March 28-29, 2026 • Palmer Events Center • Austin, TX
A two-day workshop led by industry-leading photography experts
“This year’s lineup of instructors at PCU is outstanding!
It’s local and the price makes it a no-brainer! I’m signed up and excited to attend!”
- Tim Babiak, PPA Master Photographer
Kevin Jairaj of Canon
Bio: Canon Explorer of Light Kevin Jairaj has not only become one of the most sought-after photographers in the USA, but also worldwide. He has covered numerous Olympic Games , Super Bowls, World Series, NBA Finals, and NCAA Final Fours. Kevin is also the official photographer for the College Football Playoff National Championship and one of the few people in the world to hold a Master’s. Degree from PPA and a Triple Master’s degree from WPPI.
Website: kjimages.com | Instagram: @kevinjairaj
Workshop Topic: Photographing Athletes with Flair
Kevin will lead a workshop on lighting, posing, and secrets for creating his dramatic athlete and celebrity portraits. The techniques learned can carry over to all genres of photography and help take your work to the next level.
Niah Aldrich of Sony
Bio: Niah Aldrich is a Sony portrait photographer and Westcott Lighting ambassador based in Kansas City, MO. She is known for her bold use of color, creative lighting, and fashion-inspired portraiture. Her work blends strong visual storytelling with vibrant styling and approachable direction. She travels the country teaching workshops that break down lighting in a fun, real-world way, whether you’re just getting started or looking to level up your creative shoots. Expect energy, color, and hands-on learning with Sony's top photography gear and Westcott lighting.
Website: niahrosephoto.com | Instagram: @niahrosephoto
Workshop Topic: Styled in Color: Bold Portraits Through Patterns and Perspective
Niah will lead a workshop on moving beyond neutrals and working with color in a bold, intentional way. Learn how to use striking color palettes, graphic patterns, and creative perspective to build portraits that feel dynamic and visually compelling.
Caroline Tran of Fujifilm
Bio: Caroline Tran, named Creator of the Year by Rangefinder Magazine, is a globally recognized photographer celebrated for her inspiring and creative work. A master of adaptation, she has consistently led the industry by strategically navigating changes and disruptions. Through her expertise in marketing and workflow, Caroline remains at the forefront, offering online coaching to empower photographers to work smarter. Her philosophy? Work hard, play harder – striking the perfect balance for a thriving career and fulfilling life. .
Website: carolinetran.net | Instagram: @carolinetran
Workshop Topic: The Three Keys to Powerful Portraits
Caroline will lead a workshop on creating dynamic and flattering portraits with confidence and intention. In this immersive course, Caroline demonstrates her go to lighting setups, posing techniques, and camera angles while shooting in real time so students can see exactly how each decision impacts the final image.
Hernan Rodriguez of Tamron
Bio: Hernan Rodriguez is a Santa Monica–based commercial and celebrity portrait photographer, educator, and author. A Tamron Image Master, Westcott Top 10 Elite Pro, and Datacolor Friends with Vision, he has photographed iconic figures across music, sports, and entertainment, including Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, Jonas Brothers, and Eddie Griffin. His work spans major ad campaigns and brands such as Guess, AT&T, NFL, and Showtime, with features in leading industry publications and platforms.
Website: hernanphotography.com | Instagram: @hphotohouse
Workshop Topic: Capturing Mood with Light & Color
Hernan will lead a workshop on creating compelling, emotionally resonant portraits through intentional use of light and color. In this hands-on workshop, Hernan will demonstrate how to shape your subject’s mood and character using the shape, quantity, quality, and color of light.
What is included in my registration?
- Two full days of education with all four top professionals
- Access to FREE loaner equipment to use during the workshops from the industry’s top dealers, such as NIKON, Canon, SONY, and Fujifilm
- Model Releases (for promotional use only)
- Networking opportunities with fellow photographers
- Access to the industry's leading vendors
Parking Information:
- 900 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
- $10 parking per day, unless posted
- 4-story, 1,200-space garage next to the facility
- Entrances on Barton Springs Rd. and Riverside Dr.
- Clearance Height: 7’2”
Meals:
Lunch will be on your own. So, indulge in all Austin has to offer, especially the food. There are numerous options available within walking distance. There will also be a food truck available for an event in the lower level. Everyone is advised to bring water bottles and snacks for demonstrations held outside in adjacent areas of Town Lake and the Long Center.