How to Create Dark Photo Shoots

Set up your photo shoot in a dark area, using a dark backdrop in a room where there are either no windows or where the windows can be completely covered. Use muslin or black seamless paper for a backdrop, depending on the nature and subject of the photo shoot. Allow no ambient light to spill onto the backdrop to ensure that it remains blackened out in the photograph.

Position the subject of the photo shoot as far from the backdrop as possible without losing the effect of the backdrop. This will make it easier to control the amount of light on the subject that can spill onto the backdrop.

Add grids or barn doors to the strobes to focus the light directly onto the subjects without letting the light spill out onto other areas of the studio set. If light is allowed to fall onto the black backdrop it will illuminate it, making it appear gray and washed out. Have lights set to illuminate each object in the photograph individually to minimize light spillage.

Have the subject wear dark clothing to keep with the mood and theme of the photo shoot. Bright clothing will create significant contrast in the photograph and may detract from the theme.

Turn off all lights and cover windows to prevent daylight from seeping in. Use the modeling lamps on the strobes to position the lights on the subject and make sure that it isn't illuminating the backdrop. Use the minimum amount of light required for correct exposure.