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
Connection-Driven Storytelling: From Connection to Capture
Speaker: 
Candace Connor (Website) (Social Media)
The best wedding stories aren’t told through poses or checklists—they’re told through trust. My approach to photography begins long before the wedding day, with moments along the journey that help couples feel comfortable, understood, and truly seen. Each connection becomes a chance to learn who they are and what matters most. In this class, we’ll explore how building genuine connection allows you to step into the wedding day not just as a photographer, but as a trusted storyteller who can capture images that feel real, intimate, and deeply meaningful.
Expectations:
You’ll leave with a new perspective on storytelling in wedding photography, and inspiration for creating work that goes deeper than simply documenting an event.
Google Loves You (If You Let It): Stand Out With Smart SEO & Blogging
Speaker: Candace Connor (Website) (Social Media)
Your dream clients are already searching for you—can they actually find you? This class is a detailed but approachable kickoff into SEO for photographers. We’ll cover the must-know terms and strategies without the tech overwhelm, then walk step by step through how to optimize your homepage and use blogging to keep Google sending traffic your way. We won’t cover all of SEO, but you’ll leave with clear starting points, action steps, and the free or affordable tools I use to consistently attract aligned, high-value bookings through organic search.
Bring: A notebook or laptop
Expectations: You’ll be familiar with the most important terms, tools, and strategies, and you’ll have an actionable list of changes you can start making to your own site right away.
True Tones: Natural Light Tips for Photographing Interracial Couples
Speaker: Candace Connor (Website) (Social Media)
Photographing interracial couples comes with unique challenges: skin tones that read differently in the same light, tricky exposures, and environments that can make one partner look great while leaving the other in shadow. In this hands on walk and shoot class, we will use only natural and available light to practice creating flattering, true to life tones for couples of all complexions. You will learn how to read the light, position your couples in everyday surroundings, and make thoughtful choices that highlight both partners beautifully. No overcomplicated setups, just real world techniques you can use at engagements, weddings, or anywhere your couples take you.
Expectations:
You will walk away confident in balancing exposures, choosing backgrounds, and honoring every couple’s natural beauty with images that feel authentic and true.
Bring:
Camera (DSLR or mirrorless)
Favorite lens
Optional reflector if you like working with one