Mastering the Basics: Street Photography Foundations

Location

National Theatre, Southbank, London - https://maps.app.goo.gl/sx9YAphvzZMzhCAm6

Agenda

Welcome & Orientation. Break the ice and set expectations.

Quick introductions and overview of the session.

• What makes a good street photo? (light, story, timing, composition).
• Ethics & etiquette of photographing people in public.

Understanding Light & Exposure. How to see directional light, contrast, and reflections.

• Exercise: Find a subject (person or object) lit dramatically or partially in shade.
• Learn to adjust exposure and focus manually (phone or camera).

Composition & Storytelling. Framing: rule of thirds, leading lines, layering.

• Exercise: Capture 3 images showing a moment or mini story using composition only.
• Move your feet, change perspective, crouch, frame through objects.

Movement & Timing. Life in Motion, capturing people walking, cyclists, or skaters.

• Shutter speed control.
• Exercise: Capture a moving subject with one still background element.

Wrap-Up & Review. Group discussion: everyone picks 1–2 favorite shots to share.

• Review: what worked, what could be improved, what to practice next.

Equipment

• Any camera or smartphone.
• Fully charged battery + memory space.
• Comfortable shoes.

Learning Goals

By the end of the session, you will:

• Understand how to read and use natural light.
• Apply basic composition principles confidently.
• Capture expressive, story-driven street images.
• Feel more comfortable shooting candidly in public.