Lighting | For Portrait Photography

Lighting: for Portrait Photography, by Steve Bavister, is a compilation of images created by different photographers. Each image is accompanied by diagrams and discussion. I found this book enjoyable because I think it’s interesting to see how other photographers set up their images and arrive at the finished photograph. The format, film, and exposure are all indicated for each image, as well as the intended use (e.g. personal project or magazine). The images are organized into sections based on lighting: outdoor/ambient, simple lighting, two lights, and “complex.” I want to reiterate that the portraits shown in this book do tend more towards the editorial or fashion end of the spectrum.While you won’t come away from this book with a set way to create well-lit images, you will probably enjoy the ingenuity that went into planning the images and creating the desired effect. If you’re not one to enjoy examining unique images created by other photographers, then you should pass on this book – because it will NOT tell you “proper” lighting rules and set-ups. But, if you’ve already mastered the basics and are looking for ways to add variety to your lighting, then you’ll probably benefit.

Amazon Link: Lighting | for Portrait Photography