PHOTO CLASSES & WORKSHOPS

All classes are taught personally by Len van Bruggen IV and with qualified instructors / assistants. See INSTRUCTORS for a current list . Len is also available for one on one lessons. Please CONTACT for more info. For testimonials, go toABOUT or see below class listings. To purchase please contact us (for Interac Email payment & save HST) or go our STORE for paying with CC.

 

"Summer Photo Camp for Teens/Tweens 2023"


"The Photography Summer Camps offer a unique opportunity for teens to learn about photography and editing in a fun, hands-on environment. Each camp offers small groups to ensure your child gets quality instruction and supervision. The camps and associated activities are specifically geared toward the different age groups and run by a professional photographer who is also a qualified and experienced teacher and instructor. The Campers will learn about the different principals of photography and have ample time to practice under supervision, both in the studio and outside. The classes are close to locations we will be shooting at including, The Brickworks, St. Lawrence Market, The Portlands and Riverdale. All campers will go home with a 16" by 20" photo print as well as a 8" by 10" transfer art image at the end of their session."

( Experience Required: None     Equipment Requires: ANY Digital Camera * WE CAN SUPPLY A DIGITAL CAMERA FOR USE )

COST - $295  - for 5 classes/days of 4 hours , all supplies included  Times: 1-5pm daily MORE INFO HERE


"Intro to Digital Camera / DSLR" One Day BOOTCAMP Workshop

This workshop takes place in one six hour sessions (plus one hour lunch). Whether you are brand new to digital photography, or have been shooting for a while and would like to expand your knowledge/skill, this one day crash course is for you. The emphasis in this course is on composition and creativity, balanced with technical and practical information.
Learn what all theose numbers,dials mean and a few tips/ticks for more creative images.

( Experience Required: None     Equipment Requires: ANY Digital Camera )

COST - $150 for 6 hour workshop UPCOMING START DATES> Coming soon!

MORE INFO HERE



Epoxy Resin Workshop. Photo Art with Resin! -  Weekend Workshop

You’ve seen ‘that look’ on artworks in galleries and elsewhere. That thick, glassy, laminated finish that makes the artwork ‘pop out’ almost as if its illuminated from behind. Though somewhat simple to prepare and use, there are many factors involved into creating a suitable finish for your photographs, painting, collage and other artworks. There is NOT a lot of information out there and you will save yourself a lot of trial and error in this informative, practical workshop. You will be working with the artist on a production art piece and one of your own pieces. These techniques are ideally suited for photographers and all visual artists. This workshop consists of one (approx.) six hour session and a one hour followup .The classes take place at the LENS WORK work studio in Leslieville (Dundas and Carlaw) ,Toronto.

( Experience Required: None    Equipment Required: a digital file/ photo or Artwork to work with )

COST:$250- includes 16" by 20" artwork you take home with you

UPCOMING START DATES> Sun. Feb 18 . 10am-5pm (with lunch break) and 1 hr followup following day ( or when is convenient) for pickup of cured piece.
*CLASS SIZE LIMITED please book soon!

MORE INFO HERE


new!  "CREATIVE Iphone/Ipad/IOS Photography"

In this four hour workshop you will learn how to use your iPhone or iPad to creatively shoot,edit and share your images.

Through a series of presentations (ipad viewed on large monitor), hand outs and extensive reviews/tutorials of many current ‘apps’, you will learn all/everything I have learned from my extensive use of ios.

An extensive presentation /tutorial of many of the different apps available. Learn what works well...what doesn't and save money. Try before you buy!

( Experience Required: None     Equipment Requires: ANY Digital Camera )

COST - $75 for 3 hour afternoon workshop 

UPCOMING START DATES> Sat Feb 17 2PM-5PM  MORE INFO HERE


NEW!   Photo Image Transfer  Workshop

In this workshop, you will explore a number of techniques using both digital and traditional methods to produce mixed media collage artworks. You will work with the artist on two 8" by 10" artworks on wood panel and two 4" by 4" image transfer on stone that you will take home with you. This workshop is suitable for both the beginner, as well as experienced photographer/artists. This workshop consists of one (approx.) six hour session.

