Cinematic Portrait Workshop
Recently, I had the pleasure of spending time in the studio with lighting expert Joanne, as we delved into the world of cinematic lighting. Our session was a hands-on exploration of how light can shape mood, character, and narrative within a single frame.
Guiding us through the process was actress Kelsie, whose presence added an extra layer of authenticity and emotion to the work. Moreover, Joanne’s approach is both intuitive and technically precise. She has a remarkable ability to break down complex lighting setups into creative possibilities.
Throughout the session, we experimented with hard and soft light, shadows, and gels, and observed how subtle shifts in positioning could drastically change the feel of a portrait. For instance, from moody, noir-inspired side lighting to soft, naturalistic glows, each setup told a different story. Working with Kelsie was a true gift. Her ability to embody various emotional states allowed us to explore the lighting in new ways—responding not just to her physical features, but also to the emotions she projected in the moment.
At times, a single light source created an atmosphere so cinematic that it felt as if we were on a film set rather than in a stills studio. This session, therefore, reminded me of how vital lighting is in shaping a visual narrative, especially in portraiture. It’s not merely about flattering someone; instead, it’s about revealing something deeper and building an image that feels alive. As a result, I’m excited to incorporate what I learned into future shoots—particularly in my portrait work with musicians and artists, where atmosphere is everything.
For all enquiries, please get in touch. And see more of my portrait work here https://sisiburn.com/creative-portrait-photography/
