Excellent tutorial and good pointer about the shape of the softbox. I have always been using octas but tend to (subconsciously) position them too high for the reason you mention, not enough space. That throws the balance off - and the shape of light (gives a pretty rough look even with a proper fill). QUICK QUESTION: About the fill modifier; if you only could choose between one that is either 10cm wider OR 10cm narrower than the key modifier - Which one would you pick? About flattering light, yes this is a tricky one since this setup CAN (if not done properly) throw a huge bowl of light on the face with zero modeling. I like to use a gigant reflector for a more subtle fill even though a second lightsource gives more control. It's all about balance. Anyway....over the years I think the clamshell is what most people like the best and usually go "ohh...nice light!". And it's always better to have proper real light in the eyes and then - if needed - shape the face in post with a little D&B. Very quick these days with tools like Evoto.
Thank you for sharing! I just followed this tutorial and did headshots for my coworkers and ended up changing all of my profile pictures across my social media platforms. Super easy to set up and thankful for the comprehensive guide yipppeeeee
Excellent tutorial Hannah! Clamshell with rectangular sources is idea - with the strip box on the bottom allowing good access to the model as you suggested. A light source on the bottom offers the ultimate control of the fill if handled subtly as you did in your demonstration. Based on your response to Greg, congratulations on your new addition!
Thanks so much Thomas, that’s really kind of you. Glad you also see the value of the second light. Just sometimes I like find alternative solutions for those just starting out who don’t have lots of kit just yet but for sure, two lights is optimal as you say 👍🏼
Hi Hannah - You are a great teacher and thanks for your clear explanations regarding your lighting setup choices. I did want to ask you why you preferred f/4 versus f/8 or f/11 in a studio environment. I have subscribed to your channel and look forward to learning more from you! Thanks again.
Thanks so much Clark! Yes I did too initially but if you have two lights then I find it’s just a bit nicer in the workflow and you have the freedom to move. Hope the headshot goes well this afternoon! Do let us know how you get on 😊
Hello Hannah. I haven’t seen you make any videos on TH-cam in a while. It’s good to see you back on TH-cam. I love the clam shell lighting technique. I believe I can do the same thing with two Profoto A1X’s
Hey Greg, thanks so much! Yes, been a little quiet, you may have noticed in the video that I’m pregnant so been working hard preparing the business before maternity leave. We have some content recorded and ready though 😊 Thanks for your kind words, yes you can definitely do the same with your A1x’s and some modifiers. Let us know how you get on 😊
Just came across your channel. I'm now subscribed. Wonderful, easy-to-understand explanation. I whole-heartedly agree with all your comments. FWIW - I find that -2 stops for the fill works great, and is a good place to start when setting up. Your suggestion and reasoning for using a rectangle soft box for the key light rather than circular was brilliant!! Looking forward to viewing all your videos.
Hey Michael, thanks and welcome aboard! So glad you are with us. That’s a great tip to ballpark around two stops less, that should help people also. Glad you found the rectangular softboxes helpful, I personally find it just gives me more room to shoot when it’s on that boom in the butterfly position. Thanks again for you subscribing, we really appreciate it!
Ah thanks so much Jill! That’s such a lovely thing to say! We will have more for you over the coming months 😊 Will try and get another one done before baby is here too!
Good video. Even though the round or octabox can get in the way in a small studio, I enjoy the round catchlight in the eyes. Looking at the ending shot, I do like how it turned out and the rectangular catchlight probably only bugs a few people.
Great video Hannah! When you are using two lights, do you set your camera's f/stop for the key light of the fill light and then leave it there when using both lights? Thanks again for sharing your knowledge, I have subscribed to your channel and look forward to your videos, Hannah!
Thank you for such a great video and explanation! Excellent results. Subscribed! I've been doing this with an octa and a reflector for fill but am going to use this setup next time. For the fill, where are you aiming it? Have you ever tried with a larger fill? My fills tend to be larger than my keys in general so I'm trying to wrap my head around the opposite. Can't try right now so I'm asking. Cheers!
Thanks for this video Hannah. I haven’t done photography in a few years and wanted a brush up on clamshell. I am curious as to how you placed your bottom light? I have tripods and soft boxes. Is it just sitting on the floor not on a tripod?
Thanks so much! I’m using a floor stand for this setup. You could also use a c-stand base with a jr to baby pin adapter to get it low enough. Hope that helps.
