Just a torch some gels and cartboard

It can be easy

And it can be hard. It all depends on the gear you use.
How often did we hear that excuse when something didn’t work out?

A few years ago I did a workshop during Photoshop World where I started out with 3 strobes and “faked” that one by one the strobes failed and I eventually ended up with a torch that was on the stage, and finally asking people from the audience to use their phones to light my model.
The proof is in the pudding. In essence you can create great shots with almost everything, as long as it emits light is my motto.

In fact, sometimes limiting yourself pushes you to be more creative.
And what is more limiting than….. a standard torch.

A new KelbyOne class

I’ve been working with KelbyOne for quite some time now. In fact, I was their first European instructor, which naturally means that when they request a new video, I want to create something fresh and creative. This time, the class focuses on using household materials to capture stunning photographs.
You can find the class here

A torch

Besides using household items like rescue blankets and a room divider (among other things), I also challenged myself with lighting.
One set we decided to try would be to see what you can achieve with just a simple torch.
We all have one in our phones or a more powerful one.
For this set, I’m using a simple focusable torch.

If you’re using a torch for photography, make sure the batteries are fully charged and use a pretty powerful one in a dark room to avoid spill light.

When we began with just the torch, the light was already ok, but I wanted to make it more focused.
However, when you can’t connect grids to a torch, you have to be creative.
So, we used a piece of cardboard and cut out the pattern I wanted on our model.
We started with something like this (I did add some vignetting in Photoshop).

With the cardboard cutout we already get a lot more focus on our model.
I already love this look.
But we can always improve something, Right?

Add some color

Color evokes emotions, and I believe the color red would be an excellent choice for this shot.
As you can see, I’m still using the torch with the cardboard to illuminate the models’ faces, but I’m also employing a red-colored light source to enhance the shadows.
You can use a strobe with a red gel or, of course, a LED tube.

In my case, I primarily use Nanlite PavoTubes.
These lights can be remotely controlled and offer a wide range of colors and effects.

Now it was up to our model Claudia to create interesting shadows on the background with her poses, and of course she had to stay within the light.
Not an easy task, but she is a great model and I absolutely love these results.

See how we did it

We filmed the KelbyOne class with 3 different cameras to make sure you see the set from all angles, and of course you also see the images coming in during the shoot.
This is just one of the sets we did for the class, so if you want to be inspired and learn how to use simple materials and alternative light to create stunning images, make sure to check out my new KelbyOne class.