Lighting Techniques Practice

During the lighting workshop, we experimented with all the types of lighting I researched, to see which we liked.



Butterfly

Butterfly lighting creates the shadow of a seemingly flying butterfly underneath the nose. Using this technique without a reflector didn't look to good, but for fashion or catalogue shots, using the butterfly technique with a reflector placed under the chin would look professional and compliment the model well.

Reflector at the side



Reflector under the chin

We then looked at Rembrandt lighting, used by the painter to capture his subjects. I think this was the most flattering use of studio lighting, as it lit all aspects of the face!

Rembrandt



Rembrandt with reflector

Unlike the previous technique, I prefer ths technique without the use of a reflector. I think the shadows cast define the models facial features well, without drawing too much attention away due to the lack of light.

Side

Side lighting was one of the most dramatic forms of studio lighting that I had come across before and used during my A Levels, so I knew how to set up the lights and what sort of effect it would produce. However, I never anticipated that using a reflector would make the shadows less harsh and produce a nicer effect. You learn something new everyday!



Side with reflector

However, in this photograph the positioning of the reflector let down the vision I had for the photograph. If the reflector was angled more to the side of the models face rather than in front of it, the left side of the face would not have been so light, which reduces the dramatic effect a lot! If I was to take this shot again, I would either change the position of the reflector or change the intensity of the light source.

Hollywood

Hollywood with reflector

This type of lighting was originally used in the 30's and 40's for films and photography, to create an almost surreal and sinister vibe! I am not to fond on this lighting technique, however, I can appreciate that for some forms of photography, i.e rock magazines, dark fashion shots etc., it could look very visually exciting!

Broad with reflector

Broad

Broad lighting was my favourite form of lighting we experimented with today, I just love how the model is looking off to one side whilst the light creates interesting shadows on his face and torso. I also prefer this technique without the aid of a reflector, as I believe the balance of the shadows is just right!

Short

Short with reflector

This lighting technique is just reverse to what broad is, but making the light hit the models face straight on. I do like light like this, however, I think broad gives a good effect compared with short.