Photography tuition in Gloucestsershire and across the South West
Become a better photographer with
Stephen Shepherd
I am Stephen Shepherd a long standing professional photographer bringing you creative and technical photography courses from my base in Gloucestsershire.
Professional commercial photographer
How it all started
About me
I have been a professional photographer for my whole working life. I became interested in photography at a young age. After finishing school and a short period working I returned to education, studying photography in Reading at the College of Art & Design. After leaving college I started to undertake some freelance work that included commissions for The Guardian and The Independent newspapers making the contacts I would need to work in London.
The National Press
Creative reportage and features photographer
Teaching you what you want to know
After move and having undertaken more freelance commissions I started to get work on a regular basis for The Daily Telegraph shooting for the Features and Editorial picture desk. From then onwards I was working 4 to 6 days per week and stayed at the title for over 9 years shooting all manner of jobs from celebrity portraits that included George Harrison, Gordon Ramsey, John Lydon, Barbara Cartland….. to editorial and features stories, politics, news, motoring, life, restaurant reviews, travel etc.
The present day
My work and teaching
In 2002 I moved with my family to  Gloucestershire. Based here I still work for the major national press titles on a regular basis. I have also developed my business in to education and work for many Universities, Colleges and Schools. Other areas of my business include Marketing photography, stock and libary shoots, Corpoarte & business and much more. I am now bring these skills to you here at photoguru.uk If you want to learn to shoot like a pro’ just get in touch and let me know what you want to learn.
One to One tuition & group classes
Teaching you what you want to know
I will help you to understand more about photography from technical information to creative decision making.You can choose a route by looking at my suggestions or just get in touch with your specific requirements.I travel from base in Gloucestsertshire across the country to deliver lessons to you.You might want to spend a day with a friend or two learning togtehr in a small group, or to concntrate on specific tasks with a one to one session. I can accomodate your needs and whether in a small group or as an indvidual you will learn more about photography.
Examples of commisioned & personal work
Photography courses and lessons
Some tips that can help you shoot like a pro'
Introduction
Learn about your equipment
Your camera will probably have hundreds of settings and a thick instruction manual. but what should you choose and why ?
Shutter speed
Choosing your shutter speed
The right shutter speed is critical decision to be made when shooting your subject. I will guide you through then basics of shutter speed and it's effects.
Aperture
Deciding on your aperture
With the right aperture you can isolate your subject or get almost limitless depth of field. Learn how to control DOF and what you might choose one aperture over another
Iso / Sesnitivity
The third element of exposure
The sensitivity of your cameras digital chip is called the ISO and can be set for different situations. ISO can be used creatively or out of necessity, learn how to make informed decisions.
File types raw vs JPG
Image quality
Most modern cameras can shoot JPEG or RAW files. I will guide you through the pros and cons of each file type and what you should use them.
Learn about your equipment
The rule of thirds
By dividing your frame into thirds, horizontally and vertically you can then place your subject within these areas creating a pleasing composition.
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