This four-week course spans the roots of the medium to present-day, looking at all aspects of the photographic industry. Led by photo specialist Brandei Estes.

Course format

Sessions include a blend of lectures, group discussions and presentations. Participants are provided with lecture slides and a list of resources for further reading.

Who is this for? 

Open to all who are interested in photography and art. This would also be suitable to those who are interested in collecting photography and would like to develop more understanding into different types of prints and the photography sector more widely. No prior knowledge necessary. 

Schedule 

Week 1 | The history of photography on Mon 30 Oct

Essential to understanding the market and collecting photography, we look at the history of the medium, from its early days to the present. We will contextualise photography’s relationship to the art world, the way it fit in (or didn’t), and how this has changed over time. There will also be an introduction to the photography market, which we will look at in more detail in week three.

Session 2 | Techniques, dimensions and editions on Mon 6 Nov

In week two, we explore the technical and practical factors that underpin the world of photography. An overview of diverse processes and techniques, editions, sizes and formats will be given to provide insight into the various considerations that affect the valuation and pricing of photographs.

Session 3 | The photography market on Mon 13 Nov

In this session we look at the photography market itself. We will focus on primary and secondary market dynamics, the pivotal role art fairs play, and the significant influence of museums and public galleries on the photography market. We will discuss and detail key players in all categories, while gaining insight into what to look for and how to engage auctions – both as a buyer and seller.

Session 4 | Living with Photography on Mon 20 Nov

What is it like to live with and collect photography? Featuring a special guest contributor, hear first-hand about the emotional and intellectual dimensions that drive collectors to engage with photographic works. We also shift focus towards the emergence of NFTs and AI in photography.

There will be final reflection on each week, plus thoughts on this year’s Paris Photo and assessment of various galleries’ offerings and auction results from the recent season.

Details on how to access the sessions will be confirmed upon registration. Please check your junk folders if you haven't received an email from TPG staff confirming your place. 

Paris Photo: A Closer Look

As part of the course, we are offering the opportunity to put your skills to the test in Paris for the international and historic Paris Photo art fair. With activities on 9 and 10 November 2023. the programme include events that will have you mingling with experienced collectors and photography patrons and a special tour of the fair on Thursday morning, informing you on how and what to buy.

Limited places, open to course bookers. Please write to info@tpg.org.uk for more details, otherwise you can reserve your place by clicking here.

Biography

Brandei Estes recently left Sotheby’s as the Head of Photographs in Europe, Middle East and Asia, having started in 2013 following ten years of working in photography and contemporary art galleries in London and Paris. Estes was been instrumental in the growth of the Photographs sales in Europe and further afield, and was the lead business getter for the department. Her comprehensive role within the team also includes professional writing, research and all aspects of auction estimates, fair market value, charitable donation and insurance appraisals.

Estes is regularly a judge and nominator for numerous international photography awards including the Prix Pictet and the Louis Roederer Photography Prize for Sustainability, and served for five years as the Chair for the advisory committee of The Photographers’ Gallery TPG Contemporaries. Estes lectures throughout the year on collecting photographs and the photography market for public and private institutions, museums, galleries and fairs in the UK and continental Europe. Estes is a graduate of University College London, where she received a double honours Bachelor of Arts degree in Italian and History of Art.

By booking for this course you agree to our Terms & Conditions