7 Questions About Soft Light
In the studio there’s two types of light that photographers use to define their subject, hard light and soft light. Both have their place but usually in the studio I use soft light when shooting portraits. Getting the light from your studio flash or speedlite can be done in several ways. You can use one light or multiple lights, a softbox or umbrella and in this video I look at them all.
In total I cover seven questions you should know about soft light and how it’s different to hard light.
The final images you see here have had a little bit of Photoshop applied. How much Photoshop? Surprisingly little and I show you exactly how it’s done towards the end of the video too.
Can’t see the video? Click here http://youtu.be/MfBmNfMb7WA
Gear used in the video (links to the Adorama store)
Canon EOS 60D Digital SLR Camera
Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM
Lastolite Collapsible Background (Washington/Dakota)
Lastolite Hot Shoe Ezy-box Softbox 24×24″
Flashpoint Triple Shoe Mount Bracket
Adorama 33″ Translucent Umbrella
Thank you Gavin, A great video, answered lots of questions. Always tempted to set up a home studio, but a lisle reluctant. This will really help. Thanks again. MACGETH
I hope you give the home studio a go. I can be very rewarding photographically speaking 🙂
dear Gavin love this tutorial. It really helpes with our strobist try-outs.thanks for the give aways!
Thanks Herman, it was fun to make too 🙂
Hi. It is my first time to watch your video tutorial and I like your style, simplicity of explaining the basics. I barely used flash in my photography I like the natural soft light. As I watch tutorials on commercial photography I realized flash is a must. So I’m brushing on my knowledge and learning as much as I can. If you have the time check out my web site and let me know where can I improve. All the best, Andre
Hello, Gavin thanks for the valuable tips..
You’re very welcome.
Great tutorial 🙂 i’m always a fan of ur work Mr. Gavin. Now i’m inspired to do strobist shoots this weekend. The Post-process tips are also helpful.. Thanks 😉
Hello Gavin,
thank you for the tutorial. I have one question about the umbrella: do you always flash through the umbrella or can they also be used as un reflector. If so, what is the difference.
Looking forward to the reply.
P.S. I have noticed a certain alikeness between you and Jack. Could he be your son?
Greetings from Stuttgart/Germany
Matthias
When using the white umbrella I always shoot through it. You can shoot the light into it which can make the light even softer but will lower the effective flash power significantly. Jack and I are not related.