Light Modifiers Archives — Westcott University https://westcottu.com/topic/light-modifiers Lighting Education for Photographers and Filmmakers Wed, 08 Jan 2025 15:24:26 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://westcottu.com/wp-content/uploads/icon-university.png Light Modifiers Archives — Westcott University https://westcottu.com/topic/light-modifiers 32 32 Professional Lighting with Food Photographer Joanie Simon https://westcottu.com/professional-lighting-with-food-photographer-joanie-simon Thu, 28 Jan 2021 20:23:41 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=153029 Commercial and editorial food photographer, food blogger and educator Joanie Simon, iconically known on social media as, “The Bite Shot”, captures captivating images of cuisines covering the entire food pyramid. Her shots are unmatched in depth, dimension and color making it hard to resist salivating. At 10 years old she started cooking and at 29 […]

The post Professional Lighting with Food Photographer Joanie Simon appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 153029 Behind the Scenes with Emily Soto and the Rapid Box XL https://westcottu.com/behind-scenes-emily-soto-rapid-box-xl Sun, 18 Mar 2018 15:04:41 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=141670 Emily Soto is an internationally renowned fashion photographer based in New York City, New York. Emily’s style focuses on romanticism and high-fashion, with dreamy lighting that she creates with a simple Rapid Box XL setup. Her distinct vision and creativity have landed her work on the covers of magazines and in editorial spreads world-wide. Emily’s […]

The post Behind the Scenes with Emily Soto and the Rapid Box XL appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 141670 Easy Lighting Setup for Action Sports Photo Shoot https://westcottu.com/lighting-actions-sports-photo-shoot Tue, 30 Jan 2018 15:00:10 +0000 http://fjwestcott.com/?p=125278 Orlando, Florida-based action sports photographer Chris Garrison is a pro at photographing on location. Because he often finds himself shooting in fast-paced environments outdoors, Chris uses quick and compact lighting gear to capture the perfect shot. During this photo shoot with professional wakeboarder Chad Sharpe, Chris uses modular Scrim Jims along with  collapsible Apollo Orb and […]

The post Easy Lighting Setup for Action Sports Photo Shoot appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 125278 Fashion Photography with Octaboxes https://westcottu.com/fashion-photography-with-octaboxes Wed, 23 Aug 2017 14:39:55 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=150374 Octabanks (or octaboxes) are one of the most popular styles of light modifiers. These large octagonal softboxes are an awesome tool for creating soft, even lighting in the studio. While shooting in his home studio in sunny Las Vegas, renowned portrait photographer Jerry Ghionis showed us how he uses a single octabank and strobe to […]

The post Fashion Photography with Octaboxes appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 150374 Creating Modern Portraits with a Deep Umbrella https://westcottu.com/in-the-studio-with-westcotts-new-deep-umbrella-series Wed, 05 Apr 2017 19:54:00 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=149997 This article is courtesy of Atlanta-based portrait photographer and designer Alex D. Rogers. Whenever the situation allows, I love to use a simple one-light setup for portraits and fashion shoots. It’s a quick and easy solution that—when paired with carefully-placed bounce cards or reflectors—adds a no-fuss simplicity to the look of my photos. One challenge […]

The post Creating Modern Portraits with a Deep Umbrella appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 149997 The Essential Guide to Photo Umbrellas https://westcottu.com/the-essential-guide-to-photo-umbrellas https://westcottu.com/the-essential-guide-to-photo-umbrellas#comments Tue, 25 Oct 2016 13:56:08 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=148919 Photo umbrellas are a portable and inexpensive way to modify a light source. But because there are so many sizes and color options, choosing one can be a bit intimidating. Photo umbrellas are a portable and inexpensive option for modifying a light source to a desired result. An umbrella can be used with virtually any style of light, including sunlight, […]

The post The Essential Guide to Photo Umbrellas appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> https://westcottu.com/the-essential-guide-to-photo-umbrellas/feed 1 148919 Photographing Kenya with Kole Purdy https://westcottu.com/photographing-kenya-kole-purdy https://westcottu.com/photographing-kenya-kole-purdy#comments Fri, 02 Sep 2016 19:12:28 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=148824 This article on photographing Kenya and it’s people is courtesy of 18-year-old travel photographer Kole Purdy.  My Journey to Professional Photography In June of 2014, my Dad quit his 20-year career. In November of 2014, using our life savings, we left the ‘American dream’ to travel and experience the world for a year. I’m from […]

The post Photographing Kenya with Kole Purdy appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> https://westcottu.com/photographing-kenya-kole-purdy/feed 1 148824 The Basics of Off-Camera Flash for Portraits https://westcottu.com/off-camera-flash-basics Tue, 30 Aug 2016 16:26:37 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=148813 Oregon-based senior portrait photographer Alycia White created this tutorial to help budding photographers make the transition to off-camera flash. By modifying a single off-camera speedlite, you can open up the door to professional, properly exposed portraits both indoors and outdoors. In this video, Alycia is modifying her off-camera flash with the cost-effective and easy-to-use . Designed by […]

