Rachel Southard Photography

I’m putting the finishing touches on our itinerary for Saturday’s landscape class at Ridgeway!

I love running these sessions because there is nothing quite like watching someone have that "aha!" moment when a setting clicks or a composition suddenly comes together perfectly.

Do you learn better by reading a manual, or by getting outside and physically trying things out?

Tip: To keep your landscape shots crisp and sharp from front to back, try using a slightly higher aperture number (like f/8 or f/11) if your camera allows you to adjust it.

Don't worry if you don't know what those numbers mean yet—that’s exactly what I’m there to help you with! Grab one of the last remaining spots below, and let's spend Saturday morning boosting your photography skills.

Date: Saturday, 20th June

Time: 11:00 AM (2 hours)

Location: Ridgeway, Newport

Booking Link: https://newportphotographygroup.co.uk/book/31152/

Think of this workshop as a collective deep breath out.

Partnering with Nisha is always like plugging into a personal power bank, and when you combine her joy coaching with an open beach and a camera, you get a beautiful recipe for stress relief.

I’ll be sharing my favourite tips for capturing light and scale on your smartphone so you can document the day authentically.

Where do you feel most mentally free—in the green forests or by the blue sea?

Come beachcombing with us: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/horizon-headspace-a-mindful-coastal-walk-landscape-session-mmmh-tickets-1984676168847

Just over 7 weeks to go until the big jump! 🪂

I’m counting down the days until I skydive for BulliesOut, and I’m so grateful for everyone who has cheered me on so far.

I’m currently focused on getting as much support as possible for the incredible education and mentoring they provide in schools and workplaces.

Whether you can spare £1 or more, every bit goes toward helping people build the resilience and self-worth they deserve.

Let’s help make a world where kindness is the norm.

Will you join me?

https://www.justgiving.com/page/rachel-southard-1?utm_medium=FA&utm_source=CL

A massive thank you to everyone who joined my Smartphone Photography class.

We had the perfect weather, and the historic, timeless surroundings were the ultimate backdrop for unlocking your phone’s potential!

Ready for the next step? Our next class is just around the corner:

Landscape Photography Class
Sunday, 21st June
Ridgeway, Newport

Learn how to capture stunning vistas, master composition, and make the most of natural light. Spaces are limited!

Book your spot here: https://newportphotographygroup.co.uk/book-event/31152/

☀️

If you’re looking to perfect your photography skills or start completely from scratch, there is a class for you this June and July!

We have a brilliant mix of in-depth photography classes to master your settings, alongside our mindful MMMH sessions to help ease your mind.

I'm putting a final shoutout for our Landscape Photography Class on June 20th at Ridgeway, Newport—it’s the perfect chance to build your confidence with composition and technical basics!

Take a look at Month of Upcoming Events in June & July for the full lineup, and message me to grab your spot.

Which one are you looking forward to?

The best classroom doesn't have four walls—it has a view! I’ve always found that learning photography is so much easier when you're actually out in nature, experimenting in real-time with the light and surroundings, rather than sitting behind a screen.

What is your absolute favourite landscape spot in South Wales to walk and take photos?

Quick Tip: Keep an eye out for 'leading lines'—like a path, a fence line, or a row of trees—that naturally lead the viewer's eye into the heart of the image.

If you’ve been wanting to get off 'Auto' mode and understand how to make the most of your camera, this friendly weekend session is the perfect opportunity. Hope to see you there!

Date: Saturday, 20th June

Time: 11:00 AM (2 hours)

Location: Ridgeway, Newport

Booking Link: https://newportphotographygroup.co.uk/book-event/31152/

Our Smartphone Photography masterclass is happening tomorrow morning at 11am in Newport.

No fancy gear or photography experience required—just you and your phone.
We're going to have a fantastic time breaking down composition and lighting in a totally fuss-free way.

Snag the last spot before tomorrow: https://newportphotographygroup.co.uk/book-event/31151/

Why do I choose to shoot business portraits in parks and outdoor spaces across South Wales?

Because nature is the ultimate equaliser for camera nerves.

When you're indoors under heavy, hot studio lights, it’s hard not to feel self-conscious.

But when you step outside, the environment does the heavy lifting.

The lighting is soft, the background is dynamic, and your shoulders naturally drop.

It’s amazing how a change of scenery can completely transform how you feel in front of the lens."

Do you prefer the look of a clean, modern outdoor backdrop or a traditional indoor studio style?

Ready for a business portrait session that actually feels relaxed, drop the word "RELAXED" in the comments and let’s chat.

Street photography can be unpredictable, and that’s exactly why it’s so rewarding.

If you're looking to hone your skills and move past standard snapshots, join me at The Hayes on Saturday 27th June.

We’ll be working through a series of diverse, practical challenges designed to push your composition and timing.

It’s a great opportunity to ask those deeper technical questions and experiment alongside a small group of like-minded photographers.

Tip: Experiment with a slow shutter speed (around 1/8s to 1/15s) and intentionally pan your camera along with a moving cyclist or pedestrian.
Getting their face sharp while the background blurs gives an incredible sense of city speed.

Do you prefer going out with a specific concept in mind, or do you just prefer to see what the street gives you on the day?

Details: Sat 27th June | 6pm – 8pm | The Hayes, Cardiff

Book Here: https://cardiffphotographygroup.co.uk/book-event/37302/

There is a specific science behind why we feel so good at the beach—the sea breeze is rich in negative ions that naturally help stabilise our happy chemicals.

Nisha and I want to invite you to soak up that "Vitamin Sea" with us!

Our upcoming coastal walk combines the best of both worlds: practical smartphone photography tips to capture the beauty of the natural world, and a supportive, fuss-free space to unwind.

Just bring your smartphone, some warm layers, and an appetite for fish and chips.

What is your absolute favorite thing about a trip to the Welsh coast?

Join our coastal circle: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/horizon-headspace-a-mindful-coastal-walk-landscape-session-mmmh-tickets-1984676168847