What People Actually Say

Real experiences from photographers who've worked through composition challenges with us. Not everyone starts with natural talent—but everyone can learn to see differently.

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I'd been taking photos for three years before I found Eydar Mxoux. Looking back at my old work now is almost embarrassing—everything was centred, nothing had depth. The autumn 2024 workshop in Leicester changed how I actually see a scene. Not just where to point the camera, but what makes a frame worth keeping.

Portrait of Niamh Bardsley

Niamh Bardsley

Completed intensive programme, November 2024

Example of compositional work from workshop participant

Turning Points

From Snapshots to Deliberate Choices

— Tavish Kinloch, Birmingham

Before working with the Eydar Mxoux team, I shot everything at eye level. Hundreds of images that all felt the same. The January 2025 distance programme forced me to get uncomfortable—literally crouch down, climb up, move three metres left when my instinct said the shot was fine where I stood. Now when I review contact sheets, I can see the difference between taking a photo and making one.

Understanding Negative Space

— Branok Trevorrow, Sheffield

This concept used to irritate me. "Leave room around your subject"—sure, but how much room? Where? The March 2025 sessions broke it down with actual measurements, proportions, historical examples. Not vague artistic talk, but concrete guidance I could apply the next day. My landscape work finally has breathing room instead of cramming every element into the edges.

When Rules Actually Help

— Saoirse Drummond, Manchester

I used to think composition rules were restrictive. Then I spent six weeks in the structured programme learning why thirds work, when symmetry matters, how leading lines guide attention. Turns out understanding the rules gives you better reasons to break them. My editorial work for local magazines improved noticeably—editors started requesting me specifically.

Progress You Can Actually See

Documentation from real student portfolios—before and after completing our composition modules. The improvements aren't about expensive equipment or exotic locations.

Student portfolio showcase demonstrating compositional development

What Changes in Eight Weeks

Most participants notice shifts in their work within the first month. Not radical transformations—photography doesn't work that way. But clearer intent. Better use of foreground elements. More confident cropping decisions.

The technical skills matter less than developing your eye. You start seeing potential frames before you lift the camera.

Average Portfolio Review Students submit 40-60 images for detailed critique during the programme

Interested in Finding Your Visual Voice?

Our next structured programme begins in September 2025. Limited to twelve participants to maintain quality feedback. If you're tired of taking the same photo repeatedly, maybe it's time to learn why.

Ask About Autumn Programme