Light + Composition: Creating Impact through Photographs

Discover how to use natural light and strong composition to create visually striking images that tell a story. This hands-on outdoor photography workshop will teach you how to see and shape light while composing your shots for maximum impact.

Throughout this workshop, your instructor will cover techniques for working with different qualities of natural light—golden hour, diffused light, and backlighting—while learning how to frame your subjects with thoughtful composition. Through live demonstrations and guided shooting exercises, you’ll gain the skills to transform everyday scenes into compelling photographs.

Inspiration & Discussion
Before diving into our hands-on exercises, we’ll take a short tour through Radium’s In Plain Site exhibit, observing and discussing how light and composition shape the visual impact of the showcase. This brief exploration will provide inspiration and insight into the creative possibilities we’ll be practicing throughout the workshop.

What You’ll Learn:
How to see and use light to create depth, mood, and drama
Techniques for working with natural light at different times of day
Essential compositional principles for balanced and striking imagery
Ways to tell a story through thoughtful use of light and composition

What to Bring:
A fully charged camera (DSLR, mirrorless, or phone)
A fully charged battery and memory cards
A notebook for sketching compositions and taking notes
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing for (chilly) outdoor shooting

Step outside and explore Radium’s In Plain Site exhibit and Alameda Point while learning to create stunning, story-driven images!

In Plain Site photography festival is a collaboration between RADIUM PRESENTS and West End Arts District