Are you a photography beginner looking to unlock the potential of your digital camera? Let two award-winning photographers teach you how to master your camera and empower you with the knowledge to take great photos.
Based at St Mary's Island near Whitley Bay, the aim of the workshop is to help you learn how to understand your digital camera. We will look at the various functions available on modern digital cameras with a view of understanding which of these functions are actually important. We will discuss shutter speed, lens aperture, depth of field, ISO, exposure and the histogram.
After this, we will discuss the art of composition, with the aim being to help you understand what actually makes a good photo and how you can improve your own composition skills. Techniques discussed will include the rule of thirds, leading the eye and the use of colour.
Date 27th September 2026
Time 11am - 3pm
Max. group size 8 participants
Cost £50 per person
One of the many things Northumberland does well is castles. Dunstanburgh Castle is one of the most photogenic. Standing high on a craggy headland, the castle has been a draw for artists for centuries (it was one of Turner’s favourite subjects).
Useful information
This photography workshop is intended for absolute beginners with the group size being limited to eight to allow Jason and David to devote ample time throughout the day to every participant.
We will be walking over uneven ground throughout the day. As this is the Northumberland coast, be sure to wear warm and windproof clothing - and bring waterproofs just in case! You will also need sturdy and comfortable and waterproof walking shoes or wellies. There will be a reasonable amount of walking required during the day. Although the Dunstanburgh Castle coastline is relatively flat, a reasonable degree of fitness and mobility is recommended.
Meet Your Northumberland Photography Workshop Tutors...
Jason Friend
A Whitley Bay resident for over 20 years, Jason Friend is an award-winning professional photographer that specialises in landscape and travel photography. Jason’s photography career has spanned over two decades with many incredible highlights including publishing a best-selling book, working for iconic brands such as Microsoft and National Geographic, exhibiting at the renowned Joe Cornish Gallery, and being personally invited to photograph a member of the royal family.
David Taylor is an award-winning landscape and travel photographer, born and raised in Newcastle upon Tyne. His Northumberland landscape photos have been used by local businesses, councils and tourism organisations including the Northumberland National Park Authority. His photographic work has appeared in a number of national and regional magazines, and he has also written and contributed to more than forty books about photography and photographic techniques.
