Overview

This 3-part program offers a complete learning experience—from foundational knowledge to hands-on practice and thoughtful critique. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the tools, skills, and confidence to capture seniors in their spotlight and deliver portraits that stand out and show off their personality!

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Come join us in focusing on posing, props, lighting and communication to help create outstanding Senior Imagery!

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Part 1: Introduction Seminar

In this introductory session, we will set the foundation for capturing stunning senior portraits. This seminar will cover everything you need to know to feel confident in planning and executing a senior photo session, including:

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Equipment: Choosing the right cameras, lenses, and lighting gear.

Locations: How to scout and select versatile locations for dynamic senior portraits.

Props: Incorporating personal items, seating, and accessories to add variety and personality to your shots.

Posing: Techniques for natural and flattering poses for both male and female seniors.

Connecting & Communicating: Building rapport with seniors to bring out their personality and ensure they feel comfortable in front of the camera.

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By the end of this seminar, attendees will have a solid understanding of the tools, strategies, and preparation required to create standout senior portraits.

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Part 2: On-Location Workshop

Get hands-on experience at this immersive 2.5-hour workshop! We will meet at the Golden History Trails in Golden, CO with two high school seniors (one male and one female) and dive into practical shooting techniques in real-time. We will split into 2 groups and rotate models at the half way mark.

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Dynamic Shooting: Move through various spots in the park, adjusting to different backdrops, lighting conditions, and compositions.

Props & Tools: Learn how to creatively incorporate props and tools (like reflectors or natural elements) to add depth to your photos.

Posing in Action: Practice posing techniques that highlight each senior’s personality, whether it’s playful, dramatic, or timeless.

Guided Instruction: Receive live feedback and tips from the instructor as you shoot, ensuring you capture both technically strong and emotionally engaging portraits.

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This session will leave you confident in directing, posing, and creating incredible senior portraits under varying conditions.

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Part 3: Online Critique Seminar

In our final session, we will meet online to review and reflect on the workshop experience. Each participant will share 2 of their favorite images (1 photo per model) for group discussion and constructive feedback.

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Photo Review: Analyze how the photos turned out and discuss strengths and areas for improvement.

Reflections: Share insights on what went well during the workshop and any challenges encountered.

Where to Go Next: Tips on refining your senior portrait portfolio and marketing your senior sessions.

Q&A: An open discussion to address any lingering questions, from technical settings to client communication.

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‍What to Bring

• Your camera(s) with extra memory cards and Batteries
• Hat to protect from the sun, sunscreen, light raincoat or appropriate clothing for the season
• Comfortable shoes

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Tuition: $199 plus Eventbrite online processing fee

(You are welcome to register in store to avoid the Eventbrite Fee)

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CLICK TO REGISTER!

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Tuition includes evening online webinar, hands-on shooting workshop and online critique.

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‍Max Class Size:

This Senior Portrait workshop is limited to 20 photographers. During the photoshoot, we will be split up into small groups of 10. Participation is for those 12 years and older. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a paying adult 21 years or older.

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About Your Instructors: Joe Klocek and Jennifer Pinckney

Joe Klocek has worked in the photographic industry as a photographer, salesman, and instructor since 2005. Today he teaches courses on a variety of topics, including macro, wildlife, exposure theory, videography, and studio lighting. In the past few years he has been a guest speaker for photographic societies and travel expositions. He lives in Denver with his wife, son, and unmanageable book collection.

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Jennifer has a BGA in commercial photography and videography. She has worked at many camera stores in the past and is currently our Marketing and Social Media Content Creator here at Mike’s. She loves being challenged and learning new things. She works as a freelance photographer and videographer on the side for people who need moments documented and she is always keeping her eye open for what trail to discover next.

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