Understanding
Fill Flash
Rule Of
Thirds Revisited
How To
Shoot Fireworks
Photographing
People Workshop

Natural Light Workshop Series

Photographing People

Photography Workshop


YBOR CITY WORKSHOP

Where: Ybor City, Tampa, Florida
When: Saturday, August 14, 2010
Cost: $395.00 US
Status: SPOTS ARE AVAILABLE!

Sign Up: robert@robertlafollette.com
SPONGE DOCKS WORKSHOP

Where: Sponge Docks, Tampa, Florida
When: Saturday, August 28, 2010
Cost: $395.00 US
Status: SPOTS ARE AVAILABLE!

Sign Up: robert@robertlafollette.com



Slideshow: Click Here To View A Photo Slideshow

Tampa, Florida with it's white sugar sand and sparkling blue water off the Gulf of Mexico is one of the most popular locations on the gulf coast of Florida and for a good reason. Located on the west coast of Florida the locations are endless for taking amazing images and two of my favorite locations for photographing people, Ybor City in Tampa and the Sponge Docks in Tarpon Springs makes these locations a photographers paradise for they make for the perfect backdrop for photographing models.

If you have ever wanted to learn how to photograph people such as family members, friends or even if you wish to begin to work with models then this workshop is for you. The "Natural Light Workshop Series: Photographing People" is designed for anyone wishing to learn the secrets to taking fantastic photographs of people using natural and available light. No need for a fancy studio with thousands of dollars in lighting equipment or renting out studio space as this workshop is specifically designed to teach you how to take great images using only natural and available light.

Since most photographs of models and people are taken outdoors this workshop will give you the necessary insight on using that natural light and how to control it. You will also learn valuable tips and tricks on equipment such as setting up your camera and what the optimum settings will give you the best results. You will also learn about lens choice and how your lens will effect your images as well as using fill light, reflectors, screens and diffusers.

Most importantly you will learn how to work with models from setting up your poses, composition, exposure, depth of field, backgrounds and how color effects your photographs. These fundamentals of composition will help you design your images that will give you the skill and knowledge to take photographs of people with confidence. We will also cover using your images for those interested in placing them with stock photo agencies including model releases and why they are necessary. Lastly, we also will cover photographing strangers and how to approach someone whom you may find interesting that would make for a great photographic opportunity.

This workshop is open to photographers of any skill level so whether you are a beginner or advanced shooter, this workshop will give you the solid foundation on taking your images to the next level and how to "see" some killer compositions as well as opportunities.

What To Expect At The Workshop:
All of my Natural Light Workshops adhere to the same formula for success to guarantee some incredible opportunities. We will meet a few hours before our models show up to learn and discuss the technical aspect of photographing people. This is your chance to not only learn but to ask questions, interact with the other students and get practical information that will take your skills to a whole new level.

After our classroom learning discussion we will meet with our models for the afternoon to beging our hands-on photography session where you will have the opportunity to photograph several models using the techniques we explored earlier in the afternoon. This will include learning about how to do headshots, full body shots, mid-portrait as well as action shots. You will be given full instruction during our session as well as have an opportunity to work with the models during an one-on-one session to help build your confidence.

What Will We Cover:
Emphasis in the Natural Light Workshop will be placed on the composition fundamentals as well as advanced composition and difficult exposures. We will also cover filling the frame, horizontal versus vertical, light, backgrounds, the importance of lens choice and point of view. In addition we will also cover working with models and people in general and learn some basic and easy poses to really make your images perfect. Other topics we will cover will be the importance of fill flash, catchlights, diffusers, screens, reflectors and of course wardrobes.

Testimonials:
Here is what some of my recent students that attended a workshop had to say about their experience:

"Just wanted to thank you for the great workshop last weekend. I learned a lot, had a lot of fun, and even came home with some great images! The workshop exceeded my expectations.

We really covered a ton of material with an unending plethora of subjects and opportunities for great images. I also really appreciate all of the hints on configuring and using my Canon 5D Mark II."


Nicholas DePasquale - Boston, Massachusetts




"I just wanted to say that I learned so much and had a lot of fun learning. I don't think I laughed as hard as I did this weekend.

I really enjoyed myself, and it was great to meet you. I had a ball, if you are going to have another workshop next year, let me know, I'd love to come back down. Thank you for a WONDERFUL workshop Robert. I learned so much!"


Penny Wills - Hartford, Connecticut




"Thanks for a really great day chasing birds and helping us get to know our cameras. Today has resulted in the biggest single photo improvement education day I have ever had. My pictures, from here on, will move to entirely different level, thanks to your expert guidance and teaching.

As we discussed after the workshop, my keep ratio has gone way up today and I can't believe how many of my shots are truly focused, by design, and not by shear luck."


Walt Spina - Palm Harbor, Florida




"I must admit that I was at first a little unsure of my abilities as a photographer but after Robert's workshop, I was filled with a new sense of confidence in what I could do. He showed me a way to capture an image of an ordinary subject and make it look extraordinary.

