Too many choices

Many photographers struggle with the decision of which lens to use when shooting. Some photographers bring 5 or 6 lenses to a shoot, but this can lead to indecision and confusion. I suggest that carrying just two or three lenses, such as a wide-angle lens and a telephoto lens, simplifies this decision-making process. By answering a simple question – "Is it a wide shot or a tight shot?" The decision is made.

My business consultant once said to me, “Never give someone more than three options when they have to make a decision. Two choices at a time are perfect.” You may be asking why this matters when it comes to lighting portraits. Well, rather than feel overwhelmed with all the lights and modifiers at your disposal you can go through a refined decision-making process for each shoot and it will be a far simpler process to make the right decisions.

I recommend following a refined decision-making process. That's why I've created the flow diagram below for you to use when planning a shoot. The diamonds are where decisions are made and if you follow the path, answering the questions along the way, you will have confidence in your choice of lighting kit.

When it comes to lighting, I like to keep things simple using a less is more approach. I find that resolving lighting decisions early in the planning or rigging stage of a shoot entirely frees up my focus so that I can build rapport and create the perfect moments to capture.

Many of the portraits that I see online, despite having fabulous lighting, often miss the mark in conveying intimacy or energy because you can tell that the sitter has become bored during the lengthy lighting setup. It's vital to remember that the heart of any portrait is the person in it—their spirit and essence are what truly bring a photograph to life.