Photography Short Courses
Looking to enhance your photography skills, develop a portfolio of work or specialise in areas such as documentary photography, moving image or post production? We have an extensive range of short courses to choose from covering all aspects of the industry and practice.
You can join us at UAL's world-renowned colleges, Central Saint Martins and Chelsea College of Arts and study at the heart of London's vibrant art scene, with inspiration from world-class galleries, museums and cultural landmarks.
Explore our upcoming Autumn term short courses, running on evenings and weekends, and take advantage of our flexible study options, including 5-week and 10-week evening courses. Alternatively you can choose to study with us during our Winter, Spring or Summer Schools. Each school offers a unique experience of studying at UAL, with an extended Winter School for 25/26 this festive season.
UAL Short Courses are suitable for every level, all designed with appropriate class sizes, so tutors can help each individual improve their knowledge and get to the next level.
Our courses offer the opportunity to:
- Access state-of-the-art facilities, studios and dark rooms
- Gain practical skills through studio-based sessions that encourage creativity and experimentation
- Create a strong body of work to enhance your portfolio
- Friendly tutor feedback and helpful critiques to guide your progress
- Supportive group sessions to share ideas and get fresh perspectives
Featured short courses
Studio Photography Short Course
£600
Elevate your photography with professional studio techniques. This course is designed for those with basic photography knowledge who want to learn how to use studio lighting and equipment to create considered, professional images.
- Level - Beginners
- Dates - 15 December 2025 to 17 December 2025
- Schedule - Monday to Wednesday
The Complete Photography Short Course
£5400
Master photography from basics to advanced techniques. Develop your skills in composition, lighting, and editing.
- Level - All levels welcome
- Dates - 3 October 2026 to 20 March 2027
- Schedule - Saturdays (No class 12, 19, 26 Dec & 2, 9 Jan)
Improve Your Photography Short Course
£700
This inspiring short course guides you through challenging projects designed to improve your aesthetic and technical abilities. Develop a stronger critical understanding of your chosen medium.
- Level - All levels welcome
- Dates - 14 January 2026 to 18 March 2026
- Schedule - Wednesdays
Starting Digital Photography Short Course
£580
Enhance photography skills in this 5-week evening course at Central Saint Martins. Broaden critical thinking about photography and develop a ""photographer's eye"" for seeing the world.
- Level - Beginners
- Dates - 13 January 2026 to 10 February 2026
- Schedule - Tuesdays
Digital Photography Intensive Online Short Course
£390
Enhance photography skills. Master equipment control. Build awareness of core picture-making techniques.
- Level - Beginners
- Dates - 13 November 2025 to 4 December 2025
- Schedule - Thursdays
London Street Portraiture Short Course
£620
For photographers interested in street portraits. Explore London's eclectic areas and capture beautiful, meaningful photographs of Londoners.
- Level - All levels welcome
- Dates - 30 March 2026 to 2 April 2026
- Schedule - Monday to Thursday
Portrait Photography Short Course
£840
Develop your portrait photography style. This course blends creative approaches with technical knowledge. Explore portraiture history and master composition and lighting techniques.
- Level - All levels welcome
- Dates - 15 January 2026 to 19 March 2026
- Schedule - Thursdays
Documentary Photography Online Short Course
£430
Develop photojournalism skills. Explore shooting and editing techniques for impactful storytelling.
- Level - Beginners
- Dates - 12 January 2026 to 2 February 2026
- Schedule - Mondays