These are some images of Mhairi McGowan, our model for today’s studio portrait lighting class I’ve been teaching at my studio in West Lothian.

I really enjoy teaching and sharing my knowledge. I find that to be able to explain a subject to others I have to increase my own understanding – and that’s never a bad thing. Teaching is just one way for me to continue to evolve and improve my own photography … and it’s fun too.

This is my opening test shot, which was certainly a good start to the session.

When I’m teaching I don’t get to take many images – just a few shots to test each lighting setup and the exposure levels before the students get their turn. Getting “keepers” from the test shots is always a bonus.

I think this one is my favourite (though the opening shot is a strong contender for me)

This is a colour example (though black and white was calling to me for this set).

After the class Mhairi wet and slicked back her hair to let us shoot some beauty shots for her agency portfolio:

If you’re interested in attending a future class hop on over to the studio website and sign up to the newsletter – as well as tuition (individuals and groups), we offer a programme of guest workshops.

Your comments on these and other posts are always welcome.