( Experience Required: None     Supplies Needed: None )

COST - $150 ( includes two 8" by 10" wood panel and two 4" by 4" stone artworks you take home with you)

UPCOMING START DATES> TBA

MORE INFO HERE


Adobe Lightroom for Digital Photographers

 

Adobe Lightroom is the single most important software tool available to photographers today. From Import to final output, Lightroom makes every aspect of digital workflow easy to master. This course will teach you how to use every part of Lightroom with confidence. Each class is three hours and takes place over four consecutive weekly classes. Software and other resources are provided on disc.  

(Experience Required: None    Equipment Required: Laptop Computer )

COST: $250 for four classes of 3 hours

UPCOMING START DATES> TBA MORE INFO HERE





PHOTO 101 "The Basics"- Beginner to Intermediate

This program is designed for someone new to digital photography, someone that wants to know more about the operation of their camera, and also those that have some knowledge, but are looking to expand their knowledge / approach of using a camera for personal expression.

Learn how to use your camera in this creative, fun and interactive photography class at Lens Work. The six classes are designed to teach you the fundamentals of digital photography. Discover how to use f-stops and shutter speeds to take better photographs. We’ll also discuss composition,editing and imaginative approaches to photography to spark your creativity.

Much more 'in-depth' than the crash course/weekend bootcamp, and a great way to create new friendships as well as 'synthesize' all the material that is presented.

There will be in class 'review' of the various homework assignments as well constructive tips for digital editing etc.

 ( Experience Required: None     Equipment Requires: ANY Digital Camera )

COST- $250  for 6 classes of 2 hours

UPCOMING START DATES>  TBA

MORE INFO HERE



NEW ! "Street Photography" ONE DAY Workshop


Street Photography : " is a type of photography that features subjects in candid situations within public places. Street photographs are mirror images of society, displaying “unmanipulated” scenes, with usually unaware subjects."

In this one day workshop there will some in class presentation/discussion about gear/technique/composition and street shooting strategies, but largely we will be out and about shooting at a few different locations around Toronto.
Mixing elements of portrait, travel and action photography , this workshop will be useful to those that don't normally take a lot of street photos as well.

( Experience Required: None     Equipment Requires: ANY Digital Camera with Manual Controls)

COST - $200 for the day 9am-5pm
UPCOMING START DATES> TBA

MORE INFO HERE





Adobe Photoshop for Digital Photographers

 

In this four part workshop, you will learn advanced techniques to enhance your creative vision using the world’s most powerful digital editing software. Whether you are new to Photoshop, or you are an experienced user, this workshop is for any digital photographer that wishes to produce the highest quality results and expand their creative vision. Each class is three hours and takes place over four consecutive weekly classes. Software and other resources are provided on disc.

( Experience Required: None    Equipment Required: Laptop Computer )

COST: $200 for four classes of 3 hours

UPCOMING START DATES> T.B.A *please email

MORE INFO HERE





Introduction to Studio Flash (Speedlight) Photography


Learn to take 'studio' lighting photographs with inexpensive Flash (speedlights) .
What equipment to use, where to get it inexpensively AND shooting professional live models in studio.
This workshop is for those that are newer to using lighting as well as those that want to learn more about shooting with speedlights, as opposed to studio strobes.

( Experience Required: None     Equipment Requires: ANY Digital Camera  with a standard hotshoe)

COST - $200

UPCOMING START DATES> T.B.A *please email MORE INFO HERE


PHOTO 201 "Beyond the Basics"- Intermediate / Continuation of Photo 101

Six consecutive weekly classes of approx. two hours each. At the end of the course, students have an exhibition/ gallery party where they can show some of their work to friends,family and the public. In these classes we will be exploring more advanced techniques to help you become a more confidant, and better photographer. This class is designed for those that have a good basic knowledge of their DSLR / Mirror-less, or advanced P&S cameras and wish to expand their creative vision. Through a series of presentations, personal instruction, creative exercises and photo reviews you will learn to master the finer controls of your camera, improve your compositional skills, learn professional digital editing techniques and explore ‘off-camera’ speedlight (flash) lighting.

