This one-day workshop invites you to explore people photography in relation to Tate Modern, its architecture and collection displays. We will draw inspiration from how artists and photographers from Tate's collection have approached photographing people. We will introduce technical aspects relating to portrait, street and documentary photography before you apply the insights and techniques learnt to your own work.
This session is for people aged 16 and over. It is suitable for photographers at all levels, including beginners. Participants must bring their own digital camera or camera phone. A digital SLR camera is recommended, but not essential.
Introduction: 15 minutes
An introduction to Tate and the workshop, including a very brief introduction to the many different ways in which artists and photographers focus on people in their work.
Technical aspects of photography: 30 minutes
Introduction to photographing people through portrait, street or documentary photography, including framing and the relationship between movement and depth of field (focus).
Followed by a presentation and discussion of selected works from the Tate collection demonstrating the diversity of both technical and conceptual approaches to photographing people.
Collective activities in the galleries: 45 minutes
Practice and experiment with the techniques learnt and draw further inspiration from works on display.
Photographing people: 60 minutes
Individually or in small groups as preferred amongst the group. Support, individual tips and answers to any questions that you might have will be available during this time.
Tea break: 30 min
Uploading of all group members' work for sharing.
Presentation: 30 minutes
Sharing and discussion of the photographs produced.
All Tate Modern entrances are step-free. You can enter via the Turbine Hall and into the Natalie Bell Building on Holland Street, or into the Blavatnik Building on Sumner Street.
There are lifts to every floor of the Blavatnik and Natalie Bell buildings. Alternatively you can take the stairs.
- Fully accessible toilets are located on every floor on the concourses.
- A quiet room is available to use in the Natalie Bell Building on Level 4.
- Ear defenders can be borrowed from the Ticket desks.
To help plan your visit to Tate Modern, have a look at our visual story. It includes photographs and information about what you can expect from a visit to the gallery.
For more information before your visit:
- Email hello@tate.org.uk
- Call +44 (0)20 7887 8888 – option 1 (daily 10.00–17.00)