Before Robert's workshop, I would stand in front of a scene and ask my self, "Is there a picture here"? Now I can say I know a great picture when I see one. Robert, you've helped me to increased my photography skills by leaps and bounds."


George Motherway - Revere, Massachusetts




"I have been taking photographs for 28 years. When I signed up for Robert's workshop I was hoping to leave with some ideas on how to be more creative. I left the workshop with that and so much more.

Thanks to Robert's extensive knowledge and experience, I now have a better understanding of how my camera and various lens work, a fresh perspective on how to approach a subject I wish to photograph, the benefits of a few good filters, the diversity of macro photography, and most of all, a greater self-confidence and reassurance in my abilities as a photographer. Most importantly, Robert, and his lovely wife Dawn, were so personable, it made the entire afternoon that much more enjoyable.

It was a fun, yet educational experience that I would highly recommend to any photographer, experienced or otherwise."


Pamela Vasquez - Apollo Beach, Florida




"Thank you so much for your time and expertise and efforts this weekend, helping an old guy get so much more out of photography, and a big thanks to Dawn for her time and patience!

I really enjoyed the time we spent at all the locations and your willingness and ability to share your knowledge. You are a great teacher and really appreciate your availability.

One of the things I've noticed during the session is that you guys aren't afraid to move or change things to make a better picture. My previous assumption has been that you should make as little changes as possible in the scene you're shooting. You guys don't have such qualms. Which is, I suppose, one of the things that makes you a professional.

To show how much you rubbed off on me, I was sitting at the Tampa Airport (I'm finally in Chicago!) and saw the elevator door open. Well, I noticed the guide lines for the door! I got out the macro and crawled around on my knees to get a pic of the lines. I also saw a speaker cover and got the pattern in a pic. Not sure what the other folks thought, but hey, I'm cool cause I'm a photographer!

Again, just a quick thank you! I had fun!"


Bill Newman - Houston, Texas




"Robert is a wonderful addition to our area! A great ambassador for our area with his enthusiasm and photography skills! I am a local blogger too and met Rob through his blog and I signed up for one of his photo workshops. We met one-on-one and spent a whole day from the St. Pete Pier to Pass-a-grille.

I learned more about photography and photoshop than I thought was possible! I was greatly encouraged and inspired by his passion for what he does and he just pours into all he works with! We have remained in touch almost weekly and I appreciate him and his talent!"


Jerry Moores - Tampa, Florida




"Many thanks again for the workshop and all of your help. For the first time I feel that I am not just muddling through stuff. Thanks too for letting me capture those great images of the pier and the bridge and for all of the stuff we talked about.

When I go to the farm I am going to try using lots of ND filters (to slow down shutter speed get the moving grass on the plains "dreamy") and I will try some B&W conversions. I never realized that you posted the HDR stuff on the PPSOP blog. That made me go out and buy it too! I just need to learn how to get rid of those halos with HDR.

Please thank your wife for the shells too. They will be photographed on our beach this weekend!"


Barry Richter - Cayman Islands

What Is The Cost:
All of my workshops adhere to the same formula for success; no student will go home without an abundance of amazing images. Promise! The workshop fee for this exciting opportunity is only $395.00 which includes the models at the workshop.

In addition to your travel expenses to the workshops location, (by air or car) you are also responsible for your hotel and food costs. Since the entire workshop will take place Clearwater Beach, you will NOT need to rent a car, however you will need to take a taxi or shuttle from Tampa International Airport to your hotel on Clearwater Beach.

What You Will Need:
Digital SLR, a telephoto lens in the 70-200mm range, a standard zoom lens in the 24-105mm range, a flash unit (or you can use your built-in flash). You may also wish to bring a reflector, diffuser or screen if you have them and you will want to make sure you have enough memory cards (at least 16GB). Lastly, be sure to bring your model releases or if you need one please let me know and I will send you one that you are free to use.

Payment:
Your deposit in the amount of $100 for the workshop is due at the time you reserve your spot. Full balance is due within 14 days of the scheduled date of the workshop. For the deposit and the balance payments, you will be sent an email with where to mail your payments. If I do not receive your deposit payment within 14 days of signing up for the workshop, I reserve the right to cancel your workshop and/or fill your spot off of a wait list.

Cancellations:
No refunds will be given for delays or cancellations due to inclement weather, (which I might add, can result in some of the most some amazing shots!), either before or during your workshop. If you cancel your spot 14 days or more before the scheduled workshop date you will receive a credit toward a future workshop. Credits must be used within 1 year of the cancellation date and can be applied towards any open workshop offered. Any price differences during that time period will apply and you will be required to pay the difference. If the workshop is cancelled by myself (ie. a death in the family), I will notify you of a rescheduled date, and you may attend the rescheduled workshop, or request a refund. I am not responsible for any additional costs you may incur due to any delays or cancellations.

How Do I Sign Up:
These workshops fill up quick, so don't delay! You need to send me an email that you wish to register to robert@robertlafollette.com, and I will hold your spot.

Questions on payments, lodging etc. and when/where we all meet on the day of the workshop will be provided following your intent to sign up.