How to create clamshell lighting | Profoto

How to create clamshell lighting

18 May, 2020

Written by: Profoto

Clamshell lighting can be used to illuminate the subject by using two frontal light sources in order to minimize shadows and create a glowing effect. Here are Hannah Couzens' best tips of how to create it yourself.

Hannah's light setup: Profoto D2 and two modifiers, RFI Softbox Octa and a Collapsible Reflector White.

Step 1: Place the Profoto D2 in a butterfly position to create subtle sculpting to the face and cheekbones, and position it straight in front of the model.

Step 2: Raise it up to the height when the shadows appear under the nose (halfway between the nose and the upper lip), chin and cheekbones. 

Step 3: Add a reflector underneath the model's face to even out the light from above.

Tip 
Choose a color for the reflector that doesn’t create a distracting bottom catchlight in your model´s eyes. For this image, Hannah was using a white one.

Written by: Profoto

Products used in this story

RFi Softbox Octa

Ideal for flattering portraits

Collapsible Reflector Gold/White

A light shaper for bouncing flash or sunlight