❐ Thomas Bertson

Workshop / Find Your Direction – Hong Kong

Find Your Direction: Photography Workshop & Photowalk – Hong Kong

Rating: 5 out of 5.
+8 View all

OVERVIEW

This experience comprises 3 hours of theory and practice. It starts with a discussion about the principles of photography (an overview of the basic aesthetics in photography), and how to define your photographic identity through the creative aspect of photography. We then delve into the various compositional techniques and framing, that can greatly enhance your images. The theoretical part also covers the importance of utilizing the available tools in the manner to serve your vision and overcame technical limitations to your advantage.

Then we put everything into a constructive practice through a photo-walk around local areas that convey the spirit of Hong Kong. During the walk, we will explore vibrant street markets and local areas providing ample opportunities to apply the concepts learned. By the end of the photo-walk session, attendees will not only have a deeper understanding of creative photography but also have created a small portfolio of images reflecting diverse aspects of Hong Kong life and/or any other chosen theme (as an optional assignment).

Description

WORKSHOP ITINERARY

1) Discussion over Coffee: In which the workshop starts at a coffee shop, as we talk and discuss about photography.

2) Photowalk: This is the exciting part, we will go on a walk around local areas/markets, to practice and hunt for pictures!

Duration: 3 Hours
Meeting Spot: Pacific Coffee Mei Foo (map)

 

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR

Thomas Bertson is a Hong Kong based photographer and educator. He began his work as a commercial photographer in 2008 on shooting an extensive range of subjects including still life and portraits. Subsequently he focused on documentary projects when he covered the Arab Spring (2011), wherein hundreds of images were published, and Prison Escape (2012). On June 2017 Thomas started instructing workshops and leading practical field walks around the city. In which eventually his teaching experience has developed and expanded on both subjective and regional aspects. Also Bertson has been a regular VOGUE contributor since 2013. In 2020 he published his first book “Hong Kong”.

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

– Is this workshop suitable for beginners?

The short answer is: Yes! When it comes to art I prefer not to classify photographers according to their level/years of experience. If you are keen to learn, this workshop can be a good experience to you, as I believe the best investment is in knowledge.

– What kind of gear shall I bring?

A camera with manual settings is suggested. Bring the lightest combination possible. 1 camera and 1 lens is enough.

– What should I wear?

We do a lot of walking during the workshop, so a comfortable pair of shoes is recommended.

– What is the maximum number of students allowed?

Each group cannot exceed six students.

– What is the difference between public and private sessions?

If you booked a private session, the workshop will be held privately for you or your group. While with a public session the booked date will still be available, and more students may join in!

– I am a full-time student, can I get a discount?

Full-time students can get a 12% discount coupon. Send us a message via the contact page using your ‘.edu’ email address.

21 reviews for Find Your Direction: Photography Workshop & Photowalk – Hong Kong

  1. Vanessa –

    Helpful
    Feb 2025 • Solo

    I attended this workshop last month. The information provided was helpful, and Thomas was a great teacher. The photowalk afterwards was just as good, as we were able to put the newly learned skills to use and capture great photos of the city. I would highly recommend attending one of Thomas’ photowalks to anyone interested in improving their photography skills.

  2. Anonymous –

    Challenged ourselves
    Jan 2025 • Family

    We spent a week in Hong Kong for our annual holiday and booked this workshop with Thomas. We challenged ourselves and had a great time. Definitely learned a lot. Highly recommended

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  3. Oyvind H –

    Thomas was great, very…
    Jan 2025 • Solo

    Thomas was great, very knowledgeable and a source of inspiration. I recommend this tour for seasonal photographers as well as newbies. On request, he will also take you to some used camera shops in HK that are off the beaten path for most tourists 📷

    Imported from Viator

  4. Chris B –

    A wonderful afternoon of learning and enjoyment.
    Dec 2024 • Couple

    This was a wonderful experience. We learned more about photography in an afternoon than we previously knew! Excellent instruction using great teaching methods. And great,company. We would highly recommend this.

    Imported from Viator

  5. Radhika M –

    Great Photography Workshop
    Dec 2024 • Solo

    Thomas’s photography workshop was an amazing experience! His clear teaching style and valuable tips made complex concepts easy to understand, and I’ve already seen improvements in my skills. The supportive and positive environment made learning enjoyable. Highly recommend Thomas’s workshops to anyone looking to enhance their photography!

