Learn How to Shoot This Neat Vintage Style Photo

Go behind the scenes of this awesome image and learn how to create it yourself, from lighting all the way through post-processing.

Coming to you from Lindsay Adler Photography, this great video details the process of putting together, shooting, and processing a vintage-styled shot. For the shoot, Adler used a Canon 5D Mark IV with a 70-200mm lens and Profoto lights. And while she was using some top-notch equipment, what I really appreciated was her creativity in getting the shot she wanted by having her assistant hold a small flag just out of the frame to create the sharply defined shadow that really gives the photo its power. As Adler demonstrates, having the latest and greatest gear is certainly fun and can definitely make your life a lot easier, but having a rock solid understanding of light and how to shape it is what will help you realize your creative visions. It's also great to watch the attention to detail she has in her post-processing, modifying and shaping small bits of the photo in a way that adds up to a big result. Check out the video above for the full rundown of the shot. 

Alex Cooke's picture

Alex Cooke is a Cleveland-based portrait, events, and landscape photographer. He holds an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a doctorate in Music Composition. He is also an avid equestrian.

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8 Comments

Awesome video. Perfect length and no "Hi guys, what's up" intro!

And, hand waving.

Came here to say the same thing. Perfect explanation of concept, lighting breakdown, and brief re-touching explanation. All under 7-min! Lindsay is the best.

Amazing video. Thanks for sharing!.

Great video.

I wasn't a fan of harsh shadows, but from time to time, I love the look. I think I have to try this one day. (Saying "it's barebulb" is a bit confusing, as the Profotos have a build in reflector?)

Really love this style of portraiture. Wouldn't mind doing a shoot like this with an RZ67 and then printing on some fibre based gloss. Geez, haven't done that for a while!

Great work from shooting till post, love it!