Modelling and simulation, based on observational data, were used to examine the potential of ELT photometry for studies of the evolution of distant galaxies. An open cluster, a globular cluster and two mixed field populations were employed. Colour-magnitude and metallicity diagrams were examined. For younger populations, excellent turn-off-point age data and abundance data can be obtained even beyond 20Mpc. Higher population age weakens data if not improved with longer exposures. Still, the great potential of ELT photometry for studies of the evolution of galaxies is confirmed. Comments are given on adaptive optics and photometry.