How to Shoot Historic Buildings – Buildings at Risk
PHOTOGRAPHING HISTORIC BUILDINGS (UNFURNISHED) ELVASTON CASTLE
Elvaston Castle, is constantly undergoing a programme of repairs, but owing to its history, is largely empty and a perfect case study for structures of this nature.
The earliest parts of this Grade II* castle in Derbyshire date from 1633, with significant further development in the early 1800’s by James Wyatt which led to its Gothic Revival style. Extensive Pleasure Grounds with multiple follies and buildings by William Barron include a Moorish Temple. A combination of death duties and economic changes meant the estate was left to rapidly decline in the 1960’s, until Derbyshire County Council saved it and created of one of the UK’s earliest Country Parks. However, a lack of financial resources needed to retain an estate on this scale has meant that the main part of the house itself remains closed to the public whilst applications are made to various bodies to assist with funding for restoration and to safeguard its future.
What this brings is an opportunity to work with your camera and understand how to photograph historic structures without power or services.
What this course includes:
- An opportunity to shoot the atmospheric empty interiors of Elvaston Castle together with its grounds and follies.
- A chance to use proper architectural perspective control lenses (Canon and Nikon DSLR fit only).
- Understand how to create both accurate conservation report style images and also empathetic narratives.
- How to work in unlit spaces with long exposures for best quality.
On this course, we are based inside the Gothic Revival masterpiece, where much of our day will be spent exploring the castle’s upper floors. This itinerary is only suitable for those who are happy negotiating staircases and carrying their kit for the day. There is no mains power within certain areas of the house we are working in, so if you have a flash, please bring it. We will be able to provide a tripod for those without, as long exposures will form the mainstay of our work. You will need warm clothing and sturdy footwear. There is an excellent cafe on site which we will be able to visit at lunchtime.
Elvaston Castle, South Derbyshire. This property is best approached from either the M1 j25 from the east or the A38 from the west by car. There is free parking provided for attendees. Please note that photographing across the castle requires ascending stairs throughout the day. The property is not wheelchair accessible and a reasonable level of fitness would be beneficial.
Course Tutor – Martine Hamilton Knight
Course Times
Contact us to arrange your preferred date, number of attendees and costs. Please note that you will be booking on behalf of your group or staff team, dates can be set for weekdays only for this course.
10.00am – 5.00pm with tea and coffee provided in the morning and afternoon. Lunch is not included but there is a lovely cafe at Elvaston serving home cooked food.
