A
Transformational
Experience
The Magic of Light transformed my photography. Seriously.
As a family photographer for five years, I was looking for inspiration when I enrolled in Summer Murdock’s course through Illuminate Classes. I hoped to pick up a few gems here and there, but instead, this unique photography lighting course took me to another level.
Keep reading to learn what makes the class so unique, who will get the most from it, and why I would gladly pay 3x the price!
From this… 
…to THIS!
What Makes The Magic of Light Exceptional?
1. Summer’s Presence & Feedback
I had no idea how interactive this course would be. Summer is deeply involved—giving personalized, in-depth feedback videos, answering questions, and fostering a supportive learning space. Her welcoming personality is a big part of the magic (pun intended).
2. Mastering ‘Grey Area’ Light
The course dives deep into natural rim light, sun flare, haze, creative shadows—things we often treat as “happy accidents.” Summer teaches you to see, seek, and control them intentionally.
3. Nurture that Feeling of Awe
This isn’t just a class about using light—it’s about noticing it everywhere. The way light moves, shifts, and plays across different environments. Summer fosters a sense of awe, and it changes how you see the world.
Who is Summer Murdock?
Summer Murdock is an award-winning lifestyle and documentary family photographer known for her emotive, light-filled images. Over the past five years, she has expanded into commercial photography, pushing her skillset while keeping a strong emphasis on creative light.
She has taught at The Family Narrative, Adobe Max, and as a Lightroom Ambassador—making her one of the most influential voices in family photography education today.
What to Expect
- A month-long commitment with weekly assignments.
- Exercises that train your eye to find and use interesting light.
- Summer’s metering and exposure techniques for various lighting conditions.
- Deep dives into lens flare, haze, and other unique lighting effects.
- Extensive personal feedback for active students.
- A supportive community to share work and learn from others.
What Blew Me Away
At the heart of The Magic of Light is Summer Murdock herself. Despite being an industry leader, she approaches teaching with humility, warmth, and an ability to meet each student where they are.
Our class had photographers at every skill level—from seasoned pros to hobbyists just learning to meter. Some had the latest mirrorless cameras, others used older DSLRs. Some focused on family photography, others on wildlife.
None of that mattered.
Summer made everyone feel included, adapting the content to meet each photographer’s unique needs.
Who Should Take The Magic of Light?
This is not an introductory course. It’s best for photographers who:
- Understand manual mode and the exposure triangle
- Use a digital camera (manual controls are a must)
- Have a few lenses to experiment with (nothing fancy required)
- Primarily shoot portraits (but the principles apply to many genres)
The course is especially valuable for photographers looking to improve how they use natural light in family, documentary, and lifestyle photography.
How to Get the Most Out of It
1. Plan to Work Hard – This isn’t a passive course. Budget two hours per day for the duration, and experiment with the techniques.
2. Engage with Your Peers – Comment on others’ work, watch feedback videos, and absorb as much as possible from the shared learning experience.
3. Think About Sunshine – 80 to 90% of the course covers shooting in direct and golden-hour light. If you live in a cloudy region, try to time the class for your sunniest season.
Here are images I took as part of class assignments…not necessarily portfolio-worthy but meant to give you an insight into how I spent my time.
How to Get Into The Magic of Light
This class sells out in minutes—sometimes seconds. If you want in, here’s what to do:
- Sign up for the waitlist. Each session, 10 people get early access. That’s how I got in!
- Join the Illuminate Classes newsletter for updates.
- Check the course registration page for upcoming dates.
- Mark your calendar and set notifications for registration day. Be at your computer the moment it opens.
So…Is The Magic of Light Worth It The Price?
If you’re looking for a class that will forever change the way you see and use light, this is it.
Summer Murdock teaches beyond the technical—helping you harness light with intention, creativity, and confidence. The course is immersive, challenging, and deeply rewarding.
Would I take The Magic of Light again? In a heartbeat. And I’d happily pay a lot more than what she charges for it 😉
Check the course registration page for upcoming dates.
More from Illuminate Photography Classes
Illuminate Classes offer far more than just The Magic of Light. Their instructors are some of the best in the industry, covering topics from creative freelensing to business strategy.
One class I’m personally excited about? Editing for Artists by Roxanne Bryant, which explores color theory and storytelling through editing.
Here’s a screenshot showing the variety in their current offerings. Click it to go to the class list!
Hi, I’m David.
In a few short years, I built a family photography business that I love, one that feels like an extension of myself and an outlet for my creativity.
I have some hard-earned, deeply considered wisdom that I would love to share with you.