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Portrait photography is more than just taking pictures; it’s about capturing the essence and personality of your subject. In today’s rapidly evolving world of visual media, understanding the nuances of portrait photography can set you apart, whether you’re an amateur photographer or a seasoned pro. This blog is a comprehensive guide to the best portrait photography courses available today, categorized by various styles and techniques. From indoor self-portraits to complex multi-light setups, and from compelling storytelling to ways to monetize your passion, this article covers it all. Let’s dive in and explore how you can master the art of portrait photography.
Premium Portrait Photography Classes
For those who are serious about portrait photography, investing in premium classes can offer unparalleled value. These courses often go beyond the basics, providing deep insights into finer aspects of the craft. Look for classes taught by well-known photographers, as their expertise can aid you in understanding both the technical and creative aspects of portrait photography. Premium classes usually come with interactive elements like live sessions, practical assignments, and personalized feedback. This allows for a more immersive learning experience. Examples of highly recommended premium classes include “Mastering Portrait Photography” on CreativeLive and “Portrait Photography Bootcamp” by Lindsay Adler on KelbyOne.
Indoor Self Portrait Photography
Indoor self-portrait photography is an excellent way to hone your skills and explore your creativity without the need for a model. This subgenre requires a good understanding of lighting, posing, and post-processing techniques to produce high-quality images. Many online courses specifically address indoor self-portrait photography. Platforms like Skillshare and Udemy offer tutorials that focus on practical tips and tricks. These courses often cover fundamental aspects like setting up your camera, adjusting your indoor lighting, and making the most of available space.
Natural Light Portrait Photography
Natural light photography is both challenging and rewarding. It requires photographers to understand the nuances of natural light, including how to use it to create stunning portraits. This subcategory is ideal for photographers who prefer a more organic look and feel in their images. Courses that focus on natural light often cover topics like sun positioning, golden hour techniques, and how to use diffusers and reflectors to manipulate light. “Natural Light Portraits” by Dani Diamond on CreativeLive is an excellent course that delves into these aspects thoroughly.
Craft compelling stories when you learn Portrait Photography with the Pros
One of the most enticing elements of portrait photography is its ability to tell compelling stories. When you learn from professional photographers, the emphasis often shifts from merely capturing a moment to narrating a story through your lens. Professional courses frequently discuss storytelling techniques, helping you add depth and emotion to your work. They teach you how to communicate effectively with your subjects, create a narrative, and then translate that story into visually appealing images.
Create stunning images in any location
A good portrait photographer should be adept at creating stunning images in any location. This is arguably one of the most crucial skills you can acquire. Whether you’re shooting in a cramped indoor space, a bustling city street, or a serene natural setting, the ability to adapt is invaluable. Courses under this category provide tips on scouting locations, understanding environmental elements, and using them to enhance your portraits. “The Location Portrait Series” by Chris Orwig on Lynda.com is a great resource that can help you master this skill.
Learn lighting setups for every shoot
Understanding various lighting setups is fundamental to portrait photography. Each setup introduces different possibilities and challenges, allowing you to create a range of moods and effects. From one-light to four-light setups, every configuration has its own unique advantages. Learning how to master each one can elevate the quality of your work considerably. Online platforms like Photo Classes and Lighting Essentials offer comprehensive courses that guide you through various lighting techniques, providing practical exercises to reinforce your learning.
Turn your passion into profit
Portrait photography can be a profitable venture if you know how to market yourself and your skills effectively. Courses that focus on the business side of portrait photography can be incredibly beneficial, teaching you how to attract clients, set pricing, and create a sustainable business model. Look for courses that cover topics like branding, client communication, and social media marketing. “Turn Your Photography Passion into Profit” by Jared Polin on FroKnowsPhoto is an excellent choice for photographers looking to monetize their skills.
Get Started
Starting your journey in portrait photography can be overwhelming, but the right beginner courses can set you on the right path. These classes usually cover basic topics like camera settings, lighting fundamentals, and introductory post-processing techniques. Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and Skillshare offer numerous beginner-friendly courses. These platforms provide a variety of formats, from video tutorials to interactive quizzes, ensuring you find a method that suits your learning style.
Explore Our Portrait Photography Classes
When it comes to finding the perfect portrait photography course, exploring various options can help you find something that aligns with your goals and interests. Different platforms and photographers offer unique teaching styles, so it’s essential to choose one that resonates with you. In addition to mainstream platforms, consider niche websites and local photography schools that might offer specialized classes. Workshop-based courses can provide hands-on experience, which is invaluable for mastering portrait photography.
Natural Light Portrait Photography
This category deserves a second mention due to its growing popularity and the unique challenges it presents. Natural light portrait photography often involves working with unpredictable elements, making it crucial to understand the lay of the land. Everyone should experience a course or two that specialize in this topic. “Natural Light Masterclass” by Sue Bryce on CreativeLive is another excellent choice, offering advanced-level techniques to manipulate and make the most out of natural light.
One-Light Portrait Lighting Setups
One-light setups are a fantastic starting point for photographers new to artificial lighting. These setups are less intimidating and can still produce professional-quality images. The simplicity of using just one light forces you to be creative with your angles and modifiers. Courses like “One-Light Portraits” by Zack Arias on Fstoppers provide a comprehensive guide to mastering this fundamental skill. You’ll learn about positioning your light, using reflectors, and modifying your light to achieve different effects.
