holiday to India

Join us on this fantastic photographic journey, guided by our expert photography trainer and local guide throughout. We take care of all arrangements while ensuring your photography needs are met. Check out some feedback from this year’s clients at the bottom of the page

Don’t miss the opportunity to capture the beauty of India through your lens. Reserve your spot now and make memories that will last a lifetime!

photography holiday to india

Unleash Your Lens: Capturing the Essence of Rajasthan on this Photography tour to India

Embark on an unforgettable photography holiday to India with Imber Court Photo Training as we invite you to discover the vibrant kaleidoscope of Rajasthan, India’s most colourful state. Our exclusive photography holiday goes beyond the ordinary, offering an immersive experience that seamlessly blends the art of photography with the rich tapestry of Rajasthan’s history, culture, and warm-hearted locals.

Capturing the Colours:

Rajasthan, aptly known as the “Land of Kings,” boasts a myriad of hues that beg to be captured through your lens. From the iconic Taj Mahal to hidden gems in small villages, our guided tour ensures you witness the essence of Rajasthan’s landscapes. We traverse beyond the well-trodden paths, allowing you to frame not just the monuments but the soul of the real India.

Enchanting Accommodations:

Experience the charm of Rajasthan’s rural heritage by staying in castles, ancient forts, and indulging in a night of luxury camping by a serene lake. The journey culminates with two nights at a picturesque hotel overlooking the lake in Udaipur, the very setting of the final scenes from the acclaimed film, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. Each accommodation is carefully chosen to provide a unique backdrop for your photographic masterpiece.

photography holiday India

Wildlife Encounters:

Venture into Ranthambore National Park, where the thrill of spotting majestic tigers awaits. Your lens will capture not just architectural wonders but also the untamed beauty of Rajasthan’s wildlife.

Experiential Learning:

Sharpen your culinary skills with an optional Indian cooking course and feel the wind in your hair during a horse riding adventure at Bijaipur Castle. These optional activities add an extra layer to your photographic journey, making it a holistic and unforgettable experience.

Life-Changing Moments:

Immerse yourself in the spirit of India, where every frame tells a story. Our expert guide ensures that every moment, from bustling markets to tranquil lakesides, is an opportunity for a captivating photograph. Read the glowing testimonials from our past clients, and envision yourself on a journey where each click of the shutter creates memories that last a lifetime.

Don’t miss the chance to weave your photographic story on this photography tour to India amid the vibrant tapestry of Rajasthan. Reserve your spot today, and let your lens capture the magic of this extraordinary Indian adventure with Imber Court Photo Training.

photography holiday India

Below is some of the feedback from those that travelled with us on the last India Photography Holiday

It was the most amazing, colourful and fun filled  adventure.  It was hard work at times and so very hot, but nobody could have predicted that.  I would not change a thing,  We had to cover the miles we did as it is such a vast country,  so we could see  and do all the things that we did.  Staying in Indian Heritage properties, while they may have eccentric plumbing and electrics at times, was all part of being in India and not to be missed.   The  mixture of large cities with their iconic sights, and small villages was superb. The various forms of transport was fun and again gave you the real flavour of what travelling in India is all about.  I would not have missed this trip for anything and would do it all again in a heartbeat. The information given in the meetings before we went was totally representative of what I expected and we experienced, despite a couple of the places being visited in reverse order.   I knew this was not going to be relaxing holiday. but it has been an unforgettable experience. Loved every minute of it.

Personally, I thought it was brilliant and a lot of that was also to do with the group dynamics, which is something you cannot plan.  You have an excellent guide in Pradeep and at times, we certainly challenged him.This ‘holiday’ had everything from amazing heritage buildings, to local villages and lots of wildlife. I have learnt so much more about my camera on this trip and that I can do portrait photography – from a distance.

I absolutely loved all the various forms of transport, especially the local train and the tuk-tuks.  All connections worked perfectly.  There was complete confidence that everything was going to happen as intended.  Even upgrading the Virgin Flights to Economy Delight with all the additional benefits that brought – especially extra leg room. Not a problem for me as I am vertically challenged but Adrian was extremely grateful. Udaipur was brilliant and a great place to end the trip.  The cooking class at Pradeep’s house and his very generous hospitality was yet another amazing highlight.  The trip was filled with so many highlights it’s difficult to single anything out. Pradeep is a gem, one in a million!  The trip was brilliant, well organised and well executed.  I second Ana’s comment about the group dynamics.  This was the icing on top of the cake.  A huge thank you to everyone for the part they played.  This will be a trip that neither Adrian and I will forget for all the right reasons! Pradeep is a gem, one in a million.

Thank you so much for allowing me to fulfil a dream. Visiting India has been on my list for such a long time. As you know my parents spent several years in India, and my father was part of the Indian Army. I thought the itinerary was amazing and allowed us to see so much. Whilst the sights and sounds of Delhi are hard to forget, they will live on as a memory. My photos seem to reflect the diversity of each and every place we visited. The hard work and enthusiasm that both you and Pradeep put in certainly pays off, and yes whilst it is a full on experience , I feel I have seen the true India, which was the exact reason I wanted to visit.  And I will never ‘Click a Picture’ again without thinking of Pradeep. I am sorry that I missed the cookery class and his hospitality, but his thoughtful gift is hanging on my front door, to remind me.The forms of transport we used were also an experience in themselves, whilst travelling on the trains, I felt many a Michael Portillo moment, having watched his journey’s. The local train was a real eyeopener, and the locals were so good about being photographed. I thought the journeys in the Tuk-tuks were very interesting, I will never view London traffic in the same way again. Seeing such different forms of transport that the locals use, was of real interest. I hope I managed to capture each one. Camel carts, Elephants, bikes, both push and motor, jeeps, trucks and minibuses, just to name a few .Each place we visited offered a new experience, and I will treasure all of them. Being able to embrace the culture, by dressing up or having a Henna Tattoo, was again a meaningful experience. Temperature’s were beyond anyone’s control, and it seems to have cooled down again now. However, the water provided was very welcome, which kept us all hydrated. Accommodation, was interesting, but always comfortable, and certainly Ana and I wont forget the Presidential Suite on the last evening. When they make the next Marigold Hotel film, I will feel part of it……..With your help I feel I learnt so much about my camera, and feel I can now use it with so much more confidence. The dynamics of the group worked so well together, and I miss their company. It was lovely to be able to ask for help from each other. I hope we get the opportunity to travel together again soon.

Thank you so much for giving us the most amazing experience. One which I will never forget!

After just three days back we are already craving the blue skies and colours of India. It was such a privilege to be with you all – and we really thank you for making it such a fun and unforgettable two weeks.

A huge thank you from Ed and I – it really was a great experience and one we will never forget. We loved the company, the varied experiences and the complete assault on the senses that make India so unique! Photographically it was great to have such a variety of people, landscapes, architecture, low light, animals etc. to work with.

Thanks Ashley for organising it so thoroughly along with Pradeep and you are so patient I must have driven you round the bend at times!  It’s never an easy task organising an event as the responsibility can seem enormous at times so thank you for taking it on as I don’t believe it could have been done much better it was the  most amazing trip to mark my 50th and images that are ingrained in my mind I hope, for a very long time.  I really don’t believe without the likes of a “Pradeep” a trip like that could have been completed in such time nor bettered he was absolutely invaluable and so knowledgeable


Imber Court Photography Training News

Friday, May 20th, 2022

Hello from Imber Court Photo Training Here is our Newsletter for photography courses and workshops. I hope that you are all keeping well and making the most of the warmer weather. I’m not sure if this affected any of you but about 10 days ago some kind person started to send out literally tens of thousands of emails using my email address! As you can imagine my inbox was literally going at 1000mph with emails from not very happy people who were not keen on purchasing diet pills from me! I hope that this didn’t affect any of you and if you did receive one, please accept my apologies. I still haven’t a clue how this happened, but it appears to have stopped now. Don’t worry I’m still here delivering photography courses and holidays and I’ll let you know when I diversify to weight loss tablets!
I’ve managed to negotiate sole use of a fantastic ancient woodland just off of the A23 south of Gatwick. It has been setup perfectly to view a large variety of woodland birds from comfortable hides in a perfect location. I know that a lot of you are interested in wildlife photography, this is a great place to learn the basics and go home at the end of the day with some great photographs. Below are a few shots that I took there last week. If you would be interested, have a look at the website using the link below, I’ve booked 2 dates for next month and can book more for July onwards. Only 5 places available on each session.

