What are the 5 Basic Lighting Techniques Every Photographer Should Know?

As a photographer, mastering the art of lighting is crucial to achieving stunning and professional-looking shots. Whether you’re shooting portraits, landscapes, or still-life, lighting can make or break your image. That’s why it’s important to know the five basic lighting techniques that every photographer should have in their arsenal. These techniques are simple yet powerful, and with practice, you’ll be able to create beautiful and dynamic images that will impress your clients and viewers alike. So, let’s dive in and explore the five basic lighting techniques that will take your photography game to the next level!

Understanding Lighting Techniques

The Importance of Lighting in Photography

In photography, lighting plays a crucial role in determining the overall look and feel of an image. It can create mood, define shape and form, and draw the viewer’s attention to specific areas of the frame. Lighting can also be used to highlight certain elements in a scene, or to create a sense of depth and dimension.

Good lighting can make or break an image, and it is essential for photographers to understand how to use light effectively in order to achieve the desired results. This is why it is important for every photographer to have a solid understanding of the basics of lighting techniques.

Without proper lighting, an image can look flat and uninteresting. Lighting can add dimension and depth to an image, making it more dynamic and visually appealing. Lighting can also be used to create mood and atmosphere, setting the tone for the image.

Furthermore, lighting can also be used to draw attention to specific areas of an image. By strategically placing lights, photographers can highlight certain elements in a scene and direct the viewer’s attention to where they want it to go.

Overall, lighting is a critical element in photography, and understanding how to use it effectively is essential for any photographer looking to create compelling and visually striking images.

Types of Lighting Techniques

When it comes to lighting techniques, there are several types that photographers can use to achieve different effects. Some of the most common types of lighting techniques include:

• Natural Lighting: This type of lighting uses sunlight or other natural sources of light to create an image. Natural lighting is often used in outdoor photography, such as landscape and wildlife photography.
• Artificial Lighting: This type of lighting uses artificial sources of light, such as flash or strobe lights, to create an image. Artificial lighting is often used in indoor photography, such as portrait and still life photography.
• Available Light: This type of lighting uses the existing light in a scene to create an image. Available light is often used in natural light photography, such as street and documentary photography.
• Additional Light: This type of lighting uses artificial light sources to add light to a scene and enhance the existing light. Additional light is often used in studio photography, such as fashion and product photography.
• Mixed Lighting: This type of lighting uses a combination of natural and artificial light sources to create an image. Mixed lighting is often used in interior photography, such as architecture and interior design photography.

Understanding the different types of lighting techniques can help photographers choose the right technique for the scene they are trying to capture. It is important to consider the subject, the mood, and the desired effect when choosing a lighting technique. By understanding the different types of lighting techniques, photographers can create images that are both technically sound and aesthetically pleasing.

How Lighting Affects the Mood and Tone of a Photo

The way light is used in a photograph can greatly impact the mood and tone of the image. By understanding how to manipulate light, photographers can create a wide range of emotional responses in their viewers.

• Direction of Light: The direction of light can greatly affect the mood of a photo. For example, side lighting can create a sense of drama and contrast, while backlighting can create a sense of depth and dimensionality.
• Intensity of Light: The intensity of light can also affect the mood of a photo. High key lighting, which is bright and evenly lit, can create a sense of happiness and optimism, while low key lighting, which is dark and moody, can create a sense of sadness and despair.
• Color of Light: The color of light can also impact the mood of a photo. Warm lighting, such as that provided by candlelight or sunset, can create a sense of coziness and intimacy, while cool lighting, such as that provided by fluorescent lights, can create a sense of detachment and coldness.
• Shadows: Shadows can add depth and dimension to a photo, but too many shadows can make an image feel claustrophobic and dark.
• Contrast: Contrast between light and dark areas in a photo can create a sense of drama and tension, but too much contrast can make an image feel harsh and uninviting.

By understanding how these different elements of lighting can affect the mood and tone of a photo, photographers can make intentional choices about how to use light in their images to create the desired emotional response in their viewers.

Understanding the Basics of Lighting Equipment

When it comes to lighting techniques, understanding the basics of lighting equipment is essential for any photographer. This includes knowing the different types of lighting equipment available, their features, and how to use them effectively.

