Flash Photography Basics: My Four Go-to Lighting Setups

This article is the ninth installment of my Flash Photography Basics Series–a crash course in using flash.  To start at the beginning of the tutorial, click here.

Now that you have seen what each of the light modifiers do, you can begin working with the flashes to create lighting setups.  To help you get started, I'll show you four common light setups.

At this point, you are ready to actually get shooting and learn your flash.  I'll get you started here, but if you would like to watch video tutorials of exactly how I set up my lighting for portrait photography, you should really consider my online flash photography class.

Whether you are in the studio or on location, you can achieve different lighting styles to complement your model. It is important to remember that different lighting styles will look better depending on the shape of your model's head. Go ahead and start with your go-to lighting setup and see how that looks on the model. If it is a winner, then keep working with it. If you aren't completely satisfied and believe something could be better, it's probably the light.

4 basic, easy-to-remember lighting setups to get you started:

One Light Portrait

oneLight_SM
oneSetup_SM

What to Look For
One Light portraits can be difficult to detect, unless you were the one taking the photo. One way to know if there was light involved is to look at the catch lights in the model's eyes. Seeing the catch lights gives you an idea of where the light was placed and if there was more than one light.

Using one light will work best when you have other ambient light in the photo. Your flash becomes the key light. It is easier to expose for the background when you are adding the light to your model.

The Setup

  • Place the light 45 degrees away from the camera to the side where the model parts their hair.
  • Raise the light to be just above the model's head and point the light downward slightly.
  • Flash power will depend on how much ambient light you are dealing with. Be careful not to create hard shadows by having too much flash power.
  • A softbox or an umbrella will be fine for these shoots. The closer the light, the softer the shadows will be and the less flash power will be required.
 Some Tips

  • Use ambient light to fill shadows.
  • Hide and reveal. Expose for a normal background (which will most likely make the model too dark), then “reveal” the model with flash for a nicely exposed portrait.
  • Use the help of an assistant. Have your assistant help you quickly make adjustments during test shots as you figure out what all of the light is doing in the shot.
  • If there is too much ambient light, the flash won't do you much good. You will have to move to a location where the flash will have an affect.

Butterfly Lighting

butterflyLight_SM
butterflySetup_SM

What to Look For
You can easily identify butterfly lighting by the small shadow that appears under the model's nose. To fill in the shadows a little, you will most likely need a reflector or second flash pointed up. This makes it so the shadows aren't so long on the face.

The Setup

  • Place the light about 5 feet (2 meters) in front of the model.
  • Raise the light 9 to 10 feet (3 meters). Point the flash downward towards the model.
  • Increase the flash power a little bit because it is now further away.
  • Place the flash on a boom stand so that nothing is in the way of the photographer.
 Some Tips

  • Use a reflector to fill in part of the shadow under the nose.
  • The model can easily hold the reflector while you take some closeups.
  • Butterfly Lighting can make some face shapes look heavier than they actually are.
  • Use this style to help create strong jaw lines.

“If you aren't completely satisfied and believe something could be better, it's probably the light.”

Rembrandt Lighting

rembrantLight_SM
rembrantSetup_SM

What to Look For
In Rembrandt Lighting, you're looking for a small triangle of light that appears on the opposite cheek from where the flash is placed. This is a very common lighting style and will look flattering on almost anyone you try it on. A good rule of thumb when placing lights is to always place the light on the side where the model parts their hair — particularly with female models. Otherwise, the model's hair will cast a big shadow across their face.

The Setup

  • Place the key light 45 degrees to the side of the camera, about 5 feet (2 meters) from the model. Raise the light 6-7 (2.5 meters) feet high.
  • Place the fill light on the opposite side with a low flash power. Keep the light 4 feet (1.5 meters) from the model. Raise the flash to be about eye level with the model.
  • Position the model's head so the light will go across their face.
 Some Tips

  • Place the key light on the side where the model parts their hair.
  • Use a reflector in place of a fill flash.
  • Unless the key light moves with the model's head, it is easy to transition into other lighting styles.
  • Small adjustments with the lights will make all the difference in how it looks on the model.