These photos look brilliantly thanks for sharing the technique. When you put the full light on by itself and then changed the exposure to suit in the camera how did you know the exposure would still be ok when you turned the key light on? Or did you adjust the power of the fill light so it wasn’t so bright? Thanks Glenn
Thank you! I don't always get it completely right but I am looking for a good exposure on the skin, in the eyes and generally the light pattern from above. I know that the shadows will be lifted by the fill light underneath so I am just concentrating on the key at the point. It's just experience which allows me to have a more accurate guess but there are many times where I need to adjust them a little when both lights are on together.
Hannah, first thanks for the video. Late to this party and as a new photographer just getting into portraiture, it has quickly become apparent that one recipe does not fit all. I realize that not everyone is going to do the same thing the same way. That said, Daniel Norton on Adorama TV suggests the lower modifier, if not on axis, should be larger than the key light. You like the equal in size. Peter Coulson has a monster light overhead, and a slightly longer strip box underneath - almost straight over head and straight up. Now, I do realize that many people cook not by strictly what is written in a cookbook, but season to taste. That said, there appears to be no unifying video on what to do what (and most of use don't have enough money to go buy every modifier under the sun so we can try on something Jerry Ghionis does, or Lindsay Adler does - and it's hard to see difference each of these would make without someone doing a side, by side, by side comparison of shots etc. Would you give it a consideration?
Hi, Sorry I missed this at the time. You are right, there are no hard and fast rules here, we all have our own way of working and that's what makes it fun. I appreciate that as a new photographer you almost want something consistent so you know if you are doing it 'right' as such but if you like the results that I, Daniel, Peter, Jerry or Lindsay achieve then go for the one that you like best. I totally understand that you don't have every modifier going but perhaps what you could do is organise a shoot day with some other photographer friends and rent some of the modifiers you want to test and share the cost. That way you can try things out for little cost but get to know what would suit you best before purchasing?
The light you see in the video is the modelling light of the flash and the natural light in the room. You can shoot with this setup if that is the look you are going for, but here we are eliminating most of the natural light by using the strobe light of the flash and adjusting the camera settings accordingly.
The introduction reminds somehow of the part where stewardess explains how to use oxygen masks and where emergency exits. Mind you, with her looks Hannah might just as well be a stewardess with BA.
Haha! I definitely talk with my hands don’t I?! You’re too kind Ted, you can appreciate that I have clamshell light on me though so it’s helping me out big time! 😆
Don't be stupid. She explains and demonstrates very clearly and efficiently how to do the technique. You don't like that she uses expensive lights? You don't like that her gear is Profoto? Well, tough shit. She did say it doesn't matter what lights you use but I guess you ignored that just to show your stupidity. I mean, how dare she use the gear she wants to? Would you prefer if she used Godox/Flashpoint? Her vids would be the same, just with different gear. Hannah is a great educator. If you can't see that then there's no need to be on her channel now, is there?
Wow… Never has the song “Georgia On My Mind” being more appropriate. Excellent tutorial as well
Excellent tutorial and good pointer about the shape of the softbox. I have always been using octas but tend to (subconsciously) position them too high for the reason you mention, not enough space. That throws the balance off - and the shape of light (gives a pretty rough look even with a proper fill). QUICK QUESTION: About the fill modifier; if you only could choose between one that is either 10cm wider OR 10cm narrower than the key modifier - Which one would you pick?
About flattering light, yes this is a tricky one since this setup CAN (if not done properly) throw a huge bowl of light on the face with zero modeling. I like to use a gigant reflector for a more subtle fill even though a second lightsource gives more control. It's all about balance. Anyway....over the years I think the clamshell is what most people like the best and usually go "ohh...nice light!". And it's always better to have proper real light in the eyes and then - if needed - shape the face in post with a little D&B. Very quick these days with tools like Evoto.
Thank you for sharing! I just followed this tutorial and did headshots for my coworkers and ended up changing all of my profile pictures across my social media platforms. Super easy to set up and thankful for the comprehensive guide yipppeeeee
Gosh I'm sorry I missed this comment at the time but that's awesome! So glad it was helpful :)
I'm glad to see that you didn't totally fill in the shadows, leaving the image flat. I see so many photographers adjusting lighting incorrectly.
Thanks, yeah that’s the beauty of that second light is that you’re always in control so it doesn’t have to look completely flattened out.
Excellent tutorial Hannah! Clamshell with rectangular sources is idea - with the strip box on the bottom allowing good access to the model as you suggested. A light source on the bottom offers the ultimate control of the fill if handled subtly as you did in your demonstration. Based on your response to Greg, congratulations on your new addition!