https://www.imbercourtphototraining.co.uk/wildl-bird-photography-course/  

I posted a question on our Facebook page a few weeks ago to see if anyone would be interested in a photography trip to Iceland in November, well our first trip filled up almost straight away so I have now arranged another one for early December. If you fancy a week in the land of fire and ice photographing everything Iceland has to offer including the chance to photograph the Northern Lights check out the link below. https://www.imbercourtphototraining.co.uk/iceland-photography-holiday/
Colorful Aurora Borealis

There is still one place available on our Highlands & Islands trip in October! 
Join Imber Court Photo Training on our photography holiday to Scotland and The Outer Hebrides (Western Isles) exploring this wonderful region of the UK. Starting in the Western Highlands of Scotland and based in Ullapool for two nights you will be photographing the stunning scenery north of Ullapool including the dramatic landscapes around The Summer Isles and Loch Assynt with the stunning Ardvrek Castle along with beautiful waterfalls and sunset at Rhue Lighthouse. Followed by seven nights exploring the Outer Hebrides including the islands of Harris, Lewis and North Uist. Based in Stornoway on Lewis for three nights and Tarbert on Harris for 5 nights. Mountains, moors and machair covered, white sandy beaches host the absolute best of Gaelic culture, land and seascapes, wildlife, food, drink, and arts.  The Outer Hebrides are unlike anywhere you’ve ever been before. A day trip to North Uist where we will be met by our local wildlife guide and escorted to see the home of otters, eagles, owls and other birdlife, the Outer Hebrides map is magical. A landscape defined by ice, wind, magical lighting conditions and ceaseless Atlantic pounding. So, if you’re looking for a captivating photographic island escape, look no further.
https://www.imbercourtphototraining.co.uk/outer-hebrides-western-isles-highlands/

Finally I’m not usually one to promote photo editing software but for those of you who use Photoshop and Lightroom there is company based in the US called Topaz, you may have seen their promotions on social media, well I’ve got a copy of their noise reduction software that works in both of the above, all I can say is wow!! It does what it says on the tin! For those of you who have to shoot at high ISO settings it really is a game changer. There is a free trial that you can download to try.

Remember I’m still here for free independent advice and if you require any help with your photography please just get in touch. I’m still running our beginners courses at Painshill and Chichester and have been doing lots of full and half days one to ones recently. So if you need to polish up your skills let me know!
See you all soon!


Woodland Bird Photography Course – Sussex

Wednesday, May 18th, 2022

 

A woodland bird photography course for photographers of all levels who are looking to improve their wildlife photography skills. Join Imber Court Photo Training for a day in an ancient Sussex wood learning the technique’s required to photograph a large selection of woodland birds. The wood is also home to badgers, owls and at certain times of year, kingfishers. Ashley will be on hand throughout the day and help you with choosing the best camera and focus settings and make sure that you leave at the end of the day with some great images.

Imber Court Photo Training has been given sole access to this wonderful unique location for a number of dates in 2023. With up to six comfortable hides to use to capture everything that’s going on literally right in front of your eyes! A maximum of five participants only on each day.

We will begin the day with a brief explanation of the best camera and focus settings required to capture the birds. You will then proceed to our first hide. You will spend the first two to three hours here before moving on to another hide as the light changes for the remainder of the day. Ashley will be there with you to deal with any issues you are having whilst suggesting ideas for composition of your shots.

Any DSLR, mirrorless or bridge camera will be suitable to photograph the birds along with a lens with a minimum focal length of 300mm.

There are no facilities on site apart from an excellent composting loo and enough water to make a drink so you will need to bring a packed lunch with you. Free tea/coffee and biscuits will be available throughout the day.

Parking is difficult on site so we will all meet at a free public car park not far from our location and Ashley will take you to the wood.

You are guaranteed a wonderful day and will leave with some beautiful images and happy memories. This really is a unique location.


Iceland Photography Holiday

Sunday, May 15th, 2022

An Iceland photography holiday is a perfect choice if you are a passionate photographer looking for an unforgettable experience. With its stunning landscapes and awe-inspiring northern lights, Iceland offers some of the best photography opportunities in the world. From glaciers to geysers and volcanoes to waterfalls, there are plenty of breathtaking sights that will make your Iceland photography holiday truly special.

Join us on our Iceland photography tour, exploring the wonderful landscapes and seascapes along the south coast of this amazing island. Waterfalls, glaciers, geysers, black sand beaches, stunning lagoons not forgetting the Northern Lights. Our Iceland photography tour brings you 7 days, 6 nights, in the land of fire and ice.

Northern Light Photography holiday in Iceland

One of the highlights when it comes to photographing in Iceland is capturing images of its incredible Northern Lights display. Join us in Iceland for one of our northern light photography holidays. During Winter months, these natural light shows can be seen dancing across night skies with a dazzling array of colours ranging from deep greens and blues all through shades or purple, pink and yellow too. It is important to plan ahead if you want great shots though as they usually only last between 10 minutes to 2 hours at any given time, so timing really counts here. We plan the trip with preciise timing to capture the most stunning Northern Lights. We will bring you to the right spot on the right time as long as the weather conditions are favourable.


Imber Court Photo Training Sponsor Chichester Canal Trust Photography Competition

Monday, February 21st, 2022

Our 2022 anniversary photographic competition is open to all AMATEUR photographers with prizes for the best images. Entry is free. We will display the winning photographs at the Heritage Centre at Chichester Canal Basin and the best entries will feature in any future merchandise and canal publicity.

And we have some amazing prizes to award:

Selsey Press is offering a Giclee print of your favourite image. This a super high quality print, which will look magnificent when displayed at home.
Whitby’s Imaging Services in Chichester has donated a 7 piece photo frame, perfect for displaying your images.
The Canal Trust is offering a prize of a pair of tickets for a fish and chip cruise on our canal boat Richmond. Bring your camera!
A very special prize for the best junior (17 and under) entry… a 1 day workshop to learn about taking photos with your DSLR camera OR
A half day 1-1 tutor session with the principal of Imber Court Photo Training to learn more about your DSLR camera. This prize is kindly offered by https://www.imbercourtphototraining.co.uk
The judges will be looking for images of CHICHESTER CANAL and its environment. The entrants could capture people, heritage, activities, wildlife, emotion or seasons.

CLOSING DATE

The competition closes on 28th August at noon. The winner may choose a prize of his/her choice from the above list, followed by runner-up choice and then 3rd place.

SUBMITTING YOUR ENTRIES

Digital images (preferably 2mb and above) are required and may be submitted (Constest is closed). A maximum of 3 entries per person is permitted. In the event of more than 3 being received, subsequent entries will be discounted. For junior entries, please also state your age.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Competition rules are as follows:

The competition is not open to professional photographers.
Images may be cropped, enlarged or digitally enhanced to remove blemishes but should not be “manipulated”.
Entrants must not have breached any laws when taking their photographs.
A panel of judges will judge all entries. Their decision will be final and no correspondence can be entered into.
All entries must be the original work of the entrant and must not infringe the rights of any other party.
Photographs submitted must not have previously won any other competition.
Photographs taken must not be used for commercial purposes.
Chichester Canal reserves the right to publish and exhibit all photographs entered for the competition. Images may be used in social media, websites, printed media and merchandise, including calendars and cards.
Entrants must be the sole owner of copyright in all photographs entered.
If children under 18 are featured, written permission must be obtained from their parent/guardian.
The Trust reserves the right to cancel or alter the competition at any stage.
No fees will be payable for any of the above uses.
Photo: 2021 winning entry by Donna Trethewey


Photography Courses and Photography Holidays

Friday, February 18th, 2022

Imber Court Photo Training deliver photography courses from their various locations in Southeast England at Painshill Park and Imber Court in Surrey along with our Chichester Harbour location in West Sussex.

We are members of the UK Trading Standards Buy with Confidence scheme, and our feedback is always excellent!

All of our courses are delivered in a friendly, relaxed environment with everything explained in plain English.
Our photography courses have been designed for photographers of all levels from complete novices to experienced photographers who are looking to improve their photographic skills and techniques. For those just starting out in photography our Beginners Photography Courses are an excellent option and will teach you the basics and help you build the foundations to become excellent photographers in the future. At Imber Court Photo Training we believe there are three key elements that you need to understand and master to start taking great photographs. Your photographs need to be technically correct; this means you have used and understand the right camera settings to capture the shot. Secondly your images need to be well composed and finally they need to contain an element of emotion! We can teach you the first two elements, but the emotion part comes with experience and lots of practice, basically it’s all about being in the right place at the right time in the right lighting conditions and knowing what to do to capture that moment in time!


