Lighting ratios are sometimes overrated. They only work when the distance from the light to the subject is precise. In this candid demonstration, Karl Taylor uses one of his studio lighting scenarios and explains why he thinks looking at the light and the result is much more important than concentrating on lighting ratios: If you look at […]
One of the golden rules of studio photography is to never point lights straight at the camera. Doing so can create lens flare, reduced contrast, and all sorts of other problems. Yet, in the video below, portrait photographer Gavin Hoey shows us that rules like the one above are meant to be understood and then […]
One of the most appealing attributes to working as an independent artist is the freedom to be your own boss and set your own terms. In fact, many people desire a certain amount of autonomy in their careers. But finding an effective, comfortable, and affordable workspace can be one of the biggest deterrents in taking […]
Ever wish you could get a low-key studio-type shot when you’re out on location? Sure, the landscape and sunlight look great, but your client would like a little extra—maybe a dramatic portrait or two. Well, with just one key light and a black and white reflector you can get that look easily, no matter where […]
Almost any photographer would agree that it’s easy to see the difference between a hard light and a soft light. However, one thing that many beginners struggle to grasp is that there is a large spectrum that lies between the two extremes. As photographer Mark Wallace demonstrates in the following tutorial, even the slightest repositioning of a light source […]
Understanding the basics of photography is essential for consistently taking great photos. To help understand a little more about these fundamental aspects, photographer Mark Wallace answers a message asking how he was able to create a photo that appeared as if it had been taken in a dark room with one light, when he captured […]
Photographing guys in a studio environment requires a much simpler lighting arrangement than when shooting women. With men, you can get away with things like deeper contrast and shadows across the face. In this video, Daniel Norton shares some invaluable tips to light up a male model inside a studio: Beauty Dish with Grid For the first lighting […]
Photographing two people in a studio environment presents a unique set of challenges. Two people, each wearing different colored clothing (black and white in this case), can be a nightmare for photographers trying to expose them properly. But when you know what you’re doing, you can really move things around and experiment and have a bit of […]
Tired of shooting the same ol’ portrait style over and over again but unsure of what you can do in studio without investing in more equipment? Consider this DIY technique from photographer Gavin Hoey that allows you to create amazing shadows using simple things you can find around the house: There are a number of […]
Studio photography is different than landscape, outdoors, animals, etc., where you have to shoot what is in front of you. In the studio, you are God and must design all. The light, dark, props, posing, the desired theme or mood of the photograph you are after. Working with studio models can be especially daunting for […]
