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Short course

Studio Lighting Short Course

Learn studio lighting theory and practice. This course provides practical demonstrations and hands-on application to develop your skills in a studio setting.

Next start months
December 2025
April 2026
July 2026
Tutor(s)
Ian Macaulay
Price
From £480.00

Course description

Course overview

This two-day course will cover the principles and theory of photographic lighting and relate these to the studio environment by practical demonstration and hands on application. You will shoot portraits of fellow students, so that you can see and record the lighting and its effects. At the end of the course you will go home with several studio portraits that you can add to your portfolio.

You will deconstruct and then recreate iconic images to see how photographers create effects with lighting. Throughout the day you will work with Industry standard studio techniques will be used to ensure that you can work effectively with contemporary techniques.

Who this course is for

This course is suitable for anyone interested in developing studio lighting skills, regardless of prior experience. Beginners are welcome, as are those looking to expand existing knowledge.

Key information

Topics covered

  • Theory of photographic lighting
  • Contemporary studio practice
  • How to use studio equipment
  • How to deconstruct and recreate lighting techniques

Learning outcomes

  • Ability to assemble and operate studio lighting equipment with confidence
  • Develop an awareness of different lighting techniques used in various photographic genres
  • Ability to assess the most appropriate lighting set-up for a given subject and create it in an efficient manner
  • Digital badge and certificate of attendance

Materials

  • Notebook
  • Pen
  • Camera (with hot shoe for best experience, but phone camera can also be used if necessary)

Tutor

Ian Macaulay

Ian’s background is in photojournalism and after working for fashion trade magazines and public relations companies, he now photographs extensively for the retail, financial, legal and technology sectors. His striking images have appeared in The Independent, the Guardian and The Sunday Telegraph.

Creative corporate portraiture is his specialty, and he produces imaginative, high quality images quickly, engaging with his subjects to work collaboratively. His clients include J Walter Thompson, Legal & General, Ogilvy, Triumph International, IBM, Rio Tinto, Xerox, Clifford Chance, Baker & McKenzie and the Rank Organisation.

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