Lighting Photographic Works

Did you realize that a flash simply isn’t the answer? Do you need a base from which to grow? There are so many options and equipment choices it seems. You can literally spend a lot of time shopping around and spending a small fortune.

Many cameras come with a built in flash. For candid shots, a flash is ok. A flash is simply not the answer to lighting photographic works. Photographic subjects such as a model or product requires a bit of preparation. So what is the least expensive answer to this issue? Three point lighting. Two "umbrella lights" and one "directional light". This forms continuous light.

Three point lighting is a standard in lighting photographic works properly. Let’s assume the camera is mounted on a tripod and the subject is facing the lens. The three light sources are: the “key light”, the “fill light” and the “background light”.

The key light is typically placed to the subject’s right and at a 45 degree angle. This light is typically an "umbrella light". A good way to start is 4 feet to the front and over 4 feet way from the subject. Adjust the light, keeping the angle until you have the desired effect.

The fill light is placed on the opposite side of the subject to eliminate shadowing caused by the key light. This light is also typically an umbrella light. You may begin by placing the light slightly closer to the subject but out of shooting range.

The background light is then placed on the same side as the fill light pointing to the background. This light is a directional light, sometimes called a "can light". It is common practice to place the light in line with the side of the subject.



This is the most common method of lighting photographic portraits. Complimented with a backdrop and a bit of practice, anyone can take beautiful pictures. On an artistic note, the shot can be altered by rearranging the lighting or shutting off the fill light. For a mysterious or theatrical effect widen the key light angle away from the front of the subject closer to the side, shut off the fill light and add a black backdrop. For a “halo” effect add an overhead light.

Other inexpensive photo lighting accessories include reflector discs, colored light filters, flash and light suppressors and many other possibilities.

Three point lighting can also be modified to four point lighting by simply adding an overhead light. This overhead light creates a "halo" effect by illuminating the crown features.



Lighting photographic subjects is not difficult if you know the basics. You now have those basics.