Whether you’re a happy snapper or a professional, photographers have a wealth of impressive subject matter in New Zealand. There are many courses available to those who want to improve their skills and most courses incorporate tuition in digital post-processing programmes.

Community education courses in basic and advanced photography and associated computer skills are often available as night classes. These may be offered at the local tertiary institution or secondary school. Look in your community newspaper at the beginning of each term to see what’s on offer. If you want to take a more in-depth course, there are plenty available. The free monthly magazine, The Photographer’s Mail, has interesting articles as well as advertisements for courses and equipment. Pick up a copy at your camera shop.

One of the best ways to advance your skills in a supportive, social environment is to join the local camera club or photographic society. These usually meet a couple of times a month and involve field trips, competitions, workshops, peer advice and assessment. They come under the umbrella of the Photographic Society of New Zealand (see below).

The New Zealand Institute of Professional Photography (NZIPP, www.nzipp.org.nz, 03 982 2125) represents the professional photographic industry in New Zealand.