I had come across the bellow image of Shannon Stewart from her Playboy magazine photoshoot and I was immediately inspired by it and wanted to attempt to recreate it or something close to it. Of course, I had to add some of my own ideas to it. I wanted to shoot the image but with satin sheets. A friend of mine came by to shoot and she brought Jordan who happened to be her niece, Jordan. I talked to the ladies about the idea I had and Jordan for her first shoot wanted to give it a shot.
When it comes to photography, experimenting with different lighting setups can add a whole new dimension to your creative process. One interesting technique that can yield captivating results is shooting satin sheets. By carefully arranging the satin sheets and capturing them in the right light, you can create visually stunning images that play with texture, color, and the interplay of shadows.
In this setup, a simple three-strobe lighting arrangement was employed to enhance the visual impact of the satin sheets and the model. Each strobe was strategically positioned to illuminate different areas of the scene, creating a sense of depth, and highlighting specific details. The soft glow of the strobes against the satin fabric added a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall composition.
The main light to light the subject was a 400ws FJ400 from Westcott Lighting strobe in an 18″x8″ strip box with double diffusion about a foot (12″) away from the bed.
The fill light was a Westcott FJ400ws strobe my go to 72″ Octabox. This was able to light the entire scene to make the satin material shine as it should and light the overall setting.
For the hair light we had a 20° grid in the bell of the FJ400ws strobe. This had the effect of not just lighting her hair but also the sheets as well.
The main light, as the name suggests, serves as the primary light source at the front of the bed. In this case the main light was in a 72-inch octa box at the front of the bed. This had the benefit of giving the entire scene I wanted the necessary light and to make the sheets shine brightly.
Next, is the hair light. Positioned slightly above the bed, the hair light adds a touch of depth and dimension to the overall lighting setup. This light is typically set softer in power. The idea behind the hair light is to gently illuminate the area above the bed, casting a subtle glow on the headboard or wall behind it. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides a soothing glow for evening reading or creating a serene atmosphere.
As you can see there are a couple of practical lights on the light stand that aren’t turned on. That’s because the framing of the finished product didn’t require them to be on or play any part in the image.
Lastly, the fill light plays a crucial role in balancing the shadows and ensuring sufficient brightness in the surrounding space. Placed on the opposite side of the main light, the fill light helps to soften harsh shadows and even out the overall illumination. It can be a table lamp, floor lamp, or even a standing lamp with a lampshade that diffuses the light. Adjust the fill light’s brightness to complement the main light, creating a harmonious balance that is pleasing to the eye.
Remember to experiment with different light intensities and angles to achieve the desired effect. Consider incorporating smart lighting options for added convenience and control. With these lighting techniques, you can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere on the side of the bed, perfect for relaxation, reading, or simply enjoying the space.
I hope these insights help you in effectively utilizing the main light, hair light, and fill light for a visually appealing and functional bedside setup.
