Light and the Portrait
Instructor: Shona Iverson
Mondays 5:30-8:30pm
5 weeks: May 26 to June 23
Location: In-person Williams Building room 319
$210 (supplies not included)
Prerequisite: None
This hands-on, in-person course explores the art of using natural and artificial light for portrait photography. Students will learn how to assess and shape light, use reflectors and modifiers, manage space, direct subjects with confidence, and create professional-quality portraits. The course begins with natural light techniques before transitioning to studio lighting.
Syllabus
Overview:
This course will guide students through the essentials of portrait photography with an emphasis on lighting and exposure. Each session begins with hands-on practice and ends with discussion, critique, and theory.
Week 1:
- Candid portraits in natural light
- Guiding your subject
Week 2:
- Formal portraits with natural light and reflectors
Week 3:
- Studio lighting with a single light
Week 4:
- Multi-light setups
- Lightroom Classic editing
Week 5:
- Final portrait session
- Photoshop retouching demo
Supplies
- Digital camera (required)
- Access to lighting will be provided in class
- Students should be willing to pose for each other during class practice

