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2023 WorkshopsPhotography Workshops

Retro Polka

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Runtime
93 min
Skill Level
Intermediate

What You’ll Learn

Step back in time and join me on a journey into the retro world of polka-dot dresses, vintage cars, and timeless charm.

In this tutorial, I’ll be using my trusted D750 DSLR paired with a simple 50mm f/1.4 lens and an old 80-200mm f/2.8 push-pull lens from the 1980s.

We’ll cover:

  • Determining optimal natural lighting and addressing color casts from adjacent walls that create soft, beautiful light patterns.
  • Exploring concepts like styling, colors, posing, and compositional errors—and how to fix them.

My goal is to inspire you to think deeply about visual artistry and create your own themed or styled shoots. These shoots not only enhance your portfolio but can also open doors to potential client opportunities!

4 reviews for Retro Polka

  1. Clifton Yaney –

    Great tutorial! Of the 90 minute lesson, the first third is about everything that happens before the first shot is taken: Location, how the surrounding features play a huge role in indirect lighting, some thoughts on posing and direction, lens choice (and the different characteristics of different lenses in the same situation), etc. Maybe the most complete tutorial he’s offered yet. Great job.

  2. Cynthia Armstrong –

    I have learned so much from each of Daniel’s tutorials I have watched. This one is just as amazing. I love that he shows the location and how the light works there , then goes to posing and then editing. All wonderful. Thank you Daniel.

    • Daniel Venter –

      Hello Cynthia! Thank you so much for the amazing feedback! Did you nativate through the Posing section?

  3. Cynthia Armstrong –

    In response to your question, I watch every bit of the tutorials I have chosen so far , I take notes and sometimes I go back and watch a segment again if it pertains to a photo shoot I am doing. I will be doing a a photo shoot similar to this one this week, just not a vintage car. I will be looking for that “special light” situation to take the photos in. Thanks again.

  4. Anne H –

    I love learning from you and the process from start to finish.

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Meet Daniel – Your Guide to Professional Portrait Photography

I’m Daniel, a full-time portrait photographer and educator dedicated to helping photographers worldwide elevate their craft.

Since launching my professional career in 2013, I’ve built two successful photography businesses and captured thousands of client sessions across genres — from engagements and weddings to families, maternity, and newborns.

My work has been recognized internationally, including as a Grand Jury Winner on Viewbug.

Through real-world experience, I’ve developed proven frameworks for mastering natural light, client direction, consistent editing, and emotional storytelling — without relying on presets.

Now, I share these exact techniques through my membership: in-depth classes with behind-the-scenes shoots, downloadable RAWs, and step-by-step workflows designed to transform your skills and deliver client-booking results.

Whether you’re building a business or capturing family memories, join me to see the world through a professional lens and create award-worthy portraits.