Get Inspired with Richard Israel | Behind the Scenes with Charlotte Photographer Jamie Lucido

To say that I fell over myself, to enroll in Richard Israel’s Portrait Provocateur workshop when he announced it, would be an understatement. I am constantly enrolled in classes and workshops, but was beyond excited to attend this one, and even more thrilled when I saw who some of the other attendees were:  some of my very favorite local photographers. It was a truly thrilling two days, to be in the company of people who love their art, led by a man whose unique experiences through life and the world of photography are an incredible inspiration. Richard is one of Charlotte’s greatest treasures. See more of his work here.

Richard spoke about his life (think: London! punk! fashion! the 60’s!), his inspirations (the list is long, but to name a few: Paul Smith, Marco Pierre White, Sarah Moon, Peter Lindbergh, Bruce Weber, Dorothea Lange, Cecil B, Irving Penn, Richard Avedon, David Bailey, Terence Donovan, Peter Lindbergh, Paolo Roversi, Mario Testino), and how we should be tapping into our own unique set of experiences, when we lean in and create a portrait. The touch points of art, travel, fashion, music, people, self imposed limitations… how they all form a unique constellation in our own lives, and inform the work we produce. Those elements that define us also allow us to step over the boundary of Observer, into the realm of Creator.

The cumulative effect of such an honest, open, beautiful conversation was to push me into deeper reflection about my own influences and limitations. My triumphs, fears, and where the arc of this journey in life, and therefore photography, might go.
I can’t tell you all Richard’s workshop details– you’re going to have to beg him to hold another one, and see for yourself. 😉
In the meantime, some behind the scenes for you. Huge kudos to our amazing model, Erica, who absolutely rocked it and kept it cool, during these very hot days of southern Summer. <3

Day 1: shooting just outside the studio in natural light with a black backdrop.

The ‘look’ was natural, raw, feminine, strong. Minimal makeup for authentic texture and glow. In the spirit of the workshop, I processed with my favorite film emulation and added a little texture overlay. That’s it.

Amy shooting with Erica while Isil and Crystal provide lots of enthusiastic breeze and comic relief for the rest of us. It was a huge pleasure to hang out with these talented women!

Using less than ideal locations (just a grassy area off of a parkinglot in the back of the studio), Richard talked us through his thought process. Follow him on Instagram  to see some of his trademark timeless, emotive style.  Back into the studio (thank goodness, because we were all dripping in sweat outside!), for some great insight on Richard’s preferred light setup.look at that old Hollywood beast– yes, it was HOT!

Then, we each got to shoot Richard using his light, and then he shot each of us! (still awaiting those, as they are developed, medium format- eek!! how fun!)

Day 2 we went to a beautiful NODA garden for more shooting time with Richard and Erica, and a glimpse at shooting with a lot of deliberation. Both medium and large format cameras were an interesting part of our discussion.

Check out Richard’s image from this moment, here

As with every workshop I’ve attended, it is immediately apparent that you get what you give. Richard really gave us his all during these two days, and I can’t speak his praises enough. I will be researching, journaling, and chewing over the seeds planted in my head for a very long time, and feel so incredibly blessed to have been in the presence of so many kind, supportive, and talented Artists. The thumbprint of these two days will indelibly work its way into everything I shoot from here on out. Thank you. So much.

Behind the Scenes at Richard Israel’s Portrait Provocateur Workshop | Charlotte Photographer Jamie Lucido

Jamie Lucido Photography is a family and wedding photographer based in Charlotte, NC.  Serving the Charlotte, Belmont, and Lake Norman areas including: South Park, Myers Park, Midwood, Berewick, Madison Park, Stonehaven, Dilworth, Starmount, Kingsbridge, Cameron Wood, NoDa, Commonwealth, Barclay Downs, Ballantyne, Highland Creek, Eastover, Foxcroft, Montibello, Wendover-Sedgewood, Hembstead, Park Crossing, Mountainbrook, Freedom Park, Providence Crossing, Denver, Davidson, Matthews, Ft. Mill, Waxhaw, Tega Kay, and vacation destinations worldwide.

Jamie Lucido Photography offers family, wedding and engagement, and documentary storytelling photography.  Jamie’s style is to focus on beautiful light and meaningful connections, for artistic and natural images.

Jamie Lucido Photography, LLC | www.jamielucidophotography.com

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