INTRODUCTION TO STUDIO LIGHTING AND PORTRAITURE
- Ages 18+
Learn how to use studio lighting to capture stunning portraits at our hands-on workshop!
Location
Matt Ford Studio
Amhurst Terrace #Arch 3.2 London E8 2BT United KingdomRefund Policy
Lineup
About this event
- Paid venue parking
Are you a beginner or amateur photographer looking to take your portrait work to the next level? Join us for a hands-on half-day workshop designed to demystify studio lighting and help you build confidence in a professional studio setting.
What you’ll learn:
- How to set up and use studio lighting, even if you’ve never done it before
- The difference between soft light (natural, flattering) and hard light (bold, dramatic)
- How to use reflectors and coloured gels for creative effects
- How to build both a simple one-light setup and a classic three-point lighting arrangement
- Tips for analysing lighting setups in other people’s portraits
- How to connect your own camera to studio lighting and shoot tethered (if desired)
By the end of the session, you’ll walk away with the skills and confidence to create professional-looking studio portraits on your own.
Bonus:
All attendees will receive an exclusive 20% discount on hiring the studio for private shoots, valid for 60 days after the workshop.
About your host:
Matt Ford is a portrait and fashion photographer known for his bold, cinematic lighting and creative studio setups. Working from Matt Ford Studio at Hackney Downs Studios, he brings an open and experimental approach to teaching – no jargon, just practical skills you can use straight away.
Frequently asked questions
The class size will be 6 people max. Most workshops cram participants in and I don't think it's a great way to learn. The aim is 2 groups of three. So each team takes turns on set.
I decided for this workshop I'll let the class take turns to photograph each other. By being directed by another photographer. It's a great way to learn what it's like to direct a subject.
My aim is for people to end the session knowing the basics of how a studio light works. By the end you should be able to go into a studio on your own and be able to start practicing studio lit portraits on your own.
I will demo on my own camera, which people are free to use. But also feel free to bring your own DLSR and we can connect it to the flash trigger. Also bring a note pad to take notes.
That's fine. I aim to make this workshop beneficial to novice photographers who need somewhere to start. I have been using a studio for 20 years, so I also aim to be able to pass some of my personal lighting style on to more accomplished photographers who want to pick up some new ideas.