Lighting with Flash: The Basics

Course details

In the Lighting with Flash series, photographer and Strobist blog publisher David Hobby demonstrates how to use compact flash units in a variety of lighting scenarios. In this first installment, he covers the basics, starting with ambient window light and ending with a four-light shoot of a model. Along the way, the course covers a variety of fundamental lighting concepts as well as accessories such as ring lights and softboxes. The course includes diagrams and detailed explanations of the lighting setups.

Learning objectives
Starting with window light
Adding a flash and umbrella
Using multiple strobes
Layering and creating a cone of light
Creating classic ring light glamour

Concepts

1. Starting with Window Light as a Light Source

01 - Setting the stage
02 - Shooting using available window light
03 - Lighting notebook - Window light photo shoot

2. Adding a Flash

04 - Adding a flash umbrella
05 - Changing the position of the key light
06 - Learning to previsualize your lighting
07 - Lighting notebook - Single strobe with window light

3. Adding a Second Strobe and Small Softbox

08 - Setting the stage
09 - Adding the lights
10 - Creating an edgier look with the key light
11 - Lighting notebook - Two strobes

4. Attitude with Overhead Umbrella and Ring Flash

12 - Layers and a cone of light
13 - Using a ring flash for fill
14 - Lighting notebook - Overhead umbrella with ring fill

5. Classic Ring Light Glamour

15 - The ring as key light
16 - The ring as fill, with a new key light
17 - The ring as key with light on the background
18 - Lighting notebook - Ring light as key or fill

6. A Four-Light Shoot

19 - Setting up a behind-the-scenes shot
20 - The photo shoot
21 - Lighting notebook - Four-light meta shoot

Conclusion

22 - Next steps