The post The Basics of Off-Camera Flash for Portraits appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 148813 Real Deal Review: The Rapid Box Beauty Dish https://westcottu.com/real-deal-review-the-rapid-box-beauty-dish Thu, 28 Jul 2016 20:24:29 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=148666 This Real Deal Review of the Rapid Box Beauty Dish is courtesy of Jamie Boler of Red Elephant Studios in Scottsville, Kentucky. World­-renowned photographer Joel Grimes designed the new Rapid Box Beauty Dish. The 24″ Rapid Box Beauty Dish is a collapsible, travel­-friendly softbox for beauty, fashion, and commercial photography. This ultra­-portable beauty dish directs […]

The post Real Deal Review: The Rapid Box Beauty Dish appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 148666 How to Direct Light for Moody Action Shots https://westcottu.com/how-to-direct-light-for-moody-action-shots Tue, 12 Jul 2016 16:47:43 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=148610 Yousef AlMasoud is a Saudi Arabian portrait photographer with a knack for capturing beautiful and dramatic portraits. In this behind-the-scenes video, we go in the studio with Yousef as he captures action photographs of gymnast Essa Al Jumaian. Yousef’s images often feature very precise, directed lighting to really place the focus on his subject. When […]

The post How to Direct Light for Moody Action Shots appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 148610 Balancing Sunlight with the LunaGrip https://westcottu.com/balancing-sunlight-with-the-lunagrip Wed, 06 Apr 2016 17:01:44 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=148308 In the lesson above, photographer and educator Kevin Kubota uses the new  to capture beautiful senior portraits outdoors. When shooting outside on bright days, artificial lighting is necessary to properly expose your subject and background. By utilizing a speedlight as your key light source you can then utilize the sun as a hair light. Although this may be […]

The post Balancing Sunlight with the LunaGrip appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 148308 Parabolic Modifiers vs. Traditional Octabanks https://westcottu.com/parabolic-modifiers-vs-traditional-octabanks Wed, 24 Feb 2016 21:55:37 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=148231 This article is courtesy of Santa Barbara-based photography educator Tim Meyer. True parabolic modifiers reflect light from a single point into parallel or collimated beams of light. The question is how this impacts the quality of light in a larger modifier. I had an opportunity to test the Westcott modifier. I wanted to compare it with […]

The post Parabolic Modifiers vs. Traditional Octabanks appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 148231 Location Lighting Using The Rapid Box: Share The Light https://westcottu.com/location-lighting-using-the-rapid-box-share-the-light Tue, 29 Dec 2015 21:33:45 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=148096 Lighting can separate you from the pack, using light to define your style and elevate the quality of your work is as important now as it was back in the day when you had to light to capture an image. Today the cameras we use can capture an image in just about any light; they […]

The post Location Lighting Using The Rapid Box: Share The Light appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 148096 Food Styling Tips for Tasty Images https://westcottu.com/food-styling-tips Wed, 16 Dec 2015 22:26:52 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=148074 For photographers new to photographing food, food styling may seem a bit daunting. People can make a successful career out of styling food for magazines and blogs. Luckily, Seattle-based food photographer Steven Hansen is here to lend some useful tips on food styling. A former chef, Hansen has mastered the art of food presentation and his […]

The post Food Styling Tips for Tasty Images appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 148074 How to Overpower the Sun with Only 1 Softbox https://westcottu.com/overpower-the-sun-with-the-rapid-box-duo Mon, 14 Sep 2015 17:59:19 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=147875 While shooting on a roof top in Ottawa, Canada, Top Pro lifestyle photographer Justin Van Leeuwen experiments with diffusion and modification options to best overpower the sun to capture the best portraits of his client. First, Justin uses a with a . This method is super simple way to tame harsh sunlight, creating a soft, […]

The post How to Overpower the Sun with Only 1 Softbox appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 147875 Creating Awesome Senior Portraits with Only One Light Source https://westcottu.com/creating-awesome-senior-portraits-with-only-one-light-source Tue, 18 Aug 2015 20:51:37 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=147834 Kentucky sports and senior portrait photographer Matt Hernandez is known for capturing dramatic, awesome senior portraits with relatively simple lighting setups. To capture these dramatic images of Cash, a high school football player, Matt uses a single strobe modified by the  softbox. Matt specifically chooses the largest Zeppelin due to it’s ability to create a large, directed light source. […]

The post Creating Awesome Senior Portraits with Only One Light Source appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 147834 The Must-Have Modifier for Studio Fashion Photography https://westcottu.com/modifier-for-studio-fashion-photography Mon, 06 Jul 2015 18:54:07 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=147687 In Westcott Top Pro photographer Craig Beckta’s latest behind-the-scenes video, he gives us a fantastic view of his studio fashion photography setup. For this photo shoot, Craig utilizes a 35″ Zeppelin Deep Parabolic softbox to modify his strobe. This setup creates a beautiful wraparound output, which is essential for high-key studio fashion photography. Craig places […]

