Introduction to Photography Studio lighting

Come join us at Amity Studios with Branded By Photography for a hands-on workshop designed to help you master the art of portrait lighting.

Whether you’re completely new to studio work or looking to sharpen your skills, this session will give you the confidence to create professional-looking headshots and natural portraits.

✨ What you’ll learn:

• How to set up simple one-light and two-light studio arrangements
• The difference between natural and artificial lighting techniques and when to use each
• How to pose and direct clients for confident, authentic portraits
• Practical tips for choosing and using modifiers (softboxes, reflectors, umbrellas)
• How to read and adjust light for flattering results every time

This is a hands-on workshop — you’ll not only watch live demos but also practice shooting with guidance and feedback.

Don’t miss this opportunity to take your photography to the next level in a supportive, creative environment!

Info: Teach: hard vs soft light, size/distance relationship, direction (front, side, back), contrast, catchlights. Run through beginner approach to off-camera flash basics.


Demonstration: show same subject under hard vs soft light (bare flash vs softbox).

Info: Demo setup: single softbox at 45° / slightly above eye line (classic Rembrandt / loop lighting). Use talk through distances, angle, camera settings.


Show how small micro-adjustments change mood (tilt of head, step forward to close or open shadows).


Hands-on: participants pair up and shoot 3–5 headshots each using the same one-light recipe. Instructor circulates and gives targeted feedback.

Info: Demo: key + fill (soft key + reflector/fill flash) then add rim/back light for separation. Explain metering: balance ambient vs flash. Use Joe McNally style “light recipes” to explain purpose of each light.


Show modifier swaps: beauty dish for more contrast, umbrella for broader soft light.


Hands-on: students recreate the two-light setup in pairs; each student shoots while partner assists with reflectors/positioning.

Info: Set 3 mini stations (one-light, two-light, natural/window light). Each station has a quick brief: “Get a friendly headshot”, “Get an authoritative headshot”, “Get a creative shot”. Students rotate, shoot short timed sets. Instructor gives rapid feedback.

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