What is butterfly lighting?

Butterfly lighting is one of the oldest techniques for lighting a subject. Named for the butterfly-shaped shadow that forms underneath the subject’s nose, this setup is a proven method to ensure your subject is well-lit in a pleasing manner. Butterfly lighting, also known as Paramount lighting, became a staple pattern for the Hollywood photographers of the 1930s.  It is produced by placing the light source above the face and in line with the direction in which the face is pointing.

What is loop lighting?

Loop lighting, which is named for the loop-shaped shadow that it creates under the nose, is the most frequently-used pattern.  It is considered to be a relatively flattering and adaptable pattern that lights most of the face while imparting a sense of depth.  It is produced by placing the main light above the face and to the right or left of the direction in which the face is pointing.

What is spill light?

Spill light or light trespass is the light that illuminates surfaces beyond the property line. An example is the light on a bedroom wall coming through the window.