Rembrandt Lighting: This classic lighting technique involves placing the main light source at a 45-degree angle to the subject and slightly above their eye level.
A small triangle of light should appear on the cheek opposite the light source, creating a sense of depth and dimension in the portrait.
Split Lighting: This technique involves placing the main light source directly in front of the subject, but offset to one side.
This creates a strong contrast between the lit and unlit sides of the face, giving the portrait a dramatic and moody look.
Loop Lighting: This technique is similar to Rembrandt lighting, but with the main light source positioned slightly higher, creating a small loop of shadow under the subject’s nose.
This adds a sense of depth and dimension to the portrait without being as dramatic as Rembrandt lighting.
Butterfly Lighting: This technique involves positioning the main light source directly above the camera and pointing it down at the subject.
This creates a butterfly-shaped shadow under the subject’s nose, and is often used to create a flattering and glamorous look.
Short Lighting: This technique involves positioning the main light source on the side of the subject opposite the camera.
This creates a short shadow on the side of the face closest to the camera, giving the portrait a sense of depth and dimension.
Broad Lighting: This technique is the opposite of short lighting, and involves positioning the main light source on the same side of the subject as the camera.
This creates a broad, evenly lit face, and is often used to create a friendly and approachable look.
Rim Lighting: This technique involves positioning a light source behind the subject, pointing it towards the camera.
This creates a “rim” of light around the edges of the subject, adding a sense of depth and dimension to the portrait.
Backlighting: This technique involves positioning the main light source behind the subject, pointing it towards the camera.
This creates a bright halo of light around the subject, adding a sense of drama and mystery to the portrait.
It’s important to note that these are just general guidelines and lighting setups can be modified, combined or adjusted to fit the subject and the desired outcome.
Additionally, it’s crucial to experiment with different lighting angles, intensity, and modifiers to get the best results and achieve the desired mood and feel of the portrait.
What Is Portrait Lighting?
Portrait lighting is the technique of using artificial or natural light to illuminate a person’s face and features in a photograph or video.
The goal of portrait lighting is to create a flattering and attractive image of the subject, while also capturing their unique characteristics and personality.
Different lighting techniques can be used to achieve different effects in a portrait. For example, soft lighting can be used to create a warm and natural look, while hard lighting can be used to create a more dramatic and contrasty image.
The direction, intensity, and quality of light can all be adjusted to create the desired effect.
Portrait lighting typically involves the use of one or more light sources, such as studio strobes or continuous light sources, as well as light modifiers such as softboxes, umbrellas, and reflectors.
These tools can be used to control the direction, intensity, and quality of light, and to create different moods and effects in the portrait.
In addition to the use of light sources, the photographer also needs to consider the angle, distance, and direction of the light in relation to the subject, as well as the background, to create the desired effect.
In summary, portrait lighting is the art of using light to illuminate and flatter the subject in a portrait, by adjusting the direction, intensity, and quality of light.
It’s a crucial aspect of portrait photography that can make or break the final image, and is the result of a combination of technical and artistic skills.
Portrait Lighting Fundamentals
Key Light: The key light is the main light source in a portrait lighting setup and is typically positioned to the side of the subject, shining on their face.
It is the most important light in creating the overall look and feel of the portrait.
Fill Light: The fill light is used to fill in shadows and reduce contrast in the portrait. It is typically positioned on the opposite side of the key light and is used to soften the shadows created by the key light.
Rim Light: The rim light is used to create a “rim” of light around the edges of the subject, adding a sense of depth and dimension to the portrait.
It is typically positioned behind the subject and pointed towards the camera.
Background Light: The background light is used to illuminate the background of the portrait, adding depth and separation between the subject and the background.
It is typically positioned behind and to the side of the subject.
Hair Light: The hair light is used to illuminate the subject’s hair, adding a sense of volume and movement to the portrait.
It is typically positioned behind and above the subject, shining down on their hair.
Catch Light: Catch lights are small highlights in the eyes of the subject, and are created by positioning a light source near the camera.
They add a sense of life and sparkle to the eyes, and are an important aspect of portrait lighting.
It’s important to note that these are just the basic elements of portrait lighting and different lighting setups can be modified, combined or adjusted to fit the subject and the desired outcome.
Additionally, the intensity and quality of light, the distance and angle of the lights, and the use of light modifiers can all be adjusted to create different moods and effects.