The post The Must-Have Modifier for Studio Fashion Photography appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 147687 Behind the Scenes of a 6 Hour Athletic Photo Shoot https://westcottu.com/behind-the-scenes-clint-davis Wed, 17 Jun 2015 13:12:16 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=147624 “I got the green light from OhYeah! Nutrition to shoot their upcoming campaign featuring “weekend warriors” having an OhYeah! moment. To say these athletes are weekend warriors is a bit misleading, considering they can all probably beat me in arm wrestling with their pinky finger. When it comes to lighting a white seamless environment, the more lights […]

The post Behind the Scenes of a 6 Hour Athletic Photo Shoot appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 147624 Real Deal Review: Quick Portraits with the Rapid Box Duo https://westcottu.com/real-deal-review-rapid-box-duo Thu, 28 May 2015 18:04:54 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=147499 Chillicothe, Ohio photographer Matt Dat reviews the Westcott Rapid Box Duo speedlite modifier in the latest Real Deal Review. The Rapid Box Duo is an easy-to-use speedlite modifier for photographers that features a fully-adjustable speedlite bracket for up to 2 speedlites. This bracket is mounted to the rear of the softbox, allowing for line-of-site triggering […]

The post Real Deal Review: Quick Portraits with the Rapid Box Duo appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 147499 Creating Eye-Catching Portraits with the Eyelighter https://westcottu.com/creating-eye-catching-portraits-with-the-eyelighter Tue, 12 May 2015 21:12:45 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=147395 This review is courtesy of Canadian portrait photographer and digital artist Nikki Harrison. This is something I have been dying for – for a really LONG time.  I use under light reflectors all the time, especially with women because it is such a flattering fill light.  The way the bends the light and wraps it […]

The post Creating Eye-Catching Portraits with the Eyelighter appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 147395 Speedlite Portraits with the Rapid Box Duo https://westcottu.com/speedlite-portraits-with-the-rapid-box-duo Mon, 27 Apr 2015 20:43:01 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=147106 It’s a documented fact that I’m a big fan of the 26” Rapidbox, so when I realized they had released a larger version that took two speedlights I had to have it. The advantages to having two speedlights in the Rapid Box are pretty simple: you have the potential for twice the power (one full stop of light), […]

The post Speedlite Portraits with the Rapid Box Duo appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 147106 Softening Sunlight with Collapsible Diffusers https://westcottu.com/using-the-omega-reflector-as-a-diffuser Fri, 24 Apr 2015 17:52:08 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=146992 In this article, world-renowned photographer Jerry Ghionis demonstrates cool ways to use the inner diffuser panel of the recently redesigned . This panel is an essential tool when shooting outdoors to diffuse harsh sunlight and can also be used indoors to soften harsh or bright window lighting. A suction cup hook is included with the Omega Reflector […]

The post Softening Sunlight with Collapsible Diffusers appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 146992 The Advantages of Shooting with 2 Speedlites https://westcottu.com/the-advantages-of-shooting-with-2-speedlites Thu, 23 Apr 2015 18:33:07 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=146949 The Rapid Box Duo features the same instant setup and durable framework as the original Rapid Boxes, with the added ability to mount dual speedlites to the rear of the box. The Rapid Box Duo’s fully-adjustable dual shoe mount bracket is compatible with virtually all speedlites and is designed to give photographers effortless access to […]

The post The Advantages of Shooting with 2 Speedlites appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 146949 Modern Pin-Up Photography https://westcottu.com/modern-pin-up-photography Thu, 23 Apr 2015 17:48:34 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=146920 The shoot starts with the Yaphank Garage, a restored 1930’s-era gas and service station that these days is a museum. It’s about 15 minutes from my home in Long Island, New York, and I pass it countless times, each time thinking, I’ve got to do a shoot here.          I get my chance this past summer […]

The post Modern Pin-Up Photography appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 146920 Modifying a Key Light on a Budget https://westcottu.com/modifying-a-key-light-on-a-budget Thu, 23 Apr 2015 14:55:32 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=146912 Canadian portrait photographer Craig Beckta used a wraparound key light setup for this portrait. While it can often be expensive to create large key light source in-studio, Craig decided to use an affordable Westcott 7′ Parabolic Umbrella. These large modifiers are available in reflective white, reflective silver, white shoot-through versions. Here, Craig uses the reflective silver umbrella. […]

The post Modifying a Key Light on a Budget appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 146912 CLOSED: Zeppelin Deep Parabolic Sweepstakes https://westcottu.com/contests/zeppelin-deep-parabolic-sweepstakes https://westcottu.com/contests/zeppelin-deep-parabolic-sweepstakes#respond Mon, 08 Dec 2014 06:23:50 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=142727 The 35" Zeppelin Deep Parabolic softbox is an essential modifier for commercial, fashion, and portrait photographers. This large modifier creates a broad, drastic light output with sharp falloff.

The Zeppelin Deep Parabolic features 16 heat-restistant rods, a high-quality reflective interior, and an available heavy-duty mounting bracket.

