Buxton

Photo setup by David Islip, remotely triggered by Steve YatesI'm just getting back to normal after this year's trip to Roaches Hall (near Leek/Buxton). It's my second time going over with Paul RG Haley's residential training. This year I led 3 classes, 1 on Lightroom, and 2 on using speedlites. The lighting classes were fun, because I was teaching auto flash to both Canon and Nikon users. I've become way more familiar with Nikon CLS recently so it was a breeze showing concepts to both groups of users. At the end of the day each camera system is merely a tool for the photographer, and although the physical operation to set the system is different, the end results are the same. For example, Canon uses a ratio system to balance groups, whereas Nikon sets EV differences.I also showed 'key shifting', .....using gels to create interesting effects, and using the environment to effect (in this case using a banisters to cast shadows on a plain background). I think everyone came away with something. I even threw in ideas for the 1st dance to give a look that can't be achieved easily by 'Uncle Bob'.For the Lightroom class, I spoke about Workflow. The key parts were Import and Selection Methods in Lightroom. While showing cools looks in Develop is great eye candy, the meat of a photographers work is in getting to the images that will be processed. I did throw in some eye candy at the end though.I've been asked back for the next one, which is in October. I pretty sure the calendar is free for those dates, so I'll be going.A note on some of the other people sharing. Richie Crossley from Chic Production was teaching fashion photography and spoke about model rapport, along with finding models and how to approach potential models. Julie Oswin showed how to use available light with reflectors, while Paul RG Haley did a variety of things from available light to flash. Mark Pearson did some Business stuff, while Aladdin Gulec spoke about SEO (I've applied his advice and techniques to my plugins BTW). David Islip led a group on images that clients buy.Along with the group sessions, the models are available for bookings. Because photos from group sessions can't be used commercially, this allows attendees to create images themselves, which can be used. Obviously if an instructor sets up something that others then shoot, it doesn't mean they could ever set it up themselves. This year there were 3 models: Lily Robben, Maria King and Lola Valentine. Lola had answered a casting call on Model Mayhem, so it was great to work with her. Lily was fantastic to work with too. I didn't get to work with Maria this year, as all the model slots were booked when I wasn't! I'll be posting some of the images as I get through processing.As well as the learning aspects, there's great opportunity for networking, not to mention the social aspects. Like playing guess the tunes at 3:30am!