In summary, portrait lighting fundamentals are the main elements that a photographer should consider when setting up a portrait lighting.
These are key light, fill light, rim light, background light, hair light, and catch light. Each one of these elements contributes to the final look and feel of the portrait, and by understanding and manipulating them, a photographer can achieve a wide range of looks and moods.
What Is A Key Light?
A key light is the main light used in a lighting setup for photography or videography.
It is typically the brightest light and is used to illuminate the subject and create the primary source of light and shadow.
The key light is usually placed to one side of the subject, creating a sense of depth and dimension.
It is often used in conjunction with other lights, such as fill lights and back lights, to create a more dynamic and visually interesting image.
The Key Light Patterns In Portrait Lighting
In portrait lighting, the key light is typically placed to one side of the subject’s face, creating a sense of depth and dimension.
There are several key light patterns that are commonly used in portrait lighting, including:
Short lighting: The key light is placed to the side of the subject’s face, with the subject’s body facing the camera.
This creates a sense of depth and creates shadows on the side of the face opposite the key light, making the face appear more three-dimensional.
Broad lighting: The key light is placed directly in front of the subject, with the subject’s body turned towards the camera.
This creates a more flat and less dramatic look, but can be useful for creating a softer, more approachable look.
Rembrandt lighting: The key light is placed at a 45-degree angle to the subject’s face, creating a triangle of light on the cheek opposite the key light.
This is a very popular and versatile lighting pattern, as it creates a sense of depth and drama while still maintaining a natural-looking appearance.
Butterfly lighting: The key light is placed directly above the subject, with the subject’s face tilted slightly upwards.
This creates a butterfly-shaped shadow under the subject’s nose and can be used to create a very dramatic and striking look.
Loop lighting: The key light is placed slightly above and in front of the subject, creating a small shadow under the subject’s lower lip.
This lighting pattern is often used to create a more natural and less dramatic look, and is well suited for subjects with strong jawlines.
Split lighting: The key light is placed directly in front of the subject, with the subject’s body turned away from the camera.
This creates a strong division between light and shadow on the subject’s face, which can be used to create a very dramatic and moody look.
Simple Light For Portrait Photography
For simple portrait photography, using a single light source is often sufficient. One popular technique is to use a single off-camera flash or strobe, placed to the side of the subject at a 45-degree angle.
This creates a sense of depth and dimension in the photo, and can also be used to sculpt the subject’s face with light. Additionally, a softbox or umbrella can be used to diffuse the light and create a softer, more natural-looking image.
The 7 Major Portrait Lighting Setups
The 7 major portrait lighting setups are:
Short Lighting: the side of the face closest to the camera is in shadow, creating a slimming effect.
Broad Lighting: the side of the face farthest from the camera is lit, creating a more full-faced look.
Butterfly Lighting: light is placed above the subject and slightly in front, creating a butterfly-shaped shadow on the subject’s nose.
Rembrandt Lighting: a triangle of light is created on the subject’s cheek, opposite the light source.
Loop Lighting: similar to short lighting, but with less dramatic shadowing.
Split Lighting: one half of the face is lit and the other is in shadow.
Flat Lighting: the subject’s face is evenly lit with little to no shadow.
1. Broad And Short Lighting
Broad lighting and short lighting are two different portrait lighting setups that create distinct effects on the subject’s face.
Broad lighting is a technique in which the side of the face farthest from the camera is lit, creating a more full-faced look. This lighting setup is often used to make a subject’s face appear wider or more prominent.
Short lighting is a technique in which the side of the face closest to the camera is in shadow, creating a slimming effect.
This lighting setup is often used to make a subject’s face appear slimmer or to minimize the appearance of facial features such as a double chin.
Both broad lighting and short lighting can be used to create different moods and emphasis on the subject’s features. It depends on the desired final look and the photographer’s style of lighting.
2. Butterfly Lighting
Butterfly lighting is a portrait lighting technique in which the light source is placed above the subject and slightly in front, creating a butterfly-shaped shadow on the subject’s nose.
This lighting setup creates a dramatic and glamorous look, with the light hitting the high points of the face such as the cheekbones and forehead.
The shadow created by the nose creates depth and adds definition to the face. This lighting setup is often used to create a sense of drama and is often used in Hollywood-style portrait photography.
The key to achieving butterfly lighting is to position the light source directly above the subject’s head and slightly in front, so that the shadow of the nose falls directly below it.
