Photo
Mar, 2015Views
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Staff Winter Selection 2015
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Jaw Dropping
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Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
Behind The Lens
Location
This photo was taken in my apartment. The major learning I got from this image is that creative portraits can be taken in a tight spot.Time
The image was taken in the evening and it was taken indoors. I ensured that the blinds are closed and made sure that I expose it in a way that I completely cut off any ambient light.Lighting
This image is one of my favorite. I managed to get the exact output I had envisioned. I used two Portalite softboxes (26x26") each placed on the side of his shoulders and slightly behind him. The modeling lamps were on so that helped me place my lights the exact way I wanted them to be. Also, my place does not have a high ceiling and that helped in this case as the spill helped fill the face.Equipment
This was shot on Nikon D800 using my 85mm f1.4. I used two small Elinchrom softboxes and triggered using EL-Skyport Speed transmitter.Inspiration
I wanted to take portraits where light is used creatively. The goal was to make some moody/edgy portraits. During the shoot, I first took few images with a single light and was trying to use it creatively and then towards the end I tried this specific set up using two lights. I learnt this technique from Joel Grimes. I just love the way he creatively lights his portraits. His body of work is truly inspiring.Editing
The processing part was very simple. All I did was removing skin blemishes and some dodging/burning.In my camera bag
If I am going to shoot portraits, my 85mm f1.4 has to be there and then my favorite 35mm f1.4 - (Both Nikon) They are amazing lenses and most of the time I try to get my shots using one of these. I also carry a 24-70mm f2.8 which comes in handy if I need to go wider. I then pack my Nikon bodies D800 and D750. The D750 is a lot lighter and the tilt screen is so useful. If I need just one cam then without giving a second thought I take my D750.Feedback
This set up is very simple and you can also do it outdoors. If you have grids, then make sure to use them as they will make your light more directional and allow you to be precise. A reflector close to the face might be helpful to fill in the shadows or you can use a third light source as a fill light.
