Whether you’re working with athletes in controlled environments or trying to create a dramatic effect, the way you set up your lights can make or break the shot. Understanding how to efficiently arrange and use your lighting gear allows you to maximize your time while producing high-quality images.
Coming to you from James Quantz Jr, this fantastic video breaks down three distinct lighting setups used in a recent sports-themed shoot. The client brought custom jerseys and sports accessories, including a Scooby-Doo-inspired uniform, leading to creative setups. Quantz walks through the process of building each look, starting in reverse order with the final setup first. He explains how a simple foam core board with cutouts and diffusion material can simulate multiple light sources using just one strobe. Instead of relying on LED strips, he bounced light from a Westcott FJ800 into a large umbrella, creating the illusion of five separate bars of light. The setup provided a controlled, dramatic effect while reducing the need for excessive power output. This method is an efficient way to achieve a complex look without adding unnecessary gear.
The second setup incorporated Pro Light Mods—customizable lighting modifiers—stacked on rolling stands for easy maneuverability. Quantz used four 2x3 Prite Mods along with Westcott Rapid Boxes to shape and control the light. The ability to position the lights precisely helped to manage reflections on the glossy helmets the athletes wore. He also placed an overhead light fitted with a 1x3 Rapid Box to create a stadium-style reflection in the helmets, a technique that works well for polished surfaces. By planning ahead and minimizing setup time, the shoot flowed smoothly, allowing for multiple looks without lengthy delays.
For the final setup, a monochromatic backdrop was used to match the uniform, creating a seamless, stylized look. Strobes lit the background, while additional strip boxes added separation from the subject. The gradient effect on the backdrop maintained contrast while keeping the color consistent. This approach highlights how minor adjustments in positioning and intensity can dramatically alter the feel of an image. By carefully planning transitions between setups, Quantz was able to maximize efficiency while maintaining creative flexibility. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Quantz.
