Portraits Through Perspective with Seiya Taguchi

Join Seiya Taguchi and refine your portrait photography through intentional focal-length decisions to shape perspective, presence, and mood

Portraits Through Perspective with Seiya Taguchi

Lens choice does more than change framing - it shapes presence, mood, and how a subject exists within the frame.

Join professional photographer, Seiya Taguchi, in this in-depth portrait photography workshop which explores how different focal lengths influence the structure, feel and intention of a portrait. Drawing from his portrait, editorial and key art work, Seiya will break down how images are built from concept to execution, and why certain lenses are chosen for specific outcomes.

You’ll examine the strengths of 35mm, 50mm, 85mm and 135mm primes, with a focus on perspective, working distance, subject comfort and rendering. Through real commercial and key art case studies, you’ll learn how lens decisions affect background relationships, scale and emotional impact.

The session concludes with a guided portrait shoot, allowing you to apply these concepts in real time and better understand how intentional focal-length choices lead to stronger, more consistent portraits.

Please Note:

A selection of Nikon Z series cameras and NIKKOR Z lenses will be available for trial during the session, along with a Nikon representative to answer your questions.

About Seiya:

Seiya is a freelance Japanese-Australian photographer based between Tokyo and Sydney. With over 15 years of experience in photography, he has shot for clients which include: Amazon Prime, Spotify, Nikon, Virgin Active, Audible, Netflix, and more.

While he primarily focuses on Commercial Photography, the common thread within all his work is the humanity of the moment. Being born in Tokyo and growing up in Sydney, his unique perspective places human experience at the fore– Seiya captures those moments authentically through the use of light and composition, his eye for detail, and his zest for life; distilling them into an all-encompassing image.

You can view some of Seiya’s work here.

Images by Seiya Taguchi

Recommended Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced

Topics Covered:

• Lens Foundations – Learn how focal length shapes portrait style, perspective, subject comfort, and visual intention.
• Real Work Examples (Commercial + Key Art) – See how lens choices influence the balance of subject and environment in real assignments.
• Focal Length Breakdown – Understand the strengths, working distances, and framing options of 35mm, 50mm, 85mm, and 135mm lenses.
• Working With People – Discover techniques to build trust, guide natural expressions, and match lens choice to subject personality.
• Backgrounds & Environment – Learn to select and manage backgrounds intentionally to support the subject and mood.
• Creating the Final Image – Apply lens, framing, and environmental choices in a practical portrait session to produce cohesive results.

What to bring:

• Mirrorless or DSLR camera
• Lenses for your camera
• Fully charged battery and spare
• Memory cards
• Tripod (optional)
• Studio appropriate clothing – Please avoid loose clothing, tie up or tuck in long hair, and wear enclosed footwear
• Water & Snacks

Gear Provided:

A variety of Nikon cameras and NIKKOR Z lenses will be available for use during the class. Bring your own SD card if you'd like to keep your photos and footage!

For more course information or inquiries email:

school@mynikonlife.com.au (Mon-Fri 9-4 PM AEST)