How To Light A White Background In Photography

There are four main sources of light a photographer has to work with when shooting in a studio environment. These sources include the main or pin light, flash fill, reflected light and the background light. The background light is one of the more crucial sources of light when shooting a portrait. This light eliminates any shadows that may be cast onto the photographic backdrop from the main or fill lighting. The background light must be placed behind the subject to illuminate the area behind the model or object being photographed.

Photo : Nick Wheeleroz

Place two light stands on either side of the studio background when shooting a free-standing model or object. The light stands need to be positioned slightly behind where you will place the subject of your photograph. Look through the camera’s viewfinder to confirm the light stands are not in the frame and reposition is necessary.

Use daylight balanced bulbs that are white and full-spectrum to illuminate your photographic backdrop. Avoid using regular incandescent light bulbs, because they will cast an unnatural yellowish hue onto the background and/or can affect the color spectrum and/or white balance of your photograph. Place the light bulbs into the light stands. Point lights toward the backdrop in a downward angle so they cross just before reaching the backdrop.

Photo : Nick Wheeleroz

If you will be shooting an object that is placed on a stand you will need to position the stand at least two feet in front of the white seamless backdrop. Place two short stand lights, or small floor lights, on the floor behind the stand so they are out of sight from the camera’s viewfinder. Use white full-spectrum daylight balanced bulbs and point them up toward the backdrop. Light beams should cross just before reaching the backdrop.

Take some test shots before finalizing the light positions. If possible, place the model or object in the correct position during test shots. This will help you determine if there are any unwanted shadows, overly bright spots or dark spots on the photographic backdrop. Re-adjust camera, subject or light positions as necessary until you have reached desired look and feel of the photograph.