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Introduction to Car Light Trails
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Photography workshop

Introduction to Car Light Trails

This is a Practical Night Photography Workshop focused on capturing car light trails from an elevated viewpoint overlooking the M27.

Friday 6 November 2026 3:45 pm to 5:15 pm Meet just off Dore Avenue in Portchester
About this experience

What the event is about

About The Event

We will be working from a bridge in Portchester, using the steady flow of traffic below to create long exposure images with clean, dynamic light trails. This workshop is designed to introduce long exposure photography in a controlled, repeatable environment that produces strong results very quickly.

What happens on the day?

We will be looking at a variety of subjects and techniques, including;
Introduction to Long Exposures
Camera Stability and Setup
Shutter Speed Control
ISO and Aperture for Night Photography
Creating Clean Light Trails
Composition from Elevated Viewpoints
Timing and Traffic Flow
Basic Manual Camera Settings (starting points)

This course is completely practical and these topics are delivered in a fun, enthusiastic, and jargon-free style, with clear demonstrations and plenty of time to shoot and refine your images.

Who will be there on the day?
The training will be led by Andy Hornby.
As a highly experienced, published photographer and photography tutor, Andy has extensive experience teaching long exposure techniques and will guide you step-by-step to ensure you achieve successful results on the night.

What do I need?
This workshop is suitable for beginners and hobbyists, and works well as a follow-on from my Photography Level 1 or Level 2 Courses.
You do not need prior experience with long exposures, but you should have a basic understanding of how to change Aperture, Shutter Speed, and ISO, as these controls will be used throughout the session.

What’s included;
Tuition and guidance throughout the workshop
One-to-one help within a small group
Practical experience shooting long exposures at night
Clear explanations you can apply to similar locations elsewhere

You will leave with a solid understanding of how to create car light trail images confidently and safely.

Essential gear;
Camera with manual control
Tripod – essential
Standard or wide-angle lens

Not so essential gear;
Remote shutter release (helpful, especially for longer exposures)
Spare batteries (long exposures drain batteries faster)
Torch or phone light to see camera controls in the dark

Additional information:
This workshop takes place after dark and involves standing in one location for most of the session.
Warm clothing and comfortable footwear are strongly recommended, especially in cooler weather.
Safety is a priority at all times. We will remain on the pedestrian side of the bridge and away from traffic throughout the workshop.
Exact meeting details and timings will be provided below.

What to expect

01

Practical guidance

Learn by taking photographs, trying ideas and receiving help while you work.

02

Real feedback

Ask questions and receive honest, constructive advice throughout the session.

03

Relaxed atmosphere

No elitism, unnecessary jargon or pressure to already know everything.

Have a question first?

Ask Andy about this event

Get in touch if you are unsure whether this session suits your experience or equipment.

Contact Andy