Self-Portraiture: Creating Narrative Through Identity (Nov 18-Dec 16)

Dates: November 18 - December 16, 2025

Meetings: Tuesdays, 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM CST (5 sessions)

Location: Online via Zoom

Cost: $465 (HCP members can receive a 10% discount)

Instructor: Gabi Magaly

Skill Level: Intermediate

Turning the camera on yourself can feel uncomfortable and intimidating. Series based on self-portraiture offer image makers control over the content they choose to share with the world and can challenge the common visual narratives shared by the media. In this course, photographers learn how to create stories through self-portraiture, review the history of the genre, and discuss the importance of identity and representation. In a supportive and collaborative environment, students will share and refine their ideas, realize them photographically, and receive valuable feedback from their instructor and peers through in-class photo critiques. Texas-based artist Gabi Magaly will present her inspiring personal work and offer insight into her artistic process and the reasons leading her to believe that photographing our lives is ever more important nowadays.

Objectives:

• Get comfortable photographing your own self-portraits

• Learn how to set up your camera using a tripod and timer/clicker

• Explore the role and importance of identity in contemporary photography

• Receive guidance while creating new imagery holding personal significance

• Receive valuable feedback from both instructor and peers

• Expand your artistic background by reviewing the history of self-portrait photography

Prerequisites: 

Photography I or being comfortable using your camera in Manual mode. 

Course Prep:

For the first class, students must bring 5 images representing their work and be ready to discuss 1-2 ideas for projects they would like to work on during the course.