The post CLOSED: Zeppelin Deep Parabolic Sweepstakes appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> https://westcottu.com/contests/zeppelin-deep-parabolic-sweepstakes/feed 0 142727 Mastering Location Lighting with Lindsay Adler https://westcottu.com/location-lighting-with-lindsay-adler https://westcottu.com/location-lighting-with-lindsay-adler#comments Thu, 04 Sep 2014 13:00:05 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=141624 This article on location lighting for photography is courtesy of renowned beauty photographer Lindsay Adler and SLR Lounge. Here I took my beautiful model on location wearing a dress and headpiece from Dream Shoot Rentals. (Recognize her face? She’s been a contestant on America’s Next Top Model and a model for Project Runway). I took the […]

The post Mastering Location Lighting with Lindsay Adler appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> https://westcottu.com/location-lighting-with-lindsay-adler/feed 1 141624 Creating a Summer Portrait In Studio with Jim Schmelzer https://westcottu.com/summer-portrait-in-studio-with-jim-schmelzer Wed, 03 Sep 2014 03:38:26 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=141617 Have you ever wanted to create a warm, summer portrait in unfavorable weather conditions? Photographers, especially those living in northern climates, often can not go outdoors in all seasons to capture images with beautiful backdrops or sunny lighting. Master Craftsman portrait photographer Jim Schmelzer set out to create a summer-themed portrait in the dead of winter in […]

The post Creating a Summer Portrait In Studio with Jim Schmelzer appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 141617 Choosing the Right Light Modifier with Joel Grimes https://westcottu.com/choosing-the-right-light-modifier https://westcottu.com/choosing-the-right-light-modifier#comments Sun, 24 Aug 2014 15:13:41 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=141599 Both new photographers and experienced professionals often question which light modifier is the best choice for each and every photo shoot. World-renowned commercial photographer Joel Grimes has been working in the industry for nearly thirty years and has an immense understanding of light modification for portraiture. When choosing a light modifier, Joel suggests that photographers first […]

The post Choosing the Right Light Modifier with Joel Grimes appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> https://westcottu.com/choosing-the-right-light-modifier/feed 1 141599 Photographing Children with the Pocket Box https://westcottu.com/photographing-children-pocket-box Fri, 08 Aug 2014 13:54:37 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=141555 Professional photography educator Erin Manning takes the Pocket Box Max modifier for a spin while photographing children at the Toledo Zoo. Constructed with the same materials as larger softboxes, Westcott Basics Pocket Boxes are the simplest tools for modifying your speedlites and flashes. Whether you’re shooting with the flash on a stand or on-camera, Pocket […]

The post Photographing Children with the Pocket Box appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 141555 Environmental Portraiture with Andrew Tomasino https://westcottu.com/environmental-portraits-andrew-tomasino Wed, 30 Jul 2014 13:29:44 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=141496 This article is courtesy of Pennsylvanian portrait photographer Andrew Tomasino.   When I’m not photographing I take part in a new passion of mine; Jiu Jitsu. In specific, 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu with some of the nicest, coolest guys that I’m lucky to now call my friends. The person you see below is one of […]

The post Environmental Portraiture with Andrew Tomasino appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 141496 Behind-The-Scenes with Rick Nunn https://westcottu.com/behind-scenes-rick-nunn Mon, 21 Jul 2014 15:00:39 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=141438 The following article is courtesy of English portrait photographer Rick Nunn.  She and I spent a few days at the cabin in the woods over the weekend. In between coffee on the balcony & trips to the beach, we made some time for a few photos. We wanted to do something a little surreal and fairytale-esque. When the sun wasn’t blocked by […]

The post Behind-The-Scenes with Rick Nunn appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 141438 Craig Beckta: The Rapid Box Strip https://westcottu.com/craig-beckta-rapid-box-strip Thu, 15 May 2014 16:02:02 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=140634 Talented portrait photographer Craig Beckta, of Halifax, Nova Scotia, discusses the details and features of the 10″ x 24″ Rapid Box Strip modifier in this latest Westcott Lighting review. Craig uses the 26″ Rapid Box Octa as his main light (results in the first image below) and then adds the Rapid Box Strip to gain dimension and […]

The post Craig Beckta: The Rapid Box Strip appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 140634 Shooting in Sunlight with Rick Nunn https://westcottu.com/shooting-in-sunlight-with-rick-nunn Fri, 03 Jan 2014 16:55:25 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=139964 This article is courtesy of English photographer and designer Rick Nunn. When you are shooting with the sun, the time of day, location & your positioning are very important. Believe it or not THE SUN IS BRIGHTER THAN YOUR FLASH which can make it very hard to balance, especially since you can only use a limited range […]

The post Shooting in Sunlight with Rick Nunn appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 139964 Shooting a Nighttime Portrait with a Softbox https://westcottu.com/nighttime-portrait-with-an-apollo Mon, 30 Dec 2013 19:45:32 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=139925 New Hampshire portrait photographer Sid Ceaser previously discussed his preference of Westcott’s Apollo line of softboxes. Sid uses a 28″ Recessed Medium Apollo when shooting one or two subjects and a large when shooting groups. All Apollo softboxes are constructed with an umbrella-style frame, which allows for quick set-up. In this particular shoot, Sid demonstrates his use […]

