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Self Paced Advanced Program
MASTERING NATURAL LIGHT
Turn the mundane into the magical by Mastering Natural Light.
Move beyond the basics and learn how to confidently use advanced lighting techniques to get more creative images, take your portraits to the next level and turn the mundane into the magical!
Since you're here, you already know that light is THE most important factor in any image.
It is the crucial element that raises an image up from being just "good", into something much more awe-inspiring and interesting.
The right light can take the most simple, boring, everyday scene and elevate into something magical and otherwordly, so there is literally nothing more critical to photographers than knowing how to use light!
The question is, do YOU understand light?
Can you walk into any situation, assess the light, and know the different ways you can use it? Are you able to intentionally mould the light and shadow to get more creative and interesting images, or make your subjects look their best? Are you constantly seeing ideas for photos, because you know how to use the light in different ways?
If not, it's time for you to push yourself out of your comfort zone, dive deeper into light and the different ways you can use it, and get those magical, awe-inspiring, next level photos you've been dreaming of!
"Hands down, this was the most directly effective photography course I've ever taken; and that includes both in-person and on-line. The clear explanatory videos, cheat sheets and pull-backs, along with scientific and mathematical explanations for some of the concepts were of extreme value. I've been shooting for a few years, however, the method by which lighting is taught here has been a game changer. I completely loved this experience!"
Deborah
“I wanted to learn how to use light to create interesting and dramatic images, and this course exceeded all my expectations! It’s enabled me to take my photography to the next level, feel so much more in control in any situation, and consistently create photos I love. My photos definitely now use the light in more interesting ways, and they look less like snapshots. In fact, I now see light in a whole new way!”
Pam
Does any of this sound familar...
You've an okay understanding of light, but you're not confident you can really “see” the light, or how you could use it to get more interesting and creative images.
You find yourself using the same "safe" lighting techniques over and over again, because it's all you know! You'd love to get more dramatic shots, but how do you do it?!
You feel nervous shooting in challenging light, because you don't know how to make the light work for you, or modify it to suit your vision.
You've got "light envy" . Your home is too dark, it doesn't have pretty light, and anyway, the light sucks in your part of the world. Hmmm..can you move?!
It's annoying when the only advice you get is shoot in the golden hour. It's not always practical - life doesn't always happen at 5am in the morning or in perfect light!
You’d love to be able to use and control light more intentionally, so you can get the photos you see in your head to become a reality.
Yes, I get it, because
Once upon a time, I was you!
Before I realised exactly how to evaluate and shape light, I would look at images from other photographers and wonder how they managed to make them more magical, more awe-inspiring or otherworldly, and 100% better than the "good" images I was able to take!
When I started talking to other photographers about what their secret was, I got the same answer from every single one of them: "You need to learn about light".
So that's exactly what I did! I threw myself into learning about natural light; how to evaluate it's qualities and characteristics, how to shape it by making modifications to the light itself, and the subtle tweaks in positioning that made all the difference.
The difference understanding light made was incredible - it elevated my photos and took them to the next level, I no longer felt scared of different types of light because I knew how to make it work for me, and my images became more creative and exciting because I was able to experiment with the light all around me. To say it was a game-changer is an understatement!
The good news is... If I can do it, so can you!
Imagine what it will feel like when you can..
- Create seriously stunning images by turning the most mundane and ordinary scene into something magical.
- Handle any lighting situation with ease, because you can SEE the light, and know how to modify it to make it work.
- Stop being afraid of dark spaces, harsh sun or low light, because you know that no matter what type of light is available, you'll be able to create an image that you're happy with.
- See a transformation in your portraits, all because of some subtle shifts and tweaks that were easy to apply (when you know how!)
- Shoot when it suited you because you've got a bag of tricks that will help you tackle ANY lighting.
- Feel like you have a new set of eyes as a photographer, because you notice thel light that is everywhere, everyday - and the different ways you can use it!
