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Since 1941

2026 PhotoMax PRECON: From Concept to Capture: A Cinematic Portrait Experience

  • 06 Mar 2026
  • 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Somerset Inn, 2601 West Big Beaver Road, ​Troy, MI 48084
  • 27

Registration

  • Members of PPA, MAPP, DPPA or PPofOhio- Proof of membership required
  • PPM Members only. All Levels. INCLUDES PPA MERITS.

Register


REGISTER TODAY! SEATS ARE LIMITED!



LODGING is available at the Somerset Inn. To reserve your room, visit the Somerset Inn website by clicking this link:    BOOK HOTEL HERE Or, call the hotel directly at 248.643.7800 for booking assistance. Be sure to mention PPofMI / Professional Photographers of Michigan and provide the group attendee code 1316 to receive the discounted rate

 

From Concept to Capture: A Cinematic Portrait Experience

with Kelly & Kalina Schneider

PRECON WORKSHOP - March 6th, 10AM to 5PM*

Step beyond snapshots and into the world of cinematic storytelling. In this all-day immersive workshop, you’ll learn how to turn a simple portrait into a work of art that evokes, captivates, and moves. Together, we'll guide you through every stage—from visual concept and scene design to lighting, directing, and live post-processing. You'll photograph professional models styled with custom props, wardrobe, and curated lighting setups. Build a storytelling image from scratch, with full creative control. Expect maximum shooting time, one-on-one mentoring, and pro-level insights you can’t find online.

Learn how to evoke real emotion, use lighting for mood, and pose your subject for powerful, unforgettable imagery.

Whether you’re a portrait, boudoir, fashion, or editorial photographer—this class will fuel your

vision and elevate your results.

Bring your camera and creativity and leave with portfolio-ready images and renewed artistic fire!

This isn’t just another workshop. It’s a launchpad.

* Bonus Opportunity at 7PM! Shootout time! Let’s put what we’ve learned into practice. We’ll set up multiple bays around the hotel, break into smaller groups, and photograph models using techniques taught by Kelly & Kalina Schneider. (This is an optional bonus round)

 


Schedule

Friday, March 6th. - Register for PreCon

9:00 AM - Registration Open

10:00 AM - 5:00 PMFrom Concept to Capture: A Cinematic Portrait Experience with Kelly & Kalina Schneider

5:00 - 7:00 PM - Enjoy DINNER at Your Leisure!

7:00 - 9:00 PMShootout time! Let’s put what we’ve learned into practice. We’ll set up multiple bays around the hotel, break into smaller groups, and photograph models using techniques taught by Kelly & Kalina Schneider

. (This is an optional bonus round)

*Schedule subject to change.


Ready for a full weekend of amazing speakers? 

Register here for Photomax



WORKSHOP SUMMARY

 

Speaker Bio

Kelly Schneider is a nationally acclaimed portrait artist, educator, and mentor who began his photography journey in 2012 alongside his wife, Kalina. Together, they founded a successful photography business specializing in weddings, portraiture, and boudoir, which evolved into a mission to educate aspiring photographers globally.

With advanced degrees and leadership certifications—including a Master’s in Human Systems Integration and executive training from UC Berkeley and Duke—Kelly combines technical expertise with artistic talent. His extensive background includes 25+ years in high-level training, notably as Director of Training for a major U.S. Navy program.

Kelly and Kalina have mentored over 500 students through immersive workshops in the U.S. and Europe, with appearances at top photography schools and international photography tours. He holds prestigious titles such as PPA Master of Photography, Master Craftsman, and is a Certified Professional Photographer. His work has won numerous awards, including:

  • Multiple Photographer of the Year honors (Maryland, Florida)

  • Fujifilm Masterpiece Awards

  • WPE Top 100 Photographers internationally

  • Finalist images at PPA’s International Photographic Competition (2024)

  • Top 10 award at the Icon Awards (2024)

Kelly is also a published author and photography judge, known for his thought leadership in lighting and photography education. He was recently honored with MPI’s Mentorship Award for his contributions to the photography community.



   

Special Thanks to our 2025 Sponsors:

 




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