This can be achieved with a single light source or with a combination of lights. It is a versatile lighting setup that can be used for both studio and location photography.
3. Loop Lighting
Loop lighting is a portrait lighting technique that is similar to short lighting, but with less dramatic shadowing.
In this setup, the light source is positioned slightly to the side of the subject and slightly above their eye level, creating a small loop-shaped shadow just below the cheekbone on the side of the face closest to the camera.
This lighting setup creates a sense of depth and dimension in the subject’s face without the harsh shadows of short lighting.
It is a versatile lighting setup that can be used to create a wide range of moods, from dramatic to naturalistic.
The slight shadows on the cheekbone and jawline give a three-dimensional look and can be used to emphasize the subject’s facial features.
This lighting setup is also great for showing the subject’s facial expressions and emotions.
Loop lighting is a popular choice for portrait photographers because it is easy to set up and can be achieved with a single light source or with a combination of lights.
It is also great for headshot photography, and can be used for both studio and location photography.
4. Rembrandt Lighting
Rembrandt lighting is a portrait lighting technique named after the famous Dutch painter, Rembrandt, who often used this type of lighting in his portraits.
In this setup, a triangle of light is created on the subject’s cheek, opposite the light source. The triangle is created by the intersection of the main light and the shadow cast by the subject’s nose.
This lighting setup creates a sense of depth and drama in the subject’s face, and is often used to create a sense of mood and emotion.
The triangle of light on the cheek is considered the most pleasing and natural form of shadow.
Rembrandt lighting is often used to create a sense of intimacy, and can be used to create a range of moods, from dramatic to naturalistic.
Achieving Rembrandt lighting requires precise positioning of the light source. The light should be placed above and to the side of the subject, so that the shadow of the nose falls directly across the cheek.
This can be achieved with a single light source or with a combination of lights. It is a versatile lighting setup that can be used for both studio and location photography.
5. Side Or Split Lighting
Split lighting or side lighting is a portrait lighting technique in which one half of the face is lit, while the other half is in shadow.
This lighting setup creates a sense of drama and contrast, emphasizing the subject’s facial features and adding a three-dimensional feel to the image.
In this setup, the light source is positioned to the side of the subject, typically 90 degrees to the camera.
This creates a strong contrast between the lit and shadowed sides of the face, which can be used to create a sense of mood and emotion.
This lighting setup is often used to create a sense of mystery or intrigue in the subject, and can be used to create a range of moods, from dramatic to naturalistic.
Achieving split lighting requires precise positioning of the light source.
The light should be placed to the side of the subject, at a 90-degree angle to the camera, to create the sharp contrast between the lit and shadowed sides of the face.
This can be achieved with a single light source or with a combination of lights. It is a versatile lighting setup that can be used for both studio and location photography.
6. Rim And Profile Lighting
Rim lighting and profile lighting are two different portrait lighting techniques that are used to create specific effects on the subject’s face.
Rim lighting is a technique in which a light source is positioned behind the subject, creating a bright halo of light around the edge or “rim” of their head and shoulders.
This lighting setup creates a sense of depth and separation between the subject and the background, and can be used to create a sense of drama and mood.
Rim lighting is often used in fashion and beauty photography to create a sense of glamour and to emphasize the subject’s hairstyle and features.
Profile lighting is a technique in which the subject is lit from the side and facing away from the camera. This lighting setup creates a sense of depth and dimension in the subject’s face, and can be used to create a sense of mystery or intrigue.
Profile lighting is often used in portrait photography to create a sense of mood and emotion, and to emphasize the subject’s facial features and expressions.
Both Rim and profile lighting requires precise positioning of the light source. Rim lighting is usually achieved by placing a light source behind the subject, while profile lighting is achieved by placing a light source to the side of the subject.
Both lighting setups can be achieved with a single light source or with a combination of lights. It is a versatile lighting setup that can be used for both studio and location photography.
7. Fill Lighting
Fill lighting is a portrait lighting technique used to add light to the areas of the subject’s face that are in shadow.
The fill light is positioned to the side of the main light source, opposite the camera, and is used to “fill in” the shadows created by the main light.
This technique allows for more balanced and natural-looking lighting, and can be used to create a range of moods, from dramatic to naturalistic.