- Move beyond your "safe" light choices and use shadows and light to get more creative, interesting photos.
- Up your photography game and feel so much prouder of your images as you consistently harness the magic and beauty of natural light!
Inside you’ll learn how to…
- Assess the light, it’s characteristics, and the different ways you could use it.
- Slow down and truly see the light around you with fresh eyes
- Control haze and flare with intention
- Funnel and feather the light
- Modify the light quality
- Use advanced lighting patterns for portraits
- Manipulate the light by using additive and subtractive light
- Embrace shooting in full sun
- Achieve dramatic light fall off
- Incorporate flare and heavenly light
- Find the specific conditions needed for rim light
- Decide between high and low angle light
- Use open and covered shade, and overcome the problems associated with each
- Utilise light & shadows for interesting images
- Use the laws of reflection
- How to make the most of cloudy and overcast days
- Experiment with all types of natural light, both indoor and out!
Introducing
Mastering Natural Light
An advanced, step by step photography program that teaches you how to identify & manipulate the light around you to create magical, next level images & portraits!
In Mastering Natural Light you’ll get the theory about the dynamics of light, and the real world applications for it, but you'll also discover how to slow down and truly "see" the light around you, so you can intentionally use light and shadow to create interesting images - whatever the subject.
You'll be encouraged to experiment with the available light in many different ways, both indoors and out, and with all types of photos! You’ll practice everything from hazy backlight to dramatic sun flare, and work with dark shadows and full sun. Plus we'll cover the must-know techniques for modifying the light, and the subtle tweaks that take your people photos up a notch too.
The goal is to help you feel inspired to create beautiful images with whatever light is available, and with a variety of subjects!
Mastering Natural Light will push you both technically and creatively, so you can confidently walk into any situation, know how to use the natural light to it fullest potential, and get creative, inspired, interesting images in all kinds of light.
"My favourite part of the course was being reminded that any light, any time of the day and even the simplest of subjects has great photographic potential... because learning this has been so freeing, I often take my camera outside and walk around our small yard several times a day. I'm still amazed at what treasures await me, that I missed in the past because I was waiting for 'the perfect light'. Thank you for that valuable lesson ~ it changes everything about photography."
Gayla
“I love all your courses, so signing up for this one was a no brainer! Being a professional photographer means understanding all aspects of photography and light is definitely the biggest part, so I love that I can assess light now properly! Understanding where to place my subjects, being able to use my reflector properly (I was too intimidated before) and mastering backlight has made such a difference to my photos. HIGHLY recommend this course!”
Misty
Here's what you'll get
Inside "Mastering Natural Light"
- 6 Streaming Video Training Modules
Each filled with easy to understand lessons on a set of different advanced lighting strategies, No boring highly technical tutorials here!
- Printable Cheat Sheets & Lighting Diagrams
Stash them your camera bag to help you easily remember the lighting techniques when shooting.
- Behind The Scenes Demos Or Pullbacks
See each technique in action in the real world - and then replicate it with ease!
- FAQ Hub
Get answers to the most commonly asked questions about working with natural light in our end of module FAQ hubs.
- Hands On Exercises & Challenges
Fun practice exercises to help you explore each new concept, push yourself to grow to the next level and see results immediately!
- Instant & Lifetime Access
Enjoy instant access to every single module and lesson, and go at your own pace with lifetime access.
The Curriculum
Let's take a peek at how we're going to up your photography game and take your photos to the next level by mastering natural light.
Foundation Module: Natural Light Fundamentals
In this foundation module, we are going to lay some groundwork for the rest of this course, by cementing our understanding some light basics, and how to set up your camera for best results.
- How to assess the tonal range of your images, and why this matters.
- The limitations of all cameras and how we can use dynamic range to our advantage to create interesting images.
- How to set up your camera in order to capture light effectively!
- Get a behind the scenes tour of my camera settings, and why I have it set that way!
Module One: Finding The Light
In this first module, we’ll break down how "see" the characteristics & qualities of all light, so you understand exactly what you have to work with!
