WIfe Headshots 3 Light Set-up For C/C.

Been awhile since I posted in here. But wanted some feedback to see what can make these better. Shot with 3 Yongnuo 560 mk IVs, 24x24 softbox (key light), Rogue Grid (back drop) and bare flash for rim light.

Here is what I would do with 3 lights, Main light (can be any size, closer the better and softer light), Hair or Separation Light and a Background Light. I would use a fill card on the opposite side of the main light or add a 4th light as a fill light for the shadow side. Attached is what my setup usually is and then I modify it for feeling and different situations.

Rim light is a little harsh because it is a bare bulb and too bright.

Thank you for the feedback and set-up diagram. I was thinking the rim light was too hot. Do you recommend a diffuser for the rim light or just turn the power down. Thank you!

I'm really liking the black and white one! Nice "don't mess with me" look

But what's that weird lighter part on her neck? Might want to fix that.

Thank you, the weird lighter part on her neck is from me not closing the curtains. But I'll try and edit it out.

I like the black and white one best too!

The B&W is the best, exposure on the bare bulb is too bright you just can't see it that it is over exposed because of being B&W. I would reduce the power. To add an ascent light (rim light) is very tricky to do, it usually becomes the main light (brightest) if not done right. I have found that they need to be further around to the back of the subject to create a skimming affect on the subject. Keep in mind that any light that is coming forward towards the camera get brighter off the subject surface so you can use a lot less power on the accent light.

Thanks everyone for the feedback. I will definitely tone down the rim light. And try some different positions with it as well.

The B&w for me, nice shot...

THank You!

for the first two, take a page from Peter Hurley, have you subject push their slightly face toward the camera to define the jawline better and avoid the squished chin and neck.

Good tip, thank you!

m.good wrote in post #17897389
Rim light is a little harsh because it is a bare bulb and too bright.

Hosted photo: posted by m.good in
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forum: Critique Corner

As an offtopic from actual images - bare bulbs are not always a bad thing. I, personally, like harsh light for rim - either it be a speedlight or, for example, Profoto's Magnum reflector. But you have to dial the power to exact values that do the job, which sometimes cannot work due to a character of the shoot, model, etc. :]

mike_311 wrote in post #17898473
for the first two, take a page from Peter Hurley, have you subject push their slightly face toward the camera to define the jawline better and avoid the squished chin and neck.

Agreed. Also, raise the main light a little higher, and have her lean in toward that main light a bit and point her nose toward the bottom edge of the main light's modifier - this will simultaneously stretch the neck and chin, and give a definite shadow under the jaw and chin, for a more defined (and slimmer looking) neck and chin.

I got plenty of practice with this, as my wife and one of my good friends both have a very soft jawline - gotta be real careful or they get a double chin.

Controlling the pose and the main light will mean the difference between this sort of jawline:

IMAGE LINK: https://flic.kr/p/9Ane​JW

IMAGE LINK: https://flic.kr/p/pTjv​TK