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  6. Aya S –

    Best workshop
    May 2024 • Solo

    Best photography workshop. I got what I was looking for and more. Thomas is very friendly. I wanted to book it one more time but I was leaving HK already

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  7. Susan S –

    Great individual attention in an off-the-beaten path photography tour
    Feb 2024 • Solo

    I was in Hong Kong for two days and booked a Photowalk with Thomas as a way to hone my street photography skills and see a part of Hong Kong that was off the tourist path. Everything exceeded my expectations. We started at a coffee shop (Thomas purchased the coffee) and he asked me my goals for photography. He recommended some particular photographers to study (I have pulled together a number of books now from those recommendations…awesome!) and he also gave me some small cards with things to remember out in the field.

    We walked through a neighborhood and he was great about pointing out things I may have missed and I came away with photos that created a story of that afternoon around a particular theme. Most of all, I got over a big barrier to my street photography efforts which was my shyness in photographing people. By the end of the afternoon I was asking people directly if I could photograph them and also taking candid photos of others. I made a huge jump forward in my photography and Thomas was great about cheering me on. Can’t recommend this tour enough…well worth the cost. A great value for the one-on-one attention.

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  8. Sandy C –

    Great workshop and learned a lots

    It’s a very educational and fun workshop. Great times! Thomas is very friendly and experienced photographer. Class is too short for all the great techniques and interesting information.

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  9. Mariela –

    Great photography workshop
    Feb 2024 • Solo

    I super enjoyed the workshop with Thomas. He provided a great deal of insight and clarity on photography techniques. He explained things well, gave good feedback, and got me thinking about photography in unique ways. He also made me feel comfortable to ask questions. After coffee and discussion, we walked around and got to do a lot of street photography in interesting parts of Hong Kong. I feel like I got a lot out of the workshop and would definitely recommend it.

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  10. Jo C –

    Highly recommended workshop
    Feb 2024 • Couples

    It is a nice experience to have for more than 3 hours and to practice photography around Hong Kong. Tom is open to suggestions so he brought us to new places we never thought about and extended the time of the photo walk for us, after we had a long chat over coffee about photography. We practised a lot of what we just learned like composition and subject.

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  11. Kana –

    Happy class
    Feb 2024 • Solo

    I went to the class and I am so happy with it。 I did know some about photography and cameras but not enough to take good photos。 Thomas educated me more、 He is polite and professional。

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  12. Janice –

    Grateful for everything I learned in this class
    Nov 2023 • Solo

    I have attended some photography classes this year. This class is the best no doubts. What I got from the class is a lot more whats listed in the description. I hope if
    Thomas can make more classes that last a few days. I’m grateful for everything I learned.

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  13. Travis SC –

    Super
    Jul 2023 • Couples

    What a super instructor Thomas is! My wife and I enjoyed the walk part so much. Thomas was very patient and clear with his instructions. Highly recommend!

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  14. Tom M –

    A must for all photography fans in Hong Kong

    Thomas’ photography workshop was one of the highlights of my trip to Hong Kong. He was incredibly generous with his time and effort, from our initial discussion of composition over a coffee, to the constructive feedback he offered when we went to take pictures in Mong Kok.

    He is a kind and friendly instructor who goes above and beyond to help his students, even going so far as to help me order a miniature lens for my phone for me to use back home. If you enjoy photography, if you enjoy Hong Kong, this is the course for you.

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  15. May Lee –

    Great time
    Jul 2023 • Solo

    Great time with Thomas. He is friendly and knows how to break the ice easy. The workshop is awesome.

    Imported from tripadvisor

  16. Jojo –

    Great choice for vision and style development
    Jun 2023 • Friends

    I particularly enjoyed the part of the workshop where we took a walk around the city and tried out different compositions. This workshop is a great choice for vision and style development too. Tom is knowledgable and friendly. He easily made us comfortable and ready for the experience.

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  17. Brian –

    Highly recommended to anyone looking to improve their photography skills
    May 2023 • Friends

    Regardless the hot weather but we were really impressed with the quality of of the workshop and the information that was provided. Tom is knowledgeable and knows how to instruct photographers with different experience levels. The hands-on practice part was also invaluable, as he allowed us to practice the techniques we were learning in a real world setting. Overall, I would highly recommend this workshop to anyone looking to improve their photography skills.

