Lighting Tips for Photographing Men

Backlight a portrait for even light across the face.

Lighting is one of the most important aspects of a photograph, proving especially important when taking portraits. When taking a picture of a male subject, the way the photographer uses light and shadow can highlight his good features, such as a strong jawline, and diminish less attractive features, such as a bald spot.

Main Light Source

The main light source for a portrait can come from several types of sources, whether a built-in camera flash or the sunlight. The goal with your main light source is to diffuse it, or spread it out evenly across the subject and the environment. When a main light source is too concentrated, certain areas of the photograph are too dark and others are too shiny. For indoor photographs, diffusers, or large opaque reflectors, work to diffuse a main light source from a lamp or flash. To set up a main light source to photograph a male subject, place him in position and take several practice shots, changing the location of the light and diffuser each time. Depending on the man's height, build and features, the main light source will look better in certain positions.

Use of Shadows

Harsh shadows on a male face highlight wrinkles and lines, making the subject appear older. At the same time, failing to use shadows at all makes the subject appear shallow and uninteresting. Proper use of a less-powerful second light (called a fill light) allows you to use shadows to your advantage. The shadow light is placed above the subject and more on one side (either the left or right). Position it more to the right first, take a practice shot, then do the same thing to the left. Each subject has a "better side," particular to his facial features.

Background Light

Background light eliminates awkward and distracting shadows. If the only light sources are coming from the front of the subject, his shadow or shadows from objects in the environment are cast behind him. This is especially evident for tall subjects, and men tend to be taller than women. Depending on the height of your subject and the environment of the portrait, try putting your background light below, above and level with the subject. Experiment with moving the background light slightly to the left or right side of the subject.

Flattering Lights

Once your main light and background light are in place, further experiment with smaller lights to create subtle effects that flatter the subject. Small lightbulbs, diffusing lamps and other reflective tools, such as umbrellas, help to manipulate light in creative ways. Alternatively, experiment with putting your subject near a window and see how the refracted sunlight accentuates his facial features.

References

• Picture Correct; Use of Light in Photography; Richard Schneider
• New York Institute of Photography; Available Light in the 21st Century; Richard Martin
• MCP Actions; 6 Easy Tips for Photographing Grown Men; August 2010
• Better Photo; Photographing People: Controlling the Light for Better Portraits
• Photography; Photographic Light in Photographing People