FAQ

A few questions and answers about PhotoFest Japan:

I’m a novice!  I’ve never used an SLR, and only use point-and-shoot cameras in automatic mode.  Won’t this workshop be over my head?

No worries!  The pros who will be teaching at PhotoFest Japan are comfortable working with beginners as well as more experienced photographers.  Everyone will walk away from PFJ a better photographer, no matter what their level of experience.

Should I bring along my own camera and equipment?

Yes!  By all means.  We’re planning on making PFJ as “hands-on” of an experience as we can, and there’s no better way to learn than by using your own gear.  If you plan on learning the digital darkroom techniques that will be taught, be sure to bring a laptop computer, too!

Do I need an SLR (single-lens reflex) camera to participate in PhotoFest Japan?

While an SLR gives you much more control over your photography than even the more advanced compact cameras, an SLR is not absolutely necessary to learn about the fundamental principles that affect all photographs, no matter what kind of camera is used to take them.  So no, an SLR is not necessary, but a camera that at least allows manual control of settings like aperture and shutter speed is recommended.

What is this “HobbyLink Japan” place that’s sponsoring the event?

HobbyLink Japan is the largest hobby products retailer on the Internet.  Founded in 1995 in Tokyo by an expatriate American, the company ships plastic models, collectible toys, books and other hobby products from Japan to retail and wholesale customers around the world.  Scott Hards, who founded and runs the company, is also an avid amateur photographer, and he and some friends decided it would be a great idea to have an English-language photography workshop in Japan.  And this is the result!

Photo by Juan Pons