Types of Lighting Equipment

There are several types of lighting equipment that photographers can use, including:

• Flashes: These are small, portable lights that are often used to provide a quick burst of light for a specific area of the scene.
• Continuous lights: These are larger, more powerful lights that can be used to provide consistent lighting over a longer period of time.
• Strobes: These are high-powered flash units that are often used in studio settings to provide a powerful burst of light.
• LED lights: These are energy-efficient lights that are becoming increasingly popular among photographers. They are often used for their ability to provide a soft, diffused light.

Features of Lighting Equipment

In addition to the different types of lighting equipment, there are several features that photographers should be familiar with, including:

• Power: The amount of power that a light source produces can have a significant impact on the quality of the light.
• Color temperature: The color temperature of a light source can affect the overall mood and tone of the scene.
• Size and weight: Some lighting equipment is portable and easy to transport, while others are larger and more cumbersome.
• Directionality: The ability of a light source to be directed at a specific area of the scene can be important for achieving the desired effect.

Using Lighting Equipment Effectively

Once a photographer has a basic understanding of the different types of lighting equipment and their features, they can begin to use them effectively. This includes:

• Considering the scene: Before setting up lighting equipment, photographers should consider the mood and tone they want to achieve, as well as the subject and background.
• Experimenting: Photographers should experiment with different types of lighting equipment and techniques to find what works best for them.
• Practicing: Lighting techniques take time and practice to master, so photographers should be patient and keep practicing.

By understanding the basics of lighting equipment, photographers can begin to use it effectively to create the desired effects in their photographs.

The 5 Basic Lighting Techniques

Technique 1: Natural Light

Natural light is the most basic and essential lighting technique used in photography. It is free, versatile, and can create a wide range of moods and effects. Natural light is also easy to work with and can be manipulated in many ways to achieve the desired results.

Here are some tips for working with natural light:

• Shoot during the golden hour: The golden hour is the time just after sunrise and just before sunset when the light is soft and warm. This is the best time to shoot outdoors with natural light.
• Use shadows to your advantage: Shadows can add depth and interest to your photos. Experiment with different lighting situations to see how shadows affect your images.
• Look for diffused light: Diffused light is soft and even, and it creates a more pleasing lighting effect. Look for natural light sources such as clouds, trees, or buildings that can diffuse the light.
• Shoot in the right location: Choose a location that provides the best lighting for your subject. Look for natural light sources such as windows, doors, or openings that can provide soft, diffused light.
• Be mindful of the time of day: The time of day can affect the quality of the light. Avoid shooting during the middle of the day when the light is harshest. Instead, shoot during the early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer and more flattering.

Overall, natural light is a great lighting technique that every photographer should know. With a little practice and experimentation, you can master the art of working with natural light and create stunning images.

Technique 2: Artificial Light

When it comes to lighting, artificial light is an essential technique that every photographer should know. It allows you to control and manipulate light to create the desired mood and effect in your photographs. Here are some of the most common types of artificial light sources used in photography:

• Flash: Flash is a small, portable light source that is built into many cameras. It is commonly used to add light to a scene when there is not enough natural light available. There are several different types of flash, including external flashes and built-in flashes.
• Strobes: Strobes are powerful artificial light sources that are commonly used in studio photography. They are designed to produce a very high output of light, and are often used to light large areas or to create dramatic effects.
• LED lights: LED lights are a type of artificial light source that is becoming increasingly popular in photography. They are energy-efficient and can be used to produce a wide range of colors and effects.
• Continuous lights: Continuous lights are a type of artificial light source that produce a continuous stream of light. They are often used in video production, but can also be used in still photography to create a soft, diffused light.
• Softboxes: Softboxes are light modifiers that are used to soften the light produced by artificial light sources. They are commonly used in studio photography to create a soft, diffused light that is easy to work with.

Regardless of the type of artificial light source you choose to use, it is important to understand the basic principles of lighting. This includes understanding the difference between hard and soft light, and how to use light to create the desired mood and effect in your photographs. With practice and experimentation, you can learn to use artificial light to create stunning photographs that will captivate your audience.

