Q. Why are these workshops so cheap?
A. These prices cover my costs and have a very moderate profit margin built in. For those of you who have researched Adobe Photoshop training I’m sure you are aware that for the price I am asking, you could pay this just to sit in a lecture theatre for a day with hundreds of other people, just to listen to ‘experts’. I know that anyone who attends this ‘course, and stays in this beautiful location, will probably return to do further workshops in the future, or return to enjoy a relaxing break in this most tranquil location. Word of mouth and personal recommendation generate further business. Thus I see it as a means of generating future revenue
Q. Who are these courses aimed at?
A. This course is ideal for both complete beginners and those who have some photograph taking experience but who would benefit from a better understanding of theory and technique to be able to get the best from their camera. The workshops are also ideal for experienced film based photographers who are considering the move to digital and are looking for an understanding of digital editing techniques.
Q. What qualifies you to give these courses?
A. I am a full-time freelance photographer,
member of the MPA (Master Photographers Association), member of NAPP (National
Association of Photoshop Professionals) and specialise
in panoramic landscape and sports photography. My courses are based
around solid practical experience which can assist you to get the most from your
camera. I do not spend hours explaining each and every function of Adobe
Photoshop. I focus on those functions that are useful to the photographer and
then reinforce these with practical exercises. I will also share with you my own
techniques that I use on a daily basis. As well as residential photography
courses based in Snowdonia, I frequently travel and give courses at other
locations in the UK. I regularly run courses in galleries around North Wales and
I also run public photography courses at Plas Tan y Bwlch which is Snowdonia
National Park Authority's environmental and educational studies centre.
Q. I do not have Adobe Photoshop or Adobe Photoshop elements on my PC at home is this going to be a problem?
A. No. Although we will be using Adobe’s latest products (Adobe Photoshop CS/3 or Photo Elements 6.0), most of what you will learn on the course is generic. If you understand the concepts you should be able to use this knowledge with whatever photo editing software that you do have installed on your home computer. If you do not have editing software on your computer I can advise which product to go for. If required I can teach on older versions of Photoshop and Elements.
Q. Although I have a digital camera, I can just about load my pictures onto the computer. My computer skills are not brilliant and I know next to nothing about editing pictures on the PC. Will I be able to manage on the workshops?
A. You should have no problem on the workshop. My courses are given one to one, which enables me to identify any areas where the student may need additional help. If you can give me advanced notice of any areas you would like to be covered these will be built into your training.
Q. Can you tell me more about the cabins?
A. The Log Cabin that you will use during your stay is fully equipped and I'm sure you will be more than delighted. Cabins are two bed roomed, have a fully equipped kitchen and all have a bathroom with shower. All cabins have a tv and video. Go to www.cadairviewlodge.co.uk and check the accommodation page to see details of the log cabins.
Q. Whereabouts exactly are the cabins?
A. The cabins are located near a small village called Bronaber, in the heart of the Snowdonia National park. Just off the A470 near Trawsfynydd, the location is well served by a good road network. Go to www.cadairviewlodge.co.uk and look at the places to visit link to appreciate for yourself how scenic the location is. If you look under the accommodation link, you will find details and pictures of some of the log cabins.
Q. Are there any catering facilities nearby?
A. The Rhiw Goch inn is only a 5-minute walk from your cabin. Food is served daily, the last food order is 8:00pm each evening. We can also recommend a number of other pubs and restaurants within a 15 minute drive if you prefer not to cook for yourself.
Q. My partner would also be interested in taking the course, is there any discount for more than one attendee?
A. If your partner or a friend shares your accommodation, I will only charge an extra £120, covering the cost of their tuition. During workshops you would each have your own laptop.
Q. Your location looks fantastic. I would like to bring my partner along, however they have no interest in photography and would just like to enjoy a break away. Can they come along with me and if so how much will it cost.
A. Additional guests are welcome and providing they are sharing your cabin accommodation they can stay FREE OF CHARGE.
Q. Having done the two-day course is there a possibility of extending my stay. I would like the opportunity to make the most of the location and put into practice some of the things I will learn on the course.
A. Many students extend their stay with us to take advantage of the breathtaking scenery on offer.Subject to availability, your stay can be extended at the heavily discounted rates of £60 per night PER CABIN. Thus for example two people sharing the cabin will only be charged £60 for each additional nights accommodation. Your stay can be extended for up to 2 nights at these rates. If you wished to include a weekend this can be made available at a discounted rate of £175 for the weekend’s accommodation (normal price £220).
Q. What do I need to bring for the workshop?
A. At the end of your workshop you will be given a CD containing all presentation material, detailed notes plus all of the exercises, including start images etc. However it would be useful to bring a notepad and pen to jot down any additional notes that might help you. If you already own a digital camera please bring it along together with your instruction book if you have one.
The cabins have pillows, duvets etc, you will need to bring sheets, duvet covers, pillow cases, towels and tea towels. You should also bring food for your stay. A torch is also a good idea. After nightfall, it is very dark as there is zero light pollution (from towns etc). It’s the perfect location for stargazing and counting satellites but a torch is needed to guide you back safely from the Rhiw Goch Inn should you venture out for a drink!
Q. Do I need to bring my laptop?
A. You may bring it by all means if you wish, but we will provide laptops for the course work.
Q. I do not yet have a digital camera. Shall I buy one before coming to the workshops?
A. No please DO NOT. You will find that after the two days tuition, your knowledge of digital photography and camera functionality will be so much improved that you will be in a much better and knowledgeable position to purchase the right camera for you. I can also provide you with a checklist and my own impartial advice. Having a digital camera for the course is an advantage but is not absolutely necessary. If you wish I can hire you a digital camera for the duration of the workshop for a small charge.
Q. Although I own a digital camera, I only use it in the most basic point and shoot mode. Will I need to know all the camera’s controls in order to attend the course?
A. No not at all. If you bring along your camera’s instructions I am more than happy to explain what the different functions are and when to use them. To be honest, most beginners find having attended one of my courses, the biggest benefit they take away is an understanding what the camera does!! You will learn a lot just sitting in on the course but outside the formal course-work, I am happy to teach you what your camera can do.
Q. If I am the only person attending your workshop will I have to pay a supplement for 1 on 1 training?
A. No. Unlike a lot of other training companies I do not charge any such supplements.