Jim Schmelzer was an award-winning photographer, lecturer and trainer focusing on high school senior portraits and weddings. Jim was a Master Craftsman Photographer and held a master’s degree with Wedding and Portrait Photographers International. He was also a technical representative and lighting advisor for F.J. Westcott for over 25 years.

Jim Schmelzer's Favorite Westcott Gear:

Spiderlite TD
Spiderlite TD

6220

Pro Stripbank
Pro Stripbank

3666

Mega JS Apollo Softbox (50-in.)
Mega JS Apollo Softbox (50")

2348

Standard Umbrella - White Diffusion (7')
Standard Umbrella - White Diffusion (7')

4632
 

Articles by Jim Schmelzer

How to Light for a Flixel with James Schmelzer

Jim Schmelzer
Lighting Tips
8505
A living photo, often called a Flixel, is a combination of a still image and of a short video. A Flixel is created by filming a short, high-quality video and editing within the Flixel Cinemagraph software. Because Flixels are shot with video, it is neccesary to use continuous light. To light this Flixel, Westcott Top Pro photographer James Schmelzer utilized the on-location in Detroit.
Studio Portraiture with the Eyelighter

Studio Portraiture with the Eyelighter

Jim Schmelzer
Lighting Tips
9086
In the Elite Photographic Studio near Detroit, Michigan, Team Westcott goes behind the scenes with renowned photographer Jim Schmelzer to talk studio portraiture with the . During this shoot, Jim's studio is setup with the . The Skylux is modified with the . The Skylux is a continuous daylight-balanced light source.

Matching Sunlight using HyperSync

Jim Schmelzer
Lighting Tips
9152
Midday on top of the Detroit Opera House, Westcott Top Pro and award-winning photographer Jim Schmelzer illustrates how matching sunlight is easily attainable utilizing HyperSync and Westcott lighting . Jim prepares for the photoshoot by determining which direction the sunlight is shining. He wants to place sunlight behind his subject.
Jim Schmelzer demonstrates lighting for a wedding: Part 2 by .

Wedding Photography Lighting Tips: Part 2

Jim Schmelzer
Lighting Tips
8576
Westcott Top Pro Jim Schmelzer continues his wedding photography lighting tips from Part 1 at the church. Here, Jim will bring in his bride and groom to start shooting beautiful images. Jim was using the in this lighting setup. Along with using an umbrella for the main source of light, Jim also uses a on camera to fill in some of the shadows.