NEWSLETTER REGISTRATION

Join Us for an Exclusive Photography Workshop!

Step into a day designed for photographers who are passionate about creating high-quality images—not just snapping countless shots. Limited to just four like-minded individuals, ensuring a focused, collaborative environment where creativity thrives and every detail matters.

If you value thoughtful styling, precise lighting, and carefully composed shots over a high-speed, quantity-driven approach, then this experience is for you. We take the time to set up each scene properly so that you can capture truly stunning images at the source.

Expect a friendly, respectful and non-confrontational atmosphere where all aspects of the day are expertly managed. You’ll be free to focus on your craft, supported by open communication and a serious approach to progress. This is a space for sharing ideas, exploring new techniques, and elevating each other’s work.

About the Studio Days

Why Choose My Studio?

My goal is simple: to help you capture your best images ever.

Each studio day features 3 (2026 onwards) photographers and a professional model, running from 10am–4pm with a one-hour lunch break. This setup allows for more shooting time, one-to-one guidance if requested, and a relaxed, social environment where you can chat about cameras, lighting, and workflow with fellow photographers.

We use Pixapro Storm III lighting, capable of freezing motion, high-speed bursts, and stroboscopic effects – top-tier equipment for top-tier results. All studio days include timed one-to-ones with the model to ensure everyone gets equal opportunity and focus.

Whether you’re looking to expand your portfolio, develop your technique, or just enjoy the art of photography, our days are designed to be both productive and inspiring.

The Studio Approach

Passion Meets Experience

With 40 + years as a professional photographer, I now run low-cost, small-group workshops twice a month (1 per month in 2026) – purely for the joy of it. This allows me to share decades of insight while helping others grow, no matter their starting point.

I believe great images are built on more than just technique. Composition, lighting, and posing matter – but it’s emotional content that makes a photo truly sing. That’s what I aim to teach.

You’ll see hands-on demonstrations to make the most of your time and gear. I can show you in 3 minutes what might take 10 to explain, so you can focus on shooting.

Learning Your Style

Your style is your photographic identity – personal, unique, and evolving.

We support all photographers in discovering or refining their creative voice. While traditional rules like the rule of thirds and negative space have their place, true growth happens when you learn when to break them. Our sessions help you explore this confidently.

Whether you’re building a portfolio, testing commercial ideas, or just experimenting with your creativity, we’ll guide you in adding tools to your photographic toolbox – practically, insightfully, and respectfully.

Building an Image

Creating a great image is like assembling a puzzle – lighting, posing, mood, and connection must align. We’re here to help you fit those pieces together.

This is a supportive, non-competitive environment. Ask any questions – there are no wrong ones. Learn as much or as little as you like, and enjoy the process.

What Makes Us Different

  • We don’t use massive studios or artificial sets. Our space is built around fashion-focused, model-centric work. No boudoir-style sets, just clean, professional setups.

  • We don’t overuse props – the model is the focus. Accessories should enhance, not distract.

  • We value photographic craft over post-processing. Our models are chosen not just for looks but for their ability to convey emotion and energy in-camera, reducing reliance on editing.

Slot Bookings vs Studio Days

We don’t offer slot bookings, where you press the shutter while someone else sets everything up. Instead, we offer full-day studio experiences or assisted one-to-one and two-to-one sessions. Here, you’re involved, supported, and encouraged to grow as a photographer.

Want to learn how to light, compose, and direct your own shoots? This is for you.

Private One-to-One & Two-to-One Sessions

Want more focused help? Our private workshops offer the best value and fastest progress. Two-to-one workshops are just £31.25/hr for 4 hours with a top-tier model. Work at your own pace, get tailored feedback, and take your photography to the next level.

Who Is This For?

Photographers of all skill levels are welcome.

  • Beginners – We’ll guide you with patience and clarity.

  • Experienced shooters – We’ll support you in refining your vision.

  • Professionals – We’ll provide models, setups, and a creative space that lets you focus on excellence.