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  18. Vivian –

    Nice and beneficial time with Thomas
    Apr 2023 • Solo

    Thomas is friendly and sincere. He does a good effort to explain everything step by step. He listens to my questions with patience. This workshop was beneficial to me. Now I can frame and compose a lot better. Also I had a very nice time on that day. Thank you Tom 🙂

    Imported from Klook

  19. Dan –

    Thomas is very informative. His educational background tells…
    Nov 2018

    Thomas is very informative. His educational background tells it all. He gives you all what you need, when taking photos. If you are photography major, I’d recommend. There are some strict realities, but don’t get discouraged. Just keep in mind about all what he showed you. It’s worth it.

    Imported from Airbnb

  20. Julia –

    Thomas is a passionate and knowledgeable mentor
    Oct 2018

    Thomas is a passionate and knowledgeable mentor. I’d recommended this workshop to beginners and intermediate photographers who want to get better in photography.

    Imported from Airbnb

  21. Alex –

    Thomas provided good technical info and background…
    July 2018

    Thomas provided good technical info and background, and a clear task to work on. He is very familiar with the city and was quite open, friendly and helpful. Thanks Tom!

    Imported from Airbnb

Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.

Reserve Your Spot

Reviews

21 reviews for Find Your Direction: Photography Workshop & Photowalk – Hong Kong

  1. Vanessa –

    Helpful
    Feb 2025 • Solo

    I attended this workshop last month. The information provided was helpful, and Thomas was a great teacher. The photowalk afterwards was just as good, as we were able to put the newly learned skills to use and capture great photos of the city. I would highly recommend attending one of Thomas’ photowalks to anyone interested in improving their photography skills.

  2. Anonymous –

    Challenged ourselves
    Jan 2025 • Family

    We spent a week in Hong Kong for our annual holiday and booked this workshop with Thomas. We challenged ourselves and had a great time. Definitely learned a lot. Highly recommended

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  3. Oyvind H –

    Thomas was great, very…
    Jan 2025 • Solo

    Thomas was great, very knowledgeable and a source of inspiration. I recommend this tour for seasonal photographers as well as newbies. On request, he will also take you to some used camera shops in HK that are off the beaten path for most tourists 📷

    Imported from Viator

  4. Chris B –

    A wonderful afternoon of learning and enjoyment.
    Dec 2024 • Couple

    This was a wonderful experience. We learned more about photography in an afternoon than we previously knew! Excellent instruction using great teaching methods. And great,company. We would highly recommend this.

    Imported from Viator

  5. Radhika M –

    Great Photography Workshop
    Dec 2024 • Solo

    Thomas’s photography workshop was an amazing experience! His clear teaching style and valuable tips made complex concepts easy to understand, and I’ve already seen improvements in my skills. The supportive and positive environment made learning enjoyable. Highly recommend Thomas’s workshops to anyone looking to enhance their photography!

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  6. Aya S –

    Best workshop
    May 2024 • Solo

    Best photography workshop. I got what I was looking for and more. Thomas is very friendly. I wanted to book it one more time but I was leaving HK already

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  7. Susan S –

    Great individual attention in an off-the-beaten path photography tour
    Feb 2024 • Solo

    I was in Hong Kong for two days and booked a Photowalk with Thomas as a way to hone my street photography skills and see a part of Hong Kong that was off the tourist path. Everything exceeded my expectations. We started at a coffee shop (Thomas purchased the coffee) and he asked me my goals for photography. He recommended some particular photographers to study (I have pulled together a number of books now from those recommendations…awesome!) and he also gave me some small cards with things to remember out in the field.

    We walked through a neighborhood and he was great about pointing out things I may have missed and I came away with photos that created a story of that afternoon around a particular theme. Most of all, I got over a big barrier to my street photography efforts which was my shyness in photographing people. By the end of the afternoon I was asking people directly if I could photograph them and also taking candid photos of others. I made a huge jump forward in my photography and Thomas was great about cheering me on. Can’t recommend this tour enough…well worth the cost. A great value for the one-on-one attention.

