Commercial Photography: Beyond the Basics

Joe Glyda
Track: Specialty and Technique 

At a Glance

• A clear understanding of how to approach real-world commercial assignments with confidence and professional-level results.
• Lighting techniques and styling that elevate product, food, and interior photography.
• Practical workflow strategies to improve client satisfaction, marketability, and personal creative growth.

Class Description

Commercial photography is thriving, and photographers who understand both the craft and the business are in higher demand than ever.

In this hands-on class, you’ll learn how to apply solid, professional techniques to real-world assignments — from product photography to food styling, reflective surfaces, interiors, and architectural exteriors.

We’ll cover working with art directors and clients, and how those relationships affect your workflow and creative decisions.

What will the class cover?

You’ll start with product photography fundamentals, then move on to challenging subjects like chrome, glass, and highly reflective surfaces.

We’ll explore techniques for photographing interiors and exteriors, demonstrating how small changes can dramatically affect a room’s appearance on camera.

Food photography is also on the menu — you’ll learn how to shop for photogenic products and style them for the camera.

While this isn’t a Photoshop class, we’ll discuss how clean, precise photography makes post-production easier and elevates your work above the competition.

This class is for photographers who want to expand their commercial photography skills, whether you’re a seasoned pro looking to sharpen your edge or a portrait or event photographer interested in diversifying your business.

It’s ideal for anyone ready to go beyond online tutorials and learn how professionals work in real-world commercial environments.

This class will change the way you approach photography projects by teaching you how to think like a commercial photographer — anticipating client needs, refining your lighting and composition skills, and mastering the small details that separate good images from marketable, high-end professional work.

You’ll leave with practical, transferable skills that can grow your portfolio, impress clients, and increase your earning potential.

Bring your camera gear, lenses, and a tripod. A notebook for ideas and lighting setups is highly recommended.

If you’d like, bring a few small items you’d like to practice photographing — a product, reflective object, or a food item. Most importantly, come ready to learn, experiment, and think commercially.

• CLASS INTENSITY: Blue
• CLASS BREAKDOWN
  Classroom instruction & demos: 50%
  Hands-on: 40%
  Post-production: 10%
• PREREQUISITES:
  Lighting 1:  All levels
  Post-Production 1: All levels
  Studio Business 1: All levels

What do these mean? Learn More