Real World Portraits (Outdoors + One Light)

Whether you’re new to portrait photography or simply ready to create better images outside the studio, this workshop will teach you how to make flattering portraits in real-world environments. Instead of relying on perfect lighting and controlled backdrops, we’ll learn how to work confidently with the locations we actually have.
In this hands-on session, we’ll shoot outdoors and walk step-by-step through the fundamentals of natural light portraiture. We’ll cover how to position your subject relative to the sun, how to select backgrounds that complement your composition, and how to use a single light source (flash or bounce) to shape and enhance your images.
You’ll learn:

• Background Selection – How to find strong compositions even in cluttered or busy environments
• Subject Positioning – How to use the sun as your key light for soft, flattering results
• Real Human Posing – Directing people to look confident, relaxed, and natural
• One-Light Techniques – Adding shape and depth with a single flash or bounce reflector
• Avoiding Common Mistakes – Preventing flat light, dead eyes, and muddy shadow tones

This workshop is fully hands-on. We’ll be outside working with real light, real conditions, and real problem-solving. You will leave this class knowing how to shoot portraits anywhere — not just in ideal settings.
Cost: $95 before class begins
Official Sign Up: https://matteblackcamerarentals.com/phoenix-photography-classes-and-events/

What to Bring:

• Digital camera (DSLR or mirrorless)
• A charged battery and memory card
• A flash or small reflector (optional but helpful)
• Comfortable shoes — we’ll be moving around
• Curiosity and patience working with the environment

By the end of this workshop, you’ll have the confidence to create beautiful portraits with minimal equipment and real-world lighting. Class begins promptly at 10:00 AM. We recommend arriving around 9:30 AM to check in, get settled, and be ready to start on time.