Do You Really Need More Than One Light? with Rory Lewis – Pasadena

Great portraits aren’t about complicated lighting diagrams — they’re about seeing light, shaping mood, and connecting with your subject.

In this relaxed, hands-on workshop, Rory Lewis explores how much you can truly achieve with one light — and when adding more actually helps (and when it doesn’t). Drawing on over two decades of experience photographing actors, artists, executives, and public figures, Rory demonstrates a simplified, intentional approach to portrait lighting that prioritises clarity over complexity.

This workshop is practical, accessible, and designed to give you tools you’ll actually use.

What You’ll Learn:

• How to create powerful portraits using a single light
• Light placement for shape, depth, and emotion
• Simple modifier choices that make a big difference
• When one light is enough — and when to add a second
• How to work efficiently in small studios or home setups
• Direction techniques for natural, compelling expressions
• How to simplify your workflow without sacrificing quality

Workshop Style:

• Live demonstrations with professional models
• Clear, practical explanations (no technical overload)
• Real-world lighting setups you can recreate easily
• Emphasis on training your eye, not memorising gear lists

This is about confidence and clarity — not gear obsession.

Who This Is For:

• Beginners wanting to understand lighting without intimidation
• Intermediate photographers looking to simplify their process
• Portrait and headshot photographers refining their style
• Anyone who feels they may be over-complicating their lighting

Course Schedule:

10:30 AM – Welcome & Introduction
10:45 AM – Seeing Light: One-Light Foundations
11:00 AM – Live One-Light Portrait Demonstration
12:00 PM – Subject Direction & Expression
12:45 PM – Lunch Break
1:30 PM – When (and Why) to Add a Second Light
2:15 PM – Hands-On Shooting Session
2:45 PM – Q&A, Refinement & Wrap-Up
3:30 PM – Workshop Conclusion

*** The classroom is located on the second floor of our store.  Access to the classroom is available via stairs.  There is no elevator access to the second floor.

By registering for this workshop, you agree to our Terms and Conditions. Click here to view our Terms and Conditions.

Cancellation Policy: Refund requests must be made in writing at least 30 days prior to the event. No refunds or credits will be given with less than 30 days’ notice.