Photography, in its early days, was primarily viewed as a technical marvel—capturing light and preserving moments in time. Over a century later, the tools and methods for making images have evolved dramatically, making photography more accessible than ever. At Magnum Learn, we focus on teaching photography from the point of the view of the storyteller, often setting the technical aspects aside.
But, thanks to a collaboration with Wex, we are pleased to offer a series of seminars dedicated to the essentials of photography: gear, composition, and printing.
The seminar will begin with an in-depth exploration of the cameras and lenses currently available, guided by Wex experts George Johnson and Tonderayi Machando, who will use case studies from Magnum photographers to demonstrate the capabilities of the material. Following this, we will present a live conversation between Martin Parr and David Hurn, streamed from the Martin Parr Foundation in Bristol.
In a subsequent session, Magnum photographers Carolyn Drake, Zied Ben Romdhane, Yael Martínez, and Moises Saman will discuss the deeply personal nature of image composition. Moderated by Jade Chao, this conversation will provide insight into what composition means to each of them.
To wrap up the series, Daniel Wheeler, a darkroom practitioner, will lead a session on the art of printing. Daniel will cover the traditional darkroom techniques and will be in conversation with Julien Alamo and Ana Vallejo of PICTO New York to talk about the latest in digital printing.
This seminar offers a rare opportunity to explore the fundamentals of photography through a comprehensive lens, bringing together technical expertise, creative insight, and the craft of image-making from starts to finish. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, these sessions will provide valuable perspectives from industry professionals and accomplished photographers.
Schedule
Session 1 – On gear
Wednesday 13 November – 12 pm NY time
Wex experts George Johnson and Tonderayi Machando will provide a comprehensive overview of the cameras and lenses currently available on the market and their functionalities. From ISO to depth of field and apertures, to the use of various lenses, this session will help you improve your skills with existing gear or offer insights if you’re considering acquiring new equipment.
Ample time will be given for questions.
Moderated by Sonia Jeunet
Session 2 – Insights on gear
Thursday 14 November – 12 pm NY time
Live-streamed from the Martin Parr Foundation in Bristol, Martin Parr and David Hurn will discuss their gear and lenses, share insights, tips, and tricks, and answer questions.
As Martin Parr puts it, “This wide ranging exchange will use gear (and shoes) as a starting point and see where it takes us. Although having the right gear is essential, it is not the be-all and end-all.”
Moderated by Sonia Jeunet
Session 3 – On Composition
Tuesday 19 November – 12 pm NY time
In this session, five renowned photographers unpack the art of photographic composition through five differing approaches. Each photographer presents a unique perspective on how they capture compelling imagery: the drama of landscapes both natural and built, the intricate exchanges allowed by collaboration with subjects, journalistic assignments invested in humanity, and creative interventions with the frame through collage and manipulation. This seminar offers a rare opportunity to learn composition techniques from some of the industry’s most acclaimed photographers, as they showcase their work and describe how they conceive of, construct, and craft visual stories in their shots.
With Carolyn Drake, Zied Ben Romdhane, Moises Saman, Yael Martínez
Moderated by Jade Chao
Session 4 – On Printing
Wednesday 20 November – 12 pm NY time
Daniel Wheeler from Make It Easy Lab will discuss darkroom printing and John Blakemore’s approach to printing.
This session will also host Julien Alamo and Ana Vallejo of PICTO New York, who will show in details how best to prepare your files for digital printing, and what can be achieved.
Daniel will talk about the tactile and precious nature of black-and-white darkroom prints, exploring a more holistic approach to image-making while sharing physical prints on camera from his work with John Blakemore. We will cover topics such as home film processing, home darkroom setups, and the concepts of sculpting light and printing with emotion.
Contact
If you have any questions about this online seminar, please contact us : education@magnumphotos.com
