Portrait Photography Essentials: One-Light Setups

Share 1-5 portraits using a one-light setup.

ASSIGNMENT

Photograph a subject using a one-light setup: split, loop, Rembrandt, and/or butterfly. Remember that it's not about your budget or equipment, but the intention you bring to the shoot! Whether you're using lights in a studio or sunlight outside, angle your subject and your light in a way that's flattering and fits your creative vision.

A few notes: I encourage you to shoot in black & white so you can really focus on the light, but feel free to use color if you wish. You can shoot DSLR, iPhone, or even film — whatever you're comfortable with. And, while I also encourage you to capture a portrait of a friend, feel free to practice the setups with an object so you can learn by doing and get feedback from other students in the class.

DELIVERABLE

Share 1-5 portraits using a one-light setup. A completed project will include:

• A brief description of your light source + setup (professional in-studio lights, sunlight, etc.)
• 1-5 portraits

RESOURCES

• Portrait Photography: Creating Drama with Light — my first Skillshare class offers a more general introduction to light and portraiture
• JustinBridges.com