Build your camera confidence with a short course: Liz Schaffer of Lodestars Anthology
- Written byMimi Jones
- Published date 17 December 2024
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Liz Schaffer, founder and creative director of Lodestars Anthology, shares her inspiring journey from a passionate hobbyist to a confident travel photographer and creative professional, via the Digital Photography Short Course at Central Saint Martins.
Her magazine, Lodestars Anthology, has been described by BBC Radio 4 as “extraordinary, really beautiful coffee table objects . . . incredible, gorgeous photographs.” It is stocked in prestigious bookshops and stores across London, including Fortnum & Mason, The Conran Shop, and Tate Modern, as well as internationally in the US, Australia, and Asia.
With a passion for thoughtful storytelling and a commitment to slow, meaningful travel, Liz enrolled in the Digital Photography Short Course. We spoke to her about how the experience transformed her creative practice and career.
Which short courses did you take, and what led you to choose them?
I took the Digital Photography Short Course, which I first completed over a decade ago, just after moving to London.
Initially, I enrolled because I’d never had formal photography training, despite carrying a camera with me for as long as I can remember. Having just arrived from Australia, the idea of spending a creative week at Central Saint Martins felt utterly glamorous.
I retook the course in late 2022 after a few years away from photography. Running the magazine—especially during the pandemic—and focusing on writing had taken precedence, leaving my camera untouched. When I finally picked it up again, the joy was still there—but I was rusty. I needed to rebuild my confidence, ask questions, and learn in a low-pressure environment rather than having to steer the ship myself.
How did the course help you develop your creativity and photography practice?
The course reminded me how much I love taking photos. It gave me the rare opportunity to create purely for creativity's sake, without the pressure of commissions or deadlines. That low-stakes freedom was something I didn’t realize I needed.
I rediscovered foundational photography principles I already knew but had forgotten or blurred over time. The course reinforced best practices, replacing some of my not-so-perfect shortcuts, and reminded me that I am competent behind the camera. This reassurance has made a lasting impact.
How has your portfolio or work changed as a result of the course?
I’m taking more photographs again and tackling more challenging projects, such as photographing Japan during its humid, unpredictable wet season. Confidence has made an incredible difference.
Additionally, I’ve become a better collaborator. When working with photographers on the road, understanding their equipment needs, keeping an eye on lighting, or styling a scene makes everyone’s job easier.
Why are short courses valuable for those looking to develop their photography skills?
Short courses are invaluable for building foundational skills and discovering what your camera—and your creative eye—can truly achieve. Most importantly, they boost confidence. Stretching your creative muscles in a supportive environment makes it easier to embrace your identity as a photographer.
How do you plan to continue growing creatively and professionally?
I’m eager to take more short courses in the future. Working in a creative field can sometimes make even your greatest passion feel like work—deadlines and invoices will do that! Exploring something adjacent to my profession purely for fun is an exciting prospect.
What advice would you give to someone considering a short course or pursuing photography as a career?
Take a chance. Dream projects or opportunities can remain just that—dreams—unless you take the leap. Start creating, connect with others, and accept that the journey might be rocky. But investing in yourself and your passions is always worth it.
You’ll have fun, learn new skills, meet like-minded individuals, and likely realize you’re capable of far more than you imagined. Take the leap. That’s always the best advice.
Ready to enhance your photography skills?
Explore our photography short courses and unlock your creative potential. If you are interested in pursuing a career in photography, check out our guide on How to become a professional photographer.
