OM SYSTEM Training days

Olympus OM-1 camera setup and training with Wild Photographer

Learn how to get the best pictures from your OM-1 or OM-5 camera with OM System Ambassador Nick Wilcox-Brown

Wild Photographer training workshops on OM SYSTEM and Olympus cameras show you the key settings for great pictures. Working with you in-person, or via Zoom to help you understand your camera. and improve your photography skills. We have proven results and happy customers:

"Fantastic day. Your skill, knowledge, versatility and support for our OM journey were stupendous"
Prof. D. Oct '23

The reborn OM-1 camera by OM System has been a quantum leap forwards for Micro43, competing with full frame cameras for the first time.

The OM-1 and OM-1 Mk II are capable, but complex cameras, the OM-5 slightly less so. Over the last 2 years, I have gathered a vast amount of experience in helping people to setup and use their OM-1, OM-5 and older Olympus cameras. I have different formulas to simplify using these cameras depending on the experience of the photographer and their choice of subjects. Users have ranged from experienced photographers, through to novices. I am very proud to say that one 'trainee' recently ranked highly in a national photographic competition after a zoom and a couple of 1:1 sessions. This is what makes it all worthwhile!

As an OM SYSTEM Ambassador, I am supported by OM System with these cameras and their Olympus OM-D predecessors. We work in the natural and very beautiful Somerset and we cover landscapes, wildlife, birds and upon specific request, people and model photography. We frequently include post-production training as required.

A handy guide to getting started with the OM-1 is included for free with our traininig.

Bird photography on the Somerset wetlands - a Hobby taken with Olympus OM-1 and 300m f/4 lens + MC14 extender

We can start with a remote session on Zoom to assess your needs, increase your confidence and gain a head start, or dive straight in to an in-person 1:1 or small group training. Let us know what works best for you.

Depending on your wishes and need, the training can be over 1 or 2 days. We start with setup of the autofocus system and other key menu items to make the camera easy and intuitive to use.

After time spent confirming guests are happy with the changes, we head out to put it all into practice within the local area, with birds, landscapes or other subjects chosen to suit your interests. It is essential that you are comfortable with your camera to ensure you get the best possible pictures.

During the day, we take regular breaks for refreshments (most people are delighted by our 'Tuck box') and we always stop for a light lunch, which is included in the price.

Once people are comfortable, we drive you to some of the hidden corners of Somerset, looking for specific photographic opportunities to suit your interest.

At the end of the day, we sit around with refreshments and import and check pictures, looking at ways to improve tecnique and showing how processing in Lightroom or your chosen photo application can bring out the the best in the pictures taken.

Orange-tip butterfly focus stacked hand-held with with OM-Systerms OM-1

Costs and Dates

Our training is on demand for individuals or small groups. We also offer Zoom training to help to get you started with your new camera.

Contact us to discuss your needs via Phone, WhatsApp, Messenger or via the Booking form linked below. There is no comitment

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1:1 day £350 inc light lunch.

2:1 day £225 each.

Groups we can provide discounted training for small groups. Please call, or send a message.

Feel free to ask any questions. We are very friendly, helpful (see feedback) 😊

We do answer the phone, so please give us a call +44(0)1761 856070

Grey Wagtail taken with OM-Systems OM-1

Timings

The Olympus OM-1 days run from 09:00 - 5pm each day, but may be extended if the light is good. If you decide to visit us for 2 days, we generally get an evening meal or a drink and chat together. Everything is informal and relaxed.

If there is an interest, we can include macro subjects with focus stacking into the program.

All transport is by comfortable 4x4, from an agreed pick up location or your accomodation.

We always provide tea / coffee / water and light snacks (chocolate!) during the day and usually get lunch at a cafe or tea room.

What you need to bring

You will need:

OM-Systemy camera + spare batteries and your regular lenses
Mac / PC laptop or tablet for Lightroom or preferred processing software
Chargers for camera and computer
Waterproofs and outdoor clothing (sun hat 😊 ?)
Sturdy shoes

OM System OM-5 camera

Included in the OM-1 and OM-5 Photo training

all transport and guiding throughout (including rail / airport pickup / drop-off, if required).
photography of birds, wildlife, landscapes or all three
optional macro photography and focus stacking
detailed help / setup / training with the camera and settings as required during the day
introduction to / advanced post-production on Lightroom / Photoshop from one of Adobe UK's trainers (optional).
takeaway help guide with key information for your camera

Suitability

Our OM-Systems training is suitable for Photographers who are experienced or beginners; there is something on the trips for everyone.

We are vehicle based, with 2-3 miles (3-5 Km) walking during the day and no difficult terrain.

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Testimonials

We work hard to deliver concise, helpful training to allow guests to work quickly and intuitively with their OM-Systems cameras. We've had some lovely feedback:

Thank you so much for Thursday, for setting up (and deselecting) the functions on the camera and for your patient guidance throughout the day. I enjoyed it immensely – so much to think about and now to put into practice.

A. March '24

Fantastic day. Your skill, knowledge, versatility and support for our OM journey were stupendous. Am going to into assimilation mode.

Prof. D. Oct '23

Just spent a fantastic day on a 1-2-1 basis with Nick who was incredibly generous with his talent and experience, helping me to understand the fundamentals, set up my OM1 to be more intuitive, and put my new skills to use. A gorgeous location for photography, with a lake, waterfall and stunning Autumnal colours. Learning how to properly edit the photographs afterwards finished off the day perfectly.

MB Nov '23

Thank you so much for a fantastic time.

We very much appreciate all your hard work and wealth of knowledge. It was hugely enjoyable and we also feel as though we have learnt an incredible amount.

We’re so pleased with the images we looked at this afternoon and feel confident with post processing and using the presets. I was amazed by the results I achieved with the OM1 and J is still buzzing at the capture of the murmuration!

We really can’t thank you enough and hope that we will soon meet up again.

J & J Nov '23 (mix of Lightroom and OM-1)

Many thanks for looking after us so well. A great and very valuable experience. Please keep in touch with details of future events.

NB Nov '22

Great weekend with Nick who knows his nature and the area around him well. He delivered a great experience with good humour, despite some poor weather. Coupled with tuition on workflow and editing I learnt a huge amount

RS Dec '22

I enjoyed the course and found it very useful

LC Nov '22

Many thanks for looking after us so well. A great and very valuable experience. Please keep in touch with details of future events.

NB Nov '22

In Autumn we can include macro photography and focus stacking in our workshops. Mushrooms like these False Chanterelles make excellent subjects and beautiful pictures.

Accomodation for OM-1 and OM-5 camera training

We use The Garden House for our inclusive Olympus and OM-1 training packages. It is also available to book for bespoke and 1- off training days. Please contact us.