Whether you're a beginner, a professional photographer or somewhere in the middle there's one thing that you need to help you along the way and that's enthusiasm and encouragement. It's probably one of the biggest challenges you might face on your journey but if you manage to read the right articles, have supportive friends and family and network with like minded individuals then you'll definitely enjoy it a whole lot more which leads me on to my latest dose of that particular tonic.
I've been very lucky to hook up with some really great individuals recently like Russell Pritchard and Wilgenix to name but a few and I count myself fortunate in the encouragement stakes thanks to these folks and others particularly my morning stints on Twitter with the #breakfastclub brigade. Back in February I posted here about a trade show in Antrim and it was at this very show that I first encountered the lighting wizard John Denton. The Societies had him scheduled in for an hour slot and I can honestly say that thanks to that event that I find myself even more enthusiastic than ever. Since then I've been in contact quite regularly via Twitter with John and recently had the chance to meet up again by attending one of his training events in Belfast.
A lot of people might feel that you maybe don't need any formal training as far as photography goes but these sessions are as informal as they come and having seen lots of feedback from other attendees I knew I wouldn't be disappointed. Let's be honest as well for a second, the majority of courses cost an arm and a leg but this was priced at £95 which I seen as extremely reasonable for a full day including a model. Cost is a major factor for me and probably for others and every day you'll see regular updates about this, that and the other but how many people can really afford such events especially when you're probably already saving to buy your next lens or possibly considering a body upgrade. It's a vicious circle!
The event itself was hosted at Dermot Murphy Photography on the Malone Road in Belfast and John was accompanied by the wonderful Rachel Chapman who happened to be a last minute introduction to proceedings as his regular model Jennifer Dickinson, who also visited in February, hadn't been feeling well and wasn't able to make the trip. We had a quick chat and then John got down to business running through different styles of lighting usual natural light and reflectors in the first instance and then kicking on with his beloved Quadra's. It was non stop from start to finish except for a bite of lunch and we all managed to capture some brilliant images throughout the day and I personally learnt a lot and had a few eureka moments along the way as well.
All in all it was a great day and I'd definitely recommend getting yourself booked in to any of the courses that John is running. The content is well delivered and John has a brilliant sense of humour and you'll also grab some super shots to add to your portfolio. I'd like to thank John and Rachel for making the journey and also to Dermot for hosting it in his studio. Hopefully there'll be another one in the not to distant future and next time I'll be staying out for a few more drinks. You can see some more of my images in the gallery below and discover more about Denton Training here. Enjoy.
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