11 Portrait courses in Edinburgh

Sometimes, the simplest photos are the hardest ones to take. How do you make an impeccable portrait of a loved-one or of a friend on the spot, and with only the help of natural lighting? Basically, how do you manage without a studio and all its controllability, and end up satisfied with an expressive and successful portrait?It is essential to take the environment into consideration when composing a portrait. Managing the background's colours and graphics, choosing the point of view, directing the model - these are all points that will be covered during the course.Light control is an equally important aspect; in particular, analysing a given moment's light and using it wisely are elements that will be explained to help you make a successful portrait.This workshop will teach you:- How to observe the environment so as to guide your aesthetic choices: point of view, directing a model- How to "read" light and place your subject accordingly- How to correctly define parameters in your camera according to your desired result- How to frame and compose an image to highlight the subjectThe workshop includes a theoretical explanation, a main "practical" part, as well as a class debriefing at the end. Pre-requisites for this workshop:

The course will introduce you to some of the most enduring photographic portraits and provide discussion on why they remain so seminal. The course includes an introduction to lighting and composition techniques for portraiture, as well as providing guidance on shutter speed, aperture, lenses, and other visual controls. You will use studio flash lighting to explore basic techniques in formal and informal portrait photography – though all of the techniques taught are transferrable to natural and other lighting media. There will be time for participants to photograph under three standard lighting set-ups. Some digital SLR photography experience is recommended. Morning The morning session centres on discussion of the work of some classic portrait photographers and standard techniques employed. The discussions will include elements of composition, pose, gesture, format and technique. Afternoon The afternoon session will cover practical studio lighting, standard lighting set-ups, direction of sitters, and time permitting also a brief introduction to some of the editing capabilities of Adobe Photoshop. Project Days are designed for those who are already familiar with digital photography processes but who want to pursue a particular aspect or develop more specific skills in one or more areas. This course is the perfect follow-on from our Digital SLR training courses and will support you in building upon your existing knowledge of DSLR camera skills and becoming a better photographer in general. It will help you to work confidently on your own creative projects and develop the artist in you.   Courses are subject to minimum enrolment. Please register early, within five days of the start date, to reduce the likelihood of course cancellation. Please read our cancellation policy before booking. Students, anyone over the age of 65, and those in receipt of any form of benefits can claim the concessionary price, offering a 10% discount on the full course price. Valid proof of eligibility must be produced on the first day of the course. Please use the code CONCESSION when prompted at checkout.

2 day Portrait Workshop in acrylics inspired by Dante Gabriel Rossetti   Join well known Edinburgh artist and tutor Suzanne Kemplay and model Beth Davison to create a portrait in the style of the pre Raphaelite Brotherhood. Expect an atmospheric set and romantic lighting in keeping with the Rossetti’s style, with a few modern touches thrown in.   On Day 1 Suzanne will give a short talk on how to approach your composition and how to capture the spirit of the artist’s technique. You’ll plan and sketch out a drawing in the morning before moving on to painting in the afternoon and on day two.  All materials are supplied (or feel free to bring your own) and the class is kept small to ensure everyone gets some individual attention. This course is most suited to those who have some drawing experience but we welcome beginners. Over 14s only. The workshop will run from 10 - 4pm on 1 and 2 April.

Commission an original, traditional and quirky Portrait in oils, acrylics or digital sketches

In this workshop you will be shown methods to create beautiful portraits with minimal equipment. Focusing on indoor portrait photography and the use of natural and available light we find ways to effectively work with sitters and light to further your existing practice. You will have existing knowledge and good understanding of digital photography, so the workshop can focus on experimentation with natural light source, positioning, composition, communication, reflection and pose.   Courses are subject to minimum enrolment. Please register early, within five days of the start date, to reduce the likelihood of course cancellation. Please read our cancellation policy before booking. Students, anyone over the age of 65, and those in receipt of any form of benefits can claim the concessionary price, offering a 10% discount on the full course price. Valid proof of eligibility must be produced on the first day of the course. Please use the code CONCESSION when prompted at checkout.

Art & Wine Painting Evening with Edinburgh artist Suzanne Kemplay at The Arienas Collective in Edinburgh's historic New Town city centre.

Learn how to capture stunning outdoor shots like a pro with our hands-on Outdoor Photography Course – join us and unleash your inner shutter Outdoor Photography Course Join us for an exciting Outdoor Photography Course where you can unleash your creativity and capture stunning moments outside your comfort zone! Whether you're a beginner or an experienced photographer, this in-person event is perfect for everyone. I will guide you through various techniques to enhance your skills and make your photos stand out. From composition to lighting, you'll learn how to create captivating images that truly tell a story. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the great outdoors while mastering the art of photography. Grab your camera and get ready to capture the beauty of the world around you! Location: Edinburgh - Scotland. The place to meet: We will confirm a week before the event date. We will learn: Macro Portrait Landscape Candid Indoor

Get to grips with this eye-catching leather (or pleather) long-stitch binding and have fun picking different coloured threads and decorative papers to give your book it’s own unique character.

Private Art & Wine Evening class with Edinburgh artist Suzanne Kemplay for a creative night out at The Arienas Collective in Edinburgh's historic New Town city centre.

During this two-day workshop, you will learn how to tell a compelling story via photographs. Participants will gain the tools for conceiving of and crafting their own projects, with pointers on how to find ideas, develop your vision, and self-edit. We will cover a broad range of themes, including subject interaction, ethical dimensions, natural light usage and composition. There will also be practical guidance on financing projects, and where to place finished work.Between the two sessions there will be an assignment, intended to provide a practical application of newly acquired skills – this will be reviewed in our second meeting.This workshop is perfect for those with a good understanding of digital photography, seeking to hone their storytelling abilities and push the boundaries of documentary photography.Day 1:– Introduction to photographic storytelling.– Case study of Michael’s work in relation to the practicalities involved with funding, organising and producing a documentary project.– Discussion on the work of inspirational photographers, film makers, and artists.– Consideration of the ethical challenges encountered when producing documentary photography.– Introduction of practical task, and review of images.There will be a practical assignment to be carried out before the 2nd session.Day 2:– Photo story workshop and discussion on style.– Editing: how to select the right pictures to suit narrative objectives.– How to work within time constraints.– Practical task– Portfolio review of work produced during the workshop.– Presentation on opportunities, competitions, and publishing documentary photography projects.   Courses are subject to minimum enrolment. Please register early, within five days of the start date, to reduce the likelihood of course cancellation. Please read our cancellation policy before booking. Students, anyone over the age of 65, and those in receipt of any form of benefits can claim the concessionary price, offering a 10% discount on the full course price. Valid proof of eligibility must be produced on the first day of the course. Please use the code CONCESSION when prompted at checkout.