Cinematic Character Portraits, Carnival of Curiosities

Step behind the curtain and enter a world of theatrical performers, dramatic lighting and visual storytelling.

Join award-winning photographer and educator Julie Powell for a hands-on creative portrait workshop featuring two professionally styled carnival-inspired characters: Luna the Acrobat and Roberto the Magician.

Using cinematic lighting techniques, atmospheric colour, dramatic posing and carefully crafted sets, you'll learn how to create images filled with mood, character and story.

Hosted at Slowburn Studio in Frankston, this small-group workshop is designed for photographers who want to move beyond standard portraits and create images that feel immersive, cinematic and unforgettable.

Played by Emily Reinhard

A charismatic acrobat with a touch of vintage clown charm, Luna brings energy, elegance and theatrical expression to every frame. Her striking costume, dramatic makeup and playful personality create endless opportunities for creative portraiture.

Played by Kimberley Fabian

Part magician, part ringmaster and full-time showman, Roberto commands attention with theatrical flair, vintage circus styling and a hint of mystery. From dramatic poses to captivating character work, he brings a completely different energy to the workshop.

Jolie Nguyen

Professional makeup artistry helps bring both characters to life, creating polished, camera-ready looks with rich detail and theatrical flair.

• How to create cinematic portraits using colour and mood

• Building atmosphere with lighting, props and posing

• Directing models to create believable characters

• Storytelling techniques for stronger portrait images

• Working with theatrical performers and expressive subjects

• Creating portfolio images that stand out from traditional portrait work

• Multiple fully styled character setups

• Professional performers in custom wardrobe

• Dramatic studio lighting

• Atmospheric portrait scenes

• Creative storytelling images

• Individual and character-driven portraits

This workshop is suitable for photographers of all skill levels.

Whether you're new to portrait photography or an experienced shooter looking to expand your creative portfolio, you'll walk away with new techniques, fresh inspiration and a collection of unique images.

Workshop Details

Date: Sunday 5th July 2026 - 2pm - 4:30pm

Location: Slowburn Studio, Frankston

Featuring:
Emily Reinhard as Luna the Acrobat
Kimberley Fabian as Roberto the Magician
Makeup by Jolie Nguyen

Small group format with plenty of shooting opportunities and personalised guidance throughout the session.

Anyone can photograph a model standing against a backdrop.

This workshop is about creating characters, atmosphere and stories.

If you've ever wanted your portraits to feel more cinematic, more creative and more memorable, this workshop is for you.