
Would you like to learn how to tell the story of your life with photographs? Would you like to record your child’s milestones and all the quintessential moments of family life? All the expressions, moods, and all the little details and gestures that say more than a 1000 words ever could? Then “Your Life in Pictures” is for you! In this class you will learn a set of tips that will help you narrate the story you want to tell while capturing the authentic spirit of your subject matter. We will go over some basic principles such as lighting, framing, angle, focus and perspective, and we will demystify settings and functions in your camera so you can better control your images final look. In this class we will alternate tips, demonstrations, shooting time and discussions, in a supportive and non-intimidating environment. The emphasis will be on how to use the camera as a tool to document life, beauty and connection. This class welcomes all levels of experience. All you need is a camera, a curious eye, and the desire to express yourself while capturing the beauty of your world and subject matter through images.
This is how our class will flow:
Part 1 ~ We will look at a variety of examples of effective portrait photography as well as principles that will help you convey your point of view and the authenticity of a moment.
Part 2 - We will learn how to adjust camera settings to shoot in MANUAL MODE. You will never want to shoot in AUTO again!
Part 3 - We will play with some photo prompts while working individually and in groups.
Part 4 - We will explore visual storytelling and we will talk about other types of portraiture such as self portrait, fashion, lifestyle, photojournalism and editorial portraiture.
Part 5 - We will shoot some more!
Part 6 - We will review and discuss students work, highlighting styles and strengths. This is not a critique but a space for encouragement!
Please click here to read the wonderful reviews from her 2010 Makerie students.
Skill Level
No experience necessary
Material List
- digital camera (with battery and memory cards!) or polaroid camera (with film!) - you don't need a fancy camera; the average "point and shoot" camera with at least 5 megapixels will do a nice job
- battery charger
- props & clothes to style your shots. I will have some items available but I encourage you to bring your own: hats, glasses, funky shoes, wigs, balloons, etc.
- notebook, pen
- water bottle!
No Material Fee
Alessandra Cave

My name is Alessandra Cave and I’m a film producer and photographer with a gypsy heart. I can’t help but always have my hand on a variety of creative projects. Currently, I’m splitting my time between photography, teaching assignments, speaking gigs, penning and shooting books, as well as caring for my baby daughter, who is my biggest creative achievement to date! I’m also the creator of Gypsy Girls Guide, a resource for women interested in travel and a bohemian lifestyle, and I’m a regular contributor to Shutter Sisters, an inspiring community of women photographers. When I am not doing any of the above, I’m either on an adventure around the world or you can find me practicing yoga, walking on the beach, hiking among redwoods, enjoying sunshine, reading, napping (trying to do lots of that since I had a baby!) and roaming the streets of San Francisco with my camera.
Alessandra holds a Masters in Fine Arts from the Savannah College of Art and Design and she worked for over 10 years as a visual effects producer for feature films and commercials. In 2009 Alessandra kissed the cubicle goodbye to pursue her dream of working as a professional photographer. She is completely self taught, and she is passionate about inspiring and empowering women to follow their creative passion.
Contact
http://www.alessandracave.com
alessandracave@gmail.com
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