Snow-covered Kentmere fells beyond the Scout Scar.

So ... You Want To Be A Better Photographer?

Telephone: 01539 729505 | e-mail: bennonlmp@googlemail.com


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One-to-One - Intensive, Bespoke Photography Tuition


Detail of fungus surrounding a tree stump.
Autumn fungus around a tree stump on Claife Heights, Windermere.

Many activities are best experienced in the company of others. Many classes and courses in Photography are designed with groups in mind. And indeed, the majority of the courses and excursions that I run are intended for small groups of like-minded enthusiasts.

However: there may be times when you have a very specific project in mind; or perhaps you wish to concentrate very intensely on a narrow set of skills or techniques; or you simply wish to treat yourself to the luxury of having a tutor's undivided attention for a day. Whatever the reason, if you don't mind paying a little extra for the privilege, you can book a day out (or a day in, if the techniques you want to learn about lend themselves to the indoor treatment) and have me as your only company. There is a host of great locations on the doorstep, and I will find one that will provide the ideal setting for your photographic needs.


A fern and autumn leaves beside a small stream.
Fern and Stream, Singleton Park, above Kendal.

A full day familiarising yourself with your new SLR camera; an opportunity to concentrate on the practicalities of macro photography; or a pleasant walk with a camera, and the opportunity to learn more about exposure, depth of field and composition, with a pint at a country pub as the reward at the end of the walk.


The River running under the two arches of Hawes Bridge.
River Kent flowing beneath Hawes Bridge.

The woods, rocks and water of the River Kent; the limestone pavement of Farleton Fell and Hutton Roof; the twists and turns of Dentdale; the smooth, featureless, rolling hills of the Howgills (described by Alfred Wainwright as looking "like a herd of sleeping elephants"). Kendal is surrounded by so many terrains and landscapes, there is bound to be one to satisfy even the most zealous of photographic devotees. So what are you waiting for? Get in touch soon.

Please bear in mind that this website is still under development. When finished, there will be a regular programme of organised events and activities, as well as the option to arrange bespoke photography days tailored to your precise requirements. For the time being, though, if you want a practical day out with your camera, use the e-mail address or phone number at the top of the page to get in touch, and let me know what you want to do and when you want to do it. Don't be shy. If you don't like walking, we will stay close to home. If you don't mind walking, we can go further afield. It doesn't matter what camera you use: compact or SLR, digital or film. If you want to improve your photography, let me know.

Please make sure that you read the information in the right-hand column about clothing and equipment recommendations. A complete kit list can be supplied on request, along with advice on clothing and camera equipment appropriate to seasonal circumstances. If you have any questions at all, please ask - there is no penalty for asking.

Practical Considerations.

Silhouette of a rock with the profile of a face.
Sphinx Rock, Great Gable.

The only certainty of the weather in the UK is its uncertainty. And although the occasions on which absolutely no photography is possible are very rare, it may still arise that some specific photographs that rely on particular weather conditions may not be physically possible - a sunset will not be visible if clouds obscure the horizon. While I will make every effort to deliver a worthwhile and satisfying experience, I cannot guarantee that great photographs will always be possible. The photographs that you take while out with me will be dictated by the conditions.

A ring around the sun through broken clouds.
Sun Pillar and 21 Degree Halo around the Sun.

Because the weather conditions cannot be guaranteed, we must adopt the maxim "expect the worst, and hope for the best." Consequently, the kit that you must bring with you for any day out in the landscape includes the following, in addition to the clothing that you stand up in: stout walking footwear; waterproof jacket and trousers; hat and gloves; extra fleece pullover or jacket; packed lunch and snacks; adequate drink. Please ask for advice if you are not sure about any of your clothing or equipment.

If your chosen day out is in the mountains, then I would recommend that you also bring along a compass and the appropriate map. This will then give us the option, if the weather is not ideal for photography, and if you have an interest in so doing, to spend some time developing your navigation and mountain walking skills. Again, please feel free to ask for advice if you have any questions, such as: what is a good choice of compass?

A single daffodil flower against a dark background.
"I walked around for a bit, on my own ..."

And finally, what about your camera equipment?

Apart from the obvious - make sure you bring your camera and lenses - there is one piece of equipment that I always recommend. It is an item that, in my long experience, many photographers forgo on the basis that it is too heavy. But I recommend it nonetheless - a tripod. And if you are in doubt as to how big and heavy a tripod to bring, I would suggest the biggest and heaviest that you are prepared to carry. If too big, and you leave it behind, then it is of no use. If you choose a small and unstable one, then you must learn to use it within its limitations, but at least it is likely to be with you when you need it. And, for use with the tripod, some form of remote release (used to be called a cable release, but these days may even be infra red and wireless!)


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