Our Improvers Photography Course is a practical two days out and about in the beautiful South Downs National Park and Chichester Harbour, perfect locations for both landscape and seascape photography.


This online photography diploma course has been designed along the same lines as our extremely popular practical beginner’s photography courses and is delivered in an easy to understand, clear and concise manner and in plain English with simple explanations of technical features of the camera. Our highly experienced photography trainers have developed this online photography training package to work in a similar manner to BTEC photography courses that they have delivered in the past.
Our 14 learning modules will guide you through everything you need to know and understand to start taking fantastic photographs. All modules are designed to be viewed online on a wide range of devices or can be downloaded as PDF files. The course includes a number of multiple-choice knowledge checks, instructional videos, access to DSLR camera simulators and practical assignments that you will need to submit for constructive feedback as you progress through the curriculum.
At the end of the course, you will need to submit 10 images as a portfolio of your work. These images will need to demonstrate an understanding of the camera settings and composition of an image. An ‘Imber Court Photography Training Diploma Certificate’ will be issued to you on successful completion of the course.
Once you register you will be assigned a personal tutor who will be available throughout the course for full telephone and email support. We will also be arranging individual tutorials by appointment at Painshill Park, Surrey and at our Chichester Harbour classroom in West Sussex where you are also free to pop in at any time for advice and guidance during the course.
If you are currently shooting on the fully automatic modes, your creative abilities are extremely restricted. We will show you how to take control of the aperture and shutter speed which are both vitally essential to make your images stand out from the crowd. You will also look at ISO, white balance and exposure compensation, composition of a photograph and some basic editing, amongst many other subjects.
Our track record on delivering photography courses to beginners is outstanding. If you have just purchased your camera or have had a camera for some time and are keen to start achieving better results, then this online photography diploma course along with our expert guidance will inspire and guide you to develop a passion for photography.
Once you have successfully completed the online course to the required standard, we will also be able to provide evidence of your training and references that may be required for those of you taking the course for continued professional development, business, work, or educational purposes.
Imber Court Photo Training also offer one to one training where the day can be tailored to your individual requirements. These days are ideal for all levels of photographer from beginner to competent along with those starting their own photography business.


All our photography courses are delivered by Ashley, a professional photography trainer with many years of photographic experience, who set up the company in 2009. Ashley will show you how to achieve the key elements required to start capturing wonderful images. Once you have mastered the key elements you will have acquired the skills to start capturing great images with your DSLR or Mirrorless camera.


Imber Court Photo Training also offer a full range of photography holidays and tours both in the UK and abroad. All levels of photographer are welcome on our holidays, you are assured that under our expert guidance you will return home not only with wonderful images but unforgettable memories and a group of new friends. All our trips are meticulously planned, we only use the best available accommodation and comfortable air-conditioned transport from your arrival at the airport throughout your trip. Return flights from London Heathrow or London Gatwick with British Airways and Virgin Atlantic are included in all our holidays and tours. Accommodation is always on a single occupancy basis at no additional cost.


If it’s amazing landscapes and seascapes that interest you then our photography holidays to the Picos de Europa Mountains in the North of Spain and our UK based trips to the stunning Northumberland coast and The Highlands of Northwest Scotland combined with the Islands of The Outer Hebrides (Western Isles) where you will be reaching for your camera all day long.


If you are looking for a photography tour that is further afield then we offer two trips to India both starting and finishing in Delhi. Our two-week tour of Rajasthan takes you to the most colourful state in the world’s most colourful country, a place that everybody should visit at least once in a lifetime. Join us on this amazing and enlightening journey for a totally unique and rewarding experience where you will photograph the people, wildlife, places, and colours of this wonderful country. Our three-week photography holiday to India takes you from Delhi to Kathmandu with visits to some of the most amazing locations available to photographers. From small local villages to bustling cities and religious towns where a new photo opportunity presents itself around every corner.

photography holiday India


Whichever photography tour or holiday you choose you are guaranteed a wonderful time with likeminded people with Ashley constantly at hand offering advice on the best way to capture your environment.


Travel Photography and photography holidays

Tuesday, February 1st, 2022

photography holiday India



Nothing sounds as exotic to the mind as travel photography and photography holidays. The term conjures up images of far-flung places, true adventures, and new experiences. Although this may also include visits to areas of the UK that you haven’t visited previously. That being said, thousands of photographers, including professionals take photos whilst travelling and are disappointed with their shots. Some will take a shot without much consideration to what they are actually photographing resulting in a holiday snap! Examples of this are shots with poor composition, poor camera technique too much clutter, poor exposure and out of focus subjects. The way to improve on this is a matter of improving your results step by step. Unfortunately, I have many clients at Imber Court Photo Training who have travelled to exotic locations and returned with photographs that are really just snaps and then decide that they require some sort of travel photography training.
A way of being able to take better photos and not snaps is firstly to ensure you are confident in using the correct camera settings and not just relying on the auto setting to achieve results. With some basic knowledge of shutter speed and aperture effects along with the rules of composition you will start to gain confidence in using your camera. Try to record a story, so images that provide more information about the locations that you visit. These may include an overview of the landscape, the people, interesting details, and scenes that will tell viewers more about your location. Travel images with narrative provide more interest than snaps. In this article I hope to show you some of the ways to achieve this.


Planning your trip wisely
I’m often asked how I go about planning new photographic holidays, personally my research starts way before the actual trips. A search on Google and recommendations of places to visit is often where I start, for UK trips I purchase an Ordnance Survey map of the area I intend to travel to look for locations that appear interesting. Google maps is also worth a look as it often has images of the best locations included. If travelling abroad look for images online along with reviews from other photographers. Look for information on particular events that may offer the chance to photograph the local population and the best time of day and year to visit. If landscapes are your thing, then sunrise and sunset times are going to be important. A local guide for a day may also result in visiting off the track areas for those close-up portraits in the areas villages. I have personally run our India, Spain, Iceland or Scotland Photographic Holidays a number of times now and wouldn’t dream of doing it without our guide. TripAdvisor is a good place to see recommendations for local guides in the area that you plan on visiting, Check the local rules on travel photography, in Thailand a few years ago I was told that to take a photograph of a Buddhist monk was forbidden as it was thought that a photograph would take their spirit away! Things have changed now although it is always good to ask before taking a shot.


What kit to take
It’s important to consider what kit you are going to take with you and how you will carry it. As a minimum I would always recommend that along with your camera body a short zoom lens, something like an 18 – 55 or 24 – 70 along with a telephoto, 55 – 300 of if your trip is specifically wildlife in Africa for example something with a little more focal length, a 100-500 or 100 – 400 telephoto zoom will be more than sufficient. A polarising filter will also help whilst out in the bright sunshine to remove glare. A travel tripod is also something to consider, perhaps something that will fit easily into your suitcase. If its wildlife that you will be concentrating on then a monopod is essential to rest the camera and lens on to avoid camera shake resulting in unsharp images. These can be purchased quite cheaply and really are a must! At least one spare battery is also a must with a couple of local travel adapters for charging. Consider purchasing additional memory cards, especially if you are not in a position to download your shots to a computer. To pack everything in get yourself a decent camera bag/rucksack. I have a Lowpro rucksack that I take which can carry all of my kit along with a small laptop and travel documentation. They are strong, waterproof, and comfortable to carry. Don’t just purchase one online, go to your local camera shop and see what’s available to hold all of your kit. When flying abroad always check weight limits on cabin baggage, I have never had a problem with any airline, if they do weigh your bag just tell them its full of expensive kit and they should accept that its not suitable to go in the hold and be thrown around by baggage handlers!

Learn to use your camera before you go
This is where Imber Court Photo Training comes in, as mentioned previously in this article learn how to use your camera before you go, not when you return home!
Learn how to freeze movement and the advantages of using the available focus modes, this is imperative for those of you going on wildlife holidays whilst a good understanding of how the aperture effects our depth of field (sharp or blurry backgrounds in basic terms) is a real advantage for both landscapes and people photography especially when there is a cluttered background. Learn the best way to capture sunrises and sunsets using manual mode to achieve the correct exposure. Understand the basic rules of composition and then you will know when to break the rules.

photography holiday India


Tell a story
As I have said many times, there is nothing worse than wandering around with a camera having no idea of what to photograph. Imagine that your images are for a travel magazine or guidebook for the area you are visiting, yes show the landscapes and the wildlife but look for interesting people, markets are great for this and often offer so many opportunities. Have a conversation with the locals, if they don’t understand you point at your camera and then at them with a smiling face, you will be amazed with the results, always show them the shot on your camera screen. Don’t get upset if they say no, just move on to the next interesting person. Show general street scenes and the restaurants that you visit along with the food. Photograph as much as you can, but remember, don’t rush things take your time, consider camera settings and composition before taking the shot. A few years ago, I was in Key West on the Florida Keys and while my wife was in a shop I was hanging around outside and noticed a really interesting character with a large cardboard sign around his neck stating that he was blind. He was sitting on the pavement on the opposite side of the road selling woven baskets. As I raised my camera to get the shot, he shouted FIVE DOLLARS to me! Suffice to say I didn’t take the shot. Its generally not acceptable to pay to take a photograph especially in locations like India where you will find a hoard of people running after you requesting that you take a shot of them! Perhaps in a market area it might be polite to purchase a couple of apples/oranges from the stall holder and then ask if you can take the shot.


