I get asked about light position and lighting patterns regularly. I’ve been working on several articles to cover all the different lighting patterns etc. Here’s one of them..
### Butterfly Lighting in Photography
**Definition and Characteristics:**
Butterfly lighting, also known as Paramount lighting, is a popular lighting technique in portrait photography. It creates a distinct shadow under the subject’s nose that resembles a butterfly, hence the name. This technique is often used in fashion and glamour photography to accentuate facial features, creating a clean, glamorous look.
**Setup and Lighting Technique:**
1. **Position the Light:** Place the main light source directly in front of and above the subject, usually at a 45-degree angle. The light should be high enough to cast a shadow under the nose but not so high that it casts shadows in the eye sockets.
2. **Light Modifier:** Use a softbox or beauty dish to soften the light and create a flattering effect.
3. **Distance and Angle:** Adjust the distance and angle of the light to control the intensity and position of the shadows. The closer the light, the softer the shadows.
**Uses and Advantages:**
– **Flattering for Most Faces:** This lighting pattern is particularly flattering for subjects with defined cheekbones and a narrow face.
– **Accentuates Features:** It highlights the cheekbones and eyes, giving a glamorous and sophisticated look.
– **Versatility:** Suitable for headshots, beauty, and fashion photography.
### Clamshell Lighting in Photography
**Definition and Characteristics:**
Clamshell lighting is a variation of butterfly lighting that involves the addition of a reflector or a second light source below the subject’s face to fill in shadows, creating a soft, even light that reduces harsh shadows and adds a catchlight in the eyes.
**Setup and Lighting Technique:**
1. **Main Light:** Position the main light source as you would for butterfly lighting, directly in front and above the subject.
2. **Fill Light or Reflector:** Place a reflector or a second light source below the subject, angled upwards to bounce light back into the face. This can be a silver or white reflector, or a softbox with a lower power setting.
3. **Distance and Angle:** Adjust the distance and angle of both the main light and the fill light/reflector to achieve the desired balance and softness of light.
**Uses and Advantages:**
– **Softens Shadows:** The addition of the fill light or reflector softens shadows and reduces contrast, creating a more even light.
– **Catchlights in Eyes:** This setup creates attractive catchlights in the subject’s eyes, adding depth and sparkle.
– **Ideal for Beauty Shots:** Clamshell lighting is ideal for beauty and glamour photography, where smooth, even lighting is essential.
### Combining Butterfly and Clamshell Lighting
**Transitioning from Butterfly to Clamshell:**
– Start with a butterfly lighting setup to create the characteristic shadow under the nose.
– Introduce a reflector or a second light source below the subject to transition to clamshell lighting, ensuring the shadows are softened and catchlights are added to the eyes.
**Practical Tips:**
– **Experiment with Angles:** Adjust the angles and distances of your lights and reflectors to find the most flattering setup for your subject.
– **Use Light Modifiers:** Softboxes, beauty dishes, and reflectors can help control the quality and direction of light.
– **Monitor Shadows:** Pay attention to the shadows under the nose and chin, making sure they are soft and flattering.
### Conclusion
Butterfly and clamshell lighting are essential techniques in portrait photography, each offering unique advantages. Butterfly lighting emphasizes facial features with a glamorous touch, while clamshell lighting softens shadows and adds a polished, professional look. By mastering these techniques, photographers can create stunning portraits that highlight the beauty and personality of their subjects.