Studio Lighting for Beginners

You don’t need to be a tech genius to capture amazing photos! If you’ve ever searched for studio lighting tips, you’ve probably found yourself buried in super technical guides that, while packed with useful info, don’t always make things easier. Well, if you're looking for a studio lighting guide that feels more like a chat with a fellow photographer, you're in the right place!

Now, if you're completely new to photography (like, "What's an aperture?" level new), this might be a little tricky. But if you've played around with your camera before, whether you're just starting or have a bit more experience, this quick guide will be a great place to begin.

The Basics of Studio Lighting

There are a couple of simple rules about studio lighting. Nail these, and you'll be on your way to taking photos you'll love. Ready?

1. Size Matters:
The size of your light source in relation to your model makes a big difference. The smaller the light relative to your model, the harsher the light. The larger the light source compared to your model, the softer the light.

2. Distance Matters:
The closer the light is to your model, the softer the light will be. The farther away it is, the harsher the light becomes.

Master these basic concepts, and you're already on the right track to mastering studio lighting like a pro.

Recreate Those Stunning Shots

Ever see a photo and think, "How did they get that look?" We've all been there! But here’s the good news: you can totally recreate it. The secret? Learn how to break down the shots and analyze the lighting. It’s a skill that takes time, but the more you practice, the easier it gets!

Pro Tip: It’s a simple one, but start small. Pick simple, clean examples to work with as you learn.

So, what should you focus on? Here are a few tips to help you break down the lighting:

1. Shadows:
Are there any shadows? How dark or soft are they? Sharp shadows mean the light is harsh, while soft shadows indicate softer light.

2. Light Direction:
Where’s the light coming from? Pay attention to the shadows again—are they from one light or multiple? Is there any backlighting?

3. Eyes Are the Window:
If you can, take a peek into the model's eyes. Sometimes the reflection of the light source will give you a huge clue about where the front light is positioned and what kind of modifier is being used.

Now let’s put this into action! I’ll walk you through how to recreate a couple of my shots. I've included some lighting diagrams to help. The next time you're in the studio, try them out!

P.S. Just copying a setup might not give you the exact same results. Lighting behaves differently in every space. For example, the same setup will look totally different in a small, white studio versus a big, dark one. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and adjust as you go!

Bounced Light Portrait Setup

Check out these photos! Let’s break them down. Notice how there are barely any shadows? The background is almost pure white, giving the photos a light, airy vibe. The few shadows, like the one on the right arm (first photo), are super soft and faint. You can also see subtle backlighting on both sides of the model’s face.

To get that bright white background, you’ll need one or two flashes aimed at the backdrop behind your model. For that gentle backlight effect on the model, you'll want some of that background light spilling over—not just from behind but from the sides, too. The easiest way to do this is by using two white boards (or V-flats) on either side of your model to reflect the background light onto them. This helps softly illuminate the model while keeping that clean, soft look.

Bounced light setup diagram

To make sure the model's face stays well-lit and isn’t hidden in shadow, you've got two options. You can either place two white boards in front of the model or use a big softbox, like I did in the examples above. Since the photos show soft shadows, a large light source is crucial. Just keep the power low to avoid overexposing the face.

HOW TO CREATE A MODELING PORTFOLIO IN 2025

A strong modeling portfolio is your gateway to success in the industry. Think of it as a visual resume that highlights your range and potential to agencies and clients. High-quality, professional photos will always get more attention than low-quality shots, even if you’ve got the perfect look.

What to Include in Your Modeling Portfolio:

Basic Modeling Digitals (A must-have to start)
These are simple, raw shots that let your natural beauty shine.

• Headshots: Close-ups that focus on your face, with little to no makeup and a natural hairstyle. This is all about showcasing your real features.

• Full-Body Shots: These should show your entire physique, whether in casual clothes or underwear/bikini. It's important for potential clients to see how you look from head to toe.

You might also want to add a comp card (z-card)—basically a model's business card that includes a few of your best photos, your stats, and contact info

Here’s an example of a model's z-card. It should feature your best photos, your measurements, and your contact details. This little tool is super handy for castings and go-sees.

In the photo is the stunning model, Audrey!

Creative Shots (Not a Must at the Start)

Creative shots are a great way to show off your ability to convey different looks and emotions, highlighting your versatility as a model. While they're not essential when you're just starting out, they can definitely elevate your portfolio later on.

Creating Your Portfolio

Select a Photographer
Pick a professional photographer who specializes in model portfolios. Their experience can make a huge difference in the quality of your shots. Psst…🤫 I can help you with your model snaps if you need a hand!

Plan Your Shoot
Before the shoot, chat with your photographer about your goals and create a mood board to guide the vibe. Planning outfits, locations, and looks in advance will help things run smoothly.

Personally, I recommend studio shoots with clean, professional lighting and a simple background for those classic model digitals.

Plan Your Clothes
Stick to casual, neutral-toned outfits with no busy prints. If you’re feeling confident, you can even include some shots in underwear or a bikini.

If you’re unsure about what to wear, I’d be happy to help you pick out the best outfits or recommend a stylist who can help pull the perfect looks together!

Model Polaroid Clothes Ideas (Source: Pinterest)

Looking for some outfit inspo? Pinterest is full of great ideas to help you nail that perfect look.

Plan Hair and Makeup

For basic digitals, you don’t need professional hair and makeup. Keep it natural—minimal makeup or none at all, with your hair styled however you like.

But for more creative shoots, professional hair and makeup can really take your photos to the next level. I work with top pros in the industry and can recommend makeup artists and hairstylists who’ll bring your vision to life.

FAQs

How Much Does a Modeling Portfolio Cost in the USA?
Prices can vary, but generally, creating simple model snaps will cost between $250 to $750, depending on the photographer and the package. This might include extras like hair and makeup, styling, and outfit changes.

Check out the “model portfolio” page for my latest offers on model polaroids and portfolios!

Is It Normal to Pay for a Modeling Portfolio?
Yep, it’s totally normal to invest in a professional portfolio. A high-quality portfolio is your ticket to getting noticed and landing opportunities in a competitive industry. While some photographers may offer free shoots to help build your portfolio, it’s more common to pay for this service.

Do You Need a Portfolio to Become a Model?
While it’s possible to break into modeling without a portfolio, having one gives you a much better chance of being spotted by agencies and clients. It’s a great way to showcase your potential. You can start small with just model digitals and build from there.

Can You Create Your Own Portfolio?
You can absolutely create your own portfolio, but working with a professional photographer will give you a polished, high-quality result that’s more likely to catch the eye of agencies. If you’d prefer to go DIY, check out my article “How to Create a Modeling Portfolio Yourself” for tips!

How Many Photos Do You Need for Your Modeling Portfolio?
To start, aim for 5-6 solid images—think a few headshots and a few full-body shots. Once you’ve got the basics down, you can add more creative shots over time.

How Do You Apply to Agencies?
Choose a few agencies you’re interested in and send them a selection of your best headshots and full-body shots (your z-card is perfect for this). Always check their website first, as many agencies have a specific “sign up” section where you can upload your digitals. Be sure to include key details like your height, body measurements, shoe size, hair color, and eye color. They may ask for more, but this is a solid starting point.

Building a modeling portfolio is a key step in your career. It’s an investment that shows off your skills and helps you stand out. With the right approach, a professional portfolio can open doors to incredible opportunities.

And if you need help—just get in touch!