- Discover the four characteristics of ALL light, and how this light behaviour affects your images, for a bulletproof foundation for using light!
- Learn the key factors that determine light quality, so you can assess a situation in seconds.
- Understand the colour of light, along with the important by-product of light and colour that you must always be on the lookout for.
- Discover 3 methods for assessing the light and how to predict where and how light will travel.
- Move beyond thinking in terms of "good" light and "bad" light, and instead, be able to SEE the light around you with fresh eyes.
Module Two: Master Natural Light Indoors
This is where we being our journey into using available light, along with tools and techniques to control and modify the light, to create magical images indoors!
- Learn the secrets to create captivating images using indoor natural light, either by embracing the light you DO have, or intentionally manipulating it to suit your vision.
- Experiment with light and shadow for dramatic images of everyday scenes.
- Get tricks for feathering or diffusing light to change the look of your images.
- Experiment with advanced lighting patterns and styles to create different looks, or subtly enhance or hide facial features to create next-level portraits.
- Discover how to use additive or subtractive light to shape the light and shadow, either using the elements you have around you, or with a cheap store bought tool.
- Delve into the game-changing Inverse Square Law, and how to use it to intentionally create dramatic images.
Module Three: Master Natural Light Outdoors
Next, we'll take everything we have learnt in modules 1 and 2, and apply it to working with natural light outdoors, and layer on some more techniques!
- Learn to embrace shooting in full sun with different techniques and tips. Life doesn't always happen in the golden hour!
- Discover how high and low angle light can affect your image (and which one is easiest to work with!)
- Learn how to funnel or feather the light, or use additive and subtractive light, to mould the light and shadow.
- Get fun techniques and ideas and play with heavenly light, reflected light, light framing and dappled light!
- Learn the difference between open and covered shade, and the different techniques each requires.
- Avoid common lighting mistakes such as uplight, downlight, dappled light or colour casts that make for unattractive portraits and wonky skin tones.
- Get practical tips for making the most of overcast flat light.
Module Four: Backlight Success Secrets
In this module, we'll dive deep into the photographers favourite light - backlight!
- Learn how to intentionally include the two different types of lens flare to create images that have a beautiful, ethereal glow or create interesting patterns
- Discover how to filter, diffuse or block the light to create varying degrees of haze and control it with intention.
- Discover the specific conditions for dramatic rim light that will give a gorgeous glow around your subject to create a three-dimensional feel, and create a mystical look to your image.
- Take your silhouettes to the next level with practical advanced tips.
- Create fun and magical effects by highlighting atmospheric elements, making foliage glow, creating starbursts, using pockets of light, or incorporating shadows.
Module Five: Matching Light to Mood
In this final module, we'll talk about how to choose the right light for the mood you want to create.
- Discover how the light you use affects not just how your image looks, but how your image FEELS.
- We'll cover typical lighting set ups for happy or dramatic images, so you can start to intentionally match the light to the mood you want to convey, so you can add emotion to your images too!
- The secrets behind getting light and airy, dark and moody or warm and inviting images!
“I love the style of your teaching - clear, concise and always helpful! After taking this course I’m now more cognizant of light in general, and am always searching for beautiful light now…..even if I don’t have my camera with me! I really loved this course - it was definitely well worth the investment!"
Laureen
“I feel like this course unlocked something in me - I now look at the light everywhere I go and I feel so inspired by it! This was a truly fascinating course that has made me a better photographer in so many ways, and yes, I'd recommend it to anyone who wants to further their photography skills to get more interesting photos"
Paul
PlusThese Bonuses!
30 Natural Light Ideas for Experimentation
There's nothing worse than feeling creatively blocked and wondering what to photograph next! This guide gives you 30 + natural light-inspired photo ideas, to encourage you to get out there and experiment! It's the perfect way to practice the different concepts laid out in the course, while creating stunning photos.
An Invite To Join The Insiders Club!
