Learning how to work with artificial lighting is something every portrait photographer should learn, as it will free you of relying on certain locations, weather, and times of day and enable creative shots that would not be possible otherwise. If you would like to start learning, check out this fantastic video tutorial that will guide you through the process of lighting a portrait using a combination of a speedlight and natural light.
Coming to you from Jiggie Alejandrino, this helpful video tutorial will show you the process of shooting a portrait using a speedlight and natural light. Knowing how to mix both kinds of light is a particularly versatile skill, as it will allow you to tackle and control just about any environment or shooting scenario. For example, one of the most classic portrait looks is placing your subject in front of a sunset. To do this, you must expose for the sky to prevent blown-out highlights, which consequently underexposes your subject. Adding artificial light can bring everything back into balance and give you the best image quality. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Alejandrino.
If you would like to continue learning about how to light a portrait, be sure to check out "Illuminating The Face: Lighting for Headshots and Portraits With Peter Hurley!"
This is the first video I've seen in a long time with someone using a speedlight. Are they still popular or has everyone moved on to larger monolights?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eiUwT6ddG88
I still use them for most of my work. Traveling with 6 Speedlights takes less room than 2 monolights even some of the new smaller ones. Weight for me is still a big concern.