The post Shooting a Nighttime Portrait with a Softbox appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 139925 Sid Ceaser’s Favorite Modifier: The Westcott Apollo https://westcottu.com/sid-ceaser-and-the-apollo Wed, 18 Dec 2013 16:25:28 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=139879 This review of the Westcott Apollo is courtesy of portrait photographer Sid Ceaser of Ceaser Photography in Nashua, New Hampshire. The Apollo, for those who have never seen one, is a softbox lighting modifier for your off-camera strobes.  They come in two sizes: a 28″, which is great for 1 or 2 subjects, and the […]

The post Sid Ceaser’s Favorite Modifier: The Westcott Apollo appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 139879 Safe Lighting for Newborn Portraits https://westcottu.com/lighting-newborn-portraits https://westcottu.com/lighting-newborn-portraits#comments Wed, 18 Dec 2013 14:12:14 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=139864 This article is courtesy of premier newborn photographer Amber Scruggs of Little Moon Photography in Leesburg, Virginia.  I spent 3 years only shooting natural light, studio lights scared me. Once I got my studio as much as I love the natural light it gets, I do get nervous about really dark winter days around here […]

The post Safe Lighting for Newborn Portraits appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> https://westcottu.com/lighting-newborn-portraits/feed 1 139864 Behind-the-Scenes of Rick Nunn’s Goodbye Gravity Series https://westcottu.com/lighting-creative-portrait-apollo Tue, 17 Dec 2013 19:16:08 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=139845 This article on using the Apollo for creative lighting in a portrait is courtesy of photographer and designer Rick Nunn of Lincoln, England.  Photographer and designer Rick Nunn of Lincoln, England discusses his use of the Westcott 28″ Medium Recessed Apollo within a tight space for this image in his Goodbye Gravity series. It had […]

The post Behind-the-Scenes of Rick Nunn’s Goodbye Gravity Series appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 139845 Halloween Portraiture by Tim Breaseale https://westcottu.com/halloween-portraiture-tim-breaseale Fri, 06 Dec 2013 15:37:21 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=139550 This photography blog post was originally written by photographer Tim Breaseale of Tim Breaseale Photography located in South Florida. “The past few weeks have been my photographer’s paradise for portraiture.  I thought the subjects of zombies, the undead, and the Day of the Dead characters would be ideal subject matter for my review of the Westcott Rapid Box 26″ Octa.” The Rapid […]

The post Halloween Portraiture by Tim Breaseale appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 139550 Real Deal Review: The Apollo Strip https://westcottu.com/real-deal-review-apollo-strip Fri, 22 Nov 2013 14:02:47 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=139427 Roger Ridpath, a commercial and portrait photographer based in Kansas City, made this Real Deal Review after Westcott sent him an Apollo Strip. During this video, Roger illustrates step-by-step how to set up the Apollo Strip. The Westcott Apollo line of softboxes  are built on a umbrella-style frame, making set-up and tear down quick and […]

The post Real Deal Review: The Apollo Strip appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 139427 Creating Sports Composite Portrait with Photo Key https://westcottu.com/sports-composite-photo-key-6 Wed, 20 Nov 2013 16:29:05 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=139349 Westcott Top Pro Matt Hernandez, who specializes in sports photography, uses Photo Key 6 to remove a green background for a sports composite.  Watch how Matt sets up his lighting for this green screen image, and quickly brings it in to a football field background. With Photo Key 6 Pro, Matt was able to make […]

The post Creating Sports Composite Portrait with Photo Key appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 139349 Matching Sunlight using HyperSync https://westcottu.com/rooftop-hypersync Mon, 21 Oct 2013 14:35:39 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=139293 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. Not wanting the Detroit skyline to appear dark […]

The post Matching Sunlight using HyperSync appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 139293 How to Control Reflection when Shooting Through a Window https://westcottu.com/using-perfect-pair-kit-window Mon, 21 Oct 2013 14:15:27 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=139279 Top Pro Elite Photographer Bob Davis heads to the streets of the big city to get great fashion shots in the rain and through a window. Shooting through a window can be a difficult task due to reflections. Correct lighting is essential. To achieve a great portrait, Bob Davis uses the Bob and Dawn Davis Perfect […]

The post How to Control Reflection when Shooting Through a Window appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 139279 Continuous Light with Skylux LED https://westcottu.com/continuous-light-with-led-lights Tue, 15 Oct 2013 14:11:18 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=138666 Join Westcott Top Pro Rafael “RC” Concepcion and the Kelby Media Group as they review the .  The Skylux is one of the newest lighting systems in the Westcott lineup and packs 1000 Watts of dimmable, continuous light.  The best part of continuous light is the ability to use the same lights for photography as you […]

The post Continuous Light with Skylux LED appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 138666 Capturing Action Shots on a Budget https://westcottu.com/using-apollo-orb-create-action-photo Tue, 01 Oct 2013 14:37:03 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=139247 This Photography blog post using the Apollo Orb was originally written by Photographer, Charles Williams of Erudite Photography based in Ottawa, Canada. This photo shoot had to be one of the most inexpensive shoots I have had yet. The only thing I didn’t have, that I had to buy was baby powder for $5. Just […]

