How to recreate classic Hollywood portrait lighting using modern strobes and grids. A Lighting 101 demonstration using still life and controlled studio light.
Lighting 101.12 – Hollywood Lighting with Strobes & Grids
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Lighting 101.11 – Shaping Light with Cookies and the Optical Snoot
Learn how cookies and an optical snoot shape light with intention—controlling pattern, color, and focus without overpowering the subject.
Lighting 101.03 – Understanding Light Direction
In this Lighting 101 lesson, learn how light direction affects shape and depth using a simple still life and three classic lighting angles.
Shooting Panatomic-X from 1966: One Roll, One Storm, One Orchid
How I shot 1966-expired Kodak Panatomic-X in a stormy studio session, capturing printable frames, vintage charm, and a soft-focus orchid I adore.
A Gobo, a Snoot, and a Sandwich
Learn how I used an optical snoot, a few gobos, and a budget lens to create moody, window-style light for a tomato still life. Sandwiches included.
Stargazer: A Reflection on Light, Stillness, and Craft
A reflection on creating Stargazer, a still life made with one light, a mirror, and intention—rooted in the early lessons of light, craft, and simplicity.
Finding Inspiration in Simple Things: Overcoming Creative Slumps
Inspiration isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about finding magic in the ordinary. Embrace small spaces, favorite subjects, and light to reignite creativity.
STUDIO SHOOTING & LIGHTING
Explore the studio gear and lighting setup of a commercial photographer, including Profoto D1 Air strobes, various light modifiers, backdrops, and more. Discover how minimalism and strategic lighting can enhance your photography work.
LIGHT METERS
Decades of experience with Gossen, Sekonic, Pentax, and Minolta light meters taught me that great exposure begins with reliable metering tools.