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Unlock pro-level skills, lighting secrets, and creative confidence with Paul Wilkinson - award-winning photographer, judge, and mentor to ambitious photographers.

Master Portraits. Master Confidence. Master Your Craft.

Award-Winning Guidance, Every Step Of The Way

Hi, I’m Paul. I’ve spent decades at the heart of portrait photography.- shooting, judging, and teaching worldwide. My work’s taken me from Nobel laureates and presidents, to everyday families, and even the BBC and The Times. As an Honorary Fellow of the BIPP, a Fellow of the SWPP, and the author of the best-selling “Mastering Portrait Photography,” I know what it takes to create portraits that matter. My real passion? Helping other photographers find their confidence, master the why, and create their own magic - anywhere, with anyone, every time.

Oh, and Rufus, the studio dog, is always ready to help too!
Come On In (we'll put the pot on)

jpg" data-in="o:0;" data-out="a:false;"> Low camera angle portrait lighting diagram with photographer seated on studio floor Lighting Diagrams Step-by-step lighting diagrams - see exactly how pros create jaw-dropping images View Diagrams Tools & Mockups Downloadable pro mockups to help you visualize (and sell) your images See Tools Workshops & Mentoring Priority and discounted access to our 5-star workshops Click Here A portrait of a 16-year-old boy standing in profile, facing left. He has curly hair and is wearing a dark school suit. Soft light from the right side highlights his face and hair, while the rest of the image fades into a dark, textured background. His pose is calm and introspective. Video Tutorials 100s of videos, honest, candid and practical Click Here Exclusive Facebook Community Supportive community and private members group View Memberships Constant Updates Fresh content every month, driven by YOUR questions and needs Click Here Paul recording an episode of the Mastering Portrait Photography Podcast The Podcast One of the top podcasts in the UK. Listen To The Podcast

The Benefits Go Beyond The Techniques

Membership benefits Instant access to 400+ exclusive tutorials, diagrams, and tools. Learn More Workshops & Mentoring In-person, practical learning - walk away with new skills and new friends. Tailored mentoring for ambitious photographers (by application). Learn More Pro Mockups & Tools Make your images stand out with our member-only downloadables. Learn More
Start your journey now >

More Than Just Tutorials—Here’s What Sets Us Apart Unlock Real Confidence
Anyone can follow a recipe. Here, you’ll learn to create, not just copy. We focus on understanding the why behind every technique—so you’ll feel confident lighting, posing, and problem-solving, no matter where or who you’re photographing.

Accelerate Your Progress
Say goodbye to years of trial and error. You’ll fast-track your skills with step-by-step diagrams, honest advice, and practical videos—all distilled from decades at the top of the industry.

A Community That Lifts You Up
You’re never on your own here. Whether you’re sharing wins, asking questions, or just needing a bit of encouragement, our members and I are here to help you move forward, not judge from the sidelines.

Keep Growing, Stay Inspired
Portrait photography is always evolving—and so are we. With fresh tutorials and tools added regularly, you’ll never run out of ideas or inspiration. Every month, you’ll get new ways to push your skills and keep things exciting.

Real-World Results
This isn’t theory—it’s what works, every day, with real clients and real shoots. You’ll gain practical skills that translate directly to better portraits, happier clients, and, if you want it, a thriving business.
Start Your Journey Now >

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From start to finish this was an extremely educational as well as fun boot camp. I loved every minute and learnt so much. Thank you Paul and the team!

Caroline Hurt
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Paul is such a passionate photographer, a true storyteller and master of his craft. He is the perfect person to be around to help other photographers use their cameras with more skill & creativity. Paul sees the ‘person’ in his subjects and really gets the best from them. It shows in all his work. His energy and skill just abounds which allows budding photographers to think outside the box when composing photographs.

Workshop Attendee
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The David Attenborough of portrait photography.

David
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The workshop offered an outstanding learning experience in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. There was a variety of models and activities, and the studio work and external flash tutoring were especially eye-opening. Even as someone who usually prefers natural light, I found the sessions so engaging and easy to follow that I’m now excited to develop my skills further in studio photography.

Julie
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The workshop was well paced, engaging throughout and a really positive learning experience with like minded individuals. The facilities are comfortable and this creates a great atmosphere for creativity. Paul, Sarah and team go above and beyond creating a learning environment you can’t help but to be inspired by.

Chris Andrews
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Where to start? The portrait bootcamp was an incredible dive into many aspects of portrait photography.
Paul shared his expertise with generosity and clarity, never holding back.
He tailored the training to suit each of us, making the experience truly personal.
I left feeling inspired, regained my confidence, and ready to take my portraits to the next level.

Liz
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Mastering Portrait Photography is a brand of Mastering Photography, 22 High St., Haddenham, Bucks HP17 8ER8

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