Concentrating on a good narrative is a great way of deciding on which photographs to take. Have fun, wander off the beaten track and above all stay safe!


Photography Tours and Holidays 2022

Tuesday, September 28th, 2021

The last 18 months have been quite a challenge for our industry. However, now that covid-19 vaccinations are becoming widespread, we are confident that regular travel will begin to resume in the coming months.

While some companies are beginning to offer tours immediately, here at Imber Court Photo Training we are taking a cautious approach to ensure that we can offer the high-quality photography tour experiences our clients associate with us.

Rebuilding our itineraries with our partners in the UK and abroad will take some time as many new safety rules will be in place in all our destinations. I want to be sure that when our tours start running again, your health and safety are our top priority so that you can, once again, start enjoying incredible life experiences.

Our dream of exploring the UK and other parts of the world has not stopped. Imber Court Photo Training are busy crafting your next travel adventures, and we can’t wait to share them with you.

We anticipate beginning running our photo tours in 2022. Stay tuned for more details in the weeks and months ahead.

If you have any questions regarding current or future Photo Tours, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

We are looking forward to seeing you soon on your next photo adventure.

Ashley Gardner
Imber Court Photo Training


The Outer Hebrides Western Isles and Highlands of Scotland

Tuesday, April 13th, 2021

Are you looking for a unique and exciting holiday destination that offers stunning natural beauty and plenty of opportunities to take amazing photographs? Then a photography holiday to Scotland is the perfect place for you. This country boasts some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Europe, from rolling hills to rugged coastlines. And with its long history, there are also plenty of historic sites and monuments that make great photographic subjects. A photography holiday in Scotland will give you an opportunity to capture images like never before.

What you will get

Join Imber Court Photo Training on our photography holidays to Scotland and The Outer Hebrides (Western Isles) exploring this wonderful region of the UK. Starting in the Western Highlands of Scotland and based in Ullapool for two nights. You will be photographing the stunning scenery north of Ullapool including the dramatic landscapes. During our photography holiday to Scotland, you will travel around The Summer Isles and Loch Assynt with the stunning Ardvrek Castle along with beautiful waterfalls and sunset at Rhue Lighthouse. Followed by seven nights exploring the Outer Hebrides including the islands of Harris, Lewis and North Uist. Based in Stornoway on Lewis for three nights and Tarbert on Harris for 5 nights. Mountains, moors and machair covered, white sandy beaches host the absolute best of Gaelic culture, land and seascapes, wildlife, food, drink, and arts. The Outer Hebrides in Scotland are unlike anywhere you’ve ever been before. A day trip to North Uist where we will be met by our local wildlife guide and escorted to see the home of otters, eagles, owls and other birdlife, the Outer Hebrides map is magical. A landscape defined by ice, wind, magical lighting conditions and ceaseless Atlantic pounding. So, if you’re looking for a captivating photographic island escape, look no further.

Photography course Scotland

During the trip to Scotland, you will learn a huge amount about photography during the photography course in Scotland. Our trainer Ashley will teach you all about ISO value, shutter speed and aperature. You will also learn professional photography tricks to take the best photos during this photography course in Scotland. No matter if you are a beginner or an experienced photographer, our trainer Ashley will always be able to provide you with tips to make you even better. Our photography course to Scotland is the perfect way to improve your photography skills while enjoying beautiful landscapes.


Northumberland Photography Holiday

Tuesday, March 3rd, 2020

Are you looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Then look no further than a photography holiday in Northumberland. This stunning region of England is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes and wildlife, making it an ideal destination for photography holidays.

From rolling hillsides covered with heathers, ancient castles perched atop rocky outcrops, sweeping beaches stretching into the horizon and miles upon miles of wild moorlands – Northumberland has something for every photographer. Whether you’re looking to capture nature at its finest or explore a historic site such as Hadrian’s Wall or Lindisfarne Castle. There are plenty of opportunities waiting around during your photography holiday in Northumberland.

A photography holiday in Nurthumberland offers both experienced professionals and amateur enthusiasts alike an opportunity to get creative behind their lenses while taking advantage all that this diverse landscape has on offer. With so much natural beauty available right on your doorstep why not take time out from your busy schedule back home and enjoy a few days exploring Northumberland through your camera lens?

Not only will you be able create some amazing photographs but also have chance relax away from it all too! From quaint country pubs serving up traditional ales & hearty meals perfect for refueling after long days spent outdoors capturing incredible images, there are plenty activities available off-camera too! So don’t miss out: book yourself onto one our exclusive photography holidays today. Join us with an unforgettable adventure filled with lasting memories captured forever through picturesque photos taken during stay here in magical land called ‘Northumbria’.

The beautiful Northumberland coast, is an area of outstanding natural beauty where you will be exploring the castles and seascapes between Berwick upon Tweed and Alnmouth, along with visiting Lindisfarne, The Farne Islands and its Puffins and parts of the Northumberland National Park.


Scottish Highlands Photography Trip October 2016

Thursday, August 4th, 2016

Due to the popularity of our trip to the Scottish Highlands in October we have now arranged for a second week departing on Monday 24th October and returning on Friday 28th. As a result of a last minute cancellation we also have one place available on the previous week departing Monday 17th October and departing on Friday 21st. David and I are travelling up again at the end of September when we will be finalising the arrangements and checking out all of the locations that we visited back in March. For those of you who are already booked we will also be arranging two information evenings,one at Chichester Harbour and another at Imber Court in Surrey where we will discuss travel arrangements and kit requirements. This will be a good opportunity for you to meet your fellow travellers.
This trip is an addition to our extremely popular photography courses and holidays, our Scottish Highlands Photography trip is perfect for those of you looking to photograph this amazing area at its best with the beautiful landscapes and seascapes in what we consider to be a photographers paradise. You will even get the opportunity to photograph the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) if we have the right conditions. Guided by our expert trainers Ashley and David you will be taken to some excellent locations and guided through the best way to photograph them all. Staying in a sought after guest house on a bed and breakfast basis in Ullapool, which has excellent reviews, in a double room with no extra charge for single occupancy. Arriving on a Monday you will spend the following days exploring the region with transport provided both from and to Inverness Airport. Each day will be spent visiting different locations, Ullapool is right on the doorstep of some of the region’s most beautiful landscapes including Lock Assynt, The Summer Isles and the beautiful Loch Lurgainn amongst many other locations that will offer you plenty of opportunities to capture some mesmerising images.Staying in a sought after guest house in Ullapool for 4 nights with transport provided throughout from and returning to Inverness Airport. Easyjet flights from Gatwick are currently £119.98 and British Airways flights from Heathrow T5 are £172.00

COST £862.00 PLUS FLIGHTS
If you are interested in the second week can you please let us know asap as the hotel owner is willing to stay open just for us.


Photography Holiday to Spain’s Picos de Europa Mountains

Tuesday, February 2nd, 2016

Picod de Europa

Griffon Vulture Picos de Europa

Our photography holiday to the Picos de Europa in the north of unspolit Spain now also includes two full days of photography at the Cabarceno Nature Reserve an amazing wildlife park just south of Santander.

Imber Court Photo Training takes you on an extraordinary photography holiday through three provinces around the Picos de Europa national park with the opportuity to capture the mountain views, villages and wildlife of the Picos. The climate is different, the crowds are absent and the landscapes are beautiful. Peace, space and wondeful nature! The Picos de Europa are a great destination for a photography holiday in Spain.

