How to Create Eye-catching Wraparound Light in Portrait Photography

You might think that creating enveloping wraparound light requires multiple sources, but it can actually be done with just a single source. This fantastic video tutorial will show you how to create such a portrait using only a single light and a small home studio. 

Coming to you from Jiggie Alejandrino, this excellent video tutorial will show you how to shoot a portrait with wraparound light using only a single source. This is a fantastic exercise, as it will teach you how to shape light rather than constantly adding more sources and increasing the complexity and cost of the setup. Not only will this make your life easier, it can particularly important if you move out of the studio. Many on-location portrait photographers generally like to shoot with just one light, sometimes two, as it is often too much of a logistical challenge to work with more complex setups when you need to transport all your gear and move between different areas. 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!"

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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