Narrative Portraiture: On Location in Texas with Keith Carter

Course details

In the Narrative Portraiture series, photographer and teacher Chris Orwig explores how to use location and natural light to create images that tell stories about their subjects and produce a strong emotional connection.

In this installment, Chris travels to Texas to visit with Keith Carter, a fine art photographer and teacher, and has a conversation with Keith about his work, outlook on art and photography, and suggestion that photographers commit at least two years to a personal project.

The course continues with a pair of portrait shoots. Keith photographs Chris and describes his process and creative decisions along the way. Then the cameras are swapped and Chris creates a portrait of Keith.

Finally, Chris reviews the photography he took, and discusses the gear he used and the lessons he learned while visiting with and photographing Keith.

Concepts

Introduction

Welcome

Portraits of an Artist's Space

Keith Carter's home
Touring the darkroom and studio
A closer look at Keith's books

A Conversation with Keith Carter

Growing up, black and white, and the power of portraits
Starting out - New York and other influences
Poetry and photography
Going deeper - Give yourself a project
Creating a photo book
Concluding thoughts

Reflections on the Conversation

Reflecting on Keith Carter
Starting a photographic journey
A poetic approach to viewing photographs
Pursue what you find most interesting
Getting through the dry spells
Finding your inner drive
Going beyond flattery
The value of the conversation

Portrait Session - Keith Photographs Chris

The portrait session
Lessons learned

Portrait Session - Chris Photographs Keith

Introduction
The portrait session
Lessons learned
Gear review

Photo Review

Portrait of the space
The studio portraits
The outdoor portraits
The spontaneous portraits
The second portrait session
Post-processing techniques

Conclusion

Goodbye