Familiar Magic
Familiar Magic is an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at how I make images: how I notice the light, run with wacky ideas, solve problems on the fly, and turn everyday corners into poetic, meaningful photographs. Filmed over several creative days in my beloved home and garden, you’ll see me mess up, reevaluate, and talk through my process (technically and philosophically) as I craft images I love.
I blocked out the world and immersed myself in my art and imagination. Isn’t that what we always dream of? I decided to do it! And now you can watch the creativity unfold in Familiar Magic.
If your home environment has lost its luster and you often feel like you can’t make art unless you’re somewhere “cooler,” this offering will be a delightful reminder that you can breathe new life into familiar spaces.
You'll come away with fresh ideas, playful new techniques, and a glorious sense of possibility you can bring to your own environment.
Let it be a companion for your own homebody retreat!
Watch the trailer...
“Laura, you are really a wonderful, inspiring, uplifting teacher. I have never come away from one of your classes not feeling really good about myself and my photography and more importantly, learning something that will ultimately help me improve my craft.”
Your experience includes:
23 video sessions + 2 audio chats filled with ideas to awaken your creative practice
A behind-the-scenes look at what I think about when I craft my photographs
A garden photography session where we’ll focus on intimate, poetic scenes (and creative exposure ideas)
Still life demos with thrifted items, personal treasures, and tidbits from the natural world
Self-portraiture demos where I share my go-to (and, ahem, slightly strange) methods
Photo sessions in a variety of lighting scenarios (sunlight, dappled light, dusk, night, firelight, light filtered through curtains, and a colorful flashlight!)
Rich conversations about what makes or breaks an image—and how I choose my favorite ones
A playful “light collecting” session where I collect light patterns to use as overlays on other images
Photobook and scrapbook tours
Intimate conversations about dips in creative confidence and making “bad” images
A post-processing demo, where I take one photo from RAW file to finished image
Discussion of my “organic” composition methods to help you see more deeply (without formulas or “rules”)
A diptych play session where we experiment with different image combos (so fun!)
Creative demos with my favorite mobile apps (fantastic for on-the-go editing)
A printing session where I share a few of my favorite fine-art papers and make a big print!
The scoop on all my tools (gear, materials, and tidbits I love)
This is for you if...
You’re feeling disconnected from your photography, a little uninspired by your surroundings, and you’re craving a generous dose of inspiration… without pressure to perform. Familiar Magic will give you soulful (and practical) ideas to re-enchant your home environment and see the possibility in your space.
If your creative practice needs a gentle reboot and you’d love to make more images right where you are…
Join me for Familiar Magic.
Hi, I’m Laura!
I’m Laura Valenti, the artist behind Light Atlas Creative. I’ve had my fingers in a lot of pots in the art world, for over 20 years now. I teach interactive e-courses, support emerging photographers in my creative mentoring program, speak to photo groups, and curate exhibitions for galleries and photo festivals around the world. I also jury photo competitions and serve as a reviewer at national and international portfolio review events, where I help photographers fine-tune their vision and promote their work with more confidence. I’m passionate about helping artists clear creative blocks and bring forward their most skillful, authentic, wholehearted work. It would be a joy to work with you!
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Familiar Magic start?
You’ll get immediate access as soon as you sign up! You’ll be able to watch the videos on your own time, at your own pace. You’ll have lifetime access, so you can revisit it whenever you like.
Is this for beginning or advanced photographers?
This course is great for both beginning and advanced photographers. If you’d love fresh new ideas to liven up your photography, Familiar Magic will be a lovely fit.
What do I need to access this course?
You’ll need a reliable internet connection and a computer or mobile device. If you can watch movies on your device, you’ll be in great shape!
What's your refund policy?
Because you'll get immediate access to all the videos and resources (and because you’ll get lifetime access), your registration isn't refundable. Read the student testimonials to get a sense of what the course experience is like, and feel free to reach out if you have questions!
“I can’t even put into words how amazing your course material is, and even better is how you teach and pour into your students.”
“Laura, your classes are among the best I’ve ever participated in – really packed with both hard-core information from someone who knows what she’s talking about, plus targeted and realistic encouragement and inspiration. Your presence and tone are consistent and your responsiveness to students is fabulous. I’ve taken a lot of online courses and your professionalism is matchless.”
“I love you and I love your courses! They have brought me back to life!”
“Laura Valenti was the impetus for me to restart my photography. More importantly, she is the compassionate encouragement to keep me going.”
“Laura, you have truly been an inspiration. I was stymied about my future directions in photography and you have armed me with an entire arsenal of ideas and exciting new pathways.”
“Your courses are a therapeutic relief.”
“I love your classes so much. You have an amazing positive energy that can transcend cyberspace. Thank you for being a gifted teacher and creating a safe environment to thrive.”