Exposure Therapy Two-Day Workshop: Fear & Confidence Directing Portraits
- Ages 18+
Learn to approach, connect with, and direct anyone you photograph. A follow-up online session to edit and grade your work is included.
Date and time
Location
WatchHouse Coffe Shop Somerset House (off the Courtyard)
Strand #Somerset House East Wing London WC2R 1LA United KingdomRefund Policy
Agenda
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Day 1: Morning Coffee, Introduction & Discussion
11:45 AM - 1:15 PM
Day 1: Group Practical Session
1:30 PM - 2:15 PM
Day 1: Lunch (sit down)
2:15 PM - 4:15 PM
Day 1: One to One Practical Sesion
4:15 PM - 5:00 PM
Day 1: Wrap Up & Reflections (at the pub)
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Day 2: Morning Coffee & Review
11:15 AM - 1:00 PM
Day 2: Morning Practical Session
1:15 PM - 2:00 PM
Day 2: Lunch (sit down)
2:00 PM - 4:15 PM
Day 2: Afternoon Practical Session
4:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Day 2: Final Reflections (at the pub)
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Follow-Up Session Morning Option (Online) Date and Time TBC
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Follow-Up Session Evening Option (Online) Date and Time TBC
About this event
- Event lasts 1 day 7 hours
- Ages 18+
- Paid venue parking
Location: London, Somerset House
Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (BST) Saturday and Sunday
Online Grading Session (2 Hours): Date TBA
Group Size: 8 participants
You’ll develop the confidence and practical skills to approach, connect with, and direct the people you photograph. That includes working with body language, confidence, and communication – skills that strengthen your portraiture and translate well beyond photography.
We’ll use guided exercises, hands-on practice, and group and individual feedback to sharpen your technique and deepen your connection to the people you photograph. We’ll also look at the legal, ethical, and moral aspects of photographing people so you can build your approach with confidence and clarity.
After the two days, you’ll have time to sit with your portraits and make your edits. We’ll then meet online for a dedicated session where you’ll bring three images you’ve worked on and choose one to colour grade together.
Day 1: Approach and Composition
We’ll focus on portrait-making, lighting, composition, and approach. The pace is steady, with breaks and shared meals as part of the creative process. Connection and enjoyment are central to how we work.
At the end of the day, you’ll be asked to select and lightly edit three portraits to bring back for review. You’ll also choose one inspiring portrait by another photographer to share. If anything felt challenging, note it down - we’ll address that on Day 2.
Day 2: Directing
We shift focus to directing while reviewing the work you created on Day 1. We’ll explore how to guide and collaborate with your subject, even when you feel unsure. Expect practical techniques, group and individual support, and opportunities to practice and extend your comfort zone.
Follow-Up Session (Online)
Around two weeks after the workshop (timing agreed with the group), we’ll meet on Zoom to share work and look more deeply at the photographs you've made. I’ll offer both morning and afternoon options. Bring your selected portraits. We’ll discuss them, exchange feedback, and walk through the colour grading process together.
Who Is This Workshop For?
This workshop is for anyone with a camera, an interest in portraiture, and a willingness to challenge themselves. You don’t need to be a professional. Amateurs will gain confidence and experience, professionals will sharpen their skills, and everyone will enrich their perspective. The range of backgrounds and skill levels makes the experience richer for everyone.
Financial Assistance
If cost is a barrier, you’re welcome to apply for a bursary: gabriellemotola.com/learn/#bursary
You can also book this workshop directly through my website to avoid third-party booking fees: gabriellemotola.com/learn
What to Bring
Day 1: A digital camera, ideally with a 35mm or 50mm lens. Comfortable shoes and clothing that suits the weather.
Day 2: Two lenses of your choice. One should be a telephoto (anything over 50mm). Comfortable shoes and clothing that suits the weather.
