'Student of Light' Street Photography Workshop

Part of a series of events relating to the exhibition Student of Light, the workshop celebrates the work and photographic style of street photographer Robert Blomfield.

No prior street photography experience is required as attendees will learn and discuss composition and practical techniques in the gallery before walking in Blomfield’s footsteps around Old Town. You’ll revisit some of the scenes he captured more than 50 years ago, and practice creating some of your own street photography. There will be the opportunity to discuss ways to improve your photos and develop your own style.

Notice to attendees:

Please meet in the antechamber of the exhibition gallery situated on the Ground Floor of the University of Edinburgh Main Library (through the main entrance doors on George Square and to the left). The workshop will begin promptly at 5:45pm with a demonstration by the workshop leader.

Please come prepared with:

• a camera (or a smartphone with camera)
• enough battery and memory for the session
• a bottle of water (not for drinking)
• an open mind

Please note this session will still take place even in wet weather so attendees should dress accordingly. The workshop will follow routes around the Main Library and into Old Town which includes uneven terrain so suitable footwear is recommended.

About the exhibition:

A landmark archive of acclaimed street photographer Robert Blomfield (1938-2020) has been deposited at the University of Edinburgh’s Centre for Research Collections. Born in Leeds, Blomfield moved to Edinburgh in 1956 to study medicine. He arrived in the city as an enthusiastic amateur who was never without a camera around his neck and, over the next decade, honed his skills as a prolific street photographer. celebrates Blomfield’s time as a student at the University.

The exhibition runs 6 May until 1 October 2022, Monday to Saturday, 10am - 4pm. Admission is free.

About the workshop leader:

Tom Duffin is a freelance photographer living and working in Edinburgh, and the city is both an inspiration and the main character in much of his work. He has spent years developing a thorough and intimate knowledge of Edinburgh, and its many facades and nooks and crannies. He relishes the challenge of capturing the city, its life and its people from different and unusual perspectives.

See Tom’s work on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

Host or Publisher Centre for Research Collections, University of Edinburgh