The Power of Simple Lighting Techniques

Creating dramatic sports imagery requires more than just a camera and a subject; it demands a thoughtful approach to lighting and composition that elevates the final image to match the intensity of the event.

Coming to you from James Quantz Jr., this engaging video dives into how to use minimal lighting setups to maximize impact. Instead of the usual array of lights, Quantz opted for a more streamlined approach, using just two light sources. The main light was a 1x4 strip box from Westcott, chosen for its ability to deliver directional, controlled light—perfect for accentuating the features of a six-foot-tall football player. Unlike an umbrella, which would have softened the light too much, the strip box provided the right amount of focus to draw attention to specific elements of the uniform, making them pop.

The second light in the setup was simply a strobe paired with a reflector. This combination created a cross-lighting effect, adding depth and definition to the images. By carefully adjusting the distance between the lights and the subject, Quantz was able to manipulate the falloff, enhancing the contrast between light and shadow. This technique not only highlighted the uniform’s intricate details but also added a three-dimensional quality to the images, making them stand out even more.

This shoot wasn’t confined to the studio. After capturing the initial shots indoors, Quantz moved the session outdoors to take advantage of the setting sun and the warm, natural light it provided. The shift from controlled studio lighting to natural light also added variety to the final set of images, offering different moods while maintaining the overall theme.

For the final stage of the shoot, the action moved to the football field under the stadium lights. Here, the challenge was to capture dynamic shots with fluctuating lighting conditions, as the stadium lights were being controlled through an app. Despite these challenges, Quantz was able to adapt quickly, using the wide aperture to keep the ISO down and avoid noise, while still capturing the intensity of the scene. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Quantz.