Classes
Union Station provides the perfect backdrop for hands-on learning and spacious classrooms for lecture and live demo classes.
With over 100 classes, there’s something here for everyone!
How do I pick my classes?
You will be able to register for classes IN THE SHUTTERFEST APP two weeks before the event (first come, first serve). The app is released about a month before ShutterFest. READ THE FAQ and/or monitor the private Facebook group for more details.
SF26 Class Lineup
Mastering the Male Portrait: Preparation, Posing, and Connection
Speaker:
Anthony Romano (Website) (Social Media)
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Working with male clients can be both rewarding and challenging — whether they’re corporate executives, creative entrepreneurs, professional models, or “regular guys” stepping in front of the camera for the first time. In this 90-minute live demonstration, I’ll walk you through my proven approach to creating timeless, confident, and authentic images that make men look and feel their best.
WHAT WE WILL COVER:
– Pre-shoot preparation: consultation strategies, wardrobe guidance, and setting client expectations.
– Posing for authenticity: reading body language, adjusting posture for confidence, and avoiding the “over-posed” look.
– Adapting to personality types: directing extroverts vs. introverts, corporate vs. creative energy.
– Lighting and composition for male features: shaping light to convey strength, relatability, or sophistication.
– Keeping the session collaborative: how to make your client feel like a creative partner, not just a subject.
Expect real-world posing scenarios, live adjustments, and discussion on how to build trust quickly so clients leave the shoot feeling empowered … and come back for more!
WHAT STUDENTS SHOULD BRING
– Notebook for posing tips, client communication strategies, and lighting setups
– Camera and lens (optional; this is primarily a demo, but attendees may want to shoot during brief audience participation moments)
– Curiosity and willingness to rethink traditional posing
KEY TAKEAWAYS
– How to prepare male clients for a shoot so they arrive confident and ready
– Practical posing adjustments that instantly improve posture and presence
– Communication techniques that create trust and keep sessions collaborative
– Lighting approaches that complement masculine features without over-stylizing
– Ways to adapt your style for different industries; from corporate to fashion to lifestyle
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
This class is for photographers who:
– Struggle to make male clients look natural and confident on camera
– Want to move beyond standard “hands in pockets” poses
– Work with entrepreneurs, small business owners, models, or editorial clients
– Want to add authenticity, versatility, and polish to their men’s portrait work
PREREQUISITIES
A working knowledge of manual camera settings and basic lighting is recommended. This class is not a camera fundamentals course.
COURSE LEVEL
Intermediate to Advanced: Designed for photographers who already understand camera basics and lighting but want to refine their skills in working specifically with male subjects.
CATEGORY
Live Demonstration: I’ll work with a male model on site to demonstrate preparation, posing techniques, and directing men with different personalities and goals. Attendees will see the process from pre-shoot strategy to live posing adjustments.