James Coleman
Classic Lighting
Rembrandt Lighting
What: triangle of light under one of the subject's eyes
Why: Both natural and dramatic at the same time.
How: Hold light source at 45 degree angle
Why: Both natural and dramatic at the same time.
How: Hold light source at 45 degree angle
Loop Lighting
What: creates a loop-like shadow under the nose
Why: elongates a face, flattering most faces
How: hold light to side of face and move source until single shadow appears
Why: elongates a face, flattering most faces
How: hold light to side of face and move source until single shadow appears
Split Lighting
What: lights up one half of the face, leaves the other half in shadow
Why: flatters male faces by making subject's nose look thinner
How: hold light source directly on the side of the subject
Why: flatters male faces by making subject's nose look thinner
How: hold light source directly on the side of the subject
Butterfly (Paramount) Lighting
What: creates a shadow under the eyes, nose, and cheek
Why: flatters female faces (used commonly by Hollywood)
How: hold light source above and in front of subject
Why: flatters female faces (used commonly by Hollywood)
How: hold light source above and in front of subject
Rim Lighting
What: lights up the outer edge of the subject
Why: creates a glowing effect, enhancing texture
How: light source is behind subject
Why: creates a glowing effect, enhancing texture
How: light source is behind subject
Photoshop Enhancements