Seamless Backdrops & Defined Subjects: Lighting Hacks for Pet Photographers
One of the questions I get asked most about is my lighting setups. How do I light the background evenly? Where should I position my lights etc. So I thought I would do a quick post and share two very simple 3 light setups that I use frequently for my basic client shoots.
Lighting Backdrops Evenly
Making sure your backdrop is evenly lit can make a huge difference in your studio portraits. Uneven lighting distracts from the star of the show—And creates more work for you to do in post production! My go-to setup is super simple: I use two lights (I usually use strip softboxes but you could use umbrellas) placed on either side of the backdrop, angled at 45 degrees towards the backdrop. Keeping them at the same distance and power ensures the light spreads evenly across the whole backdrop. One of the key things is the placement of your lights and making sure they cross each other evenly.
I always take a quick test shot (or use a light meter if I’m feeling fancy!) to check for any hotspots or shadows. The key is to make sure that your backdrop meter reading equals the same as your light that is falling on your subject from your key light. So if you shoot on f8 @ 1/160 sec then both the backdrop and meter readings should read the same. Once it’s balanced, you get that clean, professional look that really lets your subject shine.
Separating a Dog from a Dark Backdrop
Photographing a black dog on a dark backdrop? Don’t panic—it’s all about creating separation. My secret weapon is a rim or hair light. I pop a 2 lights behind the dog with grids (once again I use strip boxes for this) to control the spill and angle it toward them. It creates this nice little glow or outline around their shape so they don’t disappear into the background. This time it is not necessary for the lights to read the same. I usually pop my backlight a stop less than my key light.
Sometimes, I’ll add a kicker light or reflector for a bit more pop, especially around their feet or coat. It’s just enough to highlight their features without losing the moody vibe of the dark backdrop.
Pro tip: To acheive that seemless black background in camera you need space. Positioning your dog a few metres away from the backdrop to eliminate any light spill onto it will guarantee a perfect black backdrop.
Check Out the Diagrams!
I’ve added diagrams to this post to show you exactly how I set up these shots—it’s all about keeping things simple but effective. Want a copy of your own for future reference? Just pop your email address in the form below.
