Beach rose, copyright 2012 by Katie Hutchison Studio (iPhone photo)Recommended New England photo walk and tour

I've often sung the praises of alternative photography created with toy cameras like the plastic Holga camera or a homemade pinhole camera. But my favorite toy camera these days is my iPhone. I know purists will balk at the iPhone camera's limitations, but it's those very limitations that I find so liberating. Augment the iPhone with a few great photo editing apps, available at little cost, and you have the makings of a very rewarding toy camera. (Granted, it's more expensive than a plastic or homemade camera, but it's significantly less expensive than a digital single-lens reflex DSLR camera.) Fortunately, this summer you can even find a camera-phone photo walk or tour on Cape Cod.

Photography Center of Cape Cod

For those of you, like me, who are always looking for an excuse to visit the Cape, the Photography Center of Cape Cod has many appealing offerings to lure you Cape-ward. According to their website, "A program of the Cape Cod Art Association, the Photography Center of Cape Cod was created to help photographers develop their skills, share their passion, and to promote a greater appreciation of photographic arts." The Photography Center "offers classes, workshops, exhibits, and other activities for photographers of all levels, from beginners to professionals and children, too."

Hyannis PhotoWalks
Wednesdays: July 11, 18 & 25 and August 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29: at 9am
Cost: $20 adult; $15 senior/student; $5 children under 12

"Join us this summer for PhotoWalks of scenic Hyannis Village.
Explore picturesque locales and the art of photography with helpful
tips along the way!

Your experienced photographer guide will highlight photo ops
including historic and scenic sights and other points of interest, while offering tips on how to use your camera and take better pictures.

Walks last approximately 90 minutes and go out on cloudy or sunny days. Bring anything that takes pictures - even your cell phone!"

Provincetown Photo Tours
Instructor: John Tunney
Tuesdays: June 26, July 3, July 10, July 17, July 31: 9-11:30 am
Meet: Town Hall, Commercial Street
Cost: $45 CCAA members / $50 non members

"Join photographer John Tunney for a guided tour through Provincetown, one of Cape Cod’s most colorful towns. With its working fishing harbor, eclectic waterfront, historic architecture and funky streets, Provincetown offers photographers a visually rich area to explore.

The tour begins in front of Town Hall on Commercial Street and lasts 2.5-3 hours. As he leads you through P-town, John will offer commentary, tips and suggestions for images, and general camera and photography help as needed. All levels and cameras are welcome. If you own a tripod, bring it along, but it may not always be practical to use it. A year-round resident of Cape Cod, John has been leading workshops in Provincetown and other parts of the Cape for the last four years."

Walks and tours are subject to change so check program websites for updates and registration requirements.

Take a look at my continuing education posts from previous seasons to get a sense of the many quality continuing education programs operating in the region. Enroll in a workshop, demonstration, or presentation on a lark, and get your creative juices flowing.  Experience continuing-education bliss.

by Katie Hutchison for House Enthusiast