Lighting Skills

Studio Lighting Techniques

Rembrandt Lighting

Rembrandt lighting is a lighting technique that is used in studio portrait photography. It can be achieved using one light and a reflector, or two lights, and is popular because it is capable of producing images which appear both natural and compelling with little effort. Rembrandt lighting is noticeable from the shadow it produces on one side of the face, and also the 'triangle' of light under the eye.

Butterfly Lighting

This method of lighting is perhaps the most common for portrait lighting. This is because it creates outlining shadows around the subjects face, highlighting it. It is a popular technique as it produces an image that is flattering and artistic, and is used ti portray beauty.

Edge Lighting

Edge lighting (or rim lighting) is a setup used to define the edge of someone's face. The lighting pulls the subject from the back ground by creating a defined outline around the edge of the subject, often offering depth and dimension to the subject.

Interview Lighting

Interviewers generally use the three-point lighting set-up. This is because it is simple toast up and requires little equipment. The key light is the initial bright light that is shone on the subject's face, the fill light is shone from another angle in order to eliminate any shadows that may be on the subject's face, to give a clear picture. The back light is used to bring the subject away from the background by defining the edges of their face.