Introduction to Portrait Photography (Sep 13-Oct 11)

Dates: September 13 - October 11, 2025

Meetings: Saturdays, 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM CST (5 sessions)

Location: Houston Center for Photography

Cost: $490 Tuition + $20 Materials (HCP members can receive a 10% discount)

Instructors: Lexi Parra

Skill Level: Intermediate

Special Benefit: 6-hour Lighting Studio credit (worth $180)

Portrait photography is based on a series of technical and personal decisions and steps that combine personal interaction, context, lighting, focus, and framing. This course will review the skills and techniques required to achieve professional-looking portraits. Students will acquire important artistic sensitivities, develop interpersonal skills, and understand how to use lighting creatively and accurately while following their artistic vision. Participants will come to understand what components make powerful portraits through class discussions, and review of the history of portraiture. Hands-on photoshoots in class and homework assignments will enable students to practice lighting techniques and communication with the portrait sitter.

Objectives:

• Familiarize yourself with portrait types and key elements of portrait photography

• Develop interpersonal skills for working with people you photograph

• Learn to use available lighting intentionally in your portraits

• Practice main lighting setups (high-key, low-key, and Rembrandt lighting) 

• Create portraits that reflect your interests and style

• Expand your artistic background with works by leading portrait photographers

Prerequisites: 

Photography I or being comfortable using your camera in manual mode. Familiarity with editing software like Adobe Lightroom is a plus.

Course Prep: 

Students need to bring their DSLR or mirrorless cameras to class. In addition, please be ready to discuss 2 to 3 portrait photographers you like and explain what you like about their photography.