Having thought about it for some time, I finally signed up for the Foundations in Photography course. I had been looking at the photography degree, but decided that this was a better fit for my needs and skill set. I should say at this point that I am addicted to studying and work in education promoting the benefits of lifelong learning.

I didn’t get off to the best start setting up the blog. A warning for any Mac users, don’t use Safari. Once I had figured out the problem and switched browsers it was relatively straightforward though until then there was much head scratching and cursing.

Just starting the course has made me more aware of the images that I take even if they are not for the course. At the end of the first project of 100 photos, what have I learned?

• Read the instructions!
• I like to take my time, 100 photos in 30 mins was a challenge for someone who has perfectionist tendencies
• How to adjust midtones in Photoshop
• To be more critical about what I like/don’t like in my images
• To have a systematic workflow for storing and editing images
• How to create a contact sheet
• How to rename photos in Lightroom
• If you want to take a number of useable photos in a short space of time then planning is vital
• Some of the things I like in photos are textures, patterns, contrasts of colour and shape, curves, reflections, shadows
• Take photos from different viewpoints
• Take close-ups and photos that show the context of the subject
• Check the depth of field
• Avoid distractions and look for suitable backgrounds.

What skills would I like to develop?

• Taking photos of people
• Creative use of light
• Knowledge of the work of other photographers
• Photoshop skills – I can do the basics, but would like to know more
• Telling a story or expressing a concept through images
• Composition

Finally, I have enjoyed looking at the work of other photographers on the course in their blogs. I’m looking forward to being part of this community of photographers.