View from San Gloria – Picos de Eurtopa

Photography Holiday to the Picos de Europa

The Picos de Europa is one of the few truly unspoiled areas of Spain that is still unaffected by large numbers of tourists. The contrasts within these 300 square miles of spectacular natural beauty that link Cantabria and Asturias are amazing. Looking up you’ll see a series of dramatic rocky peaks rising to well over 8,000 feet, their sharp jagged edges clearly defined against the pale blue skyline. Small mountain villages are tucked away in the higher slopes almost completely isolated. Looking down, the first signs of colourful mountain flowers begin to appear, increasing in frequency the lower you look amongst the rolling hills of lush vegetation. Deep gorges that plunge vertically down into deep river valleys, sparkling lakes, and magical forests make this a photographers paradise just begging to be explored.

New for 2024 are two full day visits to the Cabarceno Nature Reserve located 20 km south of Santander. This nature reserve is in a man-made setting created on a karstic landscape on 750 hectares of an old open-cut mine. It features many animals threatened with extinction, like African elephants, Grévy’s zebras and white rhinoceros along with bears, tigers, lions and much more.

It houses more than one hundred animal species from all five continents, which can be seen practically in the wild, as they are housed in large areas in completely natural settings.The circuit is designed to offer a sighting of all the animals, and features 20 kilometres of roads which enable visitors to reach all the park’s large enclosures both on foot and by car, with views of beautiful gorges and peaceful lakes on the way.

Potes – Picos de Europa

Our Itinerary

Sunday 2nd June 2024 -Flights from London Gatwick to Bilbao and travel by minibus to Santander to our hotel where we stay for 3 nights on a bed and breakfast basis. Hotel TBA

Monday 3rd June – Short drive to Cabarceno Nature Reserve, all day photographing the wildlife. Santander Hotel

Tuesday 4th June – Short drive to Cabarceno Nature Reserve, all day photographing the wildlife. Santander Hotel

Wednesday 5th June – Travel to Picos de Europa, afternoon visit to Potes. Hotel del Oso

Thursday 6th June – Exploring the Picos de Europa – Hotel del Oso

Friday 7th June – Exploring the Picos de Europa – Hotel del Oso

Saturday 8th June – Exploring the Picos de Europa – Hotel del Oso

Sunday 9th June – Return to Bilbao – Early evening flight back to London Gatwick

Included in the holiday

7 nights hotel accomodation on a bed and breakfast basis. All rooms are single occupancy

Return flights from London Gatwick to Bilbao with Vueling Airlines.

Air conditioned minibus throughout the holiday.

Entry fees to Cabarceno Nature Reserve

A brown bear in Cabarceno Nature Park, Cantabria, Spain.

Book a photography holiday with Imber Court Photo Training

Our photoprahy holidays to Spain are consistently well-received. Of course, the goal of them all is to take outstanding pictures. Also, socializing with other photographers who share your interests in the evenings is a bonus. The majority of our clients travel independently. But, if you would prefer to travel with your spouse, this can be easily accommodated. In addition, Imber Court Photo Training takes care of everything from so you can have a worry-free holiday. From flights to accommodation and daily schedules including the best tips to enhance your photography during this trip. Book now with us.


ONLINE DIPLOMA COURSE

Monday, October 12th, 2015

Beginners 1 day photography courseOur online photography diploma course has been designed along the same lines as our extremely popular practical beginner’s photography courses and is delivered in an easy to understand, clear and concise manner and in plain English with simple explanations of technical features of the camera. It is ideal for either novice photographers, those looking to take a refresher course or for those who require some form of qualification for work or educational purposes.


LOW LIGHT – NIGHT TIME PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP CHICHESTER WEST SUSSEX

Tuesday, September 22nd, 2015

DSC_7273

This Low Light/ Nightime photography course is designed for you to acquire the knowledge and practice to go out and capture fantastic images during the hours of darkness using long shutter speeds around Chichester City centre. We will visit the cathedral, quaint backstreets and much more.


New Online Diploma Photography Course

Monday, September 14th, 2015

We’d like to let you know about our new Online Photography Diploma Course that is being released today. The course is suitable for both those who are just starting out in photography and for those who feel they would like to take a refresher course to sharpen up their photographic skills. At £145.00 we think this is excellent value for money!

This photography diploma course has been designed along the same lines as our extremely popular practical beginner’s photography courses and is delivered in an easy to understand, clear and concise manner and in plain English with simple explanations of technical features of the camera. Our highly experienced photography trainers have spent the last seven months developing this training package to work in a similar manner to BTEC photography courses that they have delivered in the past.

Our 14 learning modules will guide you through everything you need to know and understand to start taking fantastic photographs. All modules are designed to be viewed online on a wide range of devices or can be downloaded as PDF files. The course includes a number of multiple choice knowledge checks, instructional videos, access to DSLR camera simulators and practical assignments that you will need to submit for constructive feedback as you progress through the curriculum.

At the end of the course you will need to submit 10 images as a portfolio of your work. These images will need to demonstrate an understanding of the camera settings and composition of an image. An ‘Imber Court Photography Training Diploma Certificate’ will be issued to you on successful completion of the course.

Once you register you will be assigned a personal tutor who will be available throughout the course for full telephone and email support. We will also be arranging individual tutorials by appointment at Painshill Park, Surrey and at our Chichester Harbour classroom in West Sussex where you are also free to pop in at any time for advice and guidance during the course.

If you are currently shooting on the fully automatic modes or are struggling to use other settings your creative abilities are extremely restricted. We will show you how to take control of the aperture and shutter speed which are both vitally essential to make your images stand out from the crowd. You will also look at ISO, white balance and exposure compensation, composition of a photograph and some basic editing, amongst many other subjects.

Our track record on delivering photography courses to beginners is outstanding. If you have just purchased your camera or have had a camera for some time and are keen to start achieving better results then this online photography diploma course along with our expert guidance will inspire and guide you to develop a passion for photography.

What equipment do I need to take this course?

You will need access to a DSLR or bridge camera with a standard lens, a tripod is highly recommended and access to some image editing software for cropping your photographs. If you are in any doubt please contact us for advice.

How to get in touch with us:

Throughout your online diploma course we are here to offer advice and answer any specific questions you may have. The telephone number below will be answered between 9.00am and 5.30pm, Monday to Friday and you may find that on occasions when we are running our practical courses you will have to leave a message. In these circumstances we will return your call later that day. We aim to respond to email messages within 24 hours at the latest.

Telephone 01243514382

Email
ashley@imbercourtphototraining.co.uk
david@imbercourtphototraining.co.uk

How to register and pay for your online diploma course:

To register and pay for your diploma course simply visit our website and got to the Online Course pages and click on the take course button which will take you to our online registration form, once you have completed this form and chosen your access password you will have the option to pay via PayPal, you do not require a PayPal account to use this method or you can simply call us on 01243 514382 to pay by card. If you would like to pay by bank transfer or if you are a business user and require an invoice then please call on the same number.

How to access your personal course learning modules, knowledge checks and assignments:

Once you have completed registration and paid for your course you are able to log in and access your own personal learning area via the log in button. Here you will find your learning modules, instructional videos, camera simulator access and multiple choice knowledge checks.

How to get the best from this course:

There is no time limit for you to complete this course. By taking your time and reading the modules thoroughly you will find the knowledge check questions are easy to answer. You will need to score 100% in each knowledge check to successfully pass this diploma. You will be allowed multiple attempts at these. The practical assignments are explained in a clear and concise way and time should be taken with preparation and planning for these. Check out locations, weather and lighting conditions before leaving home. Make sure your battery is fully charged and that you have all the right equipment with you. Remember this is why you are doing the course! Take your time, enjoy the outdoors and have fun! Remember we are always here for you if you get stuck!

How to submit your images for your practical assignments:

Your images will need to be submitted to us as jpeg files as attachments to an email. Images should be submitted at the conclusion of each assignment and we aim to get your feedback to you within three working days of submission. Your images can be cropped and some editing, within reason is allowed. Send your images to either of the email addresses above.

Tutorials

We will notify you of dates that we will be available at both of our locations to meet and discuss your progress in the course. We will have allocated time slots for you to book. If these locations are inconvenient then we are also able to discuss your progress by telephone or Skype if you would prefer.

Diploma Certificates

Once you have successfully completed the course to the required standard we will post your Diploma Certificate to your registered address. We will also be able to provide evidence of your training and references that may be required for those of you taking the course for continued professional development, business, work or educational purposes.

Thank you for reading about our new photography diploma course and if you require any further information please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Ashley Gardner

Imber Court Photo Training


Course Update

Monday, February 17th, 2014

Hi Everybody
We have some great photographic opportunities coming up over the next few months that may be of interest to you!

