The Portrait Edit
A Full-Day Studio Portrait Photography Workshop, From Shoot to Final Image.
October 11, 9am-5pm | $799+GSTThe Dale Studio - Chippendale, Sydney
, Catered lunch, coffee & refreshments throughout the day
A Day Dedicated to The Art of Portraiture.
Welcome to a full day portrait workshop, where we’ll explore the space between light and shadow, expression and stillness, direction and spontaneity and how these elements come together to create a series of portraits that feel considered, dimensional and alive.
The Morning Session: Shooting, Lighting & Creative Direction.
The day begins with a deep dive into portraiture, exploring its many forms as we work with a professional model and continuous (LED) lighting to create a series of timeless portraits, each with its own atmosphere and visual language.
We’ll work closely with light: shaping it, softening, directing it and using different modifiers to create depth and dimension. We’ll also look at how light interacts with the face and body, how subtle changes can transform an image, and how to create photographs where the subject feels present within the frame.
Alongside the technical aspects, we’ll explore the more artistic elements of portraiture such as creative direction, movement, expression and the relationship between the photographer and subject. How to create an image that feels natural yet intentional and how to give direction without taking away from the person in front of the camera.
The day is designed as an extension of the work we’ve explored in previous workshops, taking the foundations of lighting and portrait photography further and giving you the space to work with them in greater depth.
Haven’t joined one of my previous workshops? No worries. This workshop is designed for beginner to intermediate photographers, and you don’t need any previous studio experience to join us. A basic understanding of the exposure triangle (ISO, aperture and shutter speed) is recommended.
LUNCH & REFRESHMENTS INCLUDED
A beautiful catered lunch will be enjoyed together throughout the day, with coffee, refreshments and something sweet along the way. A little time to pause, connect and enjoy the day between creating.
The Afternoon Session: Capture One, Colour grading & Workflow
In the afternoon, the process moves from camera to screen.
We’ll take a deep dive into Capture One, exploring the software from the ground up and building a smooth, considered workflow from the moment you bring your images in to the final edit.
We’ll work through image selection and organisation, file management, culling, adjustments and the tools that make the editing process more intuitive and efficient. From there, we’ll move into the more creative side of the process - refining skin tones, contrast, colour, tone and atmosphere, and understanding how each decision contributes to the feeling of the final photograph.
A particular focus will be placed on colour grading: how to create depth and consistency in colour, how to work with skin while still creating a distinct visual mood, and how to carry the same feeling across a series of images.
We’ll also look at the relationship between individual images and the larger body of work - how to edit a selection so that the photographs speak to one another, rather than simply sitting beside each other.
You’ll then select your own favourite images from the day and work through your own series, applying the process we’ve covered and developing the images into a cohesive final edit.
Capture One
Capture One is an industry leading platform, and we’ll spend time getting familiar with the software and exploring the benefits of its workflow, editing and colour tools. The principles we cover throughout the session, however, are not limited to one program. Image selection, workflow, editing, colour and creating consistency can all be applied across to Lightroom as well.
If you prefer to edit in Lightroom, you’re more than welcome to continue using it on the day. The Capture One session is simply an opportunity to introduce you to the program, show you how it works and explore what it can offer - there’s no expectation to switch from the software you already use.
Everything you photograph on the day belongs to you.
You’ll keep your images to continue editing after the workshop and are welcome to use them within your portfolio, website and social media.
❋ Master Continuous LightingGo deeper into shaping light, working with different modifiers and understanding how small changes in direction, quality and placement can transform a portrait.
❋ Direct With IntentionLearn how to work with your subject beyond posing ~ creating natural movement, expression and presence while developing a stronger sense of creative direction.
❋ Strengthen Your WorkflowBuild a more considered process from shoot to final image ~ exploring Capture One, image selection, editing and colour grading, with principles that can also be applied to Lightroom.
❋ Collaborative EnergyCreate alongside a small group of photographers in an open, collaborative environment where ideas, perspectives and creative approaches can be shared throughout the day.
The Schedule of The Day
To make sure everyone has the opportunity to shoot and ask questions, we’ll work in two small groups. While one group photographs with me and the model, the other will have a short coffee break and the opportunity to observe the process. We’ll then rotate, repeating this throughout the different setups.
