04/10/2026
What's with all the lights? Let me explain:
For this recent shoot with the City of Red Deer, we could have easily coasted with a simple key light setup, but to get that high-end documentary feel, we pushed for a more intentional layering of light. Here was the process:
By punching a softbox through extra diffusion, we created a wrap that felt natural but polished. Adding a fill and rim light enhanced the depth and made sure the shadows were clean. Motivating the light source, as if light was just coming from the window, ensures the scene looks natural and not artificially lit. By lowering the curtains, we created strips of light to act as leading lines, drawing the eye to the subject. Finally, by adjusting the brightness off all sources so that the tree-line is visible through the windows, we provided extra context and depth without blowing out the background.
The result? Professional depth that sets the story apart. Follow to see the results!
Thanks to .vibrance for assisting and capturing BTS.