Summer Photography Course – Introduction to Photography in 2 months

Campus: Paris
Next session: June — July 2026

Spéos offers a summer photography course designed as an introduction to professional photography.
Organised over 2 months, in June and July, this program offers an in-depth immersion into photographic practice. It allows participants to explore several image-based disciplines within a concise timeframe, while developing solid technical skills and personal artistic sensibility.

Supervised by working professionals, participants evolve in a stimulating environment that encourages experimentation, the discovery of one’s own style, and perfecting their eye. This course is also an excellent opportunity for networking and exchange, thanks to the diversity of students from around the world, as well as the creative atmosphere of Paris. Finally, this experience can serve as a springboard to longer programs or help enrich existing personal or artistic projects.

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Objectives & Target Audience

Learning Objectives

Acquire the technical foundations of digital and film photography.
Explore different photographic genres (portrait, street photography, reportage, still life, etc.).
Learn basic image editing and retouching techniques.

Target Audience

This summer course is designed for

Motivated beginners who want to discover studio or portrait photography.
Advanced amateurs / self-taught photographers looking to improve their skills, develop a more professional approach, or build a portfolio.
International or French-speaking students wishing to attend workshops in English or French.
Young professionals or artists considering a career transition who want to explore different genres (studio, still life, portrait, product photography).

Qualification

Spéos School Certificate

Program

This workshop uses the Stop-System method invented by Spéos to quickly master analogue techniques.
It offers a tactile and sensory approach to photography, ideal for understanding the very substance of the image. Participants discover the magic of the darkroom and learn how to develop black-and-white film. They are guided through every step: preparation, development, developer, fixer, and first prints.

This workshop introduces participants to the art of telling real-life stories through images. They learn how to build a strong visual narrative: choosing a subject, understanding its context, immersing themselves in the field, capturing key moments, and giving meaning to a sequence. Guided by a professional photographer, they discover reportage techniques, appropriate equipment, and the realities of the profession.

This workshop provides a comprehensive introduction to the essential techniques of studio photography. Participants learn how to handle professional equipment and master studio flash lighting.
The use of large-format cameras and the Stop-System further enhances the experience, providing an in-depth understanding of the precision and rigor of studio work.

During this workshop, creating portraits allows participants to work on personal expression, striving to get as close as possible to their own sensitivity. Participants learn how to optimise shooting parameters — lighting, lenses, film, and camera —in order to maximise their artistic potential.

Each day offers a different creative challenge: photographing glass, metal, everyday objects, products, or exploring food styling. Participants learn to compose precise, elegant, and balanced images by working with textures, materials, and lighting. The use of digital view cameras enriches the technical approach and opens up new artistic possibilities.

This workshop invites participants to explore the city with their cameras in hand, following the footsteps of the great street photographers. They discover various contemporary approaches and put what they have learned into practice through a range of exercises: capturing decisive moments, conveying the energy of a neighborhood, and taking candid portraits. They learn to manage natural light and make the most of every situation to create spontaneous, vibrant images.

This workshop aims to teach the basics of natural and consistent photo enhancement in a way that is accessible to everyone. Participants learn how to easily edit their digital photos using Lightroom. They discover how to import, organize, and select their images, how to adjust exposure, color, and contrast for a balanced result.

This workshop helps participants assert their vision and give meaning to their images.
They learn to select, organize and sequence their photographs to tell a story: edit, rhythm, coherence, tone, and intention.
An essential introduction to moving from “taking pictures” to “building a project”.

Application & Contact

Applications are open year-round, subject to availability.
Do not hesitate to contact Spéos if you have any questions about this program.
You are also welcome to visit the school at any time — simply make an appointment.

Apply Now!

Why Choose Spéos

Founded in 1985, Spéos is internationally recognised as one of the leading institutions in photographic education.

At Spéos, you benefit from close supervision by professional photographers who are actively engaged in the industry and who share their expertise, experience, and professional networks.
You learn photography using high-end facilities: spacious studios, professional equipment, and access to shooting sets.
Spéos offers a hands-on teaching approach, balancing technical rigor with the development of a personal visual language, effectively preparing students for professional practice.
Finally, the school is international, with courses taught in French and English, making it an ideal place for students from around the world, fostering cultural diversity and exchange.

Why Study Photography in Paris

Paris is a cosmopolitan city deeply steeped in art, fashion, architecture, journalism, as well as visual culture: every street, neighborhood, façade, and changing light offers photographic opportunities.

Studying photography in Paris means drawing inspiration from an extraordinary visual heritage, engaging with iconic locations and diverse artistic scenes, and immersing yourself in the history of both contemporary and classic imagery.

Paris embodies an open-air studio, where you can work indoors (studios, darkrooms, post-production) and step outside to photograph the city, absorbing its urban energy, cultural diversity, and international atmosphere.

Practical information

Introduction to Photography in 2 months

Next session: June — July 2026
Teaching languages: French, English
Tuition fees:
– Students from France and the EU: €3,500
– International students: €4,500
Schedule: Half-day sessions over 8 weeks

I apply! Open House Days

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