Home >> Hobbies >> Photography

How to Do Figure Photography Lighting

Lighting and knowing how to use light is an important component to successful photography. When working with figures or portrait photography, the correct placement of your studio lights is critical to achieving good pictures. A standard figure or portrait lighting setup is a three-light configuration. The position of the lights should illuminate the portion of the figure or model you want to feature in your photo.

Things You'll Need

Three studio lights

Instructions

- 1
  Arrange the figure or model into the desired position for your photograph.
- 2
  Position your main light at a 45-degree angle to the figure or model, with the light directed to the area you are featuring in your photographs. Turn the light on and set the power to full.
- 3
  Position your fill light at a 45-degree angle on the opposite side of the figure or model and direct the light towards the figure or model. Turn this light on, and set the power to half the power of the main light. By setting the power of this light to a lower setting, you will create interesting shadows and add depth to your image.
- 4
  Position a third light at a 45-degree angle, behind and elevated on the opposite side of the main light. This light is used to illuminate the hair or top of the figure or model. Turn this light on and set the power to half of the main light. Reposition the lights as you change the position of your figure or model. Always keep the power settings the same, with the main light at full power and the fill lights at half power.

Photography