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JTBPhotography JournalField notes for working photographers

Lighting & Flash

Shape, direction, distance and control, from one window to a small working kit.

A softbox, silver reflector and light stand forming a simple portrait setup in a working studio

3 guides in this desk

Start with a useful frame.

A single softbox placed high and to the side of a seated portrait subject in a quiet studio

Lighting & Flash · August 20, 2026 · 9 min read

One-Light Portrait Logic

A single source teaches direction, distance and shadow more clearly than a crowded lighting diagram.

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A photographer tilting a compact flash toward a white wall while a subject waits in soft side light

Lighting & Flash · August 8, 2026 · 7 min read

Bounce Flash With Intent

Bounce is a direction choice: find the surface, predict the shadow and keep the room visible.

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A compact studio kit with one light, softbox, stand, reflector and sandbag on a marked floor

Lighting & Flash · August 3, 2026 · 7 min read

The Small Studio Lighting Kit

A compact kit can cover portraits, products and teaching when each piece has a clear role.

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