Also note that, while clamshell lighting does offer a lot of flexibility in terms of positioning shadows, it’s generally not very slimming; most of the shadows under the subject’s chin are pushed away by the bottom clamshell light, so a better alternative (when the goal is to slim down the subject’s face) is to go with butterfly lighting. Clamshell Lighting: A Step-By-Step Guide

Generally, the second (fill) light should be weaker than the main (key) light. The fill light certainly shouldn’t be stronger or closer than the key light, because this would produce grotesque shadows that come from beneath the subject, like you’d find in a horror movie. While you only need two lights to create the clamshell pattern, you’re always free to add additional lights to the setup.

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You’ll want this light to be in front of you (i.e., the photographer), so that your camera is able to sit just below it for a straight or raised angle.

Note that both the key light and the second ( fill) light should now both be in front of you, the photographer–and your aim is generally to shoot the model from head-on, with a lens that pokes out from between the two light sources. Of course, you can ask the model to turn their head and strike different poses, but be careful to maintain the same shadow presence that you see from very straight clamshell lighting. Focused task lighting relieves stress on your eyes, compared to relying on a single, main light in a room. You should also give some consideration to the kind of bulb you’ll use with your desk light. Once you’ve created the “clamshell” setup, with your lights nicely positioned in the shape of a clam, you’ll want to fine tune the strength of the lights. I like going with a second light, rather than a reflector. It’s easier to control, and doesn’t require any holding–though if you do go with a reflector, you can always have the model hold it, or an assistant of some sort. Evening Out the Second Light Storage & organisation Furniture Textiles Kitchenware & tableware Kitchens Lighting Decoration Rugs, mats & flooring Beds & mattresses Baby & children Smart home Bathroom products Laundry & cleaning Plants & plant pots Home electronics Home improvement Outdoor living Food & beverages Christmas Shop Shop by room

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At this point, you’ll have a setup that’ll produce a lot of angular, intense shadows, but this isn’t what clamshell lighting is about. That’s why you need to add a reflector under your subject’s chin, or a second light, one that will push light beneath your subject and create a stunning result. You should generally start with this light at a 45-degree angle, pointing up, so that it mirrors the key light, though you’ll then be able to make adjustments depending on your subject and the shot you’ve envisioned. You should look for one that provides enough light to see what you’re doing, but not so bright that it causes you to squint. We have a huge range of task lighting available in store and online, including the classic FORSÅ collection, LED-powered YPPERLIG table lamp, and RIGGAD, which comes with a wireless charging pad in its base.