Thursday 14th & Friday 15th March 2014 (Evenings) Imber Court, Surrey
Our Low Light photography workshop covers everything you need to know to capture night time images and the effects that long exposures produce in our photographs. The first evening at Imber Court involves a bit of theory and then out in the grounds learning the methods required to capture these shots. The second evening is spent in central London capturing our beautiful capital city at night. Transport is provided to and from Imber Court. A tripod and cable release is all that is required for this workshop.

Tuesday 6th to Friday 9th May 2014
Our new Wildlife & Horses course at New Coghurst Farm near Hastings includes starts with you discovering and practising the skills required to get up close and photograph the farms resident wildlife including a badger set. A day with the farms herd of horses that live as they would in the wild. Emma Colyer from Intuitive Horse will help you understand equine behaviour which result in you being able to get amongst the herd and capture images of these wonderful creatures in their natural habitat. You will also visit Rye and its scenic coastal nature reserve where amongst the beautiful coastal landscapes we will be accompanied by Barry Yates from the reserve who will help us explore the area and show us some of the 270 species of birds that visit. Barry is also a keen photographer and will show you all the best places for taking great images. The final day will be spent at the amazing Herstmonceux Castle photographing some beautiful birds of prey in the company of Gerard & Gemma Sulter, who operate East Sussex Falconry, This is no ordinary bird of prey display! You will see these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat and photograph them in the woods and also with the castle as a backdrop. We have spent months arranging this so as to provide you with not only expert photographic advice but also to have present true experts in their field who I’m sure you will find only add to this experience.

Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th May 2014
Our Improvers Course in Chichester is a practical two days in the beautiful surroundings of Chichester Harbour and the South Downs. We have sought out a number of exceptional locations in this area where you will be taken and shown and assisted in capturing a selection of stunning images. You will have the opportunity of photographing landscapes, seascapes, sunsets, great panoramic ‘s , water sports and wildlife amongst other subjects. We will show you how to photograph those beautiful moody coastal images with moving water that everyone seems to want to capture. A great couple of days with Ashley to help you develop some new skills and capture some great images.

Tuesday 20th to Friday 23rd May 2014 Chichester Yacht Club
A full on four days for those of you thinking about turning your hobby into a career. Our Wedding and Portrait Course is designed to give you the confidence to help you take a step forward. We cover in depth, portrait photography on location and in the studio/home. You will photograph members of the public who volunteer to act as potential clients and photograph them in our studios and outside in the harbour side grounds of Chichester Yacht Club. We will guide you through photographing a simple wedding and you will photograph our Bride and Groom both at a local church, at Chichester Yacht Club which is a popular West Sussex wedding venue and also on a beautiful local beach. You will learn how to market and promote yourself, understand the equipment you will require and spend time with our Photoshop expert. At the end of this course you will be in a position to progress your plans and start your new venture.

September 2014
We are looking at running another trip to The Picos de Europa mountains in Northern Spain at the end of September. This time flying from Heathrow to Bilbao on a Thursday evening and flying back to the UK on the Sunday. You will be met at the airport and taken to the amazing Hotel del Oso where you will spend 3 nights on a bed and breakfast basis. For those of you have not visited this area before it is utterly amazing and beautiful. The days will be spent exploring the local area and visiting many locations where you will capture magnificent images including the wonderful morning mists floating above the landscapes, beautiful meadows and mountain streams, abandoned villages and wildlife like Griffon Vultures and perhaps even the almost extinct Cantabrian brown bear! We expect the cost of the trip to be about £850.00. Please let me know if you would be interested in this trip and if we have enough interest we will go ahead and make the arrangements.


Photography Mentoring Scheme

Thursday, May 2nd, 2013

We are pleased to announce the launch of our photography mentoring scheme on Monday 20th May 2013.

The scheme will be over a twelve month period where we will set a monthly project for you to photograph. Each project will cover a different aspect of photography and advice on suitable subjects and how to photograph them at their best will be given by us as each project starts. At the end of each month you submit four of your images to us and we provide you with comprehensive and constructive feedback on what was good and what could be improved. The scheme is designed to help you improve as photographers and perhaps try some new ideas. There is nothing worse than wandering around with your camera having no idea what to photograph. With a project in mind and some planning you will start to achieve results that you will be proud of. At the conclusion of each project we will publish our favorites on the ICPT website. Over the twelve month period you will have collected some excellent images for your portfolio that you may wish to use for submission for membership to the Royal Photographic Society Licentiateship scheme.

Full Details:

Cost
Monthly subscription to the scheme is £15.00 payable by standing order. As an introductory
offer for those who wish to pay twelve months in advance the cost is £165.00. Cheques should be made payable to ‘Ashley Gardner Photography Training’ and sent to the address
at the bottom of this email. To pay by card call us on 0203 0442008 or 01243 609650.

Enrollment
To take part you will need to email us before 20th May 2013 to register your interest.

Images
Can be taken in JPEG or RAW format or both.
Your images may be submitted by email or by registering with Dropbox (www.dropbox.com)

Feedback
Individual feedback will be sent to you within 7 days of receipt of your images.

We will be holding a practical one day revision course at Painshill Park, Cobham, Surrey on Saturday 29th June 2013 for those who have completed one of our beginners courses and need a day to go over some of the basics. The cost of the day is £65.00.

If you require any further information please do not hesitate to get in touch.

The weather forecast is good for the bank holiday weekend so no excuses, get out and about and use your camera!

Best wishes

Ashley Gardner


IMBER COURT PHOTO TRAINING – EASTER NEWSLETTER

Thursday, March 28th, 2013

Just a quick update on what’s been going on at Imber Court Photo Training and some courses we have planned for the coming months.

Our first photography tour to India seems like weeks ago, the trip was excellent with a great group of photographers, blue skies, wonderful locations and people. Below is some of the feedback from those that travelled with us:

Thank you so much for giving us the most amazing experience. One which I will never forget!

After just three days back we are already craving the blue skies and colours of India. It was such a privilege to be with you all – and we really thank you for making it such a fun and unforgettable two weeks.

A huge thank you from Ed and I – it really was a great experience and one we will never forget. We loved the company, the varied experiences and the complete assault on the senses that make India so unique! Photographically it was great to have such a variety of people, landscapes, architecture, low light, animals etc to work with.

Thanks Ashley for organising it so thoroughly along with Pradeep and you are so patient I must have driven you round the bend at times! It’s never an easy task organising an event as the responsibility can seem enormous at times so thank you for taking it on as I don’t believe it could have been done much better it was the most amazing trip to mark my 50th and images that are engrained in my mind I hope, for a very long time. I really don’t believe without the likes of a “Pradeep” a trip like that could have been completed in such time nor bettered he was absolutely invaluable and so knowledgeable.

India was the most amazing experience made just perfect by your tireless effort, easy going personality with nothing too much trouble. Thank you so much for that. I’m missing the India climate I have to say!

We are planning another trip for next spring if you are interested! We will be uploading some of the images on to our website and facebook pages soon.

New Photography Mentoring Service

We are in the process of organising a mentoring service for those of you who have completed one of our beginners courses. For a small monthly fee we will set you a task to complete during each month and provide you with full constructive feedback on how to improve your images. Let me know if this is something of interest to you. Full details will be published soon.

Painshill Park Photography Competition

Painshill Park is launching their ‘Photographic Competition 2013’ which is being sponsored by Imber Court Photo Training. The competition will run from 1st April – 29th September 2013 and is open to all budding photographers over the age of 12 years that visit Painshill.
For all the entry information visit the Painshill park website.

Courses

We have some availability on the following courses:

Low Light Course

Imber Court Thursday 4th & Friday 5th April
Chichester Yacht Club Thursday 9th & Friday 10th May
We will guide you through the theory around low light photography and advise regarding using the appropriate equipment and lenses. We will take images within the grounds of Imber Court or Chichester Marina. At the end of the first evening you will understand the principles of taking images in the dark, be able to identify the equipment required and understand how the bulb and time settings on the camera assist us. You will be amazed at what is possible and keen to get going again on the second evening where transport from Imber Court or Chichester Yacht Club is provided to London and we start the evening on the Southbank making our way to Westminster and Parliament Square then onto St James’s Park, Whitehall and the Jubilee Bridge. Your trainers will help you to explore this fascinating subject in one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

Wedding & Portrait Course at Chichester

Tuesday 14th to Friday 17th May
Our four-day comprehensive wedding and portrait photography course is the ideal photography training course for those who are interested in starting their own wedding photography business. We cover everything required to get you and your business on the map! During the course you will learn how to shoot both outdoors and in the studio. You will also get the opportunity to photograph a mock wedding with a bride and groom, both at a local church and out on location. In-depth, we will discuss marketing ideas, how to create your website, planning for wedding and portrait shoots, constructing wedding albums and equipment requirements. Our Photoshop expert will also be on hand for two of the days to provide one-to-one instruction.

