We’re well into the mature era of YouTube. These days, nearly everyone learns the basics of photography, lighting, and retouching online. And honestly, that’s a good thing. Free, accessible video instruction has helped more people than ever get started. There’s no shortage of information on aperture, shutter speed, softboxes, and of course skin retouching. It’s all out there, and for a lot of people, it works.
But the basics are only the beginning.
Some creatives take that foundation and run with it. They build momentum, draw inspiration from everywhere, and find their rhythm quickly. Others hit a wall. Not because they lack talent or passion, but because the next steps feel scattered or hard to reach.
That’s where I come in.
I don’t see myself as a replacement for YouTube, and I’m not trying to be the $4,000, ultra-exclusive, high-gloss masterclass either. I’m not going to tell you that you need a full crew, five figures of lighting gear, and a huge studio to create meaningful work. Those things are rad, but also fairly inaccessible to someone learning or even a couple of years in.
What I offer is real-world guidance from someone who’s been doing this for over 15 years. I’m in the studio with you. I teach lighting for fashion, editorial, and erotica portraiture in ways that are practical and adaptable. I explain the "how," but I focus even more on the "why."
As for retouching, I’ve spent years refining a workflow that I feel anyone can learn. It doesn’t matter if you’re just starting or already have years of experience. I’ll walk you through it so you can understand it, sure, but also make it your own so you can acheive your vision.
I don’t gatekeep. I don’t oversell. I don’t speak from a pedestal. My workshops are affordable, personal, and focused on helping you move forward in what you want to do.
I respect both ends of the learning spectrum. The free tutorials that help people start, and the elite classes that offer big inspiration. But I believe there’s something powerful in the space between.
That’s where I teach.
And if that sounds like the kind of learning environment you’ve been looking for, I’ve got a seat for you.
See my class schedule here: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nino-batista-photo-workshops-2025-2026-2453759