Fill lighting can be used in conjunction with any of the other portrait lighting setups, such as short lighting, broad lighting, butterfly lighting, Rembrandt lighting, loop lighting, split lighting, or rim lighting.
The key to achieving good fill lighting is to use a light source that is less powerful than the main light, so that it does not overpower the main light and create new shadows.
Fill lighting can be achieved with a separate light source or with a reflector. Reflectors are a common and easy solution to add fill light, they can be made from different materials like: foam board, white card, or silver/gold reflectors.
This technique can be used to balance the lighting and create a more natural-looking portrait.
8. Left Is Broad, Right Is Short Lighting
Left is broad lighting and right is short lighting are two different portrait lighting setups that create distinct effects on the subject’s face.
Broad lighting is a technique in which the side of the face farthest from the camera is lit, creating a more full-faced look.
This lighting setup is often used to make a subject’s face appear wider or more prominent. In this case, the lit side of the face would be the left side.
Short lighting is a technique in which the side of the face closest to the camera is in shadow, creating a slimming effect.
This lighting setup is often used to make a subject’s face appear slimmer or to minimize the appearance of facial features such as a double chin. In this case, the shadowed side of the face would be the right side.
Both broad lighting and short lighting can be used to create different moods and emphasis on the subject’s features.
It depends on the desired final look and the photographer’s style of lighting. This setup can be used for both studio and location photography. It is a versatile lighting setup that allows for creative control and versatility.
Commonly Used Studio Portrait Lighting Setup
Loop lighting is a type of studio portrait lighting setup that creates a small shadow on one side of the subject’s face, giving the face more depth and dimension. The main light is placed at a 45-degree angle to the subject’s face, slightly above eye level.
The light should be slightly stronger than the fill light, which is placed on the opposite side of the subject’s face to fill in shadows.
A reflector can also be used to bounce light back onto the shadow side of the face to further soften the shadows.
This setup is popular for creating a natural, flattering look and is often used for headshots and portraits.
Use Side Lighting For Dramatic Effect
Side lighting can be used to create a dramatic effect in studio portrait photography. In this setup, the main light is placed to the side of the subject, rather than in front or above them.
The light should be placed at a low angle, pointing up towards the subject’s face. This creates deep shadows and highlights on the subject’s face, adding drama and contrast to the image.
This type of lighting can also be used to sculpt the subject’s face and create interesting shadow patterns. It is commonly used for fashion, beauty and editorial photography.
It’s important to note that side lighting can also be more difficult to work with, as it can create harsher shadows and highlights and may require more adjustments to the camera settings and subject positioning to achieve the desired effect.
A fill light can also be used to soften the shadows and control the contrast.
Rim Lighting Setup
Rim lighting is a lighting technique used in photography and videography to create a glowing effect around the edges of a subject.
The goal of rim lighting is to separate the subject from the background and create a sense of depth and dimension.
To set up rim lighting, a light source is placed behind and slightly to the side of the subject, shining directly onto the edges of the subject’s form.
The light should be positioned at a low angle and aimed at the edges of the subject’s body or clothing to create a rim of light around the edges.
The intensity of the light and the distance between the light source and the subject can be adjusted to achieve the desired effect.
A reflector can also be used to bounce light onto the front of the subject to fill in shadows and add more dimension.
It is also important to be mindful of the color temperature of the light source and how it will affect the overall color of the image.
How To Use Studio Lighting For Portrait Photography
Choose the right lighting equipment: For portrait photography, you’ll typically want to use softboxes or umbrellas to diffuse the light and create a more flattering, natural-looking image.
Set up your lights correctly: For a basic three-light setup, use one light as your main light, a second light as a fill light to soften shadows, and a third light as a backlight to separate your subject from the background.
Adjust the power of your lights: Experiment with adjusting the power of your lights to find the right balance for your subject. You can use a light meter to measure the light and ensure that it is balanced across the image.
Play with the direction of light: Experiment with the direction of light to create different moods and effects in your portrait.
For example, you can use a front light to create a classic, traditional look, or a side light to create a more dramatic, edgy look.
Adjust the background: Adjust the background to make sure that it complements your subject and doesn’t distract from the image.
You can use colored gels or background paper to change the color of the background, or use a bokeh effect to blur the background and draw more attention to your subject.
How To Use Studio Lighting For Portrait Photography On A Budget
Start with natural light: Before investing in studio lighting equipment, try using natural light to take portraits.