Improvers Course at Chichester

Friday 19th to Sunday 21st July 2013
Friday 27th to Sunday 29th September 2013
An opportunity to spend 3 days in the company of Ashley and David our two professional photography trainers, on a wholly practical three days in the beautiful surroundings of Chichester Harbour and the South Downs. We have sought out a number of exceptional locations in this area where you will be taken and shown and assisted in capturing a selection of stunning images. You will have the opportunity of photographing landscapes, seascapes, sunsets, great panoramics, water sports and wildlife amongst other subjects.

Photoshop Elements Courses

Saturday 11th May at imber Court
Saturday 15th June at Chichester Yacht Club
Come and join us for a full day where we will guide you through some of the fantastic ways in which we can edit and improve our images. Starting with the very basics you will be shown how to use all the tools in the toolbar including cropping, cloning, colour adjustment, sharpening etc
We will also guide you through layers, masks and exposure adjustment methods. You will use the effects available in the filters palette and be shown how to prepare your images for printing.
At the conclusion of the day you will be amazed with what is possible using your ‘digital darkroom.’

Don’t forget we are always here for free unbiased advice on anything to do with photography.
Have a great Easter
Best wishes

Regards
Ashley Gardner


An image from one of our recent clients

Friday, February 1st, 2013

It’s a great feeling when one of our previous clients sends us a fantastic image. Allison completed one of our ‘3 Day Beginners Courses’ at Chichester Yacht Club last year and is keen to turn her photography hobby into a career. She sent us this image of her nephew taken last week which shows just how much she gained from the course, in this case particular attention was paid to shutter speed, depth of field and a great composition. Ally is attending our Wedding & Portrait course at Chichester in May and I can’t wait to see what images she produces!


IMBER COURT PHOTO TRAINING JANUARY UPDATE

Wednesday, January 16th, 2013

 

Welcome to our January 2013 course update. Below are a few courses we will be running that may be of interest to you.

PHOTOSHOP/PHOTOSHOP ELEMENTS WORKSHOP IMBER COURT
Saturday 26th January 2013 – 9.30am TO 4.30pm
£95.00
Come and join us for a full day at Imber Court where we will guide you through some of the fantastic ways in which we can edit and improve our images. Starting with the very basics you will be shown how to use all the tools in the toolbar including cropping, cloning, text, dodge and burn and selection tools amongst others.
We will also guide you through layers, masks and colour/exposure adjustment methods. You will use the effects available in the filters palette and be shown how to prepare your images for printing.
At the conclusion of the day you will be amazed with what is possible using your ‘digital darkroom.’
PORTRAIT WORKSHOP
Monday 15th & Tuesday 16th April 2013 – 9.30am TO 4.30pm
£245.00
DAY 1
We begin the day looking at some of the many styles of portrait photography and discuss the various methods of shooting portraits. The day will be spent taking portraits at Imber Court and Painshill Park as set out below:-
• Using available natural light indoors and outdoors
• Setting up a basic indoor studio using only natural light
• Using on camera flash indoors and outdoors
• General posing ideas
• Photoshop in portraiture
DAY 2
We begin the day looking at shooting portraits using studio flash lighting and the equipment and methods used for lighting our subjects. You will be shown how to use a light meter and set up lighting for both High Key and Low key portraiture and spend the remainder of the morning practicing the above. During the afternoon session we will have two students from the London School of Fashion to model for us. This will be a great opportunity for you to put into practice your new skills and obtain some professional looking images using two pro lighting setups for your portfolio.
WEDDING & PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY COURSE AT CHICHESTER YACHT CLUB
Tuesday 14th To Friday 17TH May 2013
£695.00
Our four-day comprehensive wedding and portrait photography course is the ideal photography training for those who are interested in starting their own wedding photography business. We cover everything required to get you and your business on the map! During the course you will learn how to shoot both outdoors and in the studio. You will also get the opportunity to photograph a mock wedding with a bride and groom, both at a local church and out on location. In-depth, we will discuss marketing ideas, how to create your website, planning for wedding and portrait shoots, constructing wedding albums and equipment requirements. Our Photoshop expert will also be on hand for two of the days to provide one-to-one instruction.
By the end of the course you will not only have a selection of wedding and portrait images for your portfolio but you will also have gained the confidence to embark on your new business venture.
LOW LIGHT WORKSHOP
Thursday 4th & Friday 5th April 2013 (2 Evenings)
£155.00
FIRST EVENING
We will guide you through the theory around low light photography and advise regarding using the appropriate equipment and lenses. We will take images within the grounds at Imber Court.
At the end of the first evening you will understand the principles of taking images in the dark, be able to identify the equipment required and understand how the bulb and time settings on the camera assist us. You will be amazed at what is possible and keen to get going again on day 2.
SECOND EVENING
We will begin the evening in the area of the National Theatre. You will then be guided by your trainer to various locations between Westminster Bridge and Waterloo Bridge both on the North and South sides of the river. Your trainer will help you to explore this fascinating subject in one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Transport will be provided from and returning to Imber Court.
By the end of the course you will have acquired the knowledge and had the practice to go out and capture fantastic images during the hours of darkness without using a flash. There is no doubt that you will have learned a new skill that you will continue to use for many years to come.
INDIA RAJISTHAN PHOTOGRAPHY TRIP
Sunday 3rd to Saturday 16th March 2013
£2995.00
Only 2 places left on our escorted photography tour to the most colourful state in the world’s most colourful country a place that everybody should visit at least once in a lifetime – India.
Join us on this amazing and enlightening journey for a totally unique and rewarding experience where you will photograph the people, places and colours of Rajasthan.
Our professional trainers in the company of our highly regarded local guide will help you to explore this fascinating region. Call Ashley for further details.

PICOS DE EUROPA – NORTHERN SPAIN
Tuesday 30th April to Tuesday 7th May 2013
£1275.00

How does a relaxing few days capturing images in the mountains and villages of the Picos de Europa in Northern Spain sound? Join Imber Court Photo Training on a journey to a place that you will never forget and let us help you explore some of the amazing photographic opportunities that are available in this truly unspoilt location.

Our Spanish photography holiday includes transport from Imber Court in Surrey, a sea crossing on board Brittany Ferries’ most luxurious cruise ferry the Pont Aven from Portsmouth to Santander, on-board accommodation and five night’s accommodation at the fantastic Hotel del Oso near the town of Potes with breakfast included.
The days will be spent exploring the local area and visiting many locations where you will capture magnificent images including the wonderful morning mists floating above the landscapes, beautiful spring flower meadows, abandoned villages and wildlife like Griffon Vultures and perhaps even the almost extinct Cantabrian brown bear! Call Ashley for further details.


OTHER COURSES
These are just a few of our courses and holidays planned for the near future, we continue to deliver our 2 and 3 day beginners courses at Imber Court, Chichester Yacht Club and Painshill Park alongside our evening classes. Our 3 day improvers courses and Birds of Prey workshops will start again in May when hopefully the weather will be a bit warmer and drier!
Painshill Park are offering free entry to the park on every Wednesday in January. Painshill is a fantastic location for photography at any time of the year.
Remember if we can be of any assistance with your photography or you’re wanting free unbiased advice regarding purchasing kit, we are always here!

Regards
Ashley Gardner
www.imbercourtphototraining.co.uk
ashley@imbercourtphototraining.co.uk
0203 0442008
01243 609650


A few ‘NOTS’ that novice photographers should think about!

Saturday, December 8th, 2012

Not reading the owners’ manual!

We all know these things make very difficult reading and are written for those who understand how a DSLR works! But even the novice photographer needs to read the first few pages at least.

It’s amazing t how many people we see who have no idea that they should adjust the viewfinder to their eyesight so the image they see in the viewfinder is sharp.

Not choosing the correct camera and lenses to suit your requirements

This won’t be popular with all the photography dealers out there but here goes! If you want to get into photography and be able to take wonderful images then purchase a proper DSLR. The basic models from Canon and Nikon are excellent and enable you to add lenses and other accessories as you progress. Bridge cameras are often more expensive than these entry level models and are unable to produce certain shot’s without great difficulty. They are often not as user friendly when it comes to selecting settings in the menu system.