Headshot Lighting

headshotLight_SM
headshotSetup_SM

What to Look For
Headshot lighting is important when shooting on darker backgrounds. Sometimes, the color of the model's hair will blend right in with the shadows and the color of the background. Use a hair light to create an outline around their head and pull them off the background. The way you can recognize this lighting style is when there are visible highlights on the person's hair. This can be overdone, so be careful and only apply enough light to create the outline.

The Setup

  • Place the key light 45 degrees to the side of the camera, about 5 feet (2 meters) from the model. Raise the light 6-7 (2.5 meters) feet high. (In reality, you can place the key light wherever you want, but we will stick with a basic Rembrandt style setup.)
  • Place the hair light behind the model, up high, with a low flash power. Keep the light 4 feet (1.5 meters) from the model. Raise the flash 9 – 10 feet (3 meters) high.
  • The hair light is best placed on a boom stand so that you can have it right above your model.
 Some Tips

  • Place the key light on the side where the model parts their hair.
  • If you don't have a boom stand for the hair light, point the light at the background right about where the model's head would be.
  • Use a softbox for the hair light because you don't want the light going everywhere or spilling onto the background.

Continue to the next article in this flash photography basics series by clicking the red button below.

Continue to page 10

1,492 thoughts on “Flash Photography Basics: My Four Go-to Lighting Setups”

  1. AnastasiaDus

    Experience the thrill of this electrifying game with Lightning Storm Slot, [url=https://wheeoo.org/waarom-je-een-website-laten-maken-door-websitepioniers-de-beste-keuze-is/]https://wheeoo.org/waarom-je-een-website-laten-maken-door-websitepioniers-de-beste-keuze-is/[/url]. Rotate the reels and unleash exciting features. Feel the adrenaline rush as winnings light up the screen. Don’t miss out on this engaging adventure!

    Reply
  2. RitaBug

    Welcome to the exciting world of joya 9 online casino, [url=https://ontravelx.com/optimal-times-to-play-discovering-the-best-moments/]https://ontravelx.com/optimal-times-to-play-discovering-the-best-moments/[/url]! Here, users can take pleasure in a diverse selection of entertainment options. Featuring superb graphics and effortless gameplay, it ensures an unforgettable experience. Get in on the fun today!

    Reply
  3. VanessaAcusa

    Welcome to the entertaining world of novibet casino, [url=https://game-novibet.com/casino/]novibet[/url]. Here, players can delight in a wide array of games, from popular slots to real-time dealer experiences. Take advantage of awesome bonuses and promotions that enhance your betting adventure, ensuring every single moment is filled with enjoyment. With user-friendly navigation, novibet casino offers an unforgettable experience for both new and seasoned players alike.

    Reply
  4. Sarahapper

    Here are the important rules, which make betano the best choice on the list connoisseurs of online betting. Betano supports a variety of secure options payment, including credit/debit cards, bank transfers, Betano [url=https://play-betanocasino.com/]betano[/url] and automatic wallets.

    Reply
  5. Ericadaupe

    Los ofertas de casino en lГ­nea son una maravillosa manera de mejorar tu banco para jugar. Estos bonos te permiten mГЎs posibilidades de ganar. ВЎAprovecha los bonos de casino en lГ­nea, [url=https://ebcmedia.vn/como-interpretar-los-juegos-exclusivos-una-guia-7/]https://ebcmedia.vn/como-interpretar-los-juegos-exclusivos-una-guia-7/[/url] y disfruta!

    Reply
  6. Curtiscoosy

    olybet casino, [url=https://play-olybet.net/]olybet[/url] offers a thrilling experience for players. With a wide selection, you can enjoy roulette, blackjack, and more. Join now and discover the fun of online gaming!

    Reply
  7. TrapArigh

    This exciting joya 9 casino game, [url=https://dsmbutterflyschool.com/experience-exclusivity-with-joya9-pragmatic-play/]https://dsmbutterflyschool.com/experience-exclusivity-with-joya9-pragmatic-play/[/url] provides players an amazing experience with vibrant graphics and immersive gameplay. Achieving big payouts is constantly possible!

    Reply
  8. Bobbyciz

    Descubre el emocionante mundo del entretenimiento en los centros de apuestas donde puedes invertir desde la comodidad de tu hogar. Con fantГЎsticos premios y abundancia de opciones, cada visita a un casino en lГ­nea, [url=https://consulbankengenharia.com.br/estrategias-efectivas-para-aprovechar-al-maximo/]https://consulbankengenharia.com.br/estrategias-efectivas-para-aprovechar-al-maximo/[/url] puede convertirse en una aventura inolvidable. ВЎNo te lo dejes escapar y vive la adrenalina del juego!