The post Capturing Action Shots on a Budget appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 139247 Using Flour and Speedlites for a Warehouse Photo Shoot https://westcottu.com/warehouse-photo-shoot-using-the-apollo-orb Tue, 27 Aug 2013 16:26:12 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=139156 The following lighting diagram and blog is courtesy of  photographer Taryn Truese of Art Factory Studios in Paterson, New Jersey. One of my favorite hobbies in photography is to “test” with new faces from agencies. I love being able to practice my skill and also contribute portraits to models with budding careers. I had just signed […]

The post Using Flour and Speedlites for a Warehouse Photo Shoot appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 139156 Going Retro with Hernan Rodriguez https://westcottu.com/retro-photo-shoot-with-hernan-rodriguez Mon, 26 Aug 2013 17:09:42 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=139133 Top Pro and Celebrity photographer Hernan Rodriguez takes us back in time with a retro photo shoot in this video. Hernan uses a variety of layers to create some fantastic images.  First, Hernan discussess the overall setup involving Westcott’s , and the across a . This combination adds depth to the image. Follow along as Hernan […]

The post Going Retro with Hernan Rodriguez appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 139133 Full-Length and Head shot Portraits with The Rapid Box https://westcottu.com/full-length-and-head-shot-portraits https://westcottu.com/full-length-and-head-shot-portraits#comments Fri, 23 Aug 2013 19:32:12 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=139114 Westcott Top Pro Justin Van Leeuwen walks viewers through brief outdoor photo shoot using the 26″ Octa Rapid Box. Justin demonstrates how quickly this light modifier is set-up due to an umbrella-style frame. A single Rapid Box raised over his subject as able to illuminate a full-body portrait. For a classic head shot, Justin brings […]

The post Full-Length and Head shot Portraits with The Rapid Box appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> https://westcottu.com/full-length-and-head-shot-portraits/feed 1 139114 On-the-Go Lighting for Street Photography https://westcottu.com/lighting-on-the-go-bob-davis Tue, 11 Jun 2013 20:17:16 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=133304 Join Top Pro Elite Photographer Bob Davis as he heads to the streets of the New York City to during a rainy modern fashion photo shoot. Bob Davis uses the Bob and Dawn Davis Perfect Pair Kit by Westcott in this video, showing how versatile off-camera speedlite use can be. Chicago wedding photographer Bob Davis recognized his […]

The post On-the-Go Lighting for Street Photography appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 133304 Wedding Photography Lighting Tips: Part 2 https://westcottu.com/photo-lighting-for-a-wedding-part-2 https://westcottu.com/photo-lighting-for-a-wedding-part-2#comments Fri, 07 Jun 2013 02:35:26 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=133252 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 […]

The post Wedding Photography Lighting Tips: Part 2 appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> https://westcottu.com/photo-lighting-for-a-wedding-part-2/feed 1 133252 Real Deal Review: The Rapid Box Speedlite System https://westcottu.com/review-of-the-rapid-box Fri, 07 Jun 2013 06:20:07 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=133245 Photographer Kelli D. from West Virginia had the chance to review the Rapid Box Speedlite System for us in this week’s Real Deal Review. The Rapid Box features a very quick setup, along with a gorgeous output of light from a single speedlite.  The Rapid Box allows photographers to mount their speedlite flash on the outside of the […]

The post Real Deal Review: The Rapid Box Speedlite System appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 133245 Studio Lighting Fundamentals using a Mega Apollo https://westcottu.com/jim-schmelzer-studio-lighting Thu, 06 Jun 2013 22:25:51 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=133211 Westcott Top Pro Elite Photographer Jim Schmelzer teaches us different possibilities for Studio Lighting when shooting with the Westcott Mega JS Apollo.  Jim also uses a Westcott 6 in 1 reflector that acts as a fill light. In this video on studio lighting, Jim discusses the advantages of using either umbrellas or a softbox like […]

The post Studio Lighting Fundamentals using a Mega Apollo appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 133211 Real Deal Review: 50″ Mega Apollo Modifier https://westcottu.com/real-deal-review-50-mega-apollo-modifier Thu, 06 Jun 2013 22:04:48 +0000 https://westcottu.com/?p=133201 Watch Charles E. from New York as he reviews the 50″ Mega JS Apollo for this week’s Real Deal Review. The 50″ Mega Apollo is the largest in the Apollo Series and like the others is built on an umbrella shaft for easy opening and closing. Charles discusses what he likes about the light modifier […]

The post Real Deal Review: 50″ Mega Apollo Modifier appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 133201 Speedlite Photos for Graduation Photos https://westcottu.com/speedlite-and-pocketbox Fri, 08 Mar 2013 10:00:53 +0000 http://fjwestcott.com/?p=125281 Top Pro Erin Manning from Los Angeles, California uses a and the to create fun Graduation Party photos using a single speedlite. These images proved to be a hit at the party and it shows that a small amount of setup can improve your final images. The Pocket Box Kit comes with three different sizes, […]