Technique 3: Soft Light

Soft light is a technique that is used to create a gentle and diffused light source that is often used to create a more natural and flattering light on a subject. Here are some key points to keep in mind when using soft light:

• Sources of Soft Light: The most common sources of soft light are softboxes, umbrellas, and diffusers. These tools help to spread the light out and create a more even and gentle light source.
• Quality of Light: Soft light is known for its ability to create a soft and gentle light that is easy on the eyes. This type of light is often used in portrait photography to create a flattering light that highlights the subject’s features without creating harsh shadows.
• Placement of Soft Light: Soft light should be placed at a 45-degree angle from the subject, which creates a soft and gentle light that is perfect for portraits and other types of photography.
• Duration of Light: Soft light is typically used for longer durations of time, such as in studio portraits or fashion photography, where the subject needs to be lit in a consistent and even manner.
• Quality of Shadows: Soft light creates soft and diffused shadows that are often used in portrait photography to create a more natural and flattering light on the subject.

By using soft light, photographers can create a more natural and flattering light on their subjects, which is ideal for portrait and fashion photography. Soft light is also a great way to create a more even and consistent light source, which is essential for longer durations of time.

Technique 4: Hard Light

Hard light is a lighting technique that produces strong, defined shadows and contrast. It is created when the light source is positioned close to the subject, resulting in a small, distinct shadow. This technique is often used to create dramatic and moody images, and can be used in a variety of situations.

Characteristics of Hard Light:

• Strong, defined shadows
• High contrast
• Creates dramatic and moody images
• Produces a small, distinct shadow

How to Create Hard Light:

1. Position the light source close to the subject.
2. Use a small light source, such as a flash or a small LED panel.
3. Adjust the distance and angle of the light source to create the desired effect.

When to Use Hard Light:

• To create dramatic and moody images
• To add contrast to an image
• To highlight a specific part of the subject

Examples of Hard Light:

• Portraits with strong shadows and high contrast
• Product photography with a dramatic look
• Street photography with a moody atmosphere

In conclusion, hard light is a powerful tool for photographers to create dramatic and moody images. By positioning the light source close to the subject and using a small light source, photographers can create strong, defined shadows and high contrast in their images. This technique can be used in a variety of situations, from portraits to product photography, to add contrast and create a dramatic look.

Technique 5: Diffused Light

Diffused light is a technique that involves spreading out the light in a way that eliminates harsh shadows and creates a more even, natural look. This technique is especially useful when shooting portraits or other subjects that require soft, flattering light. Here are some tips for achieving diffused light:

1. Use a diffuser: A diffuser is a piece of translucent material that spreads out the light, reducing harsh shadows and creating a more even light. You can purchase a diffuser or make your own using materials like tissue paper or an old sheet.
2. Bounce the light: Another way to achieve diffused light is to bounce the light off a surface. This can be done by placing a white or silver reflector close to the subject, or by bouncing the light off a wall or ceiling.
3. Use a softbox: A softbox is a box-shaped diffuser that is placed over a flash or continuous light source. Softboxes come in different sizes and shapes, and are available in both rectangular and octagonal shapes.
4. Shoot during the golden hour: The golden hour is the time of day just after sunrise or before sunset when the light is soft and diffused. This is a great time to shoot portraits or other subjects that require soft light.
5. Use a light modifier: A light modifier is a device that is placed in front of a flash or continuous light source to modify the light. There are many different types of light modifiers available, including gels, flags, and snoots.

By using these techniques, you can achieve diffused light that creates a more natural, flattering look for your subjects.

Comparing and Contrasting the Different Techniques

When it comes to lighting techniques, there are many different approaches that photographers can take. Each technique has its own unique characteristics and can be used to achieve different effects. In this section, we will compare and contrast the five basic lighting techniques that every photographer should know.

Key Light

Key light is the main light source in a scene and is typically used to light the subject. It can be positioned at a 45-degree angle from the subject and can be soft or hard depending on the desired effect. Key light is often used to create a strong, directional light that defines the subject and creates shadows.

Fill Light

Fill light is used to soften the shadows created by the key light and provide a more even lighting effect. It is typically positioned at a 90-degree angle from the key light and can be adjusted to be soft or hard depending on the desired effect. Fill light is often used to add contrast and dimension to the subject.

Back Light

Back light is used to separate the subject from the background and create a sense of depth. It is typically positioned behind the subject and can be soft or hard depending on the desired effect. Back light is often used to create a dramatic, edgy look or to create a halo effect around the subject.

