Can a set of small USB-powered holiday lights really be the brightest part of your photos? Could they even work as the main light in a home studio portrait? Surprisingly, the quick answer is yes, they can. The longer answer is yes, but there might be some compromises, and that’s where photographer Gavin Hoey steps in to help.
Gavin has two identical sets of holiday lights and three photo ideas you can try at home. The first is the classic bokeh background portrait, where the LEDs appear as blurry circles of light. Gavin takes that idea a step further by introducing foreground bokeh. As he demonstrates, lights placed in front of your subject blur much more easily than lights behind.
Next, Gavin puts a set of Christmas lights in a glass jar, resulting in a jar of lights bright enough to light his model. He then sets up the second set of lights, which are basic hair and separation lights. To complete the look, Gavin lights the dark fabric background with a low-cost ring light.
For the final look, Gavin combines the first two ideas. He sets up a bokeh background with one set of lights and uses the jar of lights to illuminate his model. To enhance the effect, he adds a couple of large, glossy black tiles to the floor, creating a seamless and stunning reflection.
Gavin Hoey is a freelance photographer, writer, and trainer of all things photographic. Gavin has a real passion for sharing his photography and Photoshop knowledge. In 2008, he started recording and uploading video tutorials to YouTube. His work is regularly featured in photography magazines, websites, and videos.
Timestamps and Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:53 The right camera exposure for Christmas lights
1:57 How to create front bokeh
3:01 Bokeh portraits with Christmas lights
3:40 Using holiday lights in a jar as a main light
5:06 Using a ring light to brighten a dark background
5:55 Pictures with holiday lights in a jar
6:38 Making a reflective floor portrait set-up
7:08 Using a ring light to avoid up-lighting
7:45 Reflective portraits with holiday lights session
8:24 Conclusions and Subscribe
Watch Gavin’s previous Creative Lights Live video:
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OM SYSTEM OM-1
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Flashpoint 20″ C-Stand Kit
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Tether Tools TetherPro 31′ USB-C Cable
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Tether Tools TetherGuard LeverLock Plate
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Savage Background Paper, 86″ Thunder Gray, #27
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#christmaslights #christmasphotoshoot #adorama
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Model: Chloe Kerley
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THANKS SO MUCH FOR WATCHING!
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