Strobe Lighting 101 – Off-Camera Flash for Portrait Photographers

STROBE LIGHTING 101 – OFF-CAMERA FLASH FOR PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHERS
Many photographers want to try off-camera flash but hesitate when it’s time to actually set up the lights.
Where should the light go?
How powerful should it be?
Why does the photo look harsh or washed out?
This class replaces that uncertainty with a simple, practical approach to strobe lighting.
Designed for photographers who already shoot in manual, this workshop teaches you how to control light intentionally instead of guessing. You’ll learn how to build a lighting setup from scratch and create clean, professional portraits using off-camera strobes.
WHO THIS IS FOR

• Photographers who already understand manual exposure
• Photographers ready to move beyond on-camera flash
• Anyone interested in learning studio-style lighting

NOT FOR

• Absolute beginners who have not learned basic photography fundamentals

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

• How off-camera strobes work
• How to trigger and connect lighting reliably
• How light placement affects exposure and mood
• How to use modifiers like softboxes and umbrellas
• How to control shadows and shape flattering light
• Simple one-light portrait setups (plus optional two-light setups)

WHAT YOU’LL BE ABLE TO DO
By the end of class, you will be able to:

• Set up an off-camera strobe from scratch
• Position your light for flattering portraits
• Control flash power without washing out ambient light
• Create a professional-looking headshot or portrait using studio lighting

You will leave having created a professional strobe portrait yourself.
HOW THE CLASS WORKS
This is a fully hands-on lighting workshop.
Students will build the lighting setup, assemble modifiers, position lights, and photograph a live model.
Two photographers will shoot at a time while the rest of the group observes, assists with lighting adjustments, and learns how different setups affect the final image.
Each student will have the opportunity to direct and photograph the model.
DETAILS
Cost: $75
Limited to 6 photographers
Official Sign Up:
matteblackcamerarentals.com/phoenix-photography-classes-and-events
WHAT TO BRING

• DSLR or mirrorless camera
• Charged battery and memory card
• Camera strap

Optional

• Flash trigger (if you own one)

All strobes, modifiers, and lighting equipment will be provided.
Note: Classes will be canceled if there are no paid signups by the Friday before class.