Broad Lighting Archives

Broad Lighting

brɔ́d láytɪŋ

Term: Broad Lighting
Description:

Broad lighting is a portrait lighting pattern where the portion of the subject's face that is turned toward the camera is lit most brightly. This is the 'broad' side of the face - from camera position it is wider than the 'short' side of the face, the side that is turned away from the camera. Broad lighting is typically less flattering than short lighting as it widens the look of the face. However, it is useful for subjects whose faces are very narrow that would like the perception of a wider face.