In this hands-on portrait photography tutorial led by artist and photographer Naima Green, learn how to use simple techniques to create striking portraits, no studio required. Green demonstrates how to work with different camera types (medium format, 35mm, Polaroid, digital), collaborate with your subject, use simple props, and bring emotion and storytelling into every frame. Whether you’re a beginner or building your portfolio, you’ll discover practical tips on:
0:00 – 1:04 Introduction
1:05 – 1:57 Friends as collaborators
1:58 – 4:01 Mastering natural portrait lighting
4:02 – 6:09 Choosing the right camera (medium format, 35mm, Polaroid, digital)
6:16 – 7:32 Set dressing
7:35 – 11:52 Lighting techniques
12:03 – 13:19 Creating strong compositions
13:32 – 14:44 Storytelling through images
Filmed at Highlight Studios at Penumbra Foundation
Subscribe to get the latest videos:
Explore our collection online:
Plan your visit in person:
Commit to art and ideas. Support MoMA by becoming a member today:
The comments and opinions expressed in this video are those of the speaker alone, and do not represent the views of The Museum of Modern Art, its personnel, or any artist.
#portraitphotography #photographytutorial #mediumformat #setdesign #cameratips #art #museumofmodernart #moma #museum #modernart
Comments
27 responses to “Portrait Photography Tutorial with Naima Green | IN THE STUDIO”
Your photographic skills are truly impressive — technically flawless with a wonderful eye for composition and detail. Your photos are clear, professional, and visually captivating. It’s evident that you have a strong talent and a great sense for capturing the perfect moment.
Looking forward to seeing more of your amazing work!
4:51 Correction medium format film is called 120 but isn't 120mm, unlike 35 which is named after its size
Loved this! Thank you🤝🏾
i freaking love this video. thank you for sharing, naima <3
Podrían activar las pistas de audio? Gracias
loved this video
Wahoo! Thanks a lot for having shared with us your creative process! 😊
Love her vibe, great photographer.
4:51 it’s 120 not 120mm, sorry yes, I have to be like that 😂
Bless y'all for this shes a REAL artist
Loved this!
Much gratitude to Naima and MOMA for the game and insight shared here ✊🏾👁️
Some great tips and reminders! I love how calm she is, that is so not me when I photograph. I get so excited. 🥀
when someone know the topic can make look easy to everyone, great video, inspired and feel like a breath in art.
This was so amazing!! Thank you for this.
I love this so much! It inspired me to want to revisit my passion for photography and portrait photography
I love her emphasis on accessibility and getting creative with what you have.
Love this! Amazing editing
Had no idea MoMA was highlighting photographers in this way. Good to know and great to watch…🙏🏾
Thanks Naima. Love the composition on the table and the color. Great advise on lighting the scene. 👍
Love the use of film!
Cool. Do to see 👀 it
Nice frames and nice story at 14:00. Does that mean the Rolleiflex is her dad's?
So enjoyed this! Thank you!
wonderfully informative! great to see artists at work
Yes! I've been following Naimas work for maybe 3 years. Lovely too see this pop up in my feed.
Will always be grateful for you voice and imagery, Naima! This is such a gift to witness.
Naima is a delight. Thank you 💜🌷