You can use a window or an open door as a source of light and adjust the angle and direction to create different effects.
Use affordable equipment: Look for affordable lighting equipment that can still provide good quality light.
For example, you can use softbox umbrellas or continuous lighting kits that are more budget-friendly than strobe lighting.
DIY softboxes: You can create your own softboxes using foam board, aluminum foil, and a light bulb. This is a cost-effective way to achieve a similar diffused light effect as a purchased softbox.
Use reflectors: Reflectors are a budget-friendly option for filling in shadows and adding more light to your subject. You can use inexpensive materials such as foam board or aluminum foil to create your own reflectors.
Experiment with different backgrounds: Instead of purchasing expensive background paper, you can use a variety of different materials such as fabric, curtains, or even paint to create different backgrounds for your portraits.
Be creative with your setup: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your setup and use what you have available. You can use everyday items such as a chair, table or even a cardboard box to create unique and interesting portrait setups.
Portrait Lighting Ideas
Rembrandt lighting: This classic lighting technique is named after the famous painter and creates a triangle of light under the eye on the shadowed side of the face.
It’s achieved by placing the main light at a 45-degree angle to the subject, creating a dramatic and moody effect.
Butterfly lighting: This lighting technique is achieved by placing the main light directly above the camera and pointing it down at a slight angle towards the subject’s nose.
This creates a butterfly-shaped shadow under the nose, which adds definition to the subject’s face.
Split lighting: This technique involves placing the main light to one side of the subject, creating a split-light effect where one half of the face is lit and the other half is in shadow. This can create a dramatic and powerful effect.
Loop lighting: This technique involves placing the main light slightly above the subject’s eyeline and slightly to one side, creating a small loop-shaped shadow under the nose.
This is a flattering and versatile lighting technique that can be used for a wide range of portrait styles.
Clamshell lighting: This technique involves using two lights; one as the main light and another as a fill light. The main light is placed above the subject and the fill light is placed below the subject, creating a “clamshell” shape of light and shadow on the face.
This creates a soft and flattering effect that is great for beauty and fashion photography.
Rim lighting: This lighting technique is achieved by placing a light behind the subject, aimed towards the camera.
This creates a rim of light around the subject’s head, separating them from the background and adding a three-dimensional effect to the image.
Portrait Lighting At Home
There are a few ways to create portrait lighting at home:
Natural light: Position your subject near a window with diffused light for a soft, even light.
Artificial light: Use a single light source, such as a lamp or a strobe light, to illuminate your subject. You can also use a reflector to bounce light back onto the subject and fill in any shadows.
Softbox: A softbox is a type of lighting equipment that diffuses light and creates a soft, even light on the subject.
Umbrella: An umbrella can be used to create a similar effect as a softbox and can be easily set up at home.
DIY: You can also create your own lighting equipment using household items such as aluminum foil or white foam board as a reflector.
It’s important to experiment with different lighting setups and angles to find the best one for your subject and the look you’re trying to achieve.
DIY Tips For Lighting In Your Home
Here are some DIY tips for creating portrait lighting at home:
Use aluminum foil or a shiny surface, such as a mirror, to reflect natural light onto your subject. This can help fill in shadows and create a more even light.
Create a DIY softbox by cutting a hole in the center of a white foam board and placing a light behind it. This will help diffuse the light and create a soft, even light on your subject.
Use a white bedsheet or piece of fabric to create a diffuser. This can be placed in front of a light source to soften the light and reduce harsh shadows.
Experiment with different angles. Try positioning your subject at different angles relative to the light source to see how it affects the overall look of the portrait.
Use household items to create interesting shadows and highlights. For example, you can use a piece of fabric or a leafy plant to create interesting shadows on your subject’s face.
Use a window as a natural light source and keep in mind that the direction of the light is changing throughout the day.
Remember that the best way to learn is by experimenting, take different shots and angles, try different light sources and reflectors, and see what works best for you and your subject.
Portrait Lighting Setup Guide – Wrapping Up
To wrap up a portrait lighting setup guide, it’s important to emphasize the importance of understanding the basic principles of lighting and how they can be applied to achieve different effects in portrait photography.
This includes understanding key, fill, and back lighting, and how to control the direction, intensity, and quality of light to create the desired mood and style in a portrait.
Additionally, it’s helpful to experiment with different light modifiers and camera settings to find the best combination for a particular shot.
