The world is seemingly divided into two people: those who read the instructions and those who don’t. It is the answer to the age-old question of why technology is a mystery to some, while to others technical know-how appears as if handed down by divine privilege. And yet, when unwrapping our brand new, shiny digital SLR camera, the temptation to hurl away the troublesome bits of paper that come with it and just point and click is almost overwhelming. Again, the answer is apparent: best learn from someone who knows.
Gulf Photo Plus has been running introductory classes to photography for the past few years now. The aim of it is simple: explaining the whys, wherefores and ‘what’s thats’ of operating a state-of-the-art SLR without having to learn the hard way.
‘These are cameras that give you a lot more manual control than other models. The classes explain what these buttons mean and show you what kind of photographs you can take with them,’ explains Hala Salhi, a UAE-based photographer and teacher.
It is very much a case of back to basics: aperture, shutter speed and simple composition. Hala rattles off lists of technical details without any necessary asterisks, rather proving her point in doing so. Photography practically has its own language and for the casual beginner – at whom the class is aimed – this makes for a good introduction.
The classes are divided into two four-hour sessions, covering things like the best place to shoot a subject, horizon lines (where the sea/land meets the sky) and basically ‘demystifying the jargon,’ says Hala. For example, if you’re shooting a moving object, you have to think about shutter speed, she tells us. If you have a fast shutter speed it will freeze the subject as is, but a slower speed will create a trail of light. Similarly, the aperture controls the amount of light that comes into the sensor, Hala explains: too much and the picture will be over exposed and appear bleached; too little and it will lose necessary detail.
Like any class, students get a chance to polish their skills and test what they’ve learnt. Every day, during the lunchtime break, you get a small assignment. At the end of the class you can submit your pictures for critique on the website. There is also a virtual classroom to upload your shots, where they are critiqued by the teachers. All students get access to view the pictures online, as well as a chance to express their opinion – they don’t hold back either. It might seem daunting, but, like any class, the aim is to build confidence, and by mastering these basic techniques and skills this is exactly what you get.
Of course, knowing the right equipment to buy is just as important. A lens can vary in price by as much as Dhs5,000, says Hala, or as little as a few hundred. There are three basic levels, she argues: consumer, semi-professional and professional. You shouldn’t even consider the latter, she advises, but you don’t need to spend a fortune to get the right camera for you. Of course, the point of the class is to learn how to make the most of what you already have, but the class focuses on other equipment too, such as different lenses, filters and tripods.
The level one photography course not only helps you foster a new hobby, but have some fun as well. With the frequency of open photography competitions operating year-round in the UAE, who knows – it might even pay off. In the meantime, however, you might as well get snapping.
Gulf Photo’s level one classes take place from Sep 25-26 (11am-4pm) and Oct 9-10 (11am-4pm) at Abu Dhabi Women’s College. Call 04 360 2365 to book. Classes cost Dhs750
Daytime masterclass
Hear me raw
Le Royal Méridien’s Soba continues its delicious sushi classes during Ramadan, with a few differences. Instead of running classes on Saturday (10am-noon, 4pm-6pm), Sunday and Monday (both 10am-noon), these will be run on Fridays and Saturdays only (10am-noon, 4pm-6pm). A welcome sight for all those who have already overdosed on Arabic fare at the Iftars.
Classes cost Dhs150 (subject to 10 per cent service charge and tourism fee), call 02 674 2020 to book a class
Crafty workshops
A variety of six different handicrafts will be taught at Emirates Palace by Turkish artists and craftsmen, late September, many of whom are featured in the Faith And Worship exhibition. These skills include Islamic calligraphy, tajled (book- binding), the art of illumination, ebru (paper marbling) and Ottoman miniatures, amongst others.
From Sep 27-Oct 5, Emirates Palace
Shake your belly!
A combination of shimmying and flexing, Hiltonia Beach Club’s belly dancing class is not as easy as it looks. It’s also exhausting; and you need the right clothing – a halter top or a sports bra can be a lifesaver. But remember, it’s just for ladies!
Classes cost Dhs70 and are held on Saturdays from 2pm-3pm. Call 02 692 4324 for more information.
