Lighting for the Environmental Portrait

Photography produced for editorial, documentary, and corporate commissions is often created under difficult circumstances with narrow time frames for shooting. This portrait class delves into the challenges of making compelling images in unfamiliar environments with unknown subjects under great time constraints. Discussions cover the use of what is traditionally considered “ugly” ambient light—fluorescent light and noon sun—to make beautiful images. We also examine how strobe light works as well as best practices for using small speed lights and more advanced pack-and-head systems while shooting with strobe on location. This class features in-class demos and regular shooting assignments.

Course Level / Prerequisite: Intermediate: You are familiar with a camera, whether film or digital. You understand aperture, shutter speed, exposure, white balance, histograms, and how to control focus. You are comfortable editing and processing your images. You may want to learn how to utilize your camera in a more thoughtful and articulate way, or learn more about lighting or how to utilize theoretical concepts in relation to your portfolio of work.

Students are encouraged to review ICP's Classroom Disclaimer for current information regarding COVID-19 policies, classroom guidelines, and more. These policies are subject to change at anytime.

Courses are subject to minimum enrollment. Please register early, within five days of the start-date, to reduce the likelihood of course cancellation and to ensure you receive all course-related materials in time to prepare for class. Registration for this course will close one day prior to the start date of the course.

Fee Breakdown