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  8. Sandy C –

    Great workshop and learned a lots

    It’s a very educational and fun workshop. Great times! Thomas is very friendly and experienced photographer. Class is too short for all the great techniques and interesting information.

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  9. Mariela –

    Great photography workshop
    Feb 2024 • Solo

    I super enjoyed the workshop with Thomas. He provided a great deal of insight and clarity on photography techniques. He explained things well, gave good feedback, and got me thinking about photography in unique ways. He also made me feel comfortable to ask questions. After coffee and discussion, we walked around and got to do a lot of street photography in interesting parts of Hong Kong. I feel like I got a lot out of the workshop and would definitely recommend it.

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  10. Jo C –

    Highly recommended workshop
    Feb 2024 • Couples

    It is a nice experience to have for more than 3 hours and to practice photography around Hong Kong. Tom is open to suggestions so he brought us to new places we never thought about and extended the time of the photo walk for us, after we had a long chat over coffee about photography. We practised a lot of what we just learned like composition and subject.

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  11. Kana –

    Happy class
    Feb 2024 • Solo

    I went to the class and I am so happy with it。 I did know some about photography and cameras but not enough to take good photos。 Thomas educated me more、 He is polite and professional。

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  12. Janice –

    Grateful for everything I learned in this class
    Nov 2023 • Solo

    I have attended some photography classes this year. This class is the best no doubts. What I got from the class is a lot more whats listed in the description. I hope if
    Thomas can make more classes that last a few days. I’m grateful for everything I learned.

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  13. Travis SC –

    Super
    Jul 2023 • Couples

    What a super instructor Thomas is! My wife and I enjoyed the walk part so much. Thomas was very patient and clear with his instructions. Highly recommend!

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  14. Tom M –

    A must for all photography fans in Hong Kong

    Thomas’ photography workshop was one of the highlights of my trip to Hong Kong. He was incredibly generous with his time and effort, from our initial discussion of composition over a coffee, to the constructive feedback he offered when we went to take pictures in Mong Kok.

    He is a kind and friendly instructor who goes above and beyond to help his students, even going so far as to help me order a miniature lens for my phone for me to use back home. If you enjoy photography, if you enjoy Hong Kong, this is the course for you.

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  15. May Lee –

    Great time
    Jul 2023 • Solo

    Great time with Thomas. He is friendly and knows how to break the ice easy. The workshop is awesome.

    Imported from tripadvisor

  16. Jojo –

    Great choice for vision and style development
    Jun 2023 • Friends

    I particularly enjoyed the part of the workshop where we took a walk around the city and tried out different compositions. This workshop is a great choice for vision and style development too. Tom is knowledgable and friendly. He easily made us comfortable and ready for the experience.

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  17. Brian –

    Highly recommended to anyone looking to improve their photography skills
    May 2023 • Friends

    Regardless the hot weather but we were really impressed with the quality of of the workshop and the information that was provided. Tom is knowledgeable and knows how to instruct photographers with different experience levels. The hands-on practice part was also invaluable, as he allowed us to practice the techniques we were learning in a real world setting. Overall, I would highly recommend this workshop to anyone looking to improve their photography skills.

    Imported from Tripadvisor

  18. Vivian –

    Nice and beneficial time with Thomas
    Apr 2023 • Solo

    Thomas is friendly and sincere. He does a good effort to explain everything step by step. He listens to my questions with patience. This workshop was beneficial to me. Now I can frame and compose a lot better. Also I had a very nice time on that day. Thank you Tom 🙂

    Imported from Klook

  19. Dan –

    Thomas is very informative. His educational background tells…
    Nov 2018

    Thomas is very informative. His educational background tells it all. He gives you all what you need, when taking photos. If you are photography major, I’d recommend. There are some strict realities, but don’t get discouraged. Just keep in mind about all what he showed you. It’s worth it.

    Imported from Airbnb

  20. Julia –

    Thomas is a passionate and knowledgeable mentor
    Oct 2018

    Thomas is a passionate and knowledgeable mentor. I’d recommended this workshop to beginners and intermediate photographers who want to get better in photography.

    Imported from Airbnb

  21. Alex –

    Thomas provided good technical info and background…
    July 2018

    Thomas provided good technical info and background, and a clear task to work on. He is very familiar with the city and was quite open, friendly and helpful. Thanks Tom!

    Imported from Airbnb

Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.