The Art of Seeing: Light and Color

“Color is a pigment of our imagination,” Mark Rea famously said, highlighting how colors only come to life through our perception. In this new online workshop with Mark Kesling, photographers of all skill levels explore the interconnected roles of light and color in photography. We examine the science of light, understanding the electromagnetic spectrum and how different types of light (from infrared to visible) impact exposure, mood, and composition. At the same time, we investigate how light influences color perception, focusing on how light interacts with various surfaces and materials to shape the way color is captured in a photograph.

Throughout our group sessions, we engage in hands-on exercises that experiment with both lighting techniques and color theory. We learn how natural and artificial light affect color and how to manipulate both to create dynamic and compelling images. We also explore how color influences mood and composition, uncovering the emotional power of colors and how to use them intentionally in their work. From working with different types of light to experimenting with color grading and filters, you refine an understanding of both lighting and color, gaining new skills to elevate your photography, regardless of genre or style.