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.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MfBmNfMb7WA&feature=c4-overview&list=UU8Pksdbj37CdE00kmE7Z1dw[/youtube]
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.