What we’re about
Matte Black Camera Rentals & Studio is a professional photography and videography studio in Tempe, and we’re now opening our doors to teach professional techniques and principles to the Phoenix photo community.
Whether you’re picking up a camera for the first time or looking to sharpen your professional skills, our classes are designed to give you real, hands-on training in a creative, supportive environment.
We cover everything from the basics to advanced techniques in photo and video production, audio, and studio lighting. Each class is taught by industry professionals who work with cameras every day, ensuring you get practical knowledge you can apply immediately.
Join us to learn, create, and connect with other photographers and filmmakers in your community. Bring your camera, your curiosity, your creativity — and don’t forget your media card.
Upcoming events
3
- $40.00
Intro to Lighting 101
Matte Black Camera Rentals & Studios, 1930 E 3rd St #15, Tempe, AZ, USWhether you’re brand new to studio lighting or just ready to move beyond your camera’s built-in flash, this workshop will give you the confidence to explore different types of photographic lighting.
In this hands-on session, we’ll walk step-by-step through the fundamentals of continuous lights, colored lights, and strobes — plus the essential grip and diffusion tools that shape and soften light. You’ll learn:- Camera Settings – Quick review of the basics for shooting with different light sources
- Continuous Lighting – How to see, shape, and balance light in real time
- Colored Lighting – Adding creative effects with gels and RGB fixtures
- Strobes & Flash – Understanding how they work, and when to use them
- Diffusion & Grip – Tools for controlling light quality and direction
You’ll get time to photograph in a continuous lighting setup with a live model, giving you the chance to immediately practice and experiment with what you’ve learned. (Due to time, strobes will be demonstrated but not hands-on for every participant.)
Cost: $40 before class begins
Official Sign Up: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule/00ba4030/?appointmentTypeIds[]=84317051What to Bring:
- Digital Camera (DSLR or mirrorless)
- A charged battery and memory card
- Camera strap
- Curiosity and creativity
By the end of this workshop, you’ll have a solid introduction to lighting equipment and techniques — and the confidence to start shaping your own images with intention.
Class begins promptly at 10:00 AM. We recommend arriving around 9:30 AM to check in, get settled, and ensure you’re ready to start on time.2 attendees - $40.00
Camera Mounted Flash Photography 101
Matte Black Camera Rentals & Studios, 1930 E 3rd St #15, Tempe, AZ, USWhether you’re brand new to flash photography or ready to get your on-camera flash off “Auto,” this workshop will give you the confidence to light your subjects like a pro.
In this hands-on session, we’ll walk you step-by-step through the fundamentals of using a camera-mounted flash to create beautiful, intentional images — no matter your brand or system. You’ll learn:- Flash Basics – Understanding your flash and how it works with your camera
- Exposure Balance – Blending flash with ambient light for natural results
- Flash Power & Zoom – Controlling light intensity and coverage
- Bounce Flash Techniques – Creating soft, flattering light indoors
- Color Temperature & Gels – Matching your flash to different lighting conditions
We’ll work directly with you and your gear to show you exactly where and how to adjust your flash settings. A live model will be on set so you can immediately practice and refine your techniques in real shooting scenarios.
Cost: $40 before class begins
Official Sign Up Here: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=36894067&appointmentType=83256243
What to Bring:- Digital Camera (DSLR or mirrorless)
- A charged battery and memory card
- Camera strap
- Camera-mounted flash
- Curiosity and creativity
By the end of this workshop, you’ll understand how to confidently use your on-camera flash to create well-lit, professional-looking photos in any environment.
Class begins promptly at 10:00 AM. We recommend arriving around 9:30 AM to check in, get settled, and ensure you’re ready to start on time.1 attendee - $40.00
Learn Your Camera 101 – Hands-On Training
Matte Black Camera Rentals & Studios, 1930 E 3rd St #15, tempe, AZ, USWhether you’re brand new to photography or just ready to finally get your camera off “Auto,” this beginner-friendly workshop will give you the confidence to take control of your camera and create beautiful, intentional images.
In this hands-on session, we’ll walk you step-by-step through the fundamentals of photography and camera operation — no matter your brand or system. You’ll learn:- ISO – How to adjust your camera’s sensitivity to light
- Shutter Speed – How to control motion blur and sharpness
- Aperture (f-stop) – How to create dreamy backgrounds or tack-sharp landscapes
- Exposure – Balancing light for a perfect image
- Color & White Balance – Making sure your colors look true-to-life
We’ll work directly with you and your camera to show you exactly where and how to change these settings.
Cost: $40
Official Sign Up as: MatteBlackCameraRentals.comWhat to Bring:
- Digital Camera (DSLR, mirrorless, or advanced compact — all welcome)
- A charged battery and memory card
- Curiosity and creativity
By the end of this workshop, you’ll understand how to confidently control your camera’s settings in a manual mode to take better photos.
Class begins promptly at 1:00 PM. We recommend arriving by 12:30 Noon to check in, get settled, and ensure you’re ready to start on time.1 attendee
Past events
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