Hair Light

Hair light is used to separate the subject’s hair from the background and create a sense of depth. It is typically positioned above and behind the subject and can be soft or hard depending on the desired effect. Hair light is often used to create a dramatic, edgy look or to create a sense of movement in the subject’s hair.

Kicker Light

Kicker light is used to add a pop of color or contrast to the subject’s face or body. It is typically positioned at a low angle and can be soft or hard depending on the desired effect. Kicker light is often used to create a sense of depth or to add a sense of movement to the subject.

Overall, each of these lighting techniques has its own unique characteristics and can be used to achieve different effects. By understanding the basics of each technique, photographers can develop a foundation for creating their own lighting setups and achieving their desired effects.

Tips for Mastering Lighting Techniques

Understanding Your Subject

As a photographer, it is crucial to understand your subject and their surroundings before implementing any lighting techniques. Here are some tips to help you better understand your subject:

1. Consider the Context: Before taking any photos, think about the context of the scene. What is the subject doing? Where are they located? What is the purpose of the photo? These questions can help you determine the best lighting technique to use.
2. Observe the Subject’s Features: Take a moment to observe the subject’s features, such as their face shape, skin tone, and texture. This information can help you choose the right lighting ratio and direction to enhance their features and create a flattering photo.
3. Look for Directional Cues: Look for directional cues in the environment, such as shadows and highlights, to help you determine the best lighting direction for your subject.
4. Analyze the Environment: Consider the environment where you are taking the photo. Is it a bright day or a cloudy night? Is the light natural or artificial? These factors can affect the lighting technique you choose and the final result of the photo.
5. Consider the Composition: Think about the composition of the photo and how the lighting can enhance it. Will you be using shadows to create depth or highlights to create contrast? Understanding the composition can help you create a more dynamic and visually appealing photo.

By understanding your subject and their surroundings, you can make informed decisions about the lighting techniques you use and create stunning photos that showcase your subject in the best possible light.

Experimenting with Different Lighting Setups

One of the most effective ways to master lighting techniques is to experiment with different lighting setups. By trying out various configurations, photographers can learn how to create different moods and effects in their images. Some tips for experimenting with different lighting setups include:

1. Start with a basic setup and make small adjustments to see how it affects the image. For example, try adjusting the distance between the light source and the subject, or changing the angle of the light.
2. Experiment with different types of light sources, such as natural light, artificial light, and mixed light. Each type of light source has its own unique characteristics, and understanding how to use them can help photographers create a wide range of effects.
3. Don’t be afraid to try out unconventional lighting setups. Sometimes, the most interesting images are created using unexpected lighting techniques.
4. Take note of the results of each experiment, and use that knowledge to inform future lighting setups. By keeping track of what works and what doesn’t, photographers can continue to refine their lighting techniques over time.

Overall, experimenting with different lighting setups is a crucial part of mastering lighting techniques. By trying out new configurations and paying attention to the results, photographers can develop a deep understanding of how light affects their images, and how to use it to create the desired effects.

Paying Attention to Lighting Ratios

Lighting ratios refer to the relationship between the light levels in the shadows and highlights of an image. A proper understanding of lighting ratios can help photographers to create more dynamic and visually appealing images.

One way to understand lighting ratios is to use the ratio of 1:1, which means that the light levels in the shadows and highlights are equal. This can create a flat and uninteresting image, as there is no contrast.

On the other hand, a ratio of 10:1 means that the light levels in the shadows are 10 times darker than the highlights. This can create a very dramatic image, with a lot of contrast.

Another important aspect of lighting ratios is the use of hard and soft light. Hard light is characterized by sharp shadows and strong contrast, while soft light is characterized by diffused shadows and less contrast.

Achieving the right lighting ratio and using the appropriate type of light can greatly impact the final result of an image. Understanding how to use light to create the desired mood and atmosphere is a crucial skill for any photographer.

Utilizing Reflectors and Diffusers

When it comes to lighting techniques, utilizing reflectors and diffusers is an essential skill for every photographer. Reflectors and diffusers are inexpensive and easy to use, making them perfect for photographers of all skill levels.

Reflectors

A reflector is a device that reflects light from a source and directs it towards a subject. Reflectors come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they can be made from a range of materials, including metal, plastic, and even cardboard. The most common type of reflector is the five-in-one reflector, which has five surfaces of different colors that can be used to create a range of effects.