( Experience Required: None   Equipment Required: SLR, 'Mirror-less', or Advanced P&S Digital Camera )

COST: $200 for 6 classes

UPCOMING START DATES>  TBA

MORE INFO HERE




 

 





Composition and the Creative Art of Pre-visualization - Weekend Workshop

Learn from photographer, Len van Bruggen IV, how to think creatively by understanding the basic elements of design: points, lines, planes, shapes, and forms and learn how to incorporate design elements into all your photographs whether taking pictures of people, places or things. From the rule of thirds, previzualisation, to patterns and lines he’ll show you how to see the world around you in more creative ways. Join this two day illustrative and inspiring workshop that takes you through the many factors that contribute to the making of great photographs. This workshop consists of two five hour sessions on a weekend.  

( Experience Required: None    Equipment Required: ANY Digital Camera )

UPCOMING dates :T.B.A. Please email if interested

MORE INFO HERE


TESTIMONIALS FROM STUDENTS


 "I took the beginner class and wow I finally realized how to use more than the auto button as well as how to take some awesome shots.Thanks for the help Len!"  - Allan G.

" I took a photography class years ago, so I have some experience, but needed a refresher badly and this fit the bill perfectly. Len himself taught the class and I must say he a really nice guy and he did a great job,  the four classes covered all the main bases, from camera basics, composition,  editing and lighting. Well worth it and highly recommended. "  -  Michael C.

 "Took a  course on introduction to SLR photography, and was rather impressed with the course material as well as the various instructors who taught through the weeks. The course offered information at a basic level to get people acquainted with their DSLR and Point&Shoot camera very well. Each class was well laid out and there was ample time given to individuals for 1-1 discussions to address specific questions or concerns."   - Uday M.

 "I took two classes at the lens factory. One for beginner dslr photography and another for Photoshop. I found the classes a great value and I learned a lot. I had taken classes with at henry's school of photography and I found these ones MUCH better.
The Photoshop Lightroom class was clear,easy to follow and well presented.
Len's beginner photo class was fun and I finally 'clicked' with understanding shutter,aperture etc. Len's quirky humor,insightful presentation and technical knowledge was much appreciated in the group that I was in.
Highly recommended at any price!"
 - Derek C. 

 "I took the intermediate courses and I thought overall it was excellent.  The instructor was extremely knowledgeable and gave us great tips on using not only our DSLRs but also post processing software such as Photoshop.  They did a great job at assessing what the experience level of our group was and then catered the course towards some of the key things we wanted to learn as a group.  Highly recommended for beginners as well as experience amateurs that what to brush up on some basics. " - Allan C.

 "I highly recommend the photography classes offered .If you're looking for a boring, highly structured, instructional seminar that provides you with formulas for various situations, then this isn't the class for you. Len offers a unique and artistic look at photography that encourages us to explore the use of our cameras to take more interesting photos. Len provided me with the basics about composition and about the functions of my camera and let us go. He encouraged us to ask questions and he provided us with advise on how we might solve any of the challenges we're faced with while taking photos. Len also shared his expertise in photo editing, demonstrating how to enhance our photos or to make them true works of art....And he's pretty entertaining too! Len kept the lessons interesting and made me laugh throughout all five lessons. Len and his special guests and instructors will provide you with a foundation to take more interesting artistic photos. I'm looking forward to learning more from them in the future." - Frank A.

 "I just finished my Beginner/intermediate class at with Len, as our instructor. He was very knowledgable and went above and beyond to answer all questions posed by our class.
I took a beginners class at the AGO this summer and was refunded mid-way through because I found the instructor to be stuck up and unwilling to share "tricks of the trade" with, what he clearly saw as, inferior photography enthusiasts. That was the most refreshing thing about my experience . Len is un-pretentious and open to all creative opinions, not just his own. He gave usual advise on various photography scenarios and was interactive with all explanations.
If you're a novice photographer looking for a hands on experience, I highly recommend this course. Where some classes spend a lot of time explaining the history of photography, this one gets you up on your feet, shooting the first day in. I would say that after this course, I'm a more confident photographer and will be taking a workshop through them again."
 - Nicole C. 

“Len was thoroughly informative with his hands on approach to the workshop. It was more than that though, it was an artistic experience- being surrounded by the art in the gallery, and to then be a part of the process of creating gallery standard work was inspiring and confidence building. The Epoxy Resin class was not only a concise step by step process, but it made the once daunting task seem manageable, it allowed us to learn how to overcome creative obstacles with an industry professional.”  - Colt Iggulden, T.V. production and Visual Artist

"I was hopeless with photography before taking a class at Lenswork. I was convinced nothing could teach me proper photography. Very patient and experienced instructors that gave me great tips and allowed me to experiment. I love the photos I take now."
- Christine U.