What Participants Are Saying:
"Everything was a revelation. It was almost like the workshop reintroduced me to the child in me. Inhibited yet daring. I thought I had lost her." - Sujata S
" I feel like I've known Gabrielle and some of the other participants for years despite the fact I had never even met any of them before! This speaks to Gabrielle's ability to create a really safe and welcoming learning space in which we were all able to connect with each other, support each other in this journey, and learn from each other. I have a deep hope that we stay in touch." - Julie B
"I just want to say what an incredible experience I found the workshop to be. I started off feeling really nervous and ended up actually enjoying stopping strangers and asking them for a portrait! I think being able to see Gabrielle at work and watch the reaction of the people who she asked for a portrait was a huge help. I feel like I’ve genuinely had a huge mindset shift that will not only help me in my photographic practice but in all areas of my life." - Katy D
"I can definitely recommend this workshop to everyone! The way it is structured allowed me to gradually (and quickly!) start and succeed! I loved the honesty and support throughout the whole afternoon. It definitely was more than just a photography workshop!" - Lukasz I
About Your Workshop Facilitator
Gabrielle Motola is an award-winning photographer, author, colourist, speaker, and therapeutic photography practitioner with over 15 years of teaching experience. She has worked with corporate clients, private students, and universities worldwide, including Apple, The International Centre of Photography, the BBC, Hahnemühle, Canon Europe, and Olympus.
Renowned for her evocative street portraiture and solo motorcycle journeys, Gabrielle holds a postgraduate degree in Therapeutic Photography. Her teaching blends creative exploration with personal growth, helping participants build confidence and deepen their connection to their work and themselves.
Learn more about Gabrielle and her work at www.gabriellemotola.com or connect with her on Instagram: @gmotophotos
Frequently asked questions
All levels are welcome.
A digital camera is required, ideally with a 50mm or 35mm lens and an 85mm lens or greater for day 2. While you could use a phone with a good lens or a point-and-shoot, we strongly recommend bringing a digital camera. Having a camera in hand identifies you as a photographer, which can be helpful.
No, food and drink are not included. We’ll start in a cosy spot where you can purchase tea, coffee, or a snack. You'll have time for lunch at a nearby café or bring your own. We’ll finish in a pub where you can choose to enjoy a well-earned drink.
To keep the experience personal and supportive, the workshop is limited to 8 participants.
The workshop runs rain or shine—we’ll embrace the conditions and keep photographing. Only in gale-force winds or extreme weather will we switch to indoor locations or find alternatives. Please bring appropriate clothing and waterproofing for yourself and your gear.
That’s part of the process and a good sign. It means you're invested. You’ll be gently guided through the process, starting with observation and small steps. There’s no pressure to dive in before you're ready, and you'll receive support every step of the way.
We’ll cover ethical considerations and best practices for street portraiture, including when a model release may be needed. In most cases, for non-commercial work, it isn’t required—but we’ll discuss respectful ways to engage with your subjects.
You’ll gain access to an alumni WhatsApp group where you can share work, ask questions, and stay connected with other participants. It’s a great way to continue learning and building confidence.
No, refunds are not available, but with at least 14 days notice, you can receive credit toward another workshop of the same price (if available) or equivalent one-to-one tuition, valid for one year. If I have to cancel the workshop, you will receive a full refund.
Yes and no. Participants must be 18 or older if attending alone. One participant under 18 may attend per workshop if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, with a £100 supplementary fee. Contact me to check availability and arrange this.
For any specific questions, feel free to reach out directly via my website or email.
Yes! If cost is a barrier, you can explore bursary options at www.gabriellemotola.com/learn/#bursary to see if assistance is available.
No, the two-day workshop is designed as a complete experience. Day 2 builds on the foundations of Day 1, so attending only one day wouldn’t provide the full benefit.
Yes! At the end of Day 1, you’ll be asked to select and edit three portraits from the day’s work and bring an inspiring portrait from another photographer. You’ll also be encouraged to reflect on your experience and any challenges you’d like to focus on during Day 2.
A 50mm or 85mm lens equivalent is recommended for directing portraits, but any digital camera that allows manual control will work. A notebook is also helpful for reviewing feedback and refining your approach.
Both. You’ll observe demonstrations, practice on your own, and receive feedback. You'll also have opportunities to collaborate with fellow participants and learn from different directing styles.
Organized by
I am an award-winning photographer, colourist, mentor and teacher. My workshops and classes aim to inspire, inform, demystify and be positive social experiences bringing people together in a nurturing environment to further their understanding of their passion, hobby or profession.