Introduction:

Since I already had a bunch of models in formal dress clothes from the “Shooting in the Rain” photo session and because the weather outside was pretty nasty since it was rainy and all, we decided to head inside to do some more individual shots. Having no studio at the time we decided to shoot the portraits using a off-white wall in the hallway of one of the campus buildings at my university.

We decided to play along the theme of the models being so dressed up but shooting them differently than one would expect. I think these three photos work great as a series that shows how these models can be “dressed up”.

Shooting Details:

I really like simple lighting when shooting under time constraints so I employed a very simple one light setup here. With the help of a few assistants we were able to put a single speedlight (Nikon SB-25) shooting into a reflective umbrella high above and towards the model from directly above their heads. By varying the umbrella angle and the model’s distance to the background wall we are able to control how much light hits the background and how well lit it is. I enjoyed using this lighting as it creates deep shadows underneath each model’s eyes and it is really fun and unique after shooting so many other simple one light setups.

Things I Learned:

• Keep your lighting setups simple. Learn and perfect a single lighting setup and keep on using it till you master it.
• If people question why you’re shooting people in their underwear on campus, say it is for a “school project” and they will continue on their way.

Photos: