Portraiture & Lighting - Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements for this course?

Students of Portraiture & Lighting must be at least sixteen years of age and have graduated from Prizewinning Photography at least 3 months before taking this course. The following gear is also required:

  • Digital SLR
  • 2 Wireless TTL speedlights
  • Flash sync cord
  • Reflector
  • Flash soft box
  • Small light stand w/flash mounting
  • Personal computer

Why can't I take Prizewinning Photography and Portraiture & Lighting together?

IPS courses are very intense, typically condensing a semester of college level material into a single week. While this keeps room and board costs low, it doesn't allow for a lot of time for new concepts to become second nature—that takes practice. After several months of working new ideas into your practical shooting technique you'll be much better prepared for our advanced level courses.

How much does this course cost?

Tuition for Portraiture & Lighting is $549 for the course and materials.

A $100 deposit is required to reserve your spot, with the remainder due upon arrival.

Housing and meals are location specific, averaging $200. Students are responsible to arrange for their own transportation to and from the course.

Who is this course designed for?

This course is especially recommended for anyone interested in portraiture or learning to use studio-style lighting. During the week instructors will cover aspects of establishing a portrait or commercial studio.

What does this course cover?

Course topics include:

  • Studio Equipment
  • Commercial Lighting
  • Posing Techniques
  • On-Location Portraiture
  • Studio Portraiture
  • Creative Lighting Techniques
  • Studio Workflow
  • Business Practices

What kind of computer will I need?

Windows computers will be running Adobe Lightroom and Adobe Photoshop. System Requirements:

  • Intel PIII, P4, Centrino (or compatible) 800mhz or better processor
  • Microsoft Windows XP with Service Pack 2
  • 512MB RAM (1GB Highly Recommended)
  • 5GB free disk space
  • 1024x768 (XGA) or better display

Macintosh computers will be running Adobe Lightroom and Adobe Photoshop. System Requirements:

  • PowerPC G3, G4, or G5, or Intel Core Duo or Solo processor
  • Mac OS 10.4
  • 512MB RAM (1GB Highly Recommended)
  • 5GB free disk space
  • 1024x768 (XGA) or better display