By combining a strong theme, careful lighting, and complementary styling, you can produce photographs that are dramatic and memorable. The process involves creativity and precision, but the results can elevate your work to new levels.
Coming to you from Lindsay Adler Photography, this detailed video demonstrates a step-by-step approach to creating a striking red-on-red monochromatic image. Adler’s setup begins with a Savage Primary Red backdrop, chosen for its rich saturation. She notes that underlighting can dull red tones, so she allows the background to fall into shadow while adding subtle highlights with a low-powered light. This careful lighting ensures depth without sacrificing vibrancy, a crucial element for such bold compositions.
Adler incorporates a unique element—a piece of red plexiglass with a reflective coating. This addition adds subtle reflections and layers of interest to the photograph without distracting from the subject. Paired with red makeup, styling, and accessories, the image builds on its theme with a cohesive color palette. Adler’s experience with personal projects focused on red has pushed her to explore increasingly complex lighting and set designs, making this image part of an evolving collection.
The lighting setup features four distinct lights. The main light, a Westcott Optical Spot with a 150mm lens, creates a focused yet soft beam that highlights the subject’s face. An overhead separation light, using a medium umbrella with diffusion, emphasizes the shoulders and clavicles, adding refinement to the image. A Profoto B10 Plus with a gel lights the background subtly, maintaining a dark, dramatic tone. Finally, a fill light softens shadows on the subject, with a red gel subtly reinforcing the monochromatic theme. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Adler.
