Portrait lighting patterns: Rembrandt, loop, butterfly and split

Lighting patterns describe the shape of the shadows a light creates on a face. You only need one light, a flash, an LED or a window, and the ability to move it.

Loop lighting

The light is 30 to 45 degrees to the side and slightly above. The nose casts a small shadow that loops down toward the corner of the mouth. Flattering for most faces and the safest choice for headshots.

Rembrandt lighting

Move the light further to the side and higher. A small triangle of light appears on the shadow-side cheek, under the eye. Dramatic and painterly, named after the Dutch master.

Butterfly lighting

The light is directly in front and above the face, creating a small butterfly-shaped shadow under the nose. Classic beauty and glamour lighting that emphasizes cheekbones. Add a reflector under the chin.

Split lighting

The light is at 90 degrees, lighting exactly half the face. Very dramatic, good for moody portraits and characters.

Practice

Seat a friend near a lamp or window and slowly move the light around them. Watch the nose shadow change and photograph each pattern.