Not learning to use the cameras manual settings

If you shoot everything in Program or Auto Exposure mode get yourself a compact!

Not examining images on the LCD monitor on back of camera

The rear screens on the modern DSLR’s are excellent but should only be used as a guide to what you have taken, use the zoom buttons to explore the image and check to see if what you want to be sharp and correctly focussed is. Use the histogram to make sure the shot is exposed correctly.

Not using a tripod and cable release

We all know a tripod can be a real pain to carry around, but to consistently achieve pin sharp images, especially when capturing landscapes, a tripod is a must. To do its job correctly it must be sturdy, this doesn’t always mean it has to be heavy though. If you need a tripod go to your local dealer and check out the models they have on display. If you see one on the internet for £7.99 you’re wasting your time, you’d be better off tying three bamboo sticks together!  A cable release will also prevent movement of the camera when attached to a tripod. Great for low light shots as well. Try and avoid the wireless models, the wired models from Nikon and Canon start at around £15.00.

Not purchasing a spare battery

Always carry a fully charged spare battery with you, there is nothing more embarrassing than your battery going flat, it will always happen at the most inconvenient moment. When buying a spare battery, be very careful where you get it, some manufacturers will not honour your guarantee when a patent part is used.

 Not purchasing the correct memory cards

Always go for the well known manufacturers and purchase from a reputable dealer, especially when buying online. If you’re going abroad take spare cards with you. There are so many fake cards on the market at the moment, especially outside of Europe and it’s often difficult to tell the fake from the originals. We’ve heard many horror stories about fake cards breaking up inside a camera.


ONLY 3 PLACES LEFT ON OUR INDIA TRIP MARCH 2013

Saturday, November 17th, 2012

Hi Everyone
Following months of planning Imber Court Photo Training is pleased to announce an escorted photography tour to the most colourful state in the world’s most colourful country a place that everybody should visit at least once in a lifetime – India. An opportunity to visit India with our professional photography trainers in company with our highly regarded and award winning local guide. We will visit the cities of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur mixed with stays in rural heritage properties in remote towns and villages. Photographic opportunities’ are everywhere and as we travel around you will soon discover what an amazing country India is. As the tour progresses our guide will explain some of the many customs and religions that you will encounter and attempt to make some sense of what at first sight appears to be utter mayhem! Join us on this amazing and enlightening journey for a totally unique and rewarding experience. We depart from Heathrow with Virgin Atlantic on Sunday 3rd March 2013 and return to the UK on Saturday 16th March.

I’m sure we have all heard the horror stories of stomach upsets and poor hygiene in India but with the assistance of our guide who I traveled with earlier this year there really is no need to worry, a few basic rules need to be adhered to and our guide will be there to advise on choosing safe places to eat and purchase drinking water. All of the hotels have been carefully selected and provide a good standard of accommodation.
We only have 3 places left on this trip and to reserve one you will need to be quick. Our flights have been reserved and the price held for two weeks. Internal travel and hotels need to booked by 10th December at the latest.

We will be holding an information evening at Imber Court in early January where we will be on hand to answer all your questions on what to take, how to take it and any other enquiries you may have.

The cost of the trip is £2995.00 and to book a place we need a deposit of £500.00 with the balance to paid by Friday 18th January 2013.

Please let me know as soon as possible if you would like to reserve a place or if you require any further information.


Photography Course Gift Vouchers

Tuesday, October 23rd, 2012

Our  photography course gift vouchers are the perfect gift for photographers of all levels from beginner to advanced. They can be used as either full or part payment for any of our photography courses, Photoshop courses or one to one sessions.

The vouchers can be purchased for a specific course on a specific date or can be left open for the recipient to decide which course to attend. Our vouchers are valid at all of our locations, Imber Court and Painshill Park in Surrey, and at Chichester Harbour. They can also be purchased for our photography holidays.

Our vouchers are delivered by post in a glossy A4 sized folder or can be sent via email.

If you book online then please include the recipients name and who the voucher is from on the booking form.

Our vouchers are valid for twelve months from the date of issue.  Vouchers are emailed to you directly or can be posted directly to an address of your choosing.

We are members of the West Sussex Trading Standards ‘Buy with Confidence ‘ scheme so you can rest assured that your purchases will be safe and secure and that the recipient of these vouchers will receive an excellent standard of tuition.

Call us to discuss your requirements

photography course gift vouchers
Some of our clients

Have a look at some of our recent feedback to see why you should choose Imber Court Photo Training.

Monday, July 9th, 2012

1. How effective were the pre- course instructions with regard to: – course information, course content, timings etc?
Excellent.
2. How well organised was the course in terms of administration, equipment and planning?
A perfect balance of the structure required to cover everything, but with room for flexibility to explore particular interests/questions.
3. How competent, proficient, motivated and enthusiastic were the trainer(s)?
Both Ashley and David are highly talented professional photographers who have the skill of being able to put themselves back into the mind of a complete beginner. Their passion for photography is always apparent. From the outset, Ashley was equally happy to explain very basic points such as how to adjust our viewfinders as he was to find different ways of illustrating the more complicated concepts.

4. How well did the course meet its stated aims and objectives?
Very well. See below
5. With regard to your personal expectations how would you rate the course, were the appropriate subjects covered and did the depth of coverage meet your needs at your present stage of learning?
Before taking the course, I had spent 18 months stuck on Auto, taking very poor photographs with a very good camera. I therefore knew that I had a lot to learn and was quite apprehensive about whether I would be able to absorb it all in 3 days. Thanks to Ashley’s excellent teaching, I came away feeling confident about previously terrifying subjects such as aperture and shutter speed, but I’d also learned so many things that I didn’t even know I didn’t know! I think the biggest surprise for me was that I came away feeling no longer intimidated by all the buttons on the camera.
Above all, it was a really enjoyable 3 days.
6. Was the accommodation used suitable for the purpose in relation to temperature, seating lighting and toilets?
Imber Court was perfect as it had everything we needed indoors (the cafe downstairs means you don’t have to bother making a packed lunch) as well as the advantage of the gardens to practise in outdoors.
7. Please use the box below for any other comments you may have regarding your recent training.
A great course for a beginner who’s nervous of the camera and hopeless at understanding the manual.


Birds of Prey Workshop Caption Competition

Saturday, June 16th, 2012

Shot this afternoon at Imber Court Photo Training’s Bird of Prey Workshop by Geoff Scotton while attending the workshop. Send us your captions via email or Facebook, small prize for the winner!


Some feedback from our recent trip to the Picos de Europa.

Wednesday, June 6th, 2012

Thanks again for an excellent holiday!

I had expected the Picos scenery to be truly spectacular and it most certainly was. I had also expected the Hotel Del Oso to make a very comfortable base for five nights. This was an excellent choice and again I certainly wasn’t disappointed…

What I hadn’t expected were the amazing lengths that both you and ‘young’ Dave (!) went to ensure that everyone was having a great time. Your kindness, humour and obvious passion for your art reflected great credit on you both, making it a truly outstanding holiday and ensuring that I will certainly be very keen to participate in future ICPT extravaganzas.

Many thanks for your email and group photo – and huge thanks from both Ed and I for an unforgettable trip! We learned a huge amount about photography (although you might not think so looking at the attached shots), really enjoyed the company of the ‘picos pioneers’ and loved the locations, hotel etc. We are definitely up for another adventure when your blood pressure can stand the vagracies of weather, ferries, hairpin minibus drives and snoring!

Neither of you could have given us more. Long days, difficult driving, varying weather and the translation of ‘tapas’ in Spanish. Also trying to share out your levels of advice and instruction.The holiday more than met its objectives. A trip of this length concentrates the mind and you definitely learn more. It was also a ‘holiday’ – lovely villages, good company and scenery made it very relaxing.

 


New website for Imber Court Photo Training

Saturday, April 7th, 2012

We have just launched a new website! www.imbercourtphototraining.co.uk

We wanted to make create a better experience for everybody, and so we’ve reworked the format and the content.

What’s new
Our course information is now divided into beginners photography coursesphotography courses and photography holidays to make it easier for you to find and book the right course for you.

We’ve linked up or location maps to Google maps, putting you control of how you get directions.

Get inspired with our new trainer’s galleries. Our trainers are showcasing their portfolios, and will be regularly updating them.

With our added news section, we will be regularly be posting news and articles about Imber Court Photo Training, as well as fantastic tips, tools and techniques to help you with your photography.

Our articles will also be posted on facebook, you can visit us there.

We’d love to hear your comments on the new website, email Ashley ashley@imbercourtphototraining.co.uk