online classes
LEARN FOOD PHOTOGRAPHY FROM ANYWHERE
Grow your skills, find your style, and create images that tell a story
look what's coming soon....
elevate your food photography
This online course is a deep-dive into the core elements of great food photography: lighting, composition, prop and food styling, and visual storytelling. It’s based on my most popular in-person workshop, but designed for you to take at your own pace, from your own space.
We’ll cover:
•How to choose and shape natural light
•The best angles for your subject
•Creating interest with props and layers
•Telling a story through your images
•And more...without overwhelming you with technical jargon
This class isn’t just about theory. You’ll be doing—shooting your own assignments as you go, with guidance from me through video demos, examples, and walk-throughs.
Whether you’re brand new or have been shooting for a while, this class will meet you where you’re at and help you elevate your work.
COMING THIS SUMMER 2025
artificial light for food photography
If the thought of using artificial light makes your eyes glaze over—this class is for you.
This course is designed specifically for food photographers who are comfortable with natural light but feel overwhelmed at the idea of strobes or continuous lights. You don’t need to learn every piece of gear or every theory about light behavior. You just need someone to show you how to use it to get the look you want. That’s exactly what this class does.
You’ll learn:
•How to mimic natural light with strobes
•How to create soft, diffused setups for clean, bright images
•How to craft moody, dramatic light
•How to experiment without fear or frustration
•My go-to lighting setups (step-by-step with visual demos)
This is a no-fluff, real-world guide that shows you how I actually shoot with artificial light in my professional food photography workflow. You’ll see behind-the-scenes setups, final image comparisons, and practical tips you can apply immediately.
If you're ready to ditch the guesswork and feel confident shooting any time of day, this class is for you.
COMING FALL 2025
why learn with clare?
In addition to being the co-owner of Poppy Bee (and shooting every single image you see on this site) I’ve worked as a professional photographer for over 25 years, with the last 15 being focused on food-- shooting for cookbooks, restaurants, and brands across the country.
My teaching style is practical, real-world, and BS-free. If you're a visual learner who wants hands-on guidance that actually applies to your work—you’re in the right place.
FAQ
Are these classes beginner-friendly?
Yes! Whether you're just starting out or you’ve been shooting for a while but want to refine your skills, these classes are designed to meet you where you're at. I break everything down step by step, and the goal is progress—not perfection.
How long do I have access to the courses?
Once you're enrolled in a class, you'll have access as as the class exists—so you can learn at your own pace and revisit lessons any time.
For the Photo Collective, you'll have access as long as you are a member.
What's the difference between the membership and the other classes?
The Photo Collective Membership is an ongoing monthly program with tutorials, live critiques, and a community of photographers to learn alongside.
The soon-to-be-launched Elevate Your Food Photography and Artificial Light for Food Photography classes are one-time, self-paced courses focused on specific skills. They're perfect if you want to go deep on a single topic.
Do I get feedback on my work?
If you're part of the Collective, yes—you’ll have opportunities for group critiques and feedback. And luckily, the self-paced courses include a 3 month membership inside of The Collective as part of the class! So you'll have the opportunity to ask questions in the Online Community as well as attend one of the twice-monthly Zoom meeting with me and other students.
When do the upcoming classes launch?
The Elevate Your Food Photography Class is launching later this Summer 2025 and Artificial Light for Food Photography is launching Fall 2025.
Do you offer 1:1 instruction?
Yes—I take on a limited number of private workshops per quarter. If you're interested in a custom experience in person, check out The Signature Session.
Can I gift one of these classes?
Absolutely! If you’d like to gift a class or membership to a fellow photographer, just send me a note and I’ll help you set it up.