The Insiders Club is a private, peer to peer Facebook community where you can form connections with other like-minded photographers on the same journey as you! It's the perfect place to share your photos, get some extra encouragement from your peers or chat about all things photography!
Get Started Today!
Choose the payment option that's right for you below:
3 MONTHLY PAYMENTS OF
$66 $53
A ONE-TIME PAYMENT OF
$197 $157
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TRY MASTERING NATURAL LIGHT FOR 7 DAYS AT NO RISK
100% Satisfaction Guarantee
I want you to feel confident in trying out the program for yourself, which is why we have a 100% Risk Free Guarantee. Have a look through the course and feel like you aren't going to learn anything new or useful, just let me know within 7 days of purchase and I'll refund you!
“I’ve always been aware that light played an important role in photography and in creating mood, but never understood how to achieve this, but now I do! I loved the whole course, but particularly the demo videos and the pull backs - it was so helpful to see it all in real life situations. I now notice light when out and about, and even when watching the TV! Plus I’ve entered 2 photos in my local club about using light and got a 1st and a 3rd!!”
Linda
“Before this course I was struggling with taking pictures in full sun, and this course has definitely helped with that! This course truly helps you understand light and how to get great pictures no matter what lighting conditions you have. I’m hardly ever taking pictures in “perfect” light (I’m more of a lifestyle photographer) but I now feel so much more comfortable & confident that I can work with whatever's available”
Denise
HI! I'M AUDREY ANN!
Let me help you take your photos to the NEXT level.
Light is the key element that can turn your photos from the ordinary to the extraordinary in a heartbeat, so it's crucial that as photographers, we have a deep understanding and awareness of natural light.
I created this program because I want you to be able to truly see the light around you, understand the myriad of creative possibilities for all your photos, and be able to walk into any situation and use the light to it's fullest potential!
My goal is to give you all the technical knowledge you need in a really easy understand way, so you can feel confident that you can work with the light available, and inspire you to create interesting images in any kind of light.
Trust me, you'll never look at a scene and wonder how to take an interesting photo again!
Audrey
MASTERING NATURAL LIGHT
Is a great fit for you if you...
Have a solid understanding of exposure, and shooting in manual mode, but you want to pushed out of your comfort zone and go to the NEXT level.
You're a multi-passionate photographer who likes to capture people, either in posed portraits or lifestyle / documentary situations, or simply the beauty of your everyday.
Want to dive deeper into your understanding of light, so you can harness it to get beautiful, creative images of people, everyday moments and the world around you.
You're eager to experiment with all kinds of light, both indoors and outdoors, so you can make an interesting image in all kinds of natural light.
Want to learn how to work with and modify natural light, so you can walk into any situation and use the available light to it's fullest potential.
Want to stop taking the same photos in the same way, and instead elevate your photography skills to take captivating photos.
Get started today, and imagine what it will feel like when you're…
- Able to walk in any situation, be able to read and see the light, and know how to use it to it’s fullest potential.
- No longer worried about shooting in midday sun, or low light, or in a clients home, because you know how to work with, or modify the light you have.
- Inspired just by watching the light around you, because you finally "see" light and the opportunities for photos.
- Excited to experiment with different types of light, from hazy backlight, dramatic sun-flare, dark shadowed images, full sun, rim light and more!
- Creating the images you've been dreaming of since you first picked up a camera!
“I love to shoot in natural light but I didn’t know very much about it. I’m so glad I enrolled in the course, because I feel it definitely filled in the gaps that were missing from my photography knowledge! I’m now so much more confident in my photography skills, and in my ability to see and use light - learning how to use a reflector and seeing the difference it made was eye-opening! I loved it so much I’ve already recommended it to a friend”
Martha
“This course has really has opened my eyes to how to use the light all around me .. I now notice and appreciate every single type of light around me, whether I have my camera with me or not! If you feel like you are in a rut and want to get more creative photos, or you need a push to advance in your photography journey then this is the class for you! I feel more confident and more inspired than ever"
Susan
Frequently Asked Questions
I'm new to photography! Is this for me?