Two-Light Portrait Lighting Setups
Progressing to two-light setups, you add more depth and dimension to your portraits. The additional light allows you to experiment with key and fill lighting, creating more dramatic and well-balanced images. Online platforms have many tutorials and classes focused on two-light setups. “Two-Light Portraits” by Lindsay Adler on CreativeLive is a popular choice, covering the basics and advanced techniques to make the most of your light.
Three-Light Portrait Lighting Setups
Moving up to three-light setups, your options for creativity expand significantly. This setup typically includes a key light, fill light, and a background or hair light. Understanding how to balance these lights can help you achieve professional-level portraits with ease. Courses on three-light setups usually delve deeper into the theory and application of various lighting techniques. “Three-Light Portraits” by Scott Kelby on KelbyOne is an excellent resource that provides hands-on exercises to practice what you learn.
Four-Light Portrait Lighting Setups
Four-light setups offer the ultimate flexibility and control, allowing you to create highly stylized and dynamic images. This setup often includes a key light, fill light, background light, and a hair or rim light, providing a comprehensive lighting solution. Advanced courses on four-light setups require a solid understanding of basic and intermediate lighting techniques. Programs like “Advanced Lighting Techniques” by Joel Grimes on CreativeLive are designed to help you master these complex setups.
Creative Portrait Photography
Creativity is what sets outstanding portrait photographers apart from the rest. Courses focusing on creative portrait photography explore unconventional methods, helping you develop a unique style. Classes in this category encourage experimental approaches, whether it’s through props, unconventional lighting, or post-processing effects. “Creative Portrait Photography” by Emily Soto available on Skillshare is one such course that fosters creativity through practical exercises.
Business Portrait Lighting Setups
Business portraits are a lucrative niche within portrait photography. Understanding how to create professional and approachable business portraits can open up numerous opportunities. Courses like “Business Portraits” by Peter Hurley on CreativeLive provide insights into the specific lighting techniques, poses, and communication skills required to excel in this niche. You’ll also learn how to make your subjects feel comfortable and look their best.
Environmental Portraits
Environmental portraits capture subjects in their natural surroundings, adding context and depth to the image. This style of portraiture requires a keen eye for location and the ability to balance subject and background elements. Classes focusing on environmental portraits often cover site scouting, natural light manipulation, and story creation. “Environmental Portraiture” by Kevin Mullins on PHLEARN is an excellent example of how to master this unique style.
Portrait Extras
Beyond the primary techniques and setups, additional skills and accessories can enhance your portrait photography. These “extras” include everything from understanding color theory and post-processing to using props and costumes to tell a more compelling story. Many advanced courses delve into these supplementary aspects. “Portrait Photography Extras” on Udemy offers modules on various topics, providing a holistic view of what it takes to excel in portrait photography.
EXPLORE MORE CLASSES
As the field of portrait photography constantly evolves, continual learning is essential. Keep an eye out for new courses, workshops, and tutorials that can help you stay updated with the latest trends and techniques. Platforms like MasterClass, CreativeLive, and KelbyOne frequently update their catalogs with new content, ensuring you have access to the most current information and practices.
CREATE
The ultimate goal of any portrait photography course is to help you create stunning images that speak to your unique vision and style. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, mastering these techniques will enable you to create portraits that resonate with your audience.
THRIVE
Once you’ve honed your skills, it’s time to thrive in your chosen field. Build your portfolio, market your services, and continuously seek new learning opportunities to stay ahead in the competitive world of portrait photography.
Only $19 / Month
Many of these platforms offer subscription models that provide access to a wide range of courses for a monthly fee, often as low as $19 per month. This can be a cost-effective way to learn multiple techniques and continuously improve your skills.
Visual artists love Visual Education
Visual education platforms offer a wide range of courses, taught by experienced professionals, that can help you enhance your skills in the art of portrait photography. These courses cover everything from basic to advanced techniques, ensuring there’s something for everyone. “`
| Course Category | Recommended Platforms | Notable Courses |
|---|---|---|
| Premium Portrait Photography Classes | CreativeLive, KelbyOne | “Mastering Portrait Photography,” “Portrait Photography Bootcamp” |
| Indoor Self Portrait Photography | Udemy, Skillshare | Various tutorials on indoor portrait techniques |
| Natural Light Portrait Photography | CreativeLive | “Natural Light Portraits,” “Natural Light Masterclass” |
| Craft compelling stories | Various | Classes focused on storytelling in portraits |
| Create stunning images in any location | Lynda.com | “The Location Portrait Series” |
| Learn lighting setups | Photo Classes, Lighting Essentials | Various courses on one-light to four-light setups |
| Turn your passion into profit | FroKnowsPhoto | “Turn Your Photography Passion into Profit” |
| Get Started | Coursera, Udemy, Skillshare | Introductory photography courses |
| Creative Portrait Photography | Skillshare | “Creative Portrait Photography” by Emily Soto |
| Business Portrait Lighting Setups | CreativeLive | “Business Portraits” by Peter Hurley |
| Environmental Portraits | PHLEARN | “Environmental Portraiture” by Kevin Mullins |
| Portrait Extras | Udemy | “Portrait Photography Extras” |
“` Start exploring these courses today and take the next step in mastering the art of portrait photography!
