How to create Rembrandt lighting | Profoto (US)

How to create Rembrandt lighting

31 May, 2020

Written by: Profoto

The characteristics of Rembrandt lighting is to achieve a small triangle of light on the opposite cheek from where the light is placed. It’s a very popular and dramatic light pattern often used in studio photography. Here are Hannah Couzens’ tips on how to create the look yourself.

Step 1: Add a softbox to your Profoto B10. For this image, Hannah is using the OCF Softbox Octa.

Step 2: Attach a remote, such as the Air Remote TTL to your camera to wirelessly connect the camera and flash.

Step 3: Raise your light up to push the shadows down. 

Step 4: Move the light to one side until the shadow from the nose joins the shadow of the cheek to create the triangle.

Tip 
Use a black flag to be sure there is no light bouncing back from the white studio walls.

Written by: Profoto

Products used in this story

OCF Softbox Octa

Ideal for flattering portraits, used with off-camera flashes
From $119.00