This workshop is about
So... you bought a “good” camera. You know—the one with all the fancy buttons you’ve been too scared to touch. It’s been sitting there, judging you from the shelf, whispering, “Use me properly…”
Well, this is your moment.
In this small group, hands-on workshop, I’ll help you break up with Auto mode and start using your camera like the creative genius you secretly are.
You’ll learn how to turn those random holiday shots into intentional, stunning, scroll-stopping images using your camera’s Semi-Auto and Manual modes (yes, you’ll finally know what those mean).
We’ll cover the good stuff—like lighting, composition, focus, exposure, colour, gear, and how to make your photos feel more “wow” than “meh.”
🚫 Important: If your camera doesn’t have manual controls (or if it's your phone), this workshop isn’t the right fit. This is for the big kids with the big cameras :-)
About your Tutor
Hey there! I’m Celia Walmsley
Photographer, tutor, camera whisperer—and your guide to finally figuring out how to use that 'good' camera of yours.
I’m based in the stunning landscapes of Central Otago and the creative buzz of Wellington, and I’ve been hooked on photography for over 30 years (yep, I started back in the film-and-darkroom days!).
For the past 12+ years, I’ve run my business, Stagebox Photography, working full-time as a professional photographer—think weddings, portraits, personal branding, ballet and dance.
When I’m not capturing movement and moments, you’ll find me out chasing golden light, dramatic landscapes, and starry skies.
I also have a Master of Fine Arts in Photography and a Certificate in Tertiary Teaching, so yes—teaching is my jam too.
I love helping people go from camera-confused to confident photographers. Whether you’ve just unboxed your DSLR/Mirrorless camera or you’ve had it a while and still feel like you’re guessing—this workshop is for you.
We’ll ditch the jargon, keep it fun, and help you start making images you’re genuinely proud of.
Let’s get that camera working for you—not against you.
Check out some images created by participants from previous workshops
You'll Cover
Day 1
- The most important buttons & menus on your camera
- Use Semi auto controls on your camera to elevate your photos quickly
- Understand Light to instantly improve your images
- How to get one subject in focus with a blurred background
- How to get everything in focus using Aperture Priority
- Focusing on your subject using Depth of field
- Tricks for when you need to get that photo quick!
- How to freeze action and create blurred movement with Time Priority
- How to get pin-sharp focus
- Composing your image in camera to make it stand out from holiday snaps
- Hands-on practice with your camera
Day 2
- Stepping up to Manual settings to make your images look more like art works than holiday snaps
- Taking full control of your camera - like a boss
- Using your 'good' camera to create images you want
- Tips on create stunning photos in your favourite genre e.g. portrait, landscape, sport, movement, family, events, indoors, night sky, street, flora & fauna
- Lenses and gear you need (and don't need) for what you want to do
You receive
Besides a big boost in confidence and a LOT of “aha!” moments:
- A full, hands-on 2-day weekend workshop – no lectures, just real learning you’ll actually use.
- Your own easy-to-follow workbook you’ll keep referring back to (like your photography BFF).
- Fun, practical exercises that challenge you—in a good way—and build real skills on the spot.
- Expert guidance from me, Celia Walmsley, pro photographer behind Stagebox Photography (I've got the know-how and the patience).
- A friendly, relaxed small group (usually 6-8 lovely humans just like you).
- Plenty of personal attention—ask questions, get feedback, feel supported.
And yes… lots of laughs, lightbulb moments, and maybe even a few proud “I actually took that?!” squeals.
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