Jonathan Thorpe
Jonathan Thorpe is a Washington, DC-based commercial photographer, director, and visual storyteller whose work blends technical precision with creative storytelling. The son of a painter and a mechanic, Jonathan developed an appreciation for both artistry and craftsmanship at an early age. His unique background has shaped the way he approaches photography, balancing an eye for detail with a passion for creating compelling visual narratives. Over the course of his career, Jonathan has worked with multiple Fortune 500 companies, producing commercial campaigns, editorial features, and creative content for a diverse range of clients. His portfolio also includes portrait sessions with celebrities, corporate leaders, and influential personalities, demonstrating his ability to create authentic, engaging imagery across a variety of genres. Whether directing a large-scale commercial production or crafting an intimate portrait, Jonathan is known for his collaborative approach, attention to detail, and commitment to producing exceptional results.
Jonathan continues to work with brands, agencies, publications, and creative teams to develop impactful visual content. His work reflects a passion for storytelling, a mastery of light and composition, and the belief that great photography is built on both technical excellence and genuine human connection.
Light Any Location for Cinematic Portraits | Jonathan Thorpe
Turn any location into a studio. In this hands-on walk, Jonathan Thorpe will show you how to light images that don't just capture a moment, but tell a
…Turn any location into a studio. In this hands-on walk, Jonathan Thorpe will show you how to light images that don't just capture a moment, but tell a story, using up to four strobes to sculpt light, shape mood, and craft striking portraits from scra
…Turn any location into a studio. In this hands-on walk, Jonathan Thorpe will show you how to light images that don't just capture a moment, but tell a story, using up to four strobes to sculpt light, shape mood, and craft striking portraits from scratch. You'll see firsthand how deliberate lighting choices transform an ordinary space into a narrative-driven set, and walk away with practical techniques for building your own visual storytelling any
…Turn any location into a studio. In this hands-on walk, Jonathan Thorpe will show you how to light images that don't just capture a moment, but tell a story, using up to four strobes to sculpt light, shape mood, and craft striking portraits from scratch. You'll see firsthand how deliberate lighting choices transform an ordinary space into a narrative-driven set, and walk away with practical techniques for building your own visual storytelling anywhere, with nothing but a strobe kit and your imagination.
(This class requires pre-registration. Please purchase it with your WPPI pass or add it to your existing registration.)
Sponsored by 
Light Like a Cinematographer: Building a Narrative With Light
Lighting plays a huge role in crafting a beautiful narrative photograph. Jonathan Thorpe approaches much of his work as a cinematographer would. In th
…Lighting plays a huge role in crafting a beautiful narrative photograph. Jonathan Thorpe approaches much of his work as a cinematographer would. In this session, he'll share how he starts with a story before creating an image. Key points include ligh
…Lighting plays a huge role in crafting a beautiful narrative photograph. Jonathan Thorpe approaches much of his work as a cinematographer would. In this session, he'll share how he starts with a story before creating an image. Key points include lighting for the subject separately from lighting the location, the role of lens choice in narrative work, and finally, how to bring it all together with minimal editing required.
Sponsored by
Lighting plays a huge role in crafting a beautiful narrative photograph. Jonathan Thorpe approaches much of his work as a cinematographer would. In this session, he'll share how he starts with a story before creating an image. Key points include lighting for the subject separately from lighting the location, the role of lens choice in narrative work, and finally, how to bring it all together with minimal editing required.
Sponsored by