High key lighting is a highly sought after and easy to create technique when you know how to do it. In this month's feature, I’ll show you how to create beautiful high key lighting on a low budget. I’ll take a reductionist approach, walking you step by step from the most complex, pro level, gear-intensive method, to a great 50% midway point, and then to our final 1-light method, the subject of this month’s tutorial.
The versatility you can achieve with just one window is amazing. I’ve often heard the excuse, “I don’t have a beautiful space or home to shoot in.” At one point in my life, while my family was in the middle of building a home, we lived in a tiny, old, drafty apartment. It was far from picture perfect, but in the right light none of that mattered.
Dramatic portraits are easier to create than you might think. In this video I show you how to create these images straight out of camera without any photoshop. No sky swaps. Learn how to master your lighting and you will create portraits that allow your images to stand out from the crowd.
Even natural light photographers should learn how to use flash with their outdoor portraits. Why? Because flash, if used correctly, will allow you to fill in those shadows without blowing out your highlights. It doesnt have to be hard. In this video, I will show you how a little pop…
5 Days of Learning with Sal Cincotta Join professional photographer Sal Cincotta, for five days of virtual learning with Profoto!Tune in here at 1PM Central Time on May 14, 2020 for FREE online photography training. Sal Cincotta will share educational and inspirational how-to videos over five days to help all…
Creating dynamic portraits using a reflector is not as simple as you might think at first. Understanding the lighting from the scene will help you determine the best place to position your reflector. On this shoot, Sal uses the sun as a kicker light, while using the reflector to create a nice even fill.
Successfully controlling the harsh light from the sun requires two inexpensive tools: a diffusion panel to soften the light and one or more reflectors to bounce light, fill in unwanted shadows, and create accent light. Both of these tools are available in a wide variety of models, build qualities, features, sizes, and price points. The good news is you can pick up basic models of both tools that do the job well for around $100. Not too bad for professional location lighting! Ideally you’ll also want a light-duty stand to use with the reflector and a sandbag or two to keep things stable in the event of windy conditions.
Want to learn how to get creative no matter what time of day it is? Check out Sal’s latest video where he shows you how to create magic portraits right in your backyard.
Join Sal Cincotta, Canon Explorer of Light and Profoto Legend of Light, for 3 setups for soft light beauty portraits. Sal will take you behind the scenes and show you how to work with different light sources in your studio and show you the results.
All in all the shoot came together really well and my client couldn’t be happier. Bringing your client’s concepts to life doesn't have to be complicated or onerous. The key is good communication, a clear idea of what you’re trying to accomplish going in, and a simple, effective lighting plan. My advice is always to keep it uncomplicated and creative. Keep your eyes and ears open and always think about what you’re not seeing. The final you’re seeing here isn’t where I started out during this shoot. It’s easy to miss something potentially great when you’re in the shooting bubble. In my experience, the strongest image may not be the one you’re shooting but something still unseen and undiscovered. Stop, look around, reframe. You’ll be surprised at the hidden gems just waiting for you!
