Equipment // Sergey uses only prime lenses including the 24mm, 85mm and 135mm.  You can use a mid-telephoto lens such as a 24-70mm, off-camera flash (if you don't have any, we'll share in small groups), circular polarizer filter (optional), laptop for use on day 2 (optional). On Day 2, you can try to follow along with Sergey's editing but he will be going at a faster pace and suggests that you take more notes rather than attempt to edit side by side.

Size // Max 15

Hours // 9am - 5pm each day (likely longer). Please leave your schedule flexible...these are the listed hours but its not uncommon for us to run long. Sergey will be teaching a lot of information during these 2 days.

Day 1: Philosophy of photography and making a creative and composite images

• History: Image analysis, reading non-verbal messages, delivery of sense, plot, theme and story. A review of master artist works to identify key elements.
• Contrast: In depth look at light, color, shape and dynamics.
• The world of dimension — highlights and shadows, adding layers to images to create points of interest.
• Depth: linear and tonal perspective.
• Creativity: from simple to complex.
• Choice of photo equipment, camera and lens overview, and differences in choice of equipment for the wedding and portrait photography.
• Photographing and creating creative composite images.
• Mapping out an idea, analyzing technical components and implementing it from start to finish.
• Secrets of creating an ideal composite image.
• Using of accessories as a part of your kit to create story and mood.
• Hands-on demonstration.
• Working with the light: original lighting schemes for various conditions, regardless of weather.
• Artificial light – mastering flash, umbrella, reflector and video lighting. Mixed lighting outdoors and indoors.
• Natural light – tips on how to choose the best place for shooting with natural light, work with the sun and a reflector. How to catch the ideal natural light with the help of the sun. Shooting outdoors with light modifiers and reflectors.
• Posing for couples and single subjects.
• Choosing the perfect location and composition for the photo session including focal points and capturing scenes for future composite / creative work.
• Incorporating additional in-camera effects including flare, radiance, bokeh and watercolor effects.
• Telling the story of the day. Shooting for albums and final print collages.
• Choice of additional accessories for modifying the mood and feel.
• Shooting the elements for post production: objects and textures in the environment.
• Group shot and composite.

Day 2: Theory and practice of advanced post production

• Sergey's philosophy of post-production
• Post production in RAW, Photoshop CC and other additional plug ins and modules
• Editing of the images made during the workshop using all the tips and authorial creative techniques.
• Authorial creative technique of post-production
• Lighting elements: flare, illumination, romantic and magical unicorn elements.
• Adding visual effects including: rain, snow, smoke, fire, leaves, petals, and other flying elements.
• Depth and airiness of the images.
• Flying fabrics, veils, ribbons and other elements of the wedding clothing.
• Use of textures for setting the atmosphere and mood of the picture.
• Getting the image ready for presenting on web.

Locations // We will begin at Excalibur Hotel for class sessions and photographing on the Las Vegas strip.  Exact location details will be provided as you register and locations are secured. 

Other info // We're going to be photographing a lot using many techniques, some of which will be new to you. Models will be provided to work with. On Day 1 you will need your camera gear but not your computer. It's suggested that you pack light so that it's easier to travel. On Day 2 you will not need your camera gear but will need a laptop to follow along.

Who is Sergey Ivanov? He's a photographer and artist working full time in Ukraine. His wedding work takes him all across Europe. This is his second time visiting the US. Previously he held his workshop in Chicago and New York to sold out groups with rave reviews.

Who is Michael Novo? Michael is the organizer of the workshop and translator for Sergey. He's a full time portrait and wedding photographer based in Chicago. More of his work can be seen at https://michaelnovophotography.com

Why attend? There are a lot of options for US workshops. Our aim is to bring extremely talented photographers from outside of the US and show something new. We stand behind the fact that this workshop will change your approach to photography and give you a new perspective.

Questions? Please email [email protected] or call 847-957-7709