WORKSHOP: Studio & Environmental Portraiture

Saturday, August 22nd, 10am – 5pm, 2026
$330  Non-Members
$300  VCP Members
(Register online below)

Portraiture is a discipline that transcends the depiction of just the human face. A great portrait has the ability to transcend our world and communicate with powerful energy. This course explores the art and psychology of photographing people, guiding students from the concepts of traditional in-studio portraiture with controlled lighting to contemporary, conceptual approaches in an available light practice.

Through a lecture, a studio session, and an outdoor walking segment, participants learn how to use light, composition, gesture, and environment to reveal character, emotion, and narrative within an image. Spontaneous interactions can capture one’s personality and unlock subtle intimacy controlled by the collaboration between author and subject. The guided exercises, critiques, and demonstrations on lighting and composition will help participants explore what makes a compelling and provocative portrait while reflecting on how elements of these approaches can inform their own photographic voice. The goal of the course is to help students to develop a personal style and create powerful images.

Course Level: Intermediate
You are familiar with a camera. You understand aperture, shutter speed, exposure, white balance, and how to control focus. You are comfortable editing and processing your images. You may want to learn how to use your camera more thoughtfully and articulately, or learn more about lighting or how to apply theoretical concepts to your portfolio.

 

About the Instructor

Ben is a photographer currently in New York City. He grew up in Austin, Texas. His work explores the complexity of life with a sense of wonderment and discovery. Community and human connection in the lyrical documentary tradition are at the core of his artistic practice.

His first professional commission captured the style trends for the New York Times in 2004. He studied under the mentorship of Magnum photographer Eli Reed gaining inspiration for the photographic life. His works are included in the Harry Ransom Center for American History, the Ogden Museum, the Fotohof Museum and the Newseum. He has been recognized by the Les Rencontres d’Arles, Society of Professional Journalists, Photo District News, and the Nieman Foundation, among others. He was nominated for the Pulitzer Prize for his work during Hurricane Katrina in Mississippi. Find out more about Ben at www.bensklar.com

 

Find a complete list of upcoming workshops and events at VCP here. 

 

Online Registration