Bruce Evensen,
M. Photog., Cr., FDPE, FSA

FOUNDATIONS OF PORTRAITURE

(All Levels)



     One of Florida's most talented and versatile studio owners, Bruce will cover all aspects of digital photography. Students will learn essential lighting ratios and how to use them to create different effects; how to set up and test lights for consistent results; how to control studio lights and create patterns reminiscent of the Old Master painters; and how to "see" natural light. Students will also learn step-by-step, head to toe posing for men, women, children, couples, groups and bridal portraits, as well as the importance of clothing consultations, sales, and promotions to help increase business year-round and minimize lab costs.

     Bruce will show why his Children's Album Plan---with over 300 kids enrolled to date--- has been so successful for him and why becoming the "family photographer" will bring benefits for years to come.

     Bruce will also share his technique for creating "Baby Parts" --- his award-winning compilation book series capturing infants from their tiny fingers to their tiny toes, and everything in between.

     This class is a must for new photographers and those who need a good shot in the arm. With Bruce's proven techniques and proper execution, consistent results are guaranteed.

     For more info on Bruce Evensen, you can visit his website at www.thomasbruce.com.


     In 1973 Bruce M. Evensen opened Thomas Bruce Studio, Inc. in St. Petersburg, Florida, specializing in Elegant Portraits and Wedding Photography. Bruce has become the most awarded portrait photographer in Florida.
     Bruce has earned over 500 state & national merits and his images have won numerous First Place Awards, Best of Show and Kodak Gallery Awards of Excellence. His images have been selected for the prestigious Professional Photographers of America Loan Collection and displayed at the Epcot International Exposition.
     Professional Degrees include Master Photographer (M. Photog.), Certified Florida Photographer (C.F.P.), Florida Service Award (F.S.A.), Florida Degree of Photographic Excellence (F.D.P.E.), and Craftsman Degree (Cr.).
     Bruce is a popular speaker throughout Florida, the United States, Europe, Canada and Puerto Rico. He has lectured at the Professional Photographers of America National Convention and juried many photographic competitions throughout the world.
     Bruce is also an instructor at Tampa's International Academy of Design and Technology and is consulted regularly for studio design, set-up and business practices. He has been married to Barbara for over 35 years and they have three daughters, Ame, Amber and Jessie, and two grandchildren.


What to Bring...

Camera Gear:
" Digital SLR camera
" Flash
" Camera manual
" Lens (135mm minimum; up to 300mm maximum)
" Flash card(s) - at least 1 gig of storage or more
" Light meter
" Tripod

Examples of work:
" Five samples of their work --- 8x10 or smaller --- to show the instructor the level of their competence so he has a feel for where they are.

Other:
" Pencils, notepads, tape or video recorder ---- whatever the student would like to use to take notes of class

* A 20-page outline of notes will be given to each student on the first day of class to follow along. If you have any questions about this class or what to bring, please call Bruce at 727-577-5626. (Please, DO NOT email him!)



Class Outline...

SUNDAY, May 31st

(12:00PM-4:00PM)
" Introductions
" Roundtable discussion of students goals, objectives & current equipment
" Review of class worksheet handout
" Demonstration of light modifiers
Soft boxes
Umbrellas
Reflectors
Diffusers
What they do, how to use them properly, good and bad designs
" Composition

MONDAY, June 1st

Morning Session
" Studio design and layout
" Lighting ratios
Proven techniques for understanding what they are, how they're obtained and how to use them to gain control over your images
Setting your lights to achieve different moods at the click of a switch
" Studio lighting tests --- consistent results every time
" Lighting patterns--- creating them and seeing them
Afternoon Session
" "Clock Face Posing" --- Bruce's unusual technique to make posing simple
Feminine, masculine, aggressive and non-aggressive posing techniques
*Bruce will lecture, demonstrate and allow students "hands-on" experience throughout the day.

TUESDAY, June 2nd

Morning Session
" Couples
Traditional
Romantic
Sexy
Bride & Groom, if times permits
Afternoon Session
" Family Groups
Studio
Breakouts for increased portrait sales
Presentation and sales--- techniques to more than double your profits
Evening Session
" On location at the Sugar Mill.
" Dinner at Booth's Bowery with the class; dutch treat.
*Live model demonstrations; Bruce will lecture and allow students "hands-on" experience throughout the day.

WEDNESDAY, June 3rd

Morning Session
" Profiles/people of "character"
" Children --- "Baby Parts"
Bruce will demonstrate his technique for creating "Baby Parts" --- his award-winning compilation book series capturing infants from their tiny fingers to their tiny toes, and everything in between.
Class time will include photographing and designing an entire Baby Parts album
Appreciating the importance of the macro lens
Presentation techniques--- color vs. black & white, artful edges, album layout and design
How to increase your sales through composites and ribbon art
Marketing and sales through public displays and doctors offices
Afternoon Session
" Children--- Children's Album Plan
With over 300 kids enrolled to date, Bruce will tell you how to successfully market the idea beginning with brides and maternity sittings
Tips and tricks for creating your own props and unique sets for children of all ages
Why becoming the "family photographer" will bring benefits for years to come
New ideas and props from Wicker by Design
" Window Light --- class will return to the hotel for a demonstration and experience with natural 'window' light.
*Live model demonstrations; Bruce will lecture and allow students "hands-on" experience throughout the day.

THURSDAY, June 4th

(10:00AM-2:00PM)
" Review of the week
" Business plan layout for the successful portrait studio
Marketing and advertising
Studio workflow
The importance of clothing consultations
Community involvement and "giving back"
The importance of photographic organizations--- get INVOLVED!
" Open forum--- sharing photographic information

Have a safe trip home!

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