Headshot Lighting Techniques
Added 2023-01-10 09:50:51 +0000 UTCProfessional headshots have quickly become one of my staple types of sessions over the last year. So I often get questions on how I light them for a seamless constant look. These are my notes on my own two personal favorite setups!
The first of the techniques gives you a very attractive triangle catchlight in the model's eye. The background light is actually optional, and you'll notice I tend to leave this one out. This backdrop light is more for situations in which you want a more high-key background. i prefer the more grey look when I omit this light.
My go-to is actually the second setup, since it's more simple, requires less equipment, and is basically fool-proof. This one is sure to make anyone appear bright and professional. It's very similar to a clamshell lighting used in editorials. The images I uploaded exemplify a similar variation of the second setup.
Always remember to light males from a more 45 degree Rembrandt lighting VS ladies or older models with wrinkles from a direct frontal lighting (to reduce lines and shadows).
I hope these help!
