Butterfly Lighting
What is it?
Butterfly lighting is also known as Paramount lighting in which it was commonly used by Hollywood photographers in the 1930s. It consists of a butterfly-shaped shadow that is usually cast below the nose and is still widely used by many celebrity photographers today.
Why do we use butterfly lighting?
Photographers mostly use butterfly lighting for "high fashion" and "glamor style" shots to create shadows under the nose, cheeks, and chin. These shadows are usually created to flatter subjects with defined or prominent cheek bones and a slim face.
How do you set up the lighting and the subject?
To set up butterfly lighting, place the light source at a 25-70 degree angle above the face. It should be in line with the direction in which the subject's face is pointing. Typically, a harder light source such as the sun or a flash is needed to create the best shadow under the nose.
What is it?
Butterfly lighting is also known as Paramount lighting in which it was commonly used by Hollywood photographers in the 1930s. It consists of a butterfly-shaped shadow that is usually cast below the nose and is still widely used by many celebrity photographers today.
Why do we use butterfly lighting?
Photographers mostly use butterfly lighting for "high fashion" and "glamor style" shots to create shadows under the nose, cheeks, and chin. These shadows are usually created to flatter subjects with defined or prominent cheek bones and a slim face.
How do you set up the lighting and the subject?
To set up butterfly lighting, place the light source at a 25-70 degree angle above the face. It should be in line with the direction in which the subject's face is pointing. Typically, a harder light source such as the sun or a flash is needed to create the best shadow under the nose.
My Own Classic Lighting Photos