Julie
Gayler

Believable Light: The Film Approach to Portrait Lighting

Ever notice how movie scenes feel natural, emotional, and believable…even when they’re totally staged? That’s the power of motivated lighting. We’ll explore how to use practical lights (lamps, flashlights, screens, LEDs, signs, etc.) to create depth, mood, and story in your portraits. You’ll learn how filmmakers build lighting that looks like it belongs in the scene, and how to apply the same techniques with simple tools in real-world sessions. If you’ve ever wanted your images to feel more cinematic, intentional, and atmospheric…this is where it begins.

(And yes — you’ll never look at a table lamp the same way again!)

Julie Gayler

Julie is a Fujifilm Featured photographer and Westcott Top Pro who loves bold, cinematic lighting and creative storytelling. For over 15 years she’s photographed everything from weddings to commercial work to imaginative portraits across five states.

She’s taught countless workshops and demos, sharing lighting in a way that feels simple, creative, and encouraging. She also steps in as a creative and lighting director for other photographers and as a gaffer on indie film projects—bringing her love of light into both stills and motion.

At home, she’s homeschooling four kids, embracing country life, and making everyday moments (and her dramatic chickens) look a little magical.

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