Smartphone Photography, Two Night Workshop

Love photography but not the idea of carrying a giant camera everywhere?

Your smartphone is more powerful than you think. Over two relaxed and hands-on evenings, you will learn how to get the most out of your phone’s built in camera and a range of simple editing apps. You’ll explore techniques that make your photos stand out, including lighting, composition, and creative editing.

Please note: Zara always tries to support participants with older devices, but older phones may have fewer features. Everyone is welcome and she will do her best to help each attendee get great results.

Workshop Structure

Night One: Mastering Your Camera and Building Creative Awareness

Your smartphone’s settings and camera options

• Understanding your phone’s camera interface

• Resolution, focus, exposure, HDR, gridlines

• When to use different lenses (wide, telephoto, macro)

• Portrait mode and night mode basics

• Managing storage and file formats

Composition essentials

• Rule of thirds and leading lines

• Framing, negative space, and balance

• Working with available light

• How to use shadows and reflections

• Practical mini challenges indoors

Short practice session

• Guided exercises around the centre

• Quick feedback from Zara to build confidence for Night Two

Night Two: Exploring Outdoors and Editing Like a Pro

Outdoor exploration and photo walk

• Applying everything from Night One

• Finding light in tricky conditions

• Approaching subjects, angles, and storytelling

• One-on-one tips while shooting

Simple editing apps and retouching

• Overview of beginner friendly apps like Snapseed, Lightroom Mobile, VSCO

• Basic tools: exposure, colour, cropping, selective edits

• Filters, when to use them and when not to

• Creating a cohesive look for your photos

Review and creative discussion

• Group look at selected photos

• What worked, what you might try next

• Tips for ongoing practice

Learning Outcomes

Participants will leave with a clear understanding of how their individual smartphone camera works, how to take creative control of their images, and which settings make the biggest difference. They will also gain confidence in using simple editing apps to enhance their photos and create their own digital style.

Materials

Bring your smartphone, wear comfortable shoes and pack wet weather gear just in case.