A collage of images featuring seaside and coastal scenes: a pier with a carousel and seagulls at sunset, waves crashing against a sea wall, a person walking on a pier with a seaside building in the background, a black and white photo of a lighthouse and a tall pole, a beach walkway with a lighthouse in the distance, waves crashing on a breakwater with a surfer, a roller coaster at an amusement park, and a pier with a lighthouse during a seabird flock.

Brighton Seafront Photography workshop

Brighton Seafront Photography Workshop (3-hour session)

Join me for a creative and engaging 3-hour photography adventure along Brighton’s iconic seafront – where the vibrant energy of the city meets sweeping sea views and classic seaside character.

What we’ll explore

We’ll begin at the colourful beach huts in Hove, moving along the lively promenade where people, movement and light create endless photographic opportunities. We’ll then head towards the pier to capture Brighton’s most recognisable landmark under golden light as the sun dips.

Throughout the session, we’ll shift between street-style photography (people, architecture, leading lines, reflections) and seascapes (textures, horizons, pier structure).
During the February session, we’ll also finish with the mesmerising starling murmurations – an unbeatable natural spectacle.

I’ll guide you through:

  • How to use your DSLR camera on manual mode to get the best results in different lighting situations

  • How to spot and frame strong compositions quickly in a changing urban-shoreline environment

  • How to use movement (people walking, waves, surf) as part of the image story

  • How to choose interesting and unique subjects to focus on

Who it’s for

This workshop is suitable for all enthusiast photographers who want to push beyond simple snapshots – whether you’re using a mirrorless, DSLR, advanced compact, or even a phone camera.
You don’t need to be confident in manual mode; I’ll help you take that next step.

Groups are kept small (maximum 8 participants) so you’ll receive plenty of one-to-one attention, in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

What you’ll walk away with

By the end of the session, you’ll:

  • Understand your camera’s manual settings and feel confident adjusting them for each scene

  • Feel more comfortable switching between street and landscape modes, using light, movement and composition with intent

  • Leave with fresh ideas for how to explore your camera – and see a seaside city in a whole new way

How to book

Places are limited to keep the experience personal. Reserve your spot here: Book now →
In the event of severe weather, the workshop will be rescheduled.

Meeting point & logistics

We’ll meet on the promenade in Hove, by the beach huts:
1 Braemore Court, 231 Kingsway, Hove, BN3 4FG, United Kingdom

Please bring:
your camera, comfortable walking shoes, a light tripod if you have one (optional but useful for low-light/long-exposure work), spare batteries and memory card, water or a warm drink, a snack, and layers or gloves – it can get breezy by the sea.

Book Now

Upcoming Photography workshops

Gift Vouchers

Capture stunning images with a 3-hour photography lesson in the heart of Sussex. The perfect gift for photography enthusiasts or anyone eager to master their camera.

Testimonials

  • I did the Birling Gap and Seven Sisters walk with James, and enjoyed the experience immensely. James is extremely patient, and he knows where all the best photography spots are at. I was shooting exclusively with a film camera and a 50mm lens mounted on it, and the photos turned out to be stunning and much better than I expected. James is very honest and open with his photography tips, and I learnt so much from him. He was very responsive and professional from the beginning when I was making an appointment, and made the process very smooth and pleasant. I would encourage anyone who finds themselves in that part of England to book a photography walk with James. As for myself, I am very much looking forward to doing the Cuckmere Haven photography walk with him the next time I’m back!

    GPY

  • I highly recommend James Ratchford’s workshops. I learnt many things about my camera that I didn’t know before and can now practice and feel happier with my photographs. The workshop also introduced me to a new location to explore, we came across unexpected opportunities to photograph wildlife and use our surroundings as a frame for the iconic views. Met other enthusiasts and exchanged hints and tips. Great all round, looking forward to doing another workshop soon.

    Alison Lindley

  • I thoroughly enjoyed the photography workshop with James Ratchford! We had a lovely little group, which meant that we all had a lot of personal attention and help from James, and we all got along really well. James is an unassuming and modest man, but he is a hugely talented photographer who taught us things in a few hours that would have taken years of study to learn. I definitely have a much better grasp of what I can do with my camera than I ever had before. The weather wasn't perfect, but I'm not sure we can blame James for that! But it was a worthwhile experience, whatever the weather. I would definitely recommend James's workshops, and I hope to join another one soon! Thank you James!

    Otto Has

Alternate workshop locations

Click on one of the buttons below for more detailed information about the workshop, what to bring and a rough outline of what to expect to learn

Seaford Head

Landscape photography course with famous views of the sea and the Seven Sisters

More details

Birling Gap

Landscape photography course of epic seascapes and iconic vistas

More details

Lewes

The perfect combination of street and landscape photography

More details

Cuckmere Haven

A delightful mix of open landscapes and wildlife

More details