Thanks so much Thomas, that’s really kind of you. Glad you also see the value of the second light. Just sometimes I like find alternative solutions for those just starting out who don’t have lots of kit just yet but for sure, two lights is optimal as you say 👍🏼
Hi Hannah - You are a great teacher and thanks for your clear explanations regarding your lighting setup choices. I did want to ask you why you preferred f/4 versus f/8 or f/11 in a studio environment. I have subscribed to your channel and look forward to learning more from you! Thanks again.
Really nice video! Thank you! Simple, to the point and very well done! Thank you Hannah!
Thanks so much marcusgarrison288, I'm glad you enjoyed it =]
Another great tutorial Hannah! I typically use a reflector but may give the fill light a go for my next headshot - which is this afternoon!
Thanks so much Clark! Yes I did too initially but if you have two lights then I find it’s just a bit nicer in the workflow and you have the freedom to move. Hope the headshot goes well this afternoon! Do let us know how you get on 😊
@@HannahCouzensPhotography thank you! I will!
Fantastic video thank you thank you thank you!
Thank you so much, glad you enjoyed it =]
Your model Georgia is beautiful . Your tecnhic is great .
Hello Hannah. I haven’t seen you make any videos on TH-cam in a while. It’s good to see you back on TH-cam. I love the clam shell lighting technique. I believe I can do the same thing with two Profoto A1X’s
Hey Greg, thanks so much! Yes, been a little quiet, you may have noticed in the video that I’m pregnant so been working hard preparing the business before maternity leave. We have some content recorded and ready though 😊
Thanks for your kind words, yes you can definitely do the same with your A1x’s and some modifiers. Let us know how you get on 😊
Great video Hannah,I like the way you teach.🤍🇿🇦
Ah thank you so much, that’s really kind of you! Hope it was helpful 😊
@@HannahCouzensPhotography it was really helpful, again, Thank you for your efforts.
Just came across your channel. I'm now subscribed. Wonderful, easy-to-understand explanation. I whole-heartedly agree with all your comments.
FWIW - I find that -2 stops for the fill works great, and is a good place to start when setting up.
Your suggestion and reasoning for using a rectangle soft box for the key light rather than circular was brilliant!! Looking forward to viewing all your videos.
Hey Michael, thanks and welcome aboard! So glad you are with us. That’s a great tip to ballpark around two stops less, that should help people also. Glad you found the rectangular softboxes helpful, I personally find it just gives me more room to shoot when it’s on that boom in the butterfly position. Thanks again for you subscribing, we really appreciate it!
We love you Hannah. Your way too good for your game. Very talented 😊
Ah that really is kind of you, glad you enjoyed it and thanks for you kind words!
@@HannahCouzensPhotography anytime. You deserve them ❤️
thank you hannah for your love of details, really like this video
Thanks so much! That’s really kind and I’m so glad you enjoyed it 😊
Nice job thanks for sharing
Thank you very much =]
I get excited when I see a new tutorial from you Hannah! You are my favorite teacher.
Ah thanks so much Jill! That’s such a lovely thing to say! We will have more for you over the coming months 😊 Will try and get another one done before baby is here too!
Good to see your face again Hannah!
Thanks Ryan, it's good to be back =]
Good video. Even though the round or octabox can get in the way in a small studio, I enjoy the round catchlight in the eyes. Looking at the ending shot, I do like how it turned out and the rectangular catchlight probably only bugs a few people.
Totally, everyone should do what works for them :)
Great video Hannah! When you are using two lights, do you set your camera's f/stop for the key light of the fill light and then leave it there when using both lights? Thanks again for sharing your knowledge, I have subscribed to your channel and look forward to your videos, Hannah!
I was expecting a clamshell reflector tutorial, but this was great. I'll prob. use two lights. Still, do you have more clamshell recommendations?
Thank you for such a great video and explanation! Excellent results. Subscribed! I've been doing this with an octa and a reflector for fill but am going to use this setup next time. For the fill, where are you aiming it? Have you ever tried with a larger fill? My fills tend to be larger than my keys in general so I'm trying to wrap my head around the opposite. Can't try right now so I'm asking. Cheers!
Hannah, do you ever go to the WPPI events in las vegas?
Absolutely beautiful, Hannah! I love your technique!!!
Thank you so much John! So glad you enjoyed it 👍🏼
Whats the type of color behind? Savage or Colorama? And which model?
