Start here · Essential guide
Lighting for Portrait Photography: Setups and Basics
Learn how light direction, softness and ratio shape a portrait, plus the classic patterns and simple natural light, one-light and two-light setups to start with.
Portraits
6 guides, starting with Lighting for Portrait Photography: Setups and Basics.
Start here · Essential guide
Learn how light direction, softness and ratio shape a portrait, plus the classic patterns and simple natural light, one-light and two-light setups to start with.
Learn how to photograph backlit portraits: place the light, expose for the face, manage lens flare and use reflectors or flash to keep detail in the subject.
Reduce or remove unwanted shadows in portraits using light placement, reflectors, fill light, background distance and careful editing, with realistic expectations.
Shape a portrait with a single light. Learn light height, distance, modifiers and reflectors, plus simple one-light setups for flattering or dramatic results.
Take good portraits without a flash by using window light, open shade, reflectors and sensible camera settings, including how to handle dim indoor rooms.
Understand what makes light soft and how to create it with windows, overcast skies, softboxes and diffusers for gentle shadows and flattering skin tones.
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