Portrait Lighting Recipe Builder
Start with your own readings. Calculate the change, verify a frame, and save what works.
Portrait recipe builder
Choose a look and adapt a starting setup to your equipment.
A lighting recipe is a starting experiment
Choose a portrait look, consider the equipment you have, and build one source at a time. The recipe builder translates a visual goal into placement, relative contributions and a test sequence.
- Choose the look and one flash, modifier, grid and reflector options. Establish the key before adding anything else.
- Use the target-aperture calculator to translate an actual reading into a supported power setting.
- Inspect shadows and spill. Record the final placement, readings and changes that improved the result.
For a directional one-light portrait, compare a white reflector on the shadow side with no reflector. Keep the key fixed and check both the meter and shadow shape.
Can the recipe set power from my flash model?
No. A model name or watt-second rating is not a meter reading. Measure the actual modifier and distance.
Are these the settings used in DNA portfolio images?
No. Portfolio images show the work, while the recipes are independent practice suggestions.
By Dwayne of DNA Premium Portraits, Sacramento-area portrait photographer. See formulas, assumptions and equipment sources.
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