[PetersenPhotography]

Originally Posted by Benji

Nic,

I was taught to do it this way. Set up the fill light and meter it. Then set up the main light where you want it and meter it by leaving the fill light ON, aim the dome of the meter at the main light (don't stand in between the fill and the subject or between the main and the subject) and meter both lights. If the fill and main are at the subject's left, I stand to the subject's right to take my meter reading. Power the main light only up or down until you have it at one to two stops MORE than the fill light. All the other lights will then be set at the same reading as the fill. The shutter speed in inconsequential when using flash in the camera room (for the most part.) I usually shoot at 100 or 125. I usually have the main and fill on the SAME side of the subject, but the fill is only off axis in relation to the subject by a foot or so. Both lights are feathered so they don't blast the subject, rather they kiss the subject.

Benji

Thanks Benji - one more question. What do you mean when you say "both lights are feathered"? From what I've read it means that the shadows have a noticeable gradation rather than a "on/off" or harsh edge. Is my understanding correct?

Ok - I lied one more question. What are ways to achieve a feathered lighting?