"I literally bought a digital camera and it sat in my closet for two years collecting dust. Decided it was time to stop being afraid and took it to the class at Lenswork. I am so proud of myself and now am confident in my digital photo taking."
- Lynn R.

"My family photos from Christmas came out great, everyone was commenting on them and asking if I had taken a course. Clearly Lenswork helped!"

- Robin T.

"This boutique gallery runs great photo and art classes. They were running an opening promotion that I took advantage of and I don't regret it.


I have had a digital camera for a few years now, but felt I could really improve my skills. I learned the operation of my camera, composition, a bit about editing and a lot of great ideas. There were handouts, video monitor presentation, lectures and we also all went out and shot around little india.
All in all a great class and I have signed up for another."

-Mark G. 

"When I had a new baby AND a new DSLR...I thought it time to learn how to use it.I wanted to learn more than just shooting on 'auto".There are many classes in the GTA for photography...but I heard about this place through a friend and thought I would give it a go. I learned quite a bit as the classes were easy to follow and a lot of fun. It was a comfortable environment, small classes, and a great instructor. I now understand how my camera 'works' and my photos have dazzled more than a few of my friends. Highly recommended!"

- Melissa F. 

"Had a great time taking a photo course here and learned quite a bit. It was a fun class and I am going to sign up for another. 

The class was taught by Len, the director, and his technical skills and ideas made it very easy to understand more about the 'art' of photography.

I was pretty clueless how to use my DSLR but now have a good understanding of how it works. The ideas about composition and light I have used to great effect as well.

The seating was comfortable and presentation easy to follow.Parking was nearby and there was coffee and snacks as well! They put a lot of effort into making sure we had a positive experience. :)"

- Christina W. 

I took the introduction to photography weekend boot-camp and thoroughly enjoyed it. I had some previous exposure to photography through personal learning, yet I learned a ton from the session. The course is a nice blend of basic technical exposure, along  with analysis of photographs taken by students during the course. Len himself is a wonderful photographer and emphasizes creativity more than technical acumen.

I would definitely recommend those new to photography to take the introduction to photography class. I haven't taken any other classes, but if its the same caliber, then I have no doubt it would be worthwhile.

- Samad R.

I've always wanted to learn how to take better photos and become a better photographer but have had my DSLR sit in the camera bag in the closet of my room for over a year because I didn't know where to start with it - there are so many buttons, functions, modes and settings! 

So, I finally decided to enroll in a photography class and signed up for the Photo 101 - Weekend Bootcamp. At first I thought that trying to cram 12 hours of learning into one weekend would be tedious and too much information to take in at once, but was happily surprised to find this weekend course to be so enjoyable. 

The class was very interactive and hands-on - not boring to sit through at all!

Len (the instructor) was not only very knowledgeable but great at taking the class through all the fundamentals of the camera in a very easy to understand way (he showed every individual how to adjust the settings on their unique model and made sure everyone understood the basics). He was also very helpful, happy to answer questions and excellently resourceful (gave many recommendations for choosing the best lens depending on what type of pictures you are interested in taking: street photography, landscape etc.).

I learned a lot about my camera and the art of photography in just one weekend - definitely a great value for the price! I was very impressed with the class and would definitely be interested in taking another course with Lens Work.

If you are looking to pick up photography as a hobby and do not know where to start, then you need to look no further - this is the place for you!

Extra points: There's a really cute artsy coffee shop directly across the street that serves great coffee and delicious pastries/cake. You should definitely check out this coffee shop during the break!

- Alicia L.

This was a very awesome course! I got everything i wanted out of it, and more. I needed the bascis of how to use my camera. I got the basics plus got introduced to things (such as editing...) which are way above my ability to understand at this point but gald to know the possibilities are there. The instructor is knowledgeable, accessible and create a great atmospher in the course. It was a very enjoyable intro to digital photography!

- Fanny H.

Great course, instructor is very knowledgeable and a very competent  photographer with a good eye as well. I would recommend this course to novices and to experienced photographers alike.

- Brian W.



"My family photos from Christmas came out great, everyone was commenting on them and asking if I had taken a course. Clearly Lenswork helped!"

- Robin T.