Lighting / Learn by doing
Broad Lighting explained simply
What is โBroad Lightingโ?
Lighting the side of a turned face that is more visible to the camera.
- 01Turned face
- 02Visible side lit
- 03Compare shape
How do you use Broad Lighting practically?
A small exercise
Turn the face slightly away from straight-on, then place the light on the camera-visible side. Compare with lighting the far side.
- Make a starting version and keep it so you can compare fairly.
- Try the change in the exercise. Keep unrelated choices steady where the exercise allows.
- Compare the result at the size your viewer will actually see. Write down what changed and whether it helped.
How does Broad Lighting solve a problem?
It gives a different impression of facial width and can suit a particular pose or look.
What can go wrong?
It is a description of the lit face side, not a rule that every person should be photographed that way.
How do you turn the idea into a useful solution?
Start with the specific problem in your image or brief, try the exercise, and keep the version that meets that need. If the result is worse, return to the starting version and change one choice at a time.
Quick check: can you explain the three ideas in the diagram?
Turned face โ Visible side lit โ Compare shape. Explain how each relates to the exercise. Then compare the starting version with your result and choose the one that meets your brief.
Related video lesson
Portrait lighting โ Adorama
This related lesson gives wider context for the topic. Camera menus and software versions may differ from yours.
Loading the player connects to YouTube. You can also watch the lesson on YouTube.Keep exploring
Try the idea in a studio shoot
Planning a portrait or product session? Use the glossary with our practical shoot guides, then check the studio facilities and send your confirmed requirements with an availability enquiry.