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Loop lighting is a very popular lighting pattern used by portrait photographers. It uses one light, unlike the rim lighting where two lights are required and it also requires a knowledge of how to place your light. The hallmark of loop lighting is casting a shadow on the subject’s face without creating a triangle that tends to flatter the subject’s face.
Loop lighting derived its name as a result of the shadow it creates on the subject’s face in the portrait. Loop lighting creates a circle-shaped shadow under and to the opposite side of your light. Unlike rim lighting, loop lighting is less dramatic and can also help create depth for the portrait and help maintain a well lit and bright look.
How to achieve loop lighting?
First, you need to pose your subject and then set your light above the eye level of your subject. The angle should be placed at an angle down to slightly throw a shadow on your subject. Place the light at an angle of 45 degrees on your subject, and you can also move the direction of the light to a preferable angle till you get the desired loop lighting effect you want. If you prefer softer shadows, add a reflector to the opposite side of your subject for full light.
