Nikon in South Africa is committed to assisting Nikon users with getting the most out of their equipment. We investigate what they have to offer.

Nikon School of Photography (NSP) aims to inspire photographers of all levels and promote discussions about photography amongst Nikon users. The aim of the school is to help photography enthusiasts master new techniques and improve their picture-taking skills by providing clear, direct information on a wide range of technical and creative topics.

Not only does the NSP have an extended range of offerings to suit a variety of different skill levels and requirements, but it has also teamed up with some fantastic presenters to provide truly unique experiences.

Free camera training

The NSP runs free camera training on all their entry-level Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) cameras. These free training courses are designed to help users discover the potential of their Nikon camera and teach the basic functions. Once completed, Nikon users will be able to get the most out of their equipment.

Free photographic workshops

In addition to free camera training the NSP presents free workshops on a number of topics. These are run on a monthly basis and cover a specific topic each month. There is no cost associated with these workshops and each has a theoretical and practical component. Participants are given practical tips and camera settings that will help them understand a particular photographic theme.

Workshops for the remainder of the year include Sports and Action photography (July), Photographing Kids and Pets (August), Wildlife and Travel photography (September) and Engagement photography (October).

Introductory course – Exploring Photography

The NSP is very excited to announce a new series of courses that will help amateur photographers gain a greater understanding of the photographic process. This four-hour workshop is designed to help understand the key photographic concepts of Aperture, Shutter speed and ISO. It will show participants techniques that will ensure that every image is correctly exposed; how white balance settings can be used to enhance photographic images; the importance of obtaining correct focus; and how to handle shooting in low light conditions.

The course is filled with valuable tips and techniques to optimise camera settings and create innovative and exciting images. The course, Exploring Photography, will start in August and booking is essential.

Specialist Workshops

The specialist courses presented by the NSP offers more experienced photographers and advanced enthusiasts the opportunity to learn advanced techniques from acknowledged industry leaders. Workshop topics include Aerial photography, Advanced painting with light techniques, Setting up a studio and Speedlight photography. Each of these workshops are conducted by an industry specialist with practical sessions included, since most photographic techniques are learnt not by understanding the theoretical aspects but by grasping the practical component of the genre.

Photography Tours

Nikon in South Africa and Land Rover Centurion have joined forces to create an exciting initiative called “I AM ADVENTURE”. The initiative sees two great adventure brands creating exciting photographic excursions for all levels of photography. Land Rover Centurion has invested three new Discovery 4 Land Rovers and together with Nikon trainers and equipment, the vehicles will be the perfect tools to set out on photographic adventures. Nikon will be offering exclusive workshops where clients will have the opportunity to drive the new Discovery 4 while partaking in specially designed photographic excursions.

To the point

Nikon School of Photography workshops are great for beginner photographers, advanced amateur photographers, or even professional photographers who want a fresh way to look at their photography. All the training facilitators are passionate photographers themselves, who strive to create workshops that are fun, engaging and filled with learning opportunities. The Nikon School of Photography is about empowering individuals to engage in photography and create a lifetime of great images.

For more information on the NSP, contact school@nikon.co.za or 086-116-4566.

Article first appeared in TechSmart 118, July 2013. Read or download it here.