To use a reflector, position it so that it reflects light onto the subject. The reflector can be used to add fill light to a subject, to create a more directional light source, or to add contrast to an image. Reflectors can also be used to create interesting effects, such as creating a vignette or adding a starburst effect to a light source.

Diffusers

A diffuser is a device that spreads light out and reduces its intensity. Diffusers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they can be made from a range of materials, including fabric, plastic, and even cardboard. The most common type of diffuser is the softbox, which is a box-shaped device that surrounds a light source and spreads light out evenly.

To use a diffuser, position it so that it surrounds the light source. The diffuser can be used to soften the light and reduce harsh shadows, to create a more even light source, or to add a subtle effect to an image. Diffusers can also be used to create interesting effects, such as creating a dreamy or ethereal look to an image.

By utilizing reflectors and diffusers, photographers can control the light in their images and create the desired effect. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, mastering the use of reflectors and diffusers is an essential skill that will help you take your photography to the next level.

Learning from Other Photographers

When it comes to mastering lighting techniques, one of the best ways to improve is by learning from other photographers. Here are some tips on how to do that:

• Study the work of famous photographers: Many photographers have made a name for themselves by mastering lighting techniques. By studying their work, you can learn a lot about how to use light to create stunning images.
• Analyze the lighting in your own photos: Take a look at the photos you’ve taken and try to identify the lighting setups you used. Think about what worked well and what didn’t, and make note of any adjustments you’d like to make in the future.
• Join photography communities: Joining online photography communities or attending photography meetups can be a great way to learn from other photographers. You can ask questions, get feedback on your work, and learn about new lighting techniques.
• Take classes or workshops: Taking a class or workshop with a professional photographer can be a great way to learn about lighting techniques in a structured environment. You can get hands-on experience and ask questions as you go.
• Experiment and practice: Finally, the best way to learn about lighting techniques is to experiment and practice. Set up different lighting setups and take photos, then review your work and make adjustments as needed. The more you practice, the better you’ll become at using light to create stunning images.

Recap of the 5 Basic Lighting Techniques

1. Natural Lighting: Utilizing the sun or other natural light sources to create a soft, flattering light on your subject. This technique requires careful observation of the direction and intensity of the light to achieve the desired effect.
2. Artificial Lighting: Using flash, strobes, or other artificial light sources to create a specific mood or enhance the subject’s features. This technique requires an understanding of the different types of light modifiers available and how to use them effectively.
3. Remote Lighting: Using remote flash units or other lighting equipment to create a desired effect. This technique requires a solid understanding of the light’s characteristics and how to control it remotely.
4. Reflective Lighting: Utilizing reflectors or other reflective surfaces to bounce light back onto the subject. This technique requires careful observation of the light’s direction and intensity to achieve the desired effect.
5. Diffused Lighting: Using diffusers or other light-scattering devices to soften the light and create a more natural look. This technique requires an understanding of how the diffuser affects the light’s characteristics and how to use it effectively.

By mastering these five basic lighting techniques, photographers can take control of their lighting setup and create the desired mood and effect in their photos. It is important to note that each technique requires practice and experimentation to become proficient.

Importance of Continuing to Learn and Experiment with Lighting Techniques

• As a photographer, it is essential to continuously learn and experiment with lighting techniques to improve your skills and achieve better results.
• Here are some reasons why it is crucial to keep learning and experimenting with lighting techniques:
  • 1. To stay up-to-date with the latest technology and techniques: The world of photography is constantly evolving, and new lighting techniques and equipment are constantly being developed. By continuing to learn and experiment, you can stay up-to-date with the latest technology and techniques and incorporate them into your work.
  • 1. To expand your creative options: Lighting techniques can significantly impact the mood, tone, and overall look of a photograph. By experimenting with different lighting techniques, you can expand your creative options and achieve unique and innovative results.
  • 1. To improve your technical skills: Lighting techniques require a certain level of technical knowledge and skill, and by continuing to learn and experiment, you can improve your technical skills and achieve better results.
  • 1. To develop your personal style: As a photographer, you have a unique perspective and vision, and by continuing to learn and experiment with lighting techniques, you can develop your personal style and create images that are distinctively yours.
  • 1. To stay competitive in the industry: In the highly competitive world of photography, it is essential to continuously learn and improve your skills to stay competitive and relevant.

