Portraits are Fun

This portrait was made with the standard lighting set up that was taught at Brooks Institute when I attended classes there. It is simply key, fill, background and separation lights and a great model. As with most photos, the key light is the main light source that defines the direction and character of the light. The fill light adds light to the shadows without creating its own shadows. In any good portrait you want to see a difference between the highlight and shadow side of the face. This creates shape and can help in slimming subjects that need it. The background light creates a highlight that separates the subject from the background and gives a sense of depth to the image. Finally, the separation light shines down from above and behind your model to create a halo of light on their hair, as well as rimming their shoulders with light to further create relief from the background. If you have a subject with a great smile, amazing presence and stunningly beautiful hair, this basic lighting setup can create a great place to capture their look. Finally, I will add that you have to get all of the technical stuff ready before you put your model in front of the camera. The last thing you want to do is spend 15 minutes setting up lights while your subject wilts. Also, remember that this is a person. Talk to them. Make them laugh. Let them know you value their time and contribution to the portrait.