BUDDING photographers took a trip to Egremont Castle as they learned how to snap a perfect picture.

Students from three Egremont primary schools were invited to photography classes with tutors from Lowes Court Gallery.

Photographer Nick Landells and Natalie Burns, from the gallery, gave children tips on how to take the best shot of the castle.

"We had a super day today even with a little drizzle in the afternoon," said Mrs Burns.

"We intend to create greetings cards from the youngsters images to sell in the gallery."

Pupils at Orgill School, St Bridget's School and Bookwell School got the opportunity to test their skills.

The gallery, on Main Street, Egremont, is running a project to encourage youngsters to engage with art.

Mrs Burns said: "This was part of our community project from Lowes Court Gallery to engage children and families with the gallery and to give the opportunity for artists to work with the children.

"The children came to the Egremont Castle grounds with their cameras and iPads to work with professional photographer and mountain guide, Nick Landells and myself."

She added: "Nick gave the children tips about framing the shot and taking better pictures. Together we explored the grounds to find interesting viewpoints and took many photographs."

The project was well received by the children, who will now send their favourite snaps to the gallery.

"Photography is commonplace in schools these days as staff and children document all of the activities they get involved in so having some professional instruction can only be a good thing to help children take better photographs," said Mrs Burns.

"The enthusiasm from the children was most evident and one or two children stood out in their engagement, perhaps photographers of the future.

"The children now have a couple of weeks to select their favourites and send them into the gallery where the best will be used to make greetings cards."