Photo : Irving Penn, Ballet Society, New York, 1948 (Corrado Cagli, Vittorio Rieti, Tanaquil Le Clercq and George Balanchine) Collection MEP, Paris. Acquis en 1991. © Condé Nast
Family Practice Workshop — The Corner of Portraits with Claire Pathé
Forget the quick snapshots and step into a professional studio setup designed for perfect creative play. Guided by an expert photographer, you and your family will explore the subtle art of the portrait by stepping into a unique corner stage. Leave with a printed souvenir of this intimate and playful artistic exploration.
Maison Européenne de la Photographie (Paris 4th)
About
The Maison Européenne de la Photographie hosts a family portrait workshop on Saturday, November 28, 2026. Guided by photographer Claire Pathé, children aged 6 and up and their parents explore Irving Penn’s famous 'Corner Studio' technique. During this 3-hour session, running from 14:30 to 17:30, participants take turns behind and in front of the camera to create their own compositions. Each guest receives a print of their portrait to take home. Booking is mandatory for this exclusive group of 10, offering a unique opportunity to learn professional portraiture skills in a creative and collaborative environment.
In echo to the exhibition PENN & FASHION, this workshop invites parents and children to experiment with Irving Penn’s “Corner Studio,” accompanied by photographer Claire Pathé.
In 1948, Irving Penn began creating portraits in a space formed by two walls arranged at an angle. This unique setup, which limits movement and reduces distractions, creates a special relationship between the model, the space, and the photographer’s gaze.
Now it’s your turn to enter this space and explore the possibilities of portraiture! During this workshop, everyone will be able to experience both sides of the camera: being a model and a photographer. How do you take your place in the corner? What posture should you adopt? How do you look at the other person and compose an image?
As a family, you will play with poses, gazes, and everyday clothing to create your own portraits, inspired by Irving Penn’s experience. The family practice workshop is an invitation to observe, experiment, and share the joy of creating images, accompanied by artist Claire Pathé.
At the end of the workshop, participants receive a print of their portrait and are invited to discover the MEP exhibitions.
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Claire Pathé is a fashion photographer trained at the Spéos school in Paris. She develops a sensitive visual style, in which fashion becomes a space for expression, staging, and freedom. Her work places bodies, attitudes, and identities at the center, with a particular focus on light, materials, and the uniqueness of those she photographs. She collaborates with various magazines, including ELLE, L’Officiel de la mode, Grazia, Zink, Muteen, and Cake Magazine.
Alongside her photographic practice, she worked from 2015 to 2025 for the young European photography festival Circulation(s), notably on its artistic direction. In 2021, she founded Les Mesnographies, an international photography festival for which she currently serves as director and artistic director.
Our take on this event
On Saturday, November 28, 2026, the Maison Européenne de la Photographie invites families to dive into the world of Irving Penn. Led by fashion photographer Claire Pathé, this workshop focuses on the 'Corner Studio' method, a unique setup using two angled walls to minimize distractions and focus entirely on the subject.
Over the course of 3 hours, from 14:30 to 17:30, participants learn how to pose and compose images while alternating between the roles of the photographer and the model. It is a chance to experiment with light and expression using everyday clothing and accessories. At the end of the workshop, everyone receives a printed portrait and access to the museum's exhibitions.
The activity is open to children from 6 years old. Tickets are priced at 30€ for adults and 10€ for children. Since the workshop is limited to 10 participants, booking in advance is required. Please note that for groups with more than three children, a second accompanying adult must be present.