Welcome & introductionConcept, mood & approach
9:00am -10:00pm
Portrait ShootingLive demonstration, lighting & guided shooting
10:00am - 12:00pm
Lunch Break (Catered)12:15pm - 1:00pm
Portrait ShootingFurther setups, creative direction & shooting time
1:00pm - 2:00pm
Capture OneWorkflow, image selection & editing
2:00pm - 3:00pm
Colour Grading & Creative ProcessDeveloping your images into a cohesive portrait series
3:00pm - 5:00pm
Finish
5:00pm
A WELCOMING & INCLUSIVE SPACE
All experience levels are welcome. This workshop is a respectful and inclusive space where everyone should feel comfortable asking questions, learning, creating and being themselves.
Discrimination, harassment or disrespect of any kind will not be tolerated. Our priority is to ensure everyone feels included and comfortable throughout the day.
PAYMENT OPTIONS
The workshop fee is $799 + GST, with the option to split your payment across multiple invoices.
If you’d like to pay in instalments, email me directly and I’ll arrange a payment plan with you at no extra cost.
Your workshop fee includes the professional model, styling, studio hire, all lighting and equipment, catered lunch, coffee, refreshments and everything you need for the day. There are no additional costs on the day.
TERMS & CONDITIONS
By completing your booking, you acknowledge that you have read and agree to the Terms & Conditions [View Terms & Conditions]
Previous Workshop Reviews
“Hi Paulinne, I wanted to share how your February workshop ignited my growth as a photographer. Before that, I hadn't studied anything, but what I took away from those few hours was a sense of confidence and an understanding of the craftsmanship behind the art. That encouraged me to dedicate most of my free time, and I can see progress in my work. Thanks again for that. I am now waiting for the level 2 workshop, if you are still planning it. Do you? Best wishes from Copenhagen
- Stefan“I have nothing but praise and positivity to say about the recent workshop that I attended with Paulinne. The way the information was given out was easy to understand and simple. I loved that we were showed how to physically do the things we were being taught and then given to opportunity to put it into place ourselves. I could have spent all day in there with those people. THANK YOU!”
- Amity“I found the course the be very clear and easy to understand. We had such a lovely group of people and not only did we all come away with new skills, we came away with some lovely new connections. Paulinne creates a lovely space to learn and explore studio lighting, I would definitely recommend it to anyone just starting out on your studio lighting journey.”
- MariaMEET YOUR HOST
Paulinne Draskovic
Fashion/Portrait Photographer and Teacher
Paulinne is a fashion and portrait photographer from Sweden, based in Australia since 2018. Her aesthetic reflects her Scandinavian roots, with a love for nature and appreciation for simplicity and slow living.
Paulinne strives to create imagery that feels genuine and authentic, collaborating with people and fashion brands who share her commitment to sustainability and ethical practices, producing work that honours both individuals and the world around them.
Her earlier career as a professional ballet dancer continues to influence her creative vision, bringing a natural sense of flow and rhythm to the way she directs and moves through a shoot.
Since 2022, Paulinne has been sharing her experience and knowledge through photography workshops, creating a space where artists can explore, grow, and find their own voice. Her sessions are welcoming and supportive, filled with guidance, inspiration, and practical insights, all designed to help creatives feel confident and empowered in their work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime. If you’re feeling ready, go ahead and register.
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No previous studio experience is needed. As long as yo have a basic understanding of your camera , ISO, Shutter speed and Aperture - you're all set!
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This workshop is an inclusive, supportive, and relaxed environment. You’ll be learning in a friendly environment with no judgement or pressure. It’s a space where you can ask questions freely, learn at your own pace, and connect with other photographers. Paulinne teaches in a slow, clear, and practical way, breaking down studio lighting step by step so everything feels understandable and achievable.
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You don’t need any high-end gear. As long as you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera that can be set to manual mode and a lens with a focal length between 24-85mm, you're good to go. I will be working alongside the group and guide you individually. All studio equipment is provided on the day.
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Yes!
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The workshop is limited to a maximum of 10 photographers to ensure plenty of personal guidance and hands-on support.
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Having hosted workshops for over 400 photographers, I can say the atmosphere is always incredible! Participants are always so welcoming and kind. Most attendees are fairly new to photography or have limited experience, just like you! I keep each event to a very limited number of attendees to create a relaxed and personalised environment where everyone feels seen and heard.
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The workshop is taught by Paulinne Draskovic, a Swedish fashion and portrait photographer born and raised in Stockholm and currently based in Australia. Paulinne brings industry knowledge, a calm teaching style, and a genuine passion for helping photographers grow.
Do you have any further questions about the course?
Send through a message below and I will get back to you shortly!