Elevating Portrait Photography Through Light
In professional photography, lighting is the defining factor that shapes mood, enhances depth, and transforms a simple image into a compelling visual story. This January, Harlowe partnered with the International Center of Photography (ICP) for lighting workshops with a segment led by environmental portrait photographer Ethan Hill and director & photographer Mynxii White on the art of lighting for editorial & video.
Lighting as a Narrative Tool: From Mastering Creative Setups
Ethan Hill introduced an innovative reverse lighting method, starting with a fully illuminated scene and progressively reducing light sources to enhance dimension and mood. This step-by-step approach helped attendees grasp the impact of each light on composition, texture, and atmosphere. Key portrait lighting setups demonstrated included:
- Two rim lights + front key light: Creates a sculpted, three-dimensional portrait with depth and clarity.
- Key light off, rim lights only: Produces a mysterious and dramatic silhouette effect.
- Single direct light: A bold, high-contrast lighting style reminiscent of ’90s editorial flash photography.
- Single overhead bounce light: Offers soft, diffused illumination for a natural and effortless look.
This structured yet adaptable lighting process allows photographers to quickly shift between lighting conditions, making it ideal for fast-paced commercial shoots, editorial work, and artistic projects.
Mynxii White: The Art of Light and Expression
During the session, Mynxii White stepped in as a subject for Hill's lighting exercise, where attendees witnessed how Harlowe lighting interacted with textures, contours, and movements, ensuring that each frame captured a balance of emotion, composition, and dynamic light play. “Portrait photography is more than capturing a subject—it’s about harnessing light to amplify the essence of the moment,” Ethan emphasized.
Why Harlowe? The Power of Portable Professional Lighting
Ethan’s lighting kit for the workshop featured:
- Harlowe Max– Delivering high-power output with precision control.
- Harlowe Avant – Versatile and portable for dynamic on-location shooting.
- Harlowe 2’×3’ Quick Release Softbox – Ensuring smooth, diffused light for flattering skin tones.
One of the standout features of Harlowe’s premium LED lighting is its built-in battery system, allowing complete freedom from power outlets. This is a game-changer for location photographers and filmmakers who require uninterrupted creative control across various shooting environments.
From Still Photography to Motion: The Magic of Continuous Lighting
"When I see how the light wraps around a subject," stated Hill, "I can envision them subtly moving, reaching through the frame—it’s more than an image; it’s storytelling in motion." Continuous LED lighting gives creators the flexibility to capture cinematic moments without interruption, bridging the gap between photography and videography.
About Ethan Hill
Ethan Hill is an award-winning environmental portrait photographer with a +25 year career working in the magazine business. A partial client list includes Entertainment Weekly, Rolling Stone, WIRED, OUT, and the New York Times. Aside from his commercial pursuits, Ethan has consistently maintained a personal art practice chronicling the lives of gay men. He is an instructor at the International Center for Photography and has work included in the permanent collection of the National Portrait Gallery, London.
