The portrait project by Dawoud Bey entitled Class Pictures uses visual elements, such as framing, artificial light, and depth of field to create compelling compositions. The challenge that Dawoud experienced during this project include the random selection of both the model and the room, composing interesting poses, and light.

While working with the subjects Bey allows the subject to take as much time as they need to get comfortable before starting the shoot. He uses this time to figure out what colors that are on the subject work well from the environment.

The success of the shot is greatly increased when he uses shallow depths of field to bring focus on the subject. In addition to this he also works with the environment to bring the elements in to add to the shot instead helping to create harmony. When posing the subject Bey creates leading expressions to help provide emotion. By having a model have a clenched fist over an open palm gave vastly different emotions.

For emotion of lighting is added in way they gives the impression of natural lighting. This is a more forgiving intensity of light.