Overall, the importance of continuing to learn and experiment with lighting techniques cannot be overstated. By doing so, you can improve your skills, expand your creative options, and achieve better results, which can ultimately lead to a more successful and fulfilling career as a photographer.

Final Thoughts on Mastering Lighting Techniques

Mastering lighting techniques is a crucial aspect of photography that requires patience, practice, and dedication. It is essential to understand the basics of lighting and how it affects the final outcome of your photographs. With time and experience, you will be able to develop your own unique style and techniques. Here are some final thoughts on mastering lighting techniques:

• Practice, practice, practice: Lighting techniques are not something that can be mastered overnight. It requires practice and repetition to become proficient in using different lighting setups and techniques. Set aside time each day to practice and experiment with different lighting setups, and you will see improvement in your work over time.
• Experiment with different light sources: There are many different types of light sources that you can use in your photography, including natural light, artificial light, and mixed light. Experimenting with different light sources will help you understand how they affect the mood and tone of your photographs, and will help you develop your own unique style.
• Don’t be afraid to break the rules: Lighting techniques are not set in stone, and there are no hard and fast rules that you must follow. Experiment with different lighting setups and techniques, and don’t be afraid to break the rules and try something new. This will help you develop your own unique style and will give your photographs a distinctive look.
• Learn from others: There are many photographers who have mastered lighting techniques and are willing to share their knowledge with others. Attend workshops and seminars, read books and articles, and watch online tutorials to learn from others and to gain new insights into lighting techniques.
• Have fun: Finally, remember to have fun with lighting techniques. Photography is a creative art form, and lighting is a key element in creating beautiful and memorable photographs. Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with lighting, and you will see improvement in your work over time.

FAQs

1. What are the 5 basic lighting techniques every photographer should know?

The 5 basic lighting techniques every photographer should know are:
1. Ambient Lighting: This is the natural light that enters a room through windows or other openings. It can be used to create a natural look and feel to a photo.
2. Directional Lighting: This type of lighting is created by positioning a light source at a specific angle to the subject. It can be used to create dramatic shadows and highlights.
3. Natural Light: This is the light that is produced by the sun and can be used to create a soft, natural look to a photo.
4. Flash Lighting: This type of lighting is created by using a flash unit to illuminate the subject. It can be used to add light to a dark scene or to create a high-contrast look.
5. Artificial Lighting: This type of lighting is created by using artificial light sources such as lamps or LED lights. It can be used to create a specific mood or to light a scene when natural light is not available.

2. What is the difference between ambient lighting and directional lighting?

Ambient lighting is the natural light that enters a room through windows or other openings. It can be used to create a natural look and feel to a photo. Directional lighting is created by positioning a light source at a specific angle to the subject. It can be used to create dramatic shadows and highlights. The main difference between the two is that ambient lighting is natural light and directional lighting is created by a light source.

3. What is the best way to use natural light in photography?

The best way to use natural light in photography is to use it to create a soft, natural look to a photo. To do this, position your subject near a window or other opening that allows natural light to enter the room. This will create a soft, natural light that is perfect for portraits or other types of photos. You can also use natural light to create a high-contrast look by positioning your subject near a window with the sun directly behind them. This will create strong shadows and highlights that can add drama to a photo.

4. What is the best way to use flash lighting in photography?

The best way to use flash lighting in photography is to use it to add light to a dark scene or to create a high-contrast look. To do this, position your flash unit close to your subject and angle it so that it points directly at them. This will create a bright, focused light that can be used to light up a dark scene or to create a high-contrast look. You can also use flash lighting to create a soft, natural look by positioning your flash unit off to the side and angling it so that it points towards your subject. This will create a soft, diffused light that can be used to create a natural look.

5. What is the best way to use artificial lighting in photography?

The best way to use artificial lighting in photography is to use it to create a specific mood or to light a scene when natural light is not available. To do this, position your artificial light sources such as lamps or LED lights near your subject and angle them so that they point directly at them. This will create a bright, focused light that can be used to create a specific mood or to light a scene when natural light is not available. You can also use artificial lighting to create a soft, natural look by positioning your light sources off to the side and angling them so that they point towards your subject. This will create a soft, diffused light that can be used to create a natural look.