Kiati Plooksawasdi
Sculpting With Light: A Journey Through Using Light to Create Dynamic Portraiture
Kiati Plooksawasdi is an Award-Winning Boudoir, Portrait, and Dance Photographer and Educator based in Ellicott City, MD. Kiati has over 15 years of experience in the photography industry and enjoys teaching and mentoring in both aspects of photography and the business behind photography when he is not behind the lens. With the knowledge of utilizing both natural and artificial light in his work, he leverages his ability to shape light to contour his subjects to create drama and depth within his images.
Kiati has 20 years in the corporate world developing business strategies for Fortune 150 companies, Kiati has helped launch and mentor several small businesses and now brings that experience in helping photographers develop their strategies. In addition to the business side, Kiati also mentors on how he creates his art through posing and lighting.
Kiati is a CheetahStand Master Creator and serves as an ambassador for Aftershoot, Baby Dream Backdrops, FloriColor, Spider Holster and Vienne Milano. Kiati is also the AIBP (Association of International Boudoir Photographers) 2022 Ambassador of Excellence, and has been published in Rangefinder, Philosophie Boudoir Magazine among other publications and has spoken at ImagingUSA, WPPI, Pas De Deux Dance Photography Conference, ClickCon and the Peculiar Collective Conference. He is currently planning several destination workshops and retreats for 2025.
Why you should take this class:
If you're ready to elevate your portrait photography and create images that truly captivate, this immersive class is designed for you. Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned professional seeking fresh inspiration, this course will transform the way you approach lighting and storytelling.
With a focus on boudoir, fashion, and dance photography, this hands-on class explores how to sculpt your subjects using a range of lighting sources—including natural light, strobes, constant light, and available light—to create portraits full of depth, emotion, and drama. Drawing from my own expertise in these genres, I’ll guide you through the unique lighting techniques that bring each style to life.
But this class goes beyond lighting alone. As an added bonus, we’ll dive into how posing and lighting work hand in hand to create powerful, client-pleasing images. Through guided shoots, creative exercises, and daily critiques, you'll gain practical skills and insight into working effectively with your subjects to create impactful, professional-level portraits.
By the end of the week, you'll walk away with a strong portfolio of diverse images and a confident, intentional approach to lighting. If you're looking to push your creative boundaries and master the art of visual storytelling through light, this class is the next step in your photographic journey.