Struggling to get that wow factor in your portraits?

This is your roadmap. Whether you’re stuck on flat lighting or just guessing where your second light should go, this workshop will give you the clarity and system you need to level up — fast.

In this hands-on session, Ian van der Wolde walks you through the classic 3-light portrait setup used by working professionals across the globe. You’ll learn how to build depth, add dimension, and control contrast like a pro — one light at a time.

We’ll show you how each light has a job: key, fill, and hair/background — and how to position and power them for maximum impact. You’ll see the results in real time, then shoot it yourself with a live model on set.

This is the formula that unlocks consistent, cinematic, scroll-stopping portraits — whether you’re shooting headshots, fashion, or fine art.

What You’ll Learn:

• The core 3-light setup and how to build it from scratch

• How to control contrast, separation, and background tone

• Using fill light like a pro (and when to leave it out)

• How to position a hair or rim light for edge and polish

• Power ratios, light placement, and the WHY behind every move

We’ll be using Profoto lighting gear, supported by Profoto — the gold standard in studios worldwide. But this isn’t about the brand — it’s about the technique, and it works with any system you use.

🎓 Hands-on learning | 📸 Live model on set | 👥 Bring your camera + favourite portrait lens

This workshop is perfect for anyone ready to move beyond guesswork and build repeatable, professional-level portraits with confidence.

About Ian van der Wolde

With over 35 years of experience behind the lens, Ian van der Wolde is one of Australia’s most respected lighting educators and commercial photographers. He’s a Profoto Ambassador, Ilford Master, Phase One Certified Pro, and former National President of the AIPP — with more accolades than we can list here.

Ian runs a full-service studio in Victoria, shoots everything from high-end portraits to national campaigns, and lectures at Swinburne University. But more than anything? He’s passionate about helping photographers understand light — and use it to create work that actually stands out.

Whether you’re just starting out or ready to go deeper, you’ll learn more in a few hours with Ian than months of trial and error. His workshops are known for being hands-on, straight-talking, and packed with insight you can actually use.

This is your chance to learn from a real industry heavyweight.

Where to park?

There’s plenty of street parking around the studio, and if that’s full, you’ll usually find space at Bunnings or Woolworths just across the road (also a good excuse to grab a snack or last-minute plant).

Important note: Google Maps likes to play games—it often drops people at the back of the complex. We are Unit 27, but don’t let that fool you: we’re actually the second unit in the main front section of the complex, not hiding out in the far corners.

Please don’t park in the warehouse bays inside the complex (we know they look tempting), as they’re reserved for loading and you might end up making friends with a forklift. Parking is at your own discretion—we can’t be held responsible for any parking fines, tow trucks, or passive-aggressive notes left on windscreens.

Don’t let flash intimidate you — own it.

Spaces are limited. If you want to finally master your modifiers — and use flash like an artist — this is the one you don’t want to miss.