Better Portrait Lighting from KelbyOne Photographing People Conference
Portrait photography isn't about owning the biggest lights or the most expensive modifiers. It's about understanding how light shapes a face, creates emotion, and tells a story.
In this excellent presentation from the KelbyOne Photographing People Conference, Larry Tiefenbrunn and Larry Becker break down the nine portrait lighting patterns that every photographer should know. Whether you're just starting out or refining your portrait work, these are the foundations that will help you create consistently professional results.
Throughout the presentation, the Platypod lighting system is used to demonstrate just how flexible and portable professional lighting can be. Instead of relying on a dedicated studio, the setup shows how you can position lights precisely, work in tight spaces, and create beautiful portraits almost anywhere.
The Nine Portrait Lighting Patterns
The presentation covers the lighting patterns that form the backbone of professional portrait photography:
- Clamshell Lighting
- Butterfly Lighting
- Loop Lighting
- Rembrandt Lighting
- Broad Lighting
- Short Lighting
- Split Lighting
- Rim Lighting
- Cross Lighting
Rather than simply explaining where to place a light, Larry explains why each pattern exists, when it works best, and how it changes the appearance of your subject.
Stop Asking "Where Does the Light Go?"
One of the biggest takeaways from the presentation is a simple shift in mindset.
Most photographers ask:
"Where should I put the light?"
Professional photographers ask:
"What does this face need?"
That single question changes everything.
Every face is different. Some subjects benefit from softer shadows that slim the face. Others need lighting that emphasises character, adds drama, or creates a flattering catchlight in the eyes. Learning to choose the right lighting pattern for the person in front of you is one of the biggest steps towards consistently great portraits.
Portrait Lighting Anywhere
Lighting doesn't have to be complicated.
The demonstration shows how compact support equipment like Platypod makes it easy to position lights exactly where you need them, even in locations where traditional light stands would be awkward or impossible to use.
Whether you're working in a client's home, a hotel room, an office, outdoors, or a small studio, having flexible lighting support opens up creative possibilities without adding unnecessary bulk to your kit.
Build Confidence Behind the Camera
Understanding portrait lighting is one of the fastest ways to improve your photography.
Once you recognise how each lighting pattern affects facial features, you'll spend less time guessing and more time creating images with purpose. You'll also become much more confident directing your subjects because you'll understand exactly what you're trying to achieve before pressing the shutter.
If you've ever wondered why professional portraits look polished while yours sometimes feel inconsistent, this lesson provides many of the answers.
Watch the presentation from Larry Tiefenbrunn and Larry Becker to discover the nine essential portrait lighting patterns, learn when to use each one, and see how the Platypod lighting system helps photographers create professional lighting virtually anywhere.
