Composing Soft Even Lighting in Photography

Starting off with film and then moving over to digital photography with the evolving technology, Christian switched to the digital medium format after a client specifically requested it. Since then, he is shooting with the Phase One medium format cameras for all of his works. He puts a lot of effort into his light compositions underlining his images with a smooth and simple tone. What looks like one source of light is composed out of eight different light points

The photo shoot took place in Madrid at the Daylight studios, where Christian had the opportunity to photograph the new Mash E5 motorcycle with the IQ4 150MP and the Blue Ring Schneider Kreuznach 80mm LS f/2.8 Mark II lens for the first time.

The first composition focuses on the bike, using 8 Profoto flashes throughout the scene. What comes handy in this scenario are the innovative features of the XF IQ4 150MP which allow him to shoot with a tethered connection and manage all eight lights with the integrated Profoto light. Allowing him to take a step away from the camera and keep the whole composition and lighting conditions under control.

For the second set, Christian wanted the focus on both the model and the motorcycle. By adding the tripod and fresnel light, the scenario gets a studio touch and illuminates the backdrop. He normally shoots with the Schneider Kreuznach 120mm LS f/4.0 Macro, but for this occasion he got his hands on the 80mm MRK II lens, offering him the best detail and definition in the light composition.