The post Speedlite Photos for Graduation Photos appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 125281 Real Deal Review: Perfect Pair Light Modifier Kit https://westcottu.com/real-deal-review-perfect-pair-light-modifier-kit Fri, 08 Mar 2013 10:00:40 +0000 http://fjwestcott.com/?p=125275 Photographer Patrick F. from The Woodlands, TX reviews the Bob and Dawn Davis Perfect Pair Kit in this week’s Real Deal Review. The Perfect Pair Kit includes two lights.  The first light is the Medium Apollo, a light modifier that is built on an umbrella frame making it very easy to setup.  It measures 28″ […]

The post Real Deal Review: Perfect Pair Light Modifier Kit appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 125275 Bruce Dorn: Portraits with Speedlites https://westcottu.com/bruce-dorn-on-speedlites Mon, 15 Oct 2012 08:38:20 +0000 http://fjwestcott.com/?p=123641 Explorer of Light and Westcott Top Pro Elite Bruce Dorn has been teaching techniques for speedlites around the country for years through Canon Live Learning and his own workshops. With the Canon Digital Learning Center’s exclusive tutorials series on environmental portraits with speedlites, now an even larger amount of photographers can watch and learn. The series was designed […]

The post Bruce Dorn: Portraits with Speedlites appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 123641 Pet Photography Made Easier with the Apollo Orb https://westcottu.com/taryn-truese-pet-photography-feature-love-thy-pet Wed, 03 Oct 2012 12:50:58 +0000 http://fjwestcott.com/?p=123537 These pictures were taken at Love Thy Pet, a local community pet store in Brooklyn NY. Every year they give back to the community by offering Free Pet Photos.  I started taking pictures for them during their pet adoption days. If a person adopted a cat or dog, they would receive a free photo with their new pet that day. […]

The post Pet Photography Made Easier with the Apollo Orb appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 123537 Building the Dramatic Portrait https://westcottu.com/building-the-dramatic-portrait Fri, 28 Sep 2012 12:47:42 +0000 http://fjwestcott.com/?p=123517 Westcott invites you to an inspirational lecture with Joel Grimes, a commercial advertising photographer, who has been working in the industry for over 30 years. Many consider Joel to be one of the leading instructors on lighting, He is an instructor with Kelby Training, and currently has a show on the FramedNetwork called ‘Joel Grimes, […]

The post Building the Dramatic Portrait appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 123517 Comparing Large vs. Small Photo Umbrellas https://westcottu.com/large-vs-small-photographic-umbrellas Thu, 09 Aug 2012 09:02:39 +0000 http://fjwestcott.com/?p=122779 Photographic umbrellas come in so many sizes nowadays, perhaps even more so than the common rain variety. Let’s set aside those and the for a moment and discuss some key differences and techniques, when selecting and shooting with the versatile photo umbrella. Benefits of Each Small Umbrella Easier to fit on tight sets or locations […]

The post Comparing Large vs. Small Photo Umbrellas appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 122779 Composite Photography Lit by the Spiderlite TD6 https://westcottu.com/composite-photography-td6 Thu, 02 Aug 2012 13:16:25 +0000 http://fjwestcott.com/?p=122798 In this composite of a mountain biker in Boulder, Colorado, Mark S. Johnson’s goal was to capture the feeling of hopping off the bike after an epic (and muddy) ride. To accomplish the effect, he employed his standard composite photography light setup. This includes three . A  (with no diffusion internal or external diffusion) served […]

The post Composite Photography Lit by the Spiderlite TD6 appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 122798 Review: Westcott’s Medium Apollo with Grid https://westcottu.com/review-medium-apollo-with-grid Tue, 31 Jul 2012 15:40:37 +0000 http://fjwestcott.com/?p=122737 Over at the Kelby Media Group, they have an online show called D-Town TV. D-Town TV is a fresh approach to teaching camera tips and photographic techniques to today’s digital photographers with Rafael “RC” Concepcion and Larry Becker as its hosts. No matter what the skill level or interest, each episode covers a wide variety […]

The post Review: Westcott’s Medium Apollo with Grid appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 122737 Shooting Outdoors: Headshots in the park https://westcottu.com/shooting-outdoors-erik-valind-on-headshots-park Tue, 24 Jul 2012 13:38:09 +0000 http://fjwestcott.com/?p=121888 Shooting Outdoors Rocks When given the choice between shooting in a studio or shooting outdoors in the world, I’ll drag my camera gear and subject out that door any day of the week. The sheer volume of different backgrounds and locations can be overwhelming if you’re just starting out though. Thankfully every city out there […]

The post Shooting Outdoors: Headshots in the park appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 121888 Directing Speedlites for Portraiture https://westcottu.com/portrait-shoot-with-apollo-strip Wed, 18 Jul 2012 13:41:19 +0000 http://fjwestcott.com/?p=121697 For this portrait shoot, Bob Davis had two speedlites in Group B manual mode 1/8th power with the flash heads manually zoomed to 200mm. One camera left and one camera right. The main speedlite was in Group A with the flash head manually zoomed to 200mm. The Apollo Strip is a light modifier used in […]

