One Light Photography Made Simple: Key Takeaways from Lighting Workshop

At my recent workshop, ONE LIGHT, ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES, we covered a wide range of lighting techniques, including bounced light, hard light, and modified light. The intentionally small group size allowed for personalized instruction and hands-on practice, ensuring everyone walked away with a deeper understanding and improved skills.

We dove into the magical world of one-light portraits, exploring how a single light can transform an ordinary shot into a masterpiece. From playing with dramatic shadows to highlighting the best features, the attendees got hands-on experience and some epic shots to prove it. Take a peek at what one of the attendees had to say below:r

"If you are looking for a practical, hands-on learning experience, I can't recommend Tausha's workshop enough. She will answer your questions, no matter how big or small, and is willing to help you try different things in real time to get the result you are looking for. She is real, down to earth, and tells it to you straight without adding extra fluff."

Jessica McIntosh, Photograph

er

I’m thrilled to share a few of the images I took at the workshop with you! Below, you'll find these beautiful portraits that truly showcase the power and creativity that can be achieved with just a single light source. Each photo is paired with an illustration detailing the exact setup and techniques used to capture these incredible shots. These behind-the-scenes looks provide valuable insights into the positioning, angles, and lighting adjustments that helped bring each image to life.


BOUNCED LIGHT:
Bounced light involves directing the light source at a surface to reflect and spread the light more evenly, creating softer shadows and a more natural look. In this example, we bounced the light off a large white wall using just a speedlight, resulting in soft, even illumination that minimizes harsh shadows and creates a more natural appearance. This lighting is great for e-commerce as well.

Smiling man in a black t-shirt and jeans, lit with modified light for a balanced and flattering effect.

HARD LIGHT:
Hard light produces sharp, well-defined shadows and is achieved by using a direct light source without any diffusion or bouncing, resulting in a more dramatic and edgy look. In this setup, we positioned the light source slightly camera right in front of the model to create strong, crisp shadows, emphasizing the texture and contours. We also happened to have a TV in the way that made for a nice additional shadow camera right.


MODIFIED LIGHT:
Modified light involves using tools like softboxes, reflectors, and diffusers to alter the quality and direction of the light, offering greater control and versatility in achieving the desired effect. For this shot, we used a umbrella with diffusion fabric to diffuse the light, creating a soft, flattering glow that accentuates the model's features and the delicate fabric of her outfit.

Model in a white ruffled top against a dark background, lit with modified light for a balanced and flattering effect.

The best part? The small group size meant everyone got plenty of one-on-one time, personalized tips, and loads of laughs. Whether it was experimenting with light angles or sharing photography hacks, the day was filled with creativity, learning, and fun. Here are some testimonials showcasing how the workshop made a difference for these photographers. Check out some of their favorite shots below!

 
Professional session by a Nashville photographer for stunning portraits.
Photo by Darcy Ferris
 
Expert photography educator offering tips in Nashville.
Photo by Darcy Ferris
Beginner-friendly Nashville photography classes for aspiring photographers.
Photo by Darcy Ferris

"Tausha takes it step by step, nice and slow, so you understand why you are doing what you are doing. This workshop would be really good for someone who understands on-camera flash or more basic off-camera and wants to up their game. If you are a photographer who doesn't understand all the math equations that go with photography, it's ok, you are not alone. This workshop would be perfect for you."

Darcy Ferris, Photographer


 
 
Advanced lighting workshop in Nashville for perfecting photography skills.
Photo by Elaine Drabik
Expert-led photography workshop in Nashville for advanced techniques.
Photo by Elaine Drabik
Nashville photographer conducting a comprehensive workshop experience.
Photo by Elaine Drabik

"She's awesome—so positive, smart, and talented! The positive atmosphere and how you were an open book of anything and everything we wanted to know really made the experience enriching and enjoyable."

Elaine Drabik, Photographer


In-depth photography classes focusing on lighting techniques.
Photo by PUNKROCKFOTO
Hands-on tutorial at a lighting workshop in Nashville.
Photo by PUNKROCKFOTO
Engaging photography workshop session in Nashville.
Photo by PUNKROCKFOTO

"Tausha D. is the best! The workshop was not too technical and easy to understand. It really helped to see the real-life and hands-on examples of lighting that I had read about. And she's the most fun."

H.N. James, Photographer


Are you ready to transform your photography game? Discover the hidden secrets of mastering lighting with just ONE light source! Unleash your creative potential and watch your skills soar as you explore endless possibilities with the power of a single light. Get ready to light up your world and elevate your photography to the next level! 📸✨🔥


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