📷 The Reference Photo
Photo by Luis Gherasim on Unsplash
License: Free to use under the Unsplash License.
What you’re copying (the “look”)
Window light from the subject’s left
Soft highlight on the near cheek + gentle shadow falloff on the far cheek
Simple background, no extra lights
💡 Lighting
Light source: One window
Direction: Side light (about 45–90° across the face)
Overhead lights: OFF
Distance: Subject about 2–4 ft from the window (closer = softer, farther = more contrast)
📷 Camera (works with DSLR, mirrorless, or phone)
ISO: 100–400
Aperture: f/2.8–f/5.6 (or Portrait mode on a phone)
Shutter: Adjust for exposure
Metering tip: Expose for the face; pull exposure down a touch if the window blows out.
🧱 Setup
Subject sits/stands near the window, turned slightly toward the light
Face angled into the window light
Background: plain wall or simple curtain
Turn off room lights (they kill the soft window look)
🗺️ Simple Lighting Diagram
✅ Key Tips
Put the subject parallel to the window (sideways to the light)
Place the camera on the shadow side (bottom-center in the diagram)
Closer to window = softer light; farther = more contrast
Don’t overthink gear: the window is doing the work.
🎯 Your Assignment
Find a window.
Turn off the lights.
Recreate the look (not the exact pose).
Take one finished portrait and stop.
Optional: Shoot it morning vs late afternoon and compare shadow depth.
📰 Industry Pulse
Nikon Z 24-105mm f/4-7.1 lens announced — lightweight and versatile zoom for landscapes, travel, and everyday photography. Read more: https://digitalcameraworld.com (Nikon lens news)
New 35mm f/1.4 lens for mirrorless systems — retro-inspired wide prime with creative look and close focus. Read more: https://digitalcameraworld.com (Brightin Star lens)
GoPro expands lineup with 8K 360 and Lit Hero — advanced 360 capture and action camera with built-in lighting. Read more: https://amateurphotographer.com (GoPro announcement)
📅 Events & Classes (Beginner-Friendly)
Imaging USA — https://imagingusa.com
WPPI — https://wppiexpo.com
Hunt’s Photo Education — https://edu.huntsphoto.com
Santa Fe Workshops — https://santafeworkshops.com
Photographic Center Northwest — https://pcnw.org
Art Wolfe Workshops — https://events.artwolfe.com
PPA Workshop Finder — https://www.ppa.com/events/photography-workshops/find-a-workshop
License Note
Reference images are used under the Unsplash License (free for commercial use).