    Reply
  9. MelissaAcime

    Don’t be lazy read our latest features! We apologize for the inconvenience. betting on sports and [url=https://play-betano.net/es-cl/betano-betting-top-games-casino-bonuses-2024/]betano login[/url]

    Reply
  10. Ryannog

    olybet casino, [url=https://play-olybet.com/]olybet[/url] offers an amazing gaming experience for enthusiasts. With a diverse selection of games, including slots, table games, and live dealer options, it ensures fun and entertainment. Don’t miss out on its enticing bonuses and promotions!

    Reply
  11. Averyvog

    Find out the excitement of jaya 9 best casino, [url=http://wilhelmlawgroup.com/exploring-joya9-jili-table-games-strategies-and/]http://wilhelmlawgroup.com/exploring-joya9-jili-table-games-strategies-and/[/url], where fun meets style. Featuring a vast selection of games, this place is the perfect destination for players.

    Reply
  13. Jessicacew

    olymp trade, [url=https://web-olymptrade.net/]olymp trade[/url] предоставляет уникальную опцию для участников получить выгоду. Платформа предоставляет многообразные инструменты для торговли, включая информацию. Пользователи имеют возможность повышать свои навыки и изучать новое на таком ресурсе.

    Reply
  14. JohnHib

    Хотите научиться красиво наносить макияж? курсы визажа для себя, [url=https://www.sr.npu.edu.ua/?p=879722]https://www.sr.npu.edu.ua/?p=879722[/url] помогут вам освоить все тонкости. Вы сможете изучить принципы макияжа, узнать навыки работы с косметикой. Это ракурс к вашей лучшей версии!

    Reply
  15. Hankbrope

    Exploring various features of these joya 9 casino apps, [url=https://www.transferwerkt.nl/joya9-pg-soft-the-best-table-for-endless-fun/]https://www.transferwerkt.nl/joya9-pg-soft-the-best-table-for-endless-fun/[/url] can enhance your gaming experience. Providing an extensive selection of games, players can take pleasure in thrilling options. Intuitive interfaces make navigation seamless. Incentives and VIP programs can also enrich your time spent playing. Choose joya 9 casino apps for an exciting gambling adventure!

    Reply
  16. Harryslees

    I think, it’s disgusting how they are ranked among their so-called best players and players with incredible expenses at [url=https://play-betvictor.org/]betvictor[/url]. I am aware of multitude clients in the gaming industry, and they affirm, what is in general unheard of, and this incredibly widespread injustice, what which do not reward people, who need take a time-out, and they is prohibited offer a time-out if they are going to punish people for these usage.

    Reply
  17. Sheilacoove

    Получите прекрасный фрибет за регистрацию, [url=https://mix-mag.ru/2026/02/25/besplatnye-stavki-s-fribet-vash-shans-na-vyigrysh-4/]https://mix-mag.ru/2026/02/25/besplatnye-stavki-s-fribet-vash-shans-na-vyigrysh-4/[/url] и начните свою игру с радостью. Многие букмекеры предлагают подобные поощрения, чтобы привлечь новых клиентов. Не упустите шансом!

    Reply
  18. Rickbit

    jaya 9 casino game, [url=https://miku-miku.net/joya9-upay-how-to-securely-manage-your-2/]https://miku-miku.net/joya9-upay-how-to-securely-manage-your-2/[/url] is an exciting activity that offers players engaging experiences. With its colorful graphics and user-friendly interface, it’s perfect for both amateurs and seasoned players. Dive into the action and enjoy the fun of Jaya 9 casino game today!

    Reply
  19. Angelawerne

    We are ecstatic by the total of this Internet surveillance that a number of our stellar subscribers have conducted, and by news about the [url=https://play-bigcasino.net/]big casino[/url] album!

    Reply
  20. Curtisincop

    olymp trade, [url=https://olymptrade-official.org/]olymp trade[/url] предоставляет удобную платформу для торговли. Трейдеры могут определять разные финансовые инструменты и анализировать рынок. Минимальные комиссии делают операции выгодной.

    Reply

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top