© Jonathan Torgovnik

The unspoken language and emotional connections between photographer, subject, and environment are the focus of this workshop. We navigate through the intimate and, at times, intense process of creating a successful portrait with an emphasis on photographing people in their personal environments, in and around their homes or workplaces. We learn how to meet the challenges of establishing a deep connection with our subjects in a relatively short period of time. We address the different approaches required when photographing for an editorial client or a personal project.

Working with a variety of equipment and locations, participants are encouraged to go beyond the technical and explore the aesthetic aspects of their subjects and surroundings. We will explore a range of light sources including the use of available daylight and portable strobe, but always with emphasis on keeping it simple and personal. In addition, we discuss the use of multiple camera formats including large, medium, and 35mm. Through group and individual assignments, image presentations, and daily critiques, participants gain confidence and develop a solid foundation for further exploration.

Instructor(s)

Jonathan Torgovnik’s photographs have been widely exhibited in the U.S. and Europe, and have appeared in such international publications as Aperture, GEO, The Sunday Times, and Stern, among many others. His work is in the permanent collections of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, and the Bibliothèque Nationale de France. A contract photographer for Newsweek since 2005, he is on the faculty of the International Center of Photography School in New York.

Jonathan’s honors include the National Portrait Gallery’s Portrait Prize in Great Britain, the Open Society Institute’s Documentary Photography Project fellowship, a Getty Images Grant for Editorial Photography, Picture of the Year International, and the 2008 Arnold Newman Prize. He is the author of Bollywood Dreams and Intended Consequences, and is the co-founder of Foundation Rwanda. Jonathan’s web site is www.torgovnik.com.

Who Should Attend:
Advanced Amateurs and Professionals

What You Should Know:
Working knowledge of digital workflow, lighting, and manual mode on your SLR camera; film users welcome

Portfolio Required:
Please see the General Information section for your portrait portfolio submission

Accommodations Available:
On-campus housing available. Click here for pricing information and suggestions for off-campus housing.

Meals:
Meal plan required
Breakfast available

Tuition & Fees:
Tuition: $995.00
Model and Location Fee: $200.00