Have you thought about running your own workshop? So many photographers do. It’s a great way to pass on your knowledge, build your reputation, and make a bit of money while you’re at it! But where to start?

Julz Glover’s “The Workshop” is about the use of online imagery to get clients’ attention and turn them into paying customers. She focuses on food photography in particular, and on Instagram as a promotional tool. She offers both one-on-one and group coaching, but her latest course is online, and accessible to people across the globe. We spoke to Julz about the importance of online imagery, and what it takes to put together a course of your own.

What is The Workshop and who is it for?

'The Workshop' is a creative platform and service where business owners and other like minded people come together to learn about the importance of photography & Instagram for their brand and how to implement these new skills into their business straight away. You can learn online, in a group environment or during a 1:1 coaching session. 

How did you get started?

I applied for a job as a photography tutor last year and after the interview, I had a bit of a lightbulb moment and I realised I had been beating around the bush, going from job to job, subconsciously avoiding going out on my own and following my heart. I had been putting off starting my own business for a long time. There was something inside telling me this was the time, so I followed my gut and I couldn't be happier. 

I love sharing my skills with those who are eager to learn so the idea of teaching workshops excited me a lot. Many people are posting photos on social media that just aren't doing their business any service so I want to help guide them to represent their brand in a new light (pun intended). 

Do you have any advice for other photographers wanting to create an online course?

My advice for photographers wanting to start an online course would be to just go for it, and make it fun! Don't give up if sales aren't met the fist time round. Also, you don't need to have your course content perfect before you launch the course. The content is something that can always be improved. Listen to any feedback the students give you to adjust accordingly. Better yet, ask potential students before launching the course - what do they want to learn about and what are they struggling with most?

Depending on your budget, you can hold an online course via email, directly available on your site or host it on online teaching platforms such as Teachable, where many creatives host online courses.

Your sales page is hugely important. When you are selling the course you need to prove to your audience why your course is so valuable, who they will be learning from and what they will get out of the course. People want to know what they are investing their time and money into. Speak their 'language' so they feel they’re being heard, and that you are there to help them achieve their desired outcome.

I also suggest creating a Facebook group because that ads to the community vibe, which is hugely important with online learning. Give students the ability to ask questions, get involved, collaborate and learn from each other. 

I have found the 1:1 and small groups workshops have been the most effective as there is more quality & practical learning. I am always open to teaching new topics. I have been thinking about starting a 'mindfulness for business owners' class and I also love the idea of weekend-long workshops. 

Why is quality online imagery so important for businesses? 

Quality online imagery is vital in any business. The images you put out into the world represent you and your brand. Most people are more engaged by visuals over text and first impressions have a lasting effect. The average attention span is no more than 5 seconds, which means you must engage a potential client within those few seconds or you may loose them as a client.

The Workshop offers Instagram tips as well as their new 'Shoot your Cake' course for small business owners. For more information, click here. 

Julz shares some of her top Instagram tips in the video below!

Zara Gilbert: Videographer - Editor - Director
Jade Paul: Pank Panther - Soundtrack

Keep up to date with The Workshop on Instagram and Facebook.

Images by Fossick and Forage.

Victoria x