About

About the Burwell School of Photography

The Burwell School of Photography was founded by Paul Burwell in 2007 with the goal of providing unparalleled photography education. Paul was an award winning professional photographer and contributing editor to Outdoor Photography Canada Magazine. He recognized the need for hands-on, professionally taught photography courses that were available in the Edmonton area.

Our classes and workshops are for everyone from the absolute beginner, aspiring amateur or even the seasoned professional. We strive to provide an experiential, down to earth learning environment with world class photographer instructors. Our instructors haven’t just taken a class on teaching photography, rather they are seasoned, nationally recognized professionals making a living from photography who have a passion for sharing their experience with their students.


Photography is ultimately about vision. 


Our instructors will teach you both the technical and creative skills to develop your own style and vision of photography. Our classes and workshops feature a combination of classroom theory combined with a healthy dose of hands-on learning.

Sadly, the Burwell School of Photography founder, Paul Burwell, passed away in January of 2016.


In August 2016, Chris Stambaugh assumed responsibilities for administering the Burwell School of Photography, and continue the school in Paul's name.

We encourage you to increase your knowledge of photography by taking one of our upcoming classes.


In order to keep your costs and our costs lower, we rent most of our classroom space at a local retreat center set in 20 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, all with the city limits of Edmonton...a relaxing and peaceful place to learn.


Why choose the BSOP?

We offer a wide range of services to meet every type of business.

Individual Attention

Most of our Edmonton Photography classes have very small class sizes so that you get all the individual attention you require.

Creativity Above All

All our classes are conducted in a fun, creative manner. Egos are left at the door so that you receive an optimum learning experience.

Private Educational Institute

We're registered with the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA) as a private educational institution. That means that your training may qualify for tax credits.

Weekend Classes Available

Most of our weekend Edmonton Photography classes include a hot lunch so you won't have to scramble to find a lunch during your break.

State-of-the-Art Learning

We train you using the latest techniques and the latest software.

Highly Rated

Our classes get consistently rave reviews-check the testimonials on our web site.

Top Notch Instructors

Our instructors are all working professional photographers who are nationally and internationally recognized. Plus, they know how to teach and love sharing their passion for photography with their students.


Comfortable Learning Environment

Our classrooms at the Providence Renewal Centre are spacious and comfortable with abundant natural light for a truly positive learning environment.

Contact

If you’d like to contact us, please enter your contact information below and we will return your message as soon as possible.

Contact Us

Mailing Address:

Burwell School of Photography

17828-91 Street

Edmonton, AB  T5Z 2L1

Classroom:

Providence Renewal Centre

3005 - 119 Street NW

Edmonton, AB 

FAQs

Got a question? We’re here to help.
  • Where do I sign up?

    You can sign up for any of our classes online through this web site or by calling us at 780-669-1261.

  • Where are the photography classes held?

    Unless otherwise indicated, all of our classes are currently being held at the Providence Renewal Conference Centre located at 3005 119 Street NW in Edmonton, Alberta.

  • Is there free parking available?

     Yes, there is lots of free parking available.

  • What type of camera is required to take a class?

    In order to take full advantage of our courses and to participate in the hands-on activities, we strongly recommend bringing a camera with interchangeable lenses that has the ability to use manual controls. DSLR or Mirror less camera are both welcome. If you aren't sure if your camera will work for our classes, please contact us before registering and we'll let you know if the camera will work for you or not.

  • I don't have that type of camera, now what?

    If you don't have one yet, try borrowing one from a friend or relative or contact us to inquire about the possibility of rental. Rental equipment is available in Edmonton at Vistek and McBain's.

  • Are your courses theoretical or hands-on?

    Our courses are a combination of theory and hands-on exercises.  We pride ourselves in providing an experiential learning environment.

  • Are you affiliated with any of the local camera stores?

    No.  While we certainly encourage our students to buy from a local store, we are neither owned by nor affiliated with any camera store.

  • How do I pay for a class with a Gift Certificate?

    You can register using our online registration system if your gift certificate contains a PROMO CODE.  If you are redeeming an older certificate, you will have to give us a call at 780-669-1261 for us to process your gift certificate payment.

  • I'm coming from out of town. Where should I stay?

    Accommodation for our classes is not included in the registration fee. The Providence Centre located at 3005 - 119 Street NW (where we host our Edmonton classes) does host retreats and they do have a number of groups that stay there overnight. They have both single and double rooms with either a shared bath or private baths. The rooms are VERY spartan -no phones, no television, small and very plainly furnished (not to dissuade you from staying there as they are very clean and quiet, but they are aimed at groups coming for private meditation retreats etc). These individual rooms are affordable though; $50.00 to $95.00 per night. Contact the Providence Renewal Center directly to book a room. https://providencerenewal.ca/facilities/meeting-rooms-and-accommodations/


    There are a number of hotels just a few minutes drive away from the Providence Renewal Centre and those that are the most highly rated are:


    • The Radisson Edmonton South -4440- Gateway Boulevard, Phone 780-437-6010
    • Hampton Inn by Hilton, Edmonton South- 10020-12 Ave SW, Phone 780-801-2600
    • Sawridge Inn, Edmonton South- 4235-Gateway Boulevard, Phone 780-438-1222