Portrait Q&A

Thought it was about time I got round to doing something useful for a change

I did a lightroom Q&A sometime ago and it seemed to go really well, so here is the portrait version.


This is how it works
You post a ??? and I or/and another member will try and answer it to the best of our abilities. We will try to work on a one question at a time basis though, so we dont get the answers to the questions mixed up

Each question will be answered (as far as poss) within 24hrs....

Q: When setting up a studio for portrait work, what equipment do I need?

The most basic kit is as follows:
1 x Strobe lamp - pref with modelling light
1 x softbox or umbrella
10ft light Stand
1 x reflector.

The above will allow for directional diffused lighting with the reflector bouncing back some light for fill.

Q2: Can you elaborate on what those are and what they do please?

The stroble light is what is called the Key Light or sometimes the Base light. This the principle directional source of illumination. It reveals the basic shape of the subject.

Umbrellas and Softboxes - These diffuse the light - make the shadows less harsh and the light more uniform.

Reflectors come in black, white, silver, gold and translucent and bounce the light back onto the subject to "fill in/make lighter" any shadows. Think in terms of a very subtle umbrella or softbox.

Q3: Which ones are continuous lighting and which ones are like flashes?