A short history of photographic styles and learnings for us now - workshop

7:40pm, Wed, 18 Feb 2026

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Event Details

Type of event:	Presentation
Start time:	7:40pm
Venue:	Lindfield Uniting Church Hall Cnr Pacific Highway & Provincial Rd Lindfield.
	See map below
Description:	Discover the fascinating evolution of photographic style in this interactive, hands-on workshop designed for photographers of all levels. From the earliest documentary images of the 1850s to today’s smartphone aesthetics and AI-assisted creativity, we’ll explore how visual styles emerged, what shaped them, and how they continue to influence the work we create today. We are fortunate in NCP to have photographers who embrace all these styles, so we will ask invite them to share their ideas and techniques! During the session, you’ll learn to recognise 25+ major photography movements — including Pictorialism, Modernism, Surrealism, the New Topographics, Postmodernism, Minimalism, and more. Each style will be illustrated with example images and practical insights into its defining characteristics, from composition choices and lighting approaches to emotional tone and conceptual intent. But this isn’t a sit-back lecture. No way. You'll be working throughout: reviewing images, identifying stylistic traits, and analysing what makes each approach powerful. You’ll also have the chance to reflect on your own photography, discovering which visual traditions you naturally lean towards — and which new ones might expand your creative voice. Whether you’re new to photography or looking to refine your artistic direction, this workshop will deepen your understanding of photographic language and give you fresh ideas to apply to your next shoot. Join us for an inspiring session that blends history, creativity, and practical learning. Image courtesy Fran Brew in the Pictorialist style.