Monthly Meeting: From Flat to Fantastic: The Secrets Behind Portrait Lighting That Pops with Jen Willis
📍 Pellissippi State Community College
JL Goins Administration Building, Room 151A
10915 Hardin Valley Rd, Knoxville, TN 37932
Let’s shed some light on portrait photography! In this engaging presentation, we’ll explore how lighting shapes the mood, depth, and personality of a portrait. You’ll learn the classic lighting patterns—Rembrandt, loop, butterfly, and side lighting—and how each one brings out different facial features. We’ll also dive into short versus broad lighting, helping you understand how placement and direction can flatter your subject. And yes, we’ll tackle the inverse square law in a way that actually makes sense—no calculators needed!
We’ll compare flat and directional lighting, discuss the difference between hard and soft light, and talk about how each affects the emotion of your image. You’ll see why catchlights are the sparkle that makes every portrait feel alive. Throughout the session, you’ll gain clarity on how to make intentional lighting choices that enhance your creative vision. This class is designed to simplify lighting theory while giving you practical insight you can apply right away. Come ready to see your portraits in a whole new light—literally!
Meet the Speaker:
Jen Willis is the owner of Jennifer Willis Portraits, where she specializes in fine art photography for pets and people. With more than 25 years in the veterinary industry, Jen’s deep love for animals shines through every image she creates. She is a Certified Professional Photographer through the Professional Photographers of America (PPA) and is currently pursuing her Master of Photography degree through PPA.
Jen serves on the Board of Directors for both the Professional Photographers of East Tennessee (PPETN) and the Tennessee Professional Photographers Association (TNPPA). She is also an instructor in the University of Tennessee Knoxville Photography Certificate Program, where she specializes in lighting education.