The post Directing Speedlites for Portraiture appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 121697 Using Apollo Orb to Control Light with Speedlites https://westcottu.com/jayce-clarke-using-apollo-orb-to-control-light-with-speedlites Mon, 16 Jul 2012 18:49:04 +0000 http://fjwestcott.com/?p=122394 Levels Aimed At: Simple lighting setup with a little practice. One light source (Key light), setup. Controlling background exposure to render your creative results. Anything I should know? Radio triggers that allow for AutoFP/High Speed Sync are needed. IR setups tend not to work At least 2 or 3 strobes. In Brief In this article […]

The post Using Apollo Orb to Control Light with Speedlites appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 122394 Large Octabank Alternatives for Portability https://westcottu.com/erik-valind-my-favorite-parabolic-umbrella Fri, 13 Jul 2012 12:42:14 +0000 http://fjwestcott.com/?p=122189 Most photographers love Octabanks. The light quality if amazing! Unfortunately, they are not easy on the wallet or easy to transport either. Usually rather heavy, they require a specific speed-ring to use with your lights and a large light stand to support them. But if you are looking for an alternative because of size of […]

The post Large Octabank Alternatives for Portability appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 122189 Portrait Shoot using an Apollo and Stripbanks https://westcottu.com/portrait-shoot-using-an-apollo Tue, 19 Jun 2012 13:43:50 +0000 http://fjwestcott.com/?p=121620 This portrait shoot by photographer Erik Valind is set up with a Westcott 50-inch Apollo as the main light source, and two 12″ x 36″ Pro Stripbanks acting as rim lights, coming in from the side. The 50″ Mega Apollo featured in this post is built on an umbrella frame making it very easy to […]

The post Portrait Shoot using an Apollo and Stripbanks appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 121620 Outdoor Football Portrait using a Scrim Jim https://westcottu.com/outdoor-football-portrait Mon, 11 Jun 2012 15:56:36 +0000 http://fjwestcott.com/?p=121379 This lighting setup and final image was provided by photographer Jim Schmelzer.  Jim used the Westcott Medium Scrim Jim overhead his subject so that there were no shadows on the football player, and that he could completely control the light that reached his subjects.  Jim then used a 50″ Mega Apollo to fully light the […]

The post Outdoor Football Portrait using a Scrim Jim appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 121379 Behind the Portrait with Strobist Rick Nunn https://westcottu.com/behind-the-portrait-with-strobist-rick-nunn Fri, 25 May 2012 15:52:36 +0000 http://fjwestcott.com/?p=120051 This behind the portrait blog is courtesy of strobist photographer and design Rick Nunn. Last Saturday I headed to Tokyo to do a shoot for a friend. This first set up needed to be super dramatic so I had two on the left, one high one low, and a light behind on to some very […]

The post Behind the Portrait with Strobist Rick Nunn appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 120051 Behind the Scenes: Strobist Portraits in a Warehouse https://westcottu.com/rick-nunn-portrait-shoot-using-apollos Tue, 15 May 2012 14:06:59 +0000 http://fjwestcott.com/?p=119871 This article is courtesy of designer and strobist photographer Rick Nunn of Lincoln, England. It’s been a few weeks since I’ve done a lit portrait, so I text my friend Leah &  arranged something for today. I’ve had this location in mind for a while but hadn’t had the chance to use it. It was a […]

The post Behind the Scenes: Strobist Portraits in a Warehouse appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 119871 Understanding Catchlights https://westcottu.com/catchlights-round-vs-square Tue, 01 May 2012 14:49:11 +0000 http://fjwestcott.com/?p=119564 The specific shapes of light modifiers come into play in how they shape light and how we apply them to our subject or scene. If we zoom into the eyes of our subjects and take note of the shape of the catchlights we are creating, we can begin determining which shape of softbox is the […]

The post Understanding Catchlights appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 119564 Using Shoot-Through Photo Umbrellas https://westcottu.com/tog-tuesday-lighting-spill-differences Tue, 24 Apr 2012 14:19:41 +0000 http://fjwestcott.com/?p=3378 Umbrella are a quick and easy - not to mention affordable - way to produce soft light. One of the main differences between an umbrella and a softbox though, is their ability to control where that soft light spills. Or more precisely where the light goes and where it doesn't. Lets walk through a couple different kinds of umbrellas and what kind of spill you can expect when using each.

The post Using Shoot-Through Photo Umbrellas appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 118173 Joel Grimes’ Dramatic Composites with Blake Griffin https://westcottu.com/dramatic-composites-blake-griffin Thu, 12 Apr 2012 11:58:00 +0000 http://fjwestcott.com/?p=118033 When renowned Canon Explorer of Light Joel Grimes photographed Detroit Piston’s basketball star Blake Griffin, he knew he wanted to create a grungy, dramatic set of images despite their pretty standard gym location. So Joel opted to photograph Blake on a simple white seamless backdrop, enabling him to composite in more interesting backgrounds in the […]

The post Joel Grimes’ Dramatic Composites with Blake Griffin appeared first on Westcott University.

]]> 118033