Join us, in our photography studio for a fun, 2-hour Light Painting workshop. Use torches, colourful glow sticks, and long exposure photography to create light drawings in the dark together. Watch your light trails come to life while learning the art of long exposure photography.
This workshop fosters creativity, imagination, and confidence while introducing key photography concepts in a fun and engaging way.
During this fun, 2-hour workshop, participants will learn the basics of digital camera handling and explore the exposure triangle, focusing on shutter speed and its effect on movement in images. The main focus will be long exposure photography, with tips on how to replicate the process outside the studio for further experimentation at home.
Activities include a demonstration of how cameras capture light over time, creative exploration with lighting props to design and draw, and experimenting with movement and exposure. Participants will take turns as photographers and light painters, working together to solve creative challenges. The workshop will end with a review of their images, sharing experiences, and discussing favourite effects.
By the end, participants will have learned how to use a digital camera, basic technical skills, and how to create light paintings using long exposure. They’ll also receive their digital files to take home.
Learning Methods
This course will be delivered on campus over 2 hours.
Participants are welcome to bring a mobile phone to use as a torch, although this is not required. Torches and glow sticks will be provided for use during the workshop.
What to Bring
- A water bottle to stay hydrated
- If possible, bring your own apron/wear overalls (optional but recommended)
- Notebook (optional)
- Sensible, flat, closed, footwear
What we recommend
- Old, comfortable, clothing
- No jewellery
- Something to tie back long hair
- Leave valuables at home
Activity Summary
- Minimum of 8 students, maximum of 8 in each group.
- 2 hours of teaching in total either 10:00 - 12:00 or 13:15 - 15:15.
AM workshop
- Registration: 09:50–10:00
- Workshop: 10:00–12:00
- Departure: 12:00-12:15
PM workshop
- Registration: 13:00-13:15
- Workshop: 13:15–15:15
- Departure: 15:15–15:30
Assessment
This course is not formally assessed.
Staff Delivering on this Course
Nicole Paterson
Nicole Paterson is a Photographer and Photography Technician at Gray’s School of Art, where she leads workshops and provides technical support in the photography studio and darkrooms, helping students refine their skills in both digital and analogue processes. She is passionate about nurturing both technical expertise and artistic expression in students' work.
In her personal creative practice, Nicole Paterson explores human relationships, capturing authentic moments through a tactile, storytelling approach. Dedicated to the craft of photography, she is committed to supporting and inspiring emerging artists.
Entry Requirements
There are no formal entry requirements for this course.
Required Age
Students are required to be at least 11 years of age on the day of the workshop.
The workshop is designed for young creatives currently in S1–S4 of secondary school (aged between 11-15 years old).
For Academic Year 2024/2025
Course fee: £30 per person for the course.
The fee is to be paid as part of sign up process and prior to workshop date.
After completing the registration form, you will be directed to the payment page. Your place on the course is not confirmed until payment has been received. If you have any difficulties locating the payment link or if you have registered for this course but have not completed the payment form, please contact us for a direct link to pay which will bypass registration.
Additional Costs
Essential core materials are provided.
The following course-related costs are not included in the course fees:
Course Cancellation
If minimum participant numbers for this course are not met, the course will be cancelled and participants will receive a full refund.
Disclaimer
For new intakes course fees are reviewed and published annually for each mode of delivery. Tuition fees are fixed for the duration of a course at the rate confirmed in advance. For further information see:
Any questions?
Get in touch with the Engage Team and we'll do our best to help.