Single light portraits – A mini HowTo

Nivedita
Nivedita - Single light setups

As a beginner in studio photography I wallowed in self pity of the fact that I had only one light and portraits needed was at least three and I could not afford any. Then I was gently reminded of the working motto of SANIsoft. “Argue for your limitations and sure enough they are yours”*

I started experimenting and sure enough I found that a single light could give very dramatic results.

Here are some pointers to what I learned in my journey to achieving single light magic.

Aasim
MIB - The next generation
  • Your light source need not be expensive. This portrait of Aasim was taken using INR80/- table lamp
lighting-diagram-1247736967
Setup - reflector is optional

The basic lighting layout is as shown above, things to note here are

  • If you have single light you have to ensure that it is as widely diffused as possible so a large softbox or an umbrella is a must.
  • The main light is almost 90 degrees to the camera
  • You can use an optional reflector which is at an angle

When you have got the basic setup done you have to keep a couple of more things in mind

Nivedita
Nivedita - Use black negative space

  • Think minimalistic and incorporate a lot of negative space
  • A black backdrop works the best

There are some variations that you can try

Nivedita - Backlit
Nivedita - use single light to backlight from an angle

  • Use the the single light to backlight the subject
Nivedita
Nivedita - Huge softbox and reflector

  • If the light is wide enough you get effects like the above
Kishor
Kishore
_DSC1123
Karunakar
_DSC1235
Ankita
_DSC1236
James
_DSC1085
Amogh


After my first shoot with a single light I realized that it is much easier to deal with a single light source. In fact even today I start out with a single light and then fill in the parts which need more. About the only negative point I have to say against a single light setup is that it is very difficult to get the hair highlights on the opposite side, you can try reflecting but it never turns out as impressive as a dedicated hair light.

Lastly, this by no means is a complete HOWTO for single light or even all the tips and tricks you can manage but it is a start – do post a comment about your favorite single technique….

See also:

*Quote by Richard Bach