Light Painting - Michelle Essenson

POSTPONED - We will be contacting all those who have already booked to facilitate a transfer or refund ASAP. Thank you for your patience.

Explore the wonderful world of light-painting through this one day practical workshop. Limited to 7 places. The course is aimed at people with little or no experience in this genre. We will cover the fundamentals and you will learn how to produce your own unique and interesting light-painting photos using a variety of tools and techniques. The possibilities are endless and this workshop is a great way to unleash your creativity!

During the workshop we will:

• Explore the concept of light painting and look at a range of styles and techniques.
• Establish how to set up your camera, work out suitable exposure settings and focus in the dark.
• Have plenty of practical time. Each participant will have the opportunity to create their own unique light painting photographs. We will explore a range of techniques and participants will have access to a variety of light painting tools both ‘home made’ and purchased. We will also discuss how you can make your own tools at home and where to find out more about what’s available to buy.
• Discuss the various light-painting tutorials, groups and social media platforms available for people to continue their light painting in supportive environments after the workshop.

What to bring:

• A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a ‘M’ manual control setting allowing ‘bulb’ mode (‘Live Comp’ is an ideal alternative for Olympus users) and the ability to control focus manually. Michelle has one spare camera if anyone is stuck at this point.
• A sturdy tripod if your own one.
• Spare batteries.
• Wireless triggers enabling you to operate your own camera from a distance would be ideal. Alternatively a cable release (or remote control via an app) is helpful. If you are stuck at the point, we’ll find a way for you to manage with shutter delay.
• We provide tea and coffee, but we do not provide lunch, so you may wish to bring sandwiches with you. There are places to go within walking distance to buy lunch.

Prior Knowledge:

A working knowledge of adjusting your own camera settings, especially in ‘M’ mode and how to use ‘Mirror Lock Up’ if appropriate.

Michelle Essenson

Michelle is passionate about light painting and is looking forward to building people’s confidence and experience with this great genre of photography. Having run her own Learning and Development company, she is a very experienced workshop facilitator and coach. She is known for her creativity and desire to help others unleash their own in fun and supportive learning environments. More of Michelle’s light painting work can be seen on Instagram @lightpaintingmagic_by_michelle

Address: The Royal Photographic Society, RPS House, 337 Paintworks, Arnos Vale, Bristol, BS4 3AR

Please visit https://rps.org/contact/  to help plan your trip. Please be aware that the car park in the Paintworks on a weekday is limited to three hours.  Weekends, and evenings after 6pm are unlimited.

Bristol Temple Meads is a 30-minute walk to Paintworks.

Buses running from Bristol Temple Meads to Paintworks are: 1, 178, 349 or the X39, but please check before leaving.

A Park & Ride service is available from Brislington Park & Ride. More information can be found at www.travelwest.info/park-ride/bristol/brislington  

Local Parking

If you need to bring your car and don’t want to use the Park and Ride Buses, you can book a place to park at a nearby supermarket using this link yourparkingspace.co.uk

You can also park all-day for £5 at Arnos Manor.  Visitors will need to go to the hotel reception to purchase a ticket to display on their windscreen. 

Image © Michelle Essenson