We initially explored 3 styles of studio lighting: Side lighting, 45degree x 45degree (Rembrandt) and the use of a Fill board. We then moved onto back lighting and lighting the backdrop to add texture to the black ibis. We started by setting our cameras to manual, ISO 200 f/9 1/125. We were plugged into the flash gun which had a soft box attached. I’ve picked my favourites shots below:
I love this shot, the subject has such a natural skin tone and expression. I think the best thing is the side lighting falling on the plait, it adds a new texture and interest to the portrait. I also like how the lighting falls on the top of her lip creating the shadow emphasising the shape of the mouth.
The next shot required Rembrandt lighting, named after the painter who was the first painter to consider natural lighting in portraiture. He painted his subjects in his studio which had high lighting. The light would fall on the main side of the face, but the nose and cheek shadow would join to create a triangle on the opposite side of the face.
Again, the subject has a very natural smiling expression, the plait still lit from the side. But this time I’ve got her sit to the side but facing straight on, so it’s less dramatic and more casual. The Rembrandt triangle can be seen on the opposite cheek. I like how the subjects freckles and hint of blue in the eyes are coming through.
Another example of Rembrandt lighting can be seen here with the addition of the backdrop being lit to add texture and a halo light effect around the subject. The triangle is visible – I like how the shadow is quite dark in compassion to the light face and lighter backdrop adding some mood to the shot. I knocked the f-number down to create a bigger aperture allowing a bit more light in as I felt some of the previous shots had been a little dark.
I really like this shot and the use of the fill board allowing the whole face to be lit. It brings it along from the one above without the fill board. It’s much more clean cut and less moody, it’s what I’d probably describe as a school photo image.
The above and below image both show the use of grid light from behind creating backlighting, hi lighting the hair and head, whilst the soft box at 45degrees brings out the rembrandt style on the face. I like the shot of the subject above as it’s one of the only ones where I have her full face. The lighting might be coming over her shoulder into the camera too much so would more the light down a little more next time. I like the one below as the subject has purposely messed up her hair for effect but also has a natural beaming smile I’ve managed to catch in the process.
warwickk16level2 