Lighting with Flash: The Basics

In a photo shoot with a model, photographer and Strobist blog publisher David Hobby demonstrates the basics of lighting with compact flash units.

1. Starting with Window Light as a Light Source

• Setting the stage
• Shooting using available window light
• Lighting notebook: Window light photo shoot

2. Adding a Flash

• Adding a flash umbrella
• Changing the position of the key light
• Learning to previsualize your lighting
• Lighting notebook: Single strobe with window light

3. Adding a Second Strobe and Small Softbox

• Setting the stage
• Adding the lights
• Creating an edgier look with the key light
• Lighting notebook: Two strobes

4. Attitude with Overhead Umbrella and Ring Flash

• Layers and a cone of light
• Using a ring flash for fill
• Lighting notebook: Overhead umbrella with ring fill

5. Classic Ring Light Glamour

• The ring as key light
• The ring as fill, with a new key light
• The ring as key with light on the background
• Lighting notebook: Ring light as key or fill

6. A Four-Light Shoot

• Setting up a behind-the-scenes shot
• The photo shoot
• Lighting notebook: Four-light meta shoot

Conclusion

• Next steps