From Trader Joe’s Recipes to Studio Glow
The studio was buzzing with laughter the other night as I set up lights with Taylor—an incredibly fun model who makes every shoot feel like a hangout with an old friend. In between poses, we swapped our favorite Trader Joe’s recipes (she sold me on her chili-lime chicken idea), and she gave me a mini masterclass on how she designed her fabulous shoes. A couple other photographers at the Denver Photo Collective jumped in on the fun, and before we knew it, the room was full of stories, laughter, and a whole lot of creative energy.
That’s what I love about studio sessions—they’re not just about the images, but the people and the playfulness that happen in between. And of course, it’s the perfect chance to experiment with lighting and see how dramatically it can change the mood of a portrait.
So let’s break down five lighting setups we explored that night, each one creating a completely different story.
The Edgy Hair Light
Sometimes less is more. Starting with just a hair light, we created a dramatic, edgy silhouette. It’s all about letting the rim of light define the shape while leaving the rest in shadow. Perfect for moody portraits where mystery is the star.
Gels + Pop
Want vibrancy? Try adding colored gels on the backdrop, a side light for depth, and a bright main for punch. The result is a vibrant, high-energy look that pops off the screen. It’s playful, bold, and perfect for editorial-style portraits.
Noir Detective Scene
A snoot plus gels can completely transport your set. We used them to craft a 1920s detective vibe—hard shadows, sharp highlights, and a cinematic feel straight out of film noir. Think trench coats, typewriters, and whispered secrets in dark alleys.
Motion Blur Fun
Photography doesn’t always have to freeze time. Adding in vibrant light with a touch of motion blur turns the frame into pure energy. This technique feels alive, electric, and gives your portraits a sense of movement that’s impossible to ignore.
Backlit Mood
Finally, one of my favorites: making the light itself the subject. A moody backlit shot can feel ethereal, glowing, and larger than life. Here the light isn’t just illuminating your subject—it is the star of the show.
Studio lighting isn’t just technical—it’s storytelling. Whether it’s a single hair light carving out drama or a backlit glow that makes everything feel dreamy, each setup gives your subject a new voice. And the best part? You can keep experimenting—just like swapping recipes and stories on a fun night in the studio.
Ready to bring your own vision to life?
Whether you want playful, dramatic, or vibrant portraits, let’s create images that tell your story. Book your session with me today and let’s make magic happen in the studio—or anywhere your adventure takes us.
