Advice from DPC Studio Lighting Wizards

10/14/2010 11:56:39 AM · #1

I've got a really large studio project I'm gearing up for in the not too terribly distant future. And although I'm getting the knowledge of what sort of lighting to use and how to use it, I'm not sure how I would set up such a shot. I envision a wide and deep scenario with several subjects. I've searched for something similar to what my idea is but could only find it (sort of) in paintings, like this.

My question is, would you shoot discrete clusters, or try to go for the whole enchilada at once?

And what would the lighting scenario be in each of those situations?
Single shot - how many instruments, etc.
multiple shots - setting levels to give the appearance of depth, etc.

Thank you all!

Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM

10/14/2010 05:21:50 PM · #2

bump

gyaban

Canon EOS-1D X

10/14/2010 05:43:06 PM · #3

I am no lighting expert, more a rookie, but given the fact I have no access to many models nor equipment, here is what I would do:
- Shoot the background without anyone, with the best natural available light that I can get (this could mean come back on different days / times, to force my luck)
- Try to reproduce this light in studio: 2 lights (1 key + 1 fill) should be enough, to keep a "natural" feeling
- Shoot the model(s) as many times as wanted on a plain background, in all the different attitudes / positions, with some accessories if needed (like a table, fruits, etc.)
- Many post-processing hours! (masking, shadows, etc.)

Of course, with access to a gigantic studio, many models, costumes, and many light equipments, the approach would be completely different, but I have no experience at all about such a big project.

Canon EF 17-40mm f/4.0L USM

10/14/2010 05:58:06 PM · #4

Thank you

gyaban!!! That's actually sort of how I envisioned it, at least for the first of several such images. An assemblage, but using the actual location as the background, then shooting the rest in studio and try to reproduce the light quality of the location.

And then one day I'll hopefully be able to afford "a gigantic studio, many models, costumes, and many light equipments"!!!!

JaimeVinas

Canon EOS-1D Mark IV

10/14/2010 05:58:23 PM · #5

if you have all the lights (which would require a quite a number), you can do this.

If you want even lights, get some umbrellas. I have found that umbrellas usually work well in groups if want even light. And youre going to need lights on booms to get the background too if this is a large area.

To me this would require around 4-6 lights depending on how many youre trying to do. This is quite ambitious for a starting project. I would suggest a smaller set, but hey you can pull it off with enough experimentation. Umbrellas are sloppy, but will give will light all your subjects if used properly