No, sorry, it's not for beginners! I don't recommend this if you are a new photographer, as it will be too advanced for you I'm afraid - you need to lay the foundation FIRST, and be able to shoot in manual mode in order to get the most out of this program. I recommend you take Auto to Awesome first, then come back here to take your photos to the next level.
I'm NOT a beginner. Will I really learn anything new?
If the words inverse square law, filtering, veiling, light quality, diffusion, dynamic range, specular, feathering, rim light, hard light, loop light, broad light, or additive and subtractive light mean little to you (or you're not using them!) then you have a lot more to learn and you'll get a lot from this class!
Are there are pre-requisites for taking the class?
You'll need a DSLR or mirrorless camera, and a solid understanding of the exposure triangle and shooting in manual mode. If you aren't yet confident in manual mode, then I recommend you take Auto to Awesome first, , then come back here to deepen and enhance your knowledge of natural light.
Do I need any special equipment to take the course?
The only gear we recommend that you purchase is a 5 in 1 reflector, in order to help you practice the concepts more easily, and of course, put them to use going forward if you wish. These can purchased for around $40 and details are included in the course. However some of the best equipment for manipulating light is 100% free, and right at your fingertips - and we teach you how to use that too, so it's not essential.
Will I learn flash, studio lighting or artificial light?
This course is on natural light only, and we don't cover any type of created light such as flash, studio lighting or any artificial light sources. That said, as the core characteristics of light don't change, you will find that you understand artificial and created light much better after this course too!
What if I don't photograph people?
Although Mastering Natural Light is not ALL about photographing people, it is a part of the course. If you are a multi-passionate photographer who wants to capture the beauty around you in different situations, from flowers to people to travel, you'll love this course. But if you only want to take photos of one thing - landscapes for example - then perhaps this isn't the course for you as the goal is to get you to take beautiful photos of multiple subjects, both indoors and out.
How does this course differ from Advanced Light & Composition?
As part of our ongoing ethos to streamline our course offerings and make them more targeted, we have retired our Advanced Light & Composition course. However, we have taken the information on light from it to create THIS course, Mastering Natural Light. (And we will create future courses on advanced composition!)
So if you are a Advanced Light & Composition student, please note that Mastering Natural Light is not for you, as you already have access to all the material in here.
When does this course start and finish?
The class is pre-recorded, and 100% self paced so it's starts the second you sign up! And with lifetime access, there's no set schedule to stick to or a date you have to be finished by, so you really can go at your own pace.
Do I have access to everything at once or is the content dripped out each week?
As soon as you join us, you get instant access to all the modules and lessons, so you can roll up your sleeves and get started today!
How long do I have access to the content?
You'll get "lifetime" access to the course content. To be clear, this is not your lifetime or my lifetime - it's the lifetime of the program! If we do ever decide to retire the program, you'll get plenty of notice and be able to download ALL of the course materials, including the videos, so they are always yours to keep.
What if I'm not happy with the course?
If you’re not satisfied with the course after 7 days, you can email us to request a full refund.
What if I get stuck or need help?
Mastering Natural Light is a self-study program, so I'm afraid we won't be able to give you assistance or feedback on your photos. However, in the course you will find our FAQ Hub for each module, where we answer the most commonly asked questions (and after teaching the program for 5 years, we've heard them all!) so it's highly likely that your question is already covered.
What happens after I buy? How do I access the course?
As soon as you checkout you get instant access to the entire program immediately in our online course portal. We'll also send you a confirmation email, with a link to the course portal, so you can log back in at any time and continue your journey into mastering natural light.
I have a different question!
No problem - just click on the Message Me button on the bottom right of this screen to get in touch!
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Choose the payment option that's right for you below:
3 MONTHLY PAYMENTS OF
$66 $53
A ONE-TIME PAYMENT OF
$197 $157