ponzu Here is an older photo "Business like" that uses traditional Rembrandt lighting. It is one of the simplest one-light setups. You do not need to light the back if it's close enough to the model. In my case, the gray wall is just 1.2 meter behind me.
The light needs to be at a 45 degree angle to the side and above the model, tilted down 45 degrees. Just think 45 and 45. This setup ensures that there is no shadow on the wall. If you cannot find a good article or video illustrating it, I can shoot my setup and use it as tomorrow’s photo.
The main difference between this photo you are looking at and "Business like" is in the other one the barn doors are closed narrow, which creates a dramatic contrasty light on the face. I am lucky to have an LED panel light with barn doors. It is easy to see the light on the model exactly as it will be in the photo. With a flash it’s trial and error.
Don’t forget this photo also has a filter applied, which created an interesting spotlight effect. You can always do that for your neighbor. I have completely changed the background in some of my shots just because I could. See my gallery of 14 or so self portraits.
Kateli
Thanks for all of the info. If you would be so kind as to shoot your setup, that would be great.
I've bought a tube with led lighting and was going to make barn doors with some cardboard... I'll see if it works.
Thanks so much for you help. And you do great portraits !!
ponzu I uploaded the setup shot, check it out. What is a tube with LED lighting? I am trying to picture it. Good luck making barn doors from cardboard! I was lucky to inherit this light from someone who used it to shoot video and did not need it anymore. Flash produces similar results, the only difference is how long it takes to set the correct power and exposure and also the need to assist the camera in focusing on the face by shining light (from the phone) at the face. The overhead light is a no-no because it's the wrong color, and the camera does not focus in the dark.
Kateli Nice idea. I'd be interested in a few more detailed explosions for the light settings. My neighbour has asked me to do a portrait of her in this style. You have to light up the back, the front and then have a strip of light on the face, right? Could you help me?