Colorama Cappuccino =]
Love your videos, so well explained and easy to understand! Going to try this in studio instead of using a reflector!
Thank you so much Jillian, that’s so nice to hear! Amazing, let us know how you get on! 😊
Thanks for this video Hannah. I haven’t done photography in a few years and wanted a brush up on clamshell. I am curious as to how you placed your bottom light? I have tripods and soft boxes. Is it just sitting on the floor not on a tripod?
Thanks so much! I’m using a floor stand for this setup. You could also use a c-stand base with a jr to baby pin adapter to get it low enough. Hope that helps.
These photos look brilliantly thanks for sharing the technique. When you put the full light on by itself and then changed the exposure to suit in the camera how did you know the exposure would still be ok when you turned the key light on? Or did you adjust the power of the fill light so it wasn’t so bright? Thanks Glenn
Thank you! I don't always get it completely right but I am looking for a good exposure on the skin, in the eyes and generally the light pattern from above. I know that the shadows will be lifted by the fill light underneath so I am just concentrating on the key at the point. It's just experience which allows me to have a more accurate guess but there are many times where I need to adjust them a little when both lights are on together.
Thank you
Hannah, first thanks for the video. Late to this party and as a new photographer just getting into portraiture, it has quickly become apparent that one recipe does not fit all. I realize that not everyone is going to do the same thing the same way. That said, Daniel Norton on Adorama TV suggests the lower modifier, if not on axis, should be larger than the key light. You like the equal in size. Peter Coulson has a monster light overhead, and a slightly longer strip box underneath - almost straight over head and straight up. Now, I do realize that many people cook not by strictly what is written in a cookbook, but season to taste. That said, there appears to be no unifying video on what to do what (and most of use don't have enough money to go buy every modifier under the sun so we can try on something Jerry Ghionis does, or Lindsay Adler does - and it's hard to see difference each of these would make without someone doing a side, by side, by side comparison of shots etc. Would you give it a consideration?
Hi, Sorry I missed this at the time. You are right, there are no hard and fast rules here, we all have our own way of working and that's what makes it fun. I appreciate that as a new photographer you almost want something consistent so you know if you are doing it 'right' as such but if you like the results that I, Daniel, Peter, Jerry or Lindsay achieve then go for the one that you like best.
I totally understand that you don't have every modifier going but perhaps what you could do is organise a shoot day with some other photographer friends and rent some of the modifiers you want to test and share the cost. That way you can try things out for little cost but get to know what would suit you best before purchasing?
@@HannahCouzensPhotography Great idea, and thank you for your comments and answer! Many Thanks.
Faaaaaabulous
Why thank you Sir!
Is this done for male headshots as well?
You can do if you like the effect and it suits the person =]
Is it nesseary to add grid on fill light???
A grid will add contrast and restrict the spread of the light, so personally I wouldn't use it for this type of lighting.
What size and color is that backdrop?
This is the cappuccino coloured backdrop from colorama in 2.72m 👍🏼
why used camera flash when u already have a lighting set up just curious what would happen if we shoot without camera flash?
The light you see in the video is the modelling light of the flash and the natural light in the room. You can shoot with this setup if that is the look you are going for, but here we are eliminating most of the natural light by using the strobe light of the flash and adjusting the camera settings accordingly.
Gracias.
You’re welcome 😊
😍🤩😇
The introduction reminds somehow of the part where stewardess explains how to use oxygen masks and where emergency exits. Mind you, with her looks Hannah might just as well be a stewardess with BA.
Haha! I definitely talk with my hands don’t I?! You’re too kind Ted, you can appreciate that I have clamshell light on me though so it’s helping me out big time! 😆
This whole comment sounds chauvinistic.
@@chermontroWell, if you look at it with your bias, all you get is your biased view.😆😆😆
Sorry you are not Explaining anyting . just promoting profoto . . all the videos
So you didn’t hear the bit at the beginning when I said it doesn’t matter what lights you use then?
Don't be stupid. She explains and demonstrates very clearly and efficiently how to do the technique. You don't like that she uses expensive lights? You don't like that her gear is Profoto? Well, tough shit. She did say it doesn't matter what lights you use but I guess you ignored that just to show your stupidity. I mean, how dare she use the gear she wants to? Would you prefer if she used Godox/Flashpoint? Her vids would be the same, just with different gear. Hannah is a great educator. If you can't see that then there's no need to be on her channel now, is there?