First, place your main light (the key light) above and in front of your subject. A 45-degree angle is popular, though you’re free to experiment with slightly adjusted lighting positions for different effects.

The reflector angle and distance can be adjusted, and the material changed up from white through silver, or even gold, and provide an infinite degree of adjustment for clamshell fill.

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The two lights can be set at even powers. The lower light should never be at a higher power than the taller key light. If it is, the image will have unusual shadows from being lit from below. interior of a modern photo studio 1. Shoot — and Troubleshoot

The subject is illuminated by a beauty dish only. There are no additional light sources or modifiers. The result is defined shadows that help shape the face,Typically, I put the bottom of the beauty dish about eye level with the subject or even a bit lower. The higher the light source is in comparison to the subject, the more defined the shadows become on the subject’s face. If you don’t see catchlights in the subject’s eyes, that means your light is too high. Lower the light stand until you get a bit of reflection in the eyes. I think it's appropriate in this case - we're creating a very 'fantastic' fembot look, not looking to replicate reality. Warning: this product requires button cell batteries which if swallowed by children may lead to serious injury or death in as little as 2 hours. Two small silver reflectors are placed in a V shape to catch the light around the model. The Eye Lighter

As SailorBlue noted, this is also beneficial for people with less than perfect skin - or in this case someone who has been body painted from head to foot! For softer shadows, increase the power of the bottom fill light. If you are using a reflector, switch from a white to a silver reflector or move the reflector closer to the subject’s chin. So if you’re ready to become a clamshell portrait master, then let’s dive right in, starting with the basics: What is clamshell lighting? Using a reflector is an easy way to create clamshell lighting with minimal gear. However, with the subject holding the reflector in place, you may be more limited in your poses and composition. If the reflector is too limiting, you can use a second studio light as the fill instead. interior of a modern photo studio Use a Second Studio LightSo I'm starting with octa up high. That's from a different photoshoot, I was not into dodge&burn that days, but the good thing is that the image pretty much describes where is the upper light and what it's lighting and what not (I'm speaking about shadows on the right side of the model's face). White this requires some extra kit in the form of the additional light, strip box, and light stand, it adds more control over how much light the model is receiving from the lower portion of the “clamshell”. In most cases, I’m happy with the results I get out of the one light plus reflector setup. However, for fashion, advertising, and other situations that may require precise control over the brightness of each light source, using a light instead of a reflector might be best. This light is perfect to use as a nightlight or as a display light to set a fantastic undersea mood in your living room, bedroom, or bathroom. It’ll even be great at work, provided it doesn’t lure your attention away from your duties. We’re just saying, it can be A.D.D. bait. The struggle is reel. Now, wasn’t that just a clam-dunk?