A Word from a Model

“I’m sure I’ve said it before but I’ll say it again, the special thing about Mick on his workshops is the engagement and communication with the model. Mick’s direction and communication is so effective and I always learn something each time I go. I keep hearing his voice on shoots still—haha! Always an absolute pleasure working with Mick, highly recommend to all!”
— Pippa Doll (Model)

Important Notes

  • We don’t shoot glamour – it’s just not my preferred genre

  • We expect high standards of professionalism and respect from all attendees.

  • I take demo images to illustrate points and initiate our model during the day, bear in mind I can’t control when mua’s or models post images.

  • Models may not use workshop images to promote brands/sponsors unless we’ve arranged it. They are paid for their products and should not use your or my work for free external promotions.

 

A Note to Models
We’ve noticed some models giving images from our workshops to promoters, sponsors or brands. Please understand this is not allowed under our terms and conditions. You’re being paid for your time, and promotional use of images for third-party brands requires prior permission. If a brand wants to benefit from our images, they need to pay, just like everyone else.

Also important: We do not allow anything distasteful. We’re committed to maintaining high standards of behavior and respect at all times.

Private One2One & Two2One Assisted Workshops

The fastest way to learn. The best value for money.
A Two2One session is just £31.25 per hour for 4 hours with a top model!

These workshops move at your pace. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned shooter, you’ll get personalized guidance to improve your work. If you’re curious about how I run things, read on and make sure my style suits you.

Stay in the Loop

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About Me

I’ve been a full-time pro photographer for over 40 + years, working with most major UK model agencies. My career has focused on model photography—portfolio building, commercial shoots, and everything in between. I understand the challenges of creating a standout portfolio—after all, it’s how I made my living.

Many new visitors to Mick Payton Studios don’t know my background. Take a moment to explore my image galleries and see what we offer—you might be surprised by what’s possible here.

I’m lucky to be Neuro-Divergent, I’m just on the Autistic Scale and a little bit of Asbergers thrown in. This has advantages in my photography by allowing me to pay intense attention to detail whilst absorbing the total image in front of me, giving me total concentration. The downside is I can be a bit blunt and to the point, also a bit socially awkward and sensitive about being the subject of personal ‘banter’ or humiliation. I’m quite safe though : )

biography here

Our Mission

Mick Payton Studios is built around one idea: providing photographers – male and female, amateur to pro – with the opportunity to enjoy shooting without the hassle of organizing everything yourself.

Whether you’re building a portfolio, testing a commercial concept, or just exploring your creativity, we’ve got you covered.

Message

I work hard to ensure you have a great experience at every event. While I’m not claiming to be a god behind the camera, after 40+ years as a professional photographer, I’ve picked up more than a few tips and tricks. I have a unique way of running these workshops and will tailor my approach to suit your needs—my goal is to help you capture your best images ever.

During the day I’ll take a few shots – not to compete, but to demonstrate techniques like lighting setups or how to work effectively with a model. These quick demonstrations help illustrate key points in a practical way. In fact, I can often show something in 3 minutes that would take 10 to explain verbally. That means more time for you to shoot, and more hands-on learning for you.

If my working methods don’t sound like a fit for you, that’s okay—you’re under no obligation to attend. I believe in being as transparent and upfront as possible.

What is Fine Art Photography?

According to Wikipedia, fine art photography is created according to the artist’s vision. It differs from documentary photography, which presents objective reality, or commercial photography, which aims to sell.

The classic definition of fine art:
“A visual art created primarily for aesthetic and intellectual purposes, judged for its beauty and meaningfulness – such as painting, sculpture, drawing, and photography.”

Final Thoughts

Photography means different things to different people. For some, it’s a hobby. For others, a profession, a creative outlet, or a source of escape. However you see it, my workshops are here to support your journey.

Come along, learn something new, have fun, and get the best images you’ve ever taken.

“Don’t shoot what it looks like. Shoot what it feels like.” – David Alan Harvey
“The camera is a sketchbook, an instrument of intuition and spontaneity.” – Henri Cartier-Bresson