Image Expressions 2025

Do you have a nice camera but no clue how to use it? Do you still shoot on auto and let your camera make the creative decisions for you? Do you want to have beautiful images in your family photo album? Do you want to be able hang your own artwork on your wall? 

Maybe you have a great eye for photography, but aren't sure how to work the technical stuff? You might even be considering a career in photography...

THIS PROGRAM IS FOR YOU!

The Image Expressions program starts with the basics of turning your camera off of auto and takes you all the way through to lighting and composition. This course teaches you the technical aspects of photography while also stretching you on a creative and emotional level. Our goal is not to create “cookie cutter” photographers, but for each person to come out of the course as a unique, expressive artist with their own creative style. 

Whether you are brand new or you’ve been dabbling in it for years, you are guaranteed to gain valuable information that takes your photography to a whole new level!

What kind of camera equipment do I need?

You must have a digital SLR or mirrorless camera to take this program. We recommend the Canon Rebel as a great entry-level camera. You will also need a tripod. Various lenses will be introduced throughout the course, so you may wish to consider waiting to purchase additional lenses until you know the direction you want to take with your photography.

How do I sign up?

To sign up, contact Tineke at northernpersona@telus.net. 

A $600 deposit is required to reserve your spot, so please do not sign up until you are certain that you wish to reserve a permanent spot in the program. A payment of $600 will be due in January, and a final payment of $690 (inc gst) is due March 1st. Spots are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. No spots will be reserved without the deposit. Please be aware that classes fill up extremely fast so do not delay! All fees are non-refundable regardless of the circumstances.

What if I miss a class?

If you have to miss the first class, it is highly recommended that you pay for a private lesson to get you up to speed. If you miss any other class or workshop, you will be given handouts that explain the material we learned.

Will I be learning how to edit my photos in Photoshop?

This course focuses on teaching you the skills necessary to do beautiful photography right in your camera without needing Photoshop. We are all in favour of digital enhancements once you have learned the important basics without relying on ‘fixing’ it later. Therefore, editing will be introduced later in the program in the form of 4 private lessons, so we can cater to your specific editing preferences/ questions. Addidtional lessons are $50 per hour.

How much time will this program take?

We suggest that you clear time in your schedule if you plan to take the IE program. Many people are surprised by the amount of time it takes to master photography. You can expect to invest at least 5-10 hours per week on assignments and practice. There are also classes and workshops ranging from 3-8 hours each. You will be receiving marks and a final report on your progress. There is a written exam after the first 6 classes that is meant to help you understand what areas you will need to work on. We take this program very seriously! Our goal is to do everything we can to help every single student be the best photographer they can be. The amount of time you invest in this course will determine how far you progress.  

How good will I be when I finish this course?

The answer is: that’s up to you. We will give you 150% of our time and effort to give you the best experience possible. If you put that same amount of effort in, I have no doubt you will succeed. I am proud and honoured to say that many of my students put out exceptional work and have gone on to start businesses, win awards and have their images published. If you want that kind of success, you need to work hard, apply yourself and take advantage of every single opportunity we offer. PLEASE stay for the mini practices during each class. We have found that the students who participate in practices have a much better grasp of the new material. 

Do you offer any other programs?

Absolutely! We are constantly being inspired to teach and share new things. Keep an eye on our facebook page for new programs being offered throughout the year. We have a range of in-person workshops we can teach if we have enough interest. We also regularly run online challenges to keep you motivated to get out your camera.