Take Better Pictures By Studying Studio Layouts

Whether you’re interested in learning more about lighting to add to your photography skill set or you’re just curious how proper studio lighting works, this handy guide will provide some photo-enhancing insight.

Studio lighting can range from something as simple as a single key light for dramatic portraits to an array of hair, kicker, background and fill lighting. While most amateur shutterbugs won’t be running out any time soon to outfit a garage studio with a half-dozen strobe lights, knowing how lights are arranged for traditional studio shots can help you choose where to place your subject to take advantage of similar natural light conditions. I’ve discovered a spot on my driveway, for example, where the afternoon sun bounces off the white siding on the house and creates a natural and soft fill light.

The guide at photography site Shot Addict covers traditional arrangements like Three-Quarter, Paramount, and Rembrandt lighting, among others. If a particular lighting arrangement sounds interesting definitely hit up Google Images for some examples of the style in action.

For some DIY studio lighting that won’t break the bank, check out how to build your own soft box, make a DIY beauty dish and create a basic ring flash. If have your own lighting tips and tricks, sound off in the comments.

Studio Lighting Techniques [Shot Addict]