Intro to Theater Photography
Class - Photography | Registration opens 8/11/2026 9:00 AM EDT
Theater photography presents a unique challenge—and opportunity—for photographers and Winston Salem is a unique hub for theater productions. Rapidly changing stage lighting, dramatic performances, and fast-moving actors require a combination of technical precision and creative timing. In this hands-on workshop, you'll learn how to confidently photograph live theatrical productions while preserving the emotion, atmosphere, and artistry of the performance.
Designed for photographers with a basic understanding of their camera, this two-week class covers the complete workflow—from camera setup and shooting techniques to editing images for publication, portfolios, and promotional materials.
Week 1 – Camera Setup & Capturing the Performance
Prepare your camera for the fast-paced world of live theater. Learn how to work with constantly changing stage lighting while maintaining accurate exposure and sharp focus.
Topics include:
- Choosing the best lenses for theater photography
- Exposure strategies for challenging stage lighting
- Spot, center-weighted, and matrix metering techniques
- Recommended autofocus modes and subject tracking settings
- Burst shooting, silent shutter considerations, and minimizing distractions
- White balance for mixed theatrical lighting
- Reading the stage and anticipating key moments
- Etiquette and best practices when photographing live performances
Week 2 – Editing & Delivering Professional Images
Transform your captures into polished images that reflect the energy and mood of the performance. Develop an efficient post-production workflow for large theater shoots.
Topics include:
- Importing and organizing images in Lightroom
- Selecting the strongest storytelling moments
- Correcting exposure and color under theatrical lighting
- Noise reduction techniques for high ISO images
- Cropping and composition refinement
- Local adjustments to enhance performers while preserving stage atmosphere
- Preparing images for print, websites, social media, and promotional materials
- Building a consistent editing style for theater productions
By the end of the workshop, students will understand how to confidently photograph live performances, work effectively in difficult lighting conditions, and produce professional-quality images that capture the emotion, drama, and visual impact of the stage. Whether you're photographing community theater, school productions, dance performances, or professional stage productions, you'll leave with practical techniques you can apply at your very next show.
C. Stephen Hurst
C. Stephen Hurst recently moved to Winston-Salem from New York City where he spent many years as a professional photographer and instructor at the International School of Photography. Hurst is a self-taught photographer who emphasizes connection, anticipation, and communication through his process; some of Hurst’s photography clients have included the Disney Family Foundation, Nike, and Columbia Business School. Hurst holds a B.F.A. in Cinema Studies from New York University Tisch School of the Arts. Learn more about his work at amancalledhurst.com.