Large Format Portraiture August 6, 2011

This class will include all technical aspects of using the 4x5 camera including movements; swings, tilts and shifts. Bellows extension for exposure and Sheimpflug for critical sharpness will be covered. Students will learn how to use instant film backs and how to load 4x5 film holders shooting black and white or color film. Also, using light meters for proper exposure will be covered.

There will be demonstration of studio lighting techniques for portraiture using strobe, flash and continuous lighting sources as well as working with available, natural light. The class will include slide lectures showing the work of photographers Richard Avedon, Sugimoto, Irving Penn, Arnold Newman, and others.

Photographing people with a 4x5 camera is a deliberate process. It requires patience and an ability to observe your subject before and during the actual taking of the photograph. Directing and engaging your subject is very important to a successful portrait. The photographer must be prepared before capturing that moment, a successful portrait is a combination of lighting, composition, direction and purpose.

Official Website: http://www.projectbasho.org/workshops/2011summer/large-format-portraiture-workshop.html