
The more I shoot self-portraits, the more I learn, and so I wanted to encourage anyone who is curious to try it out! The following are my top tips and advice on getting started.
Now has never been a better time to explore new photography and lighting techniques through self-portraiture. For many of us, this form of photography seems more intimidating than having a model and team present, but I assure you- it is way less scary than it looks!
As someone who used to dislike being in front of a camera and somehow came out on the other side something of a self-portrait artist - I can tell you that the lessons I have learned through countless trial and errors have without a doubt been one of the key factors in my growth as a photographer.
Now, if you don't have some of these things - do not fear.
You can honestly be creative and take self-portraits with just your iPhone if you wanted, but as I slowly acquired these tools - taking photos became a whole lot easier and I kept taking my self-portraits to the next level.
I want to focus now on some of the self-portraits I made on a small 1.5x1.5 m (5 ft) clearing on the floor in my tiny Brooklyn apartment a few years ago. I used one ELB 500 TTL light with a Rotalux Octabox 100 cm and was able to create self-portraits I still love to this day.
It is important to remember that you can create whatever space you have, whether that's the floor of your bedroom, your bathroom, setting up a small studio in your living room, or going outside!
Once you have your gear set up, now is the time to be creative.
If the idea of a self-portrait that shows your face like a traditional portrait is scary, think outside the box.
How can you incorporate light & shadow to create a more mysterious portrait?
How can you use the design principles of shape, motion, or lines to create a dynamic self-portrait?
Think outside of the box, and you will be rewarded with interesting portraits!
If you are newer to photography or lighting with strobes and want a great activity to help increase your knowledge of how to light portraits; Self-portraits can help! Challenge yourself to experiment with testing your lights and modifiers in self-portraits. Experiment with every type of modifier you have: Bring your light directly over the camera for a photo, then over to the left/right, bring it closer or further, bounce it into a wall or ceiling - repeat with every modifier you have and don't forget to test with a bare light source!
Once completed; look at them all side by side in a program like Bridge, Lightroom, or Capture One. By comparing your lights and modifiers side by side, you will get closer to mastering lighting and identifying lighting you like to add to your future shoots.
It's important to remember that not all of my self-portraits (and I bet anyone else's!) turn out to be amazing and share-worthy. So don't be discouraged if your photos turn out to be something you don't love, especially at first. But it's important to remember that with every moment you put into trying something new - you are learning new lessons and techniques to help you with whatever shoot you tackle in the future.
We would love to see what you create!
Be sure to tag both Brandi and Elinchrom if you end up trying self-portraiture!
The ELB 500 TTL Dual To Go is the perfect set to be used with total asymmetry. With two independent flash heads, the unit offers a wide variety of lighting possibilities. Combined with the TTL and HSS feature, it’s effortless to use while delivering exceptional high-end results.
The Elinchrom Transmitter Pro is not included in this set and must be order separately. Transmitters are available for Canon and Nikon. Other brands will follow later.
The Rotalux includes the softbox rods, black/silver cover, internal diffuser external diffuser, and the Rotalux carrying bag.
The Speedring is not included and must be ordered separately!
Available Spreedrings: Elinchrom, S-mount Bowens, Broncolor Pulso, Hensel EH, AlienBee / Balcar, Comet, Profoto OCF
The 30° Rotagrid controls, reduces the spread of light.
This Rotagrid fits the Rotalux Octabox 100cm and the Deep version.
To hold the Rotagrid in place, the External Diffuser for Rotagrid with Velcro on the outside of the black frame is useful.
Article code 26716
The Rotalux includes the softbox rods, black/silver cover, internal diffuser external diffuser, and the Rotalux carrying bag.
Available Spreedrings: Elinchrom, S-mount Bowens, Broncolor Pulso, Hensel EH, AlienBee / Balcar, Comet, Profoto OCF
The Rotalux includes the softbox rods, black/silver cover, internal diffuser external diffuser, and the Rotalux carrying bag.
Available Spreedrings: Elinchrom, S-mount Bowens, Broncolor Pulso, Hensel EH, AlienBee / Balcar, Comet, Profoto OCF
The Click mechanism on these stands enables them to be stacked in both planes, ensuring that they can be carried in the most convenient way – either edge to edge or face to face to suit your carrying bag.
The Elinchrom Air-cushioned system offers a very smooth and convenient balance between speed of use and security.
Folded size: 92 cm
The Elinchrom Transmitter Pro is dedicated to compatible Nikon cameras.
It offers fast shutter speeds up to 1/8000s, with HS / HSS and TTL / Manual functions.
A visual display allow photographers to control flash power and modelling lamp and enable Elinchrom flash units and group settings.
Previously known as Skyport Plus HS. This product is now named Transmitter Pro since firmware 2.1
All authorized Elinchrom distributors and dealers can be found in your country
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