So you want to be a photographer: Transform your skills and build a profitable photography business

PHOTO 324: Posing, Lighting and composing portraits for beginners and pros

·1 hr 9 min·5 clips

Gina reveals how she shot a composite 'Last Supper' image for Underbelly with eight actors under intense time pressure.

In episode 324 of So You Want to Be a Photographer, host Valerie Khoo interviews Gina Milicia, an Australian portrait and celebrity photographer with over 25 years of experience. The episode focuses on practical advice for posing, lighting, and composing portraits for both beginners and professionals. Gina begins by discussing post-lockdown life in Melbourne and the challenges of shooting with COVID restrictions. She then shares tips on finding inspiration from TV shows like The Crown for lighting setups. A key segment involves Gina explaining how a member of her Gold Community used a creative pitch with a mock-up image to secure a $4,000 gig, emphasizing 'show don't tell.' The core of the episode is a detailed analysis of several of Gina's photographs. She walks through a composite 'Last Supper' shot for the TV series Underbelly, describing the high-pressure shoot with eight actors across three sets and the technical process of merging images. Next, she discusses a mid-air jump shot of comedian Red Symons, explaining the timing needed to freeze action and how to add realistic shadows in post-production. Gina also covers a portrait of actor Michael Veach, highlighting how to focus on the iris when using a shallow depth of field lens and the benefits of garage lighting. Another shot features two footballers in a locker room setup, where Gina talks about simplifying sets for impact and using reflective surfaces to add depth. Finally, she analyzes a powerful portrait of actress Kate Jenkinson from Wentworth, emphasizing the importance of styling, makeup, and lighting to convey strength. Throughout, Gina promotes her Gold Community as a resource for tutorials and support. The episode concludes with personal updates from both Gina and Valerie.

As heard by us

Gina Milesha makes portrait composites feel approachable, from doll-scale practice to a moodier Last Supper setup.

Portrait photography becomes a lesson in patience and control as Gina Milesha shows Valerie Koo how a composite can grow from repeated shots in the same setup.

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Why you'd press play

You want a portrait idea with more control: the kind where several separate shots quietly become one frame.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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