Generally, all objects reflect light. How the object reflects light determines its reflectivity. Smooth surfaces reflect light at the same angle that the light falls on them. This is known as the angle of reflectance. Textured or unsmooth surfaces tend to be less predictable in how they reflect light. This becomes important in photography since …
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What is an Umbrella?
Photographic umbrellas are constructed similar to a rain umbrella, but made with materials that control light. Most umbrellas are black on the outside with a reflective surface inside. Lighting units are mounted such that they are pointing into the umbrella. When triggered, the light bounces around inside of the umbrella then out toward the subject …
What is a “Hot Light”?
“Hot Light” is a slang term for studio lights that used Tungsten, Quartz or Halogen bulbs that are continuously on rather than triggered like a flash. These lights got their name from the amount of heat that would be produced from them during use. Though some hot lights are still difficult to use in a …
What is a Reflector?
A reflector is used to redirect or ‘bounce’ light from another light source toward the subject. Reflectors can be made of various materials from foam core to nylon. The more reflective the surface, the more the reflector will provide strong directional light. Less smooth surfaces provide a more diffused, softer light. Reflectors are most often …
What is a Softbox?
A softbox is a box that fits over a flash head or tungsten lamp made of black sides, with white, gold or silver interior and a translucent front where light passes through. A softbox is most popular for it’s soft, even light. Softboxes are used heavily in portrait photography and many other types of commercial …
Portrait Lighting Styles
A portrait lighting system usually includes at least two light sources, the main and the fill light. Other light sources such as background lights and accent lights can be added, as well. The Main Light, which is also called the main light, is the dominant light source in a portrait lighting setup. Therefore, portrait lighting …
Accent Lighting for Portraits
Accent lighting isn’t always necessary, but can be important, if not essential, in certain situations. If you use a dark background, dark hair and clothing may blend into the background if you do not use a background light or accent lights. A properly placed accent light provides separation between the subject and the background. Background …
Setting Up a Home Studio for Portraiture
You don’t need to rent a warehouse to practice portrait photography. In fact, you can produce stunning effects in your own home. All you need is a bit of space and a trip to the hardware store. Finding Space for your Home Studio Most portraits involve the use of depth of field to accentuate the …
Short Lighting – Studio Lighting Setup
Main light is off from the camera axis Light falls mainly on the side of the face that is farthest from the camera Good for subjects with more round face Popular for dramatic look Move light farther away to produce Rembrandt lighting – creating a triangle of light on the camera side upper cheek
Broad Lighting – Studio Lighting Setup
Main light is close to camera axis Light falls mainly on the side of the face that is closest to the camera Good for subjects with more narrow face