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Profit from Portraits

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Portrait Lighting Guide With Examples for Reference

One of the most challenging and rewarding photography niches is portraiture. It’s a great example of how lighting can make or break an image.

A portrait tries to capture the character of the subject as well as their physical appearance. So, using light to create a mood or impression is valuable.

We’ve broken our guide down into four sections. Use these jump links to get to the ones you need, and click the links for more in-depth guides:

1. Portrait lighting terms
2. Natural lighting
3. Studio lighting
4. Mixed lighting

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Magical Childhood Moments

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Portrait Lighting Terminology

Learning some portrait lighting terms can help you improve your lighting. A “key light” is the primary light source illuminating a scene, while a “fill light” reduces shadows. “Backlight,” or “rim light,” comes from behind the person to make them stand out.

Light patterns like butterfly, loop, Rembrandt, and split lighting create distinct shadows on the face. Modifiers such as softboxes, umbrellas, and reflectors shape the light to achieve the desired effect.

Understanding these portrait lighting terms helps you master the art of portrait photography. You’ll create beautiful, professional-looking images.

Natural Lighting

Natural light is the most varied, beautiful, and sometimes inconsistent light. It can be harsh, warm, soft, golden, cold, and changeable. But for many situations, it is unbeatable.

Natural-Light Portraits

Learning to exploit natural light to the fullest extent can raise your portrait photography game to a new level. Natural light is a powerful tool for creating dreamy, ethereal portrait photos.

Shadows can transform simple elements into stunning works of art. Look for interesting patterns created by branches, plants, or everyday objects. Objects like hats and curtains can add depth and dimension to your portraits.

Window light is another reliable source of natural light for portrait photography. Position people near a large window to ensure even lighting on their faces. Experiment with curtains to create a makeshift studio and control the shadows.

When shooting outdoors, look for eye-catching backgrounds that complement your model and theme. If you can’t find the perfect backdrop, don’t be afraid to add elements, such as flowers, confetti, or bubbles, to enhance your compositions.

You can create diptychs that tell deeper stories. Capture people and objects to combine your love for different photography genres. To learn more about natural-light portrait photography, check out our in-depth guide.

Ambient Light Portraits

Ambient light photography is a great way to capture atmospheric portraits. It uses “available light” sources like windows, doors, and the sun to create moods.

You can use different types of ambient light to achieve various effects. Backlight and golden-hour lighting are perfect for dreamy atmospheres.

Cloudy daylight and toplight can create mysterious moods. Direct light results in harsh shadows and striking contrasts.

Ambient light is available almost everywhere. It gives you endless opportunities to explore atmospheric portraiture. Experiment with lamps, parks on cloudy days, or stores with haunting toplight. Try to find inspiration and potential in every location.

Ambient light improves your observation skills. It helps you take stunning atmospheric portraits.

Window Light Portraits

Window light photography is a simple and beautiful way to take portraits. Using natural light from a window, you can create stunning images with a soft, dreamy quality. All other things being equal, the larger the window, the softer the light is.

The softer light is because a large window provides a wider angle for the light to fall on your subject’s face, producing fewer shadows. You can experiment with the distance between your subject and the window to adjust the hardness of the light.

Window lighting is very directional. It acts as a side light unless the window is directly above the subject.

Place your subject in the middle of a window, and the light from the left illuminates the left side of their face more than the right. This setup creates an interesting effect with more shadows on the right side.

Look at our handy guide to learn more about window light portrait photography.

Artificial Lighting

Try these photography lighting techniques using artificial light in a studio.

Portrait Light Patterns

Portrait lighting is a crucial skill for any photographer. The right lighting can make all the difference in creating a stunning portrait. Here are seven portrait lighting setups to try with studio lights.

Split lighting is the simplest setup, using a single flash lined up with the model’s shoulder. Loop and Rembrandt lighting are classic setups that suit both male and female models. Butterfly lighting casts a small, butterfly-shaped shadow under the nose.

Rim lighting highlights the contours of the model, creating a mysterious feel. Clamshell lighting uses a key light and a fill light to disperse shadows. And don’t forget about mixing flash with ambient light for environmental portraits.

Mastering these portrait lighting diagrams takes your photography to the next level. Experiment with different setups to find what works best for your style and subject.

One-Light Portrait

You can create amazing portrait lighting with just one light. The key is knowing where to place that light relative to your subject.

Butterfly lighting places the light above and slightly behind the camera, creating a small shadow under the nose. Loop lighting moves the light 45 degrees to the side, creating a shadow on one side of the nose.

Rembrandt lighting creates a triangle of light under one eye. Rim lighting places the light behind a person, outlining their shape.

Split lighting puts the light directly to the side, lighting only half the face. A reflector on the opposite side can fill in some of those shadows. A backlight creates a halo effect behind the subject.

Adding a reflector in front bounces light back to softly illuminate the face. For more one-light portrait tips, check out our full guide.

Portraits With Flash

An external flash is a great way to improve indoor portrait photography. Bouncing the flash off the ceiling or walls can create a more natural, pleasing effect than using a direct flash.

Experiment with different angles, such as 90, 120, or 150 degrees from the subject, to find the best results for your environment.

Pay attention to your camera settings as well. A maximum aperture of f/4.0 for single subjects and f/7.1 for groups ensures the entire face is focused.

A shutter speed of around 1/50 s lets some ambient light in without risking any camera shake. An ISO of 400 provides a good balance between detail and noise.

With these techniques, you can capture well-lit, professional-looking portraits indoors. You don’t need a studio! To learn more about indoor flash photography, check out our in-depth article.

Three-Light Portrait

A three-light setup is a versatile lighting technique for photography. It uses a key light, fill, and backlight to illuminate the subject.

The key light is the main light source. To reduce shadows, place it 45 degrees to the subject’s right and the fill light 45 degrees to the left. The backlight is positioned behind the subject to separate them from the background.

Adjust the brightness of each light to get the desired exposure. The key light should be brighter than the fill light. The backlight can be as bright as the fill light or slightly dimmer. Use a radio trigger to set off the lights remotely for the best results.

Learning to use a three-light portrait photography setup is an important skill. You can use it for portraits, headshots, and more.

Butterfly Lighting

Butterfly lighting is a simple yet effective setup for creating beautiful portraits. It involves placing a single light directly in front of the subject, about a foot above their face.

This setup creates a butterfly-shaped shadow under the nose. It’s flattering and slimming.

When setting up butterfly lighting, using an off-camera flash, triggers, and a reflector is best. Position the person before your camera and align the light with them. The reflector should be placed below the subject’s face to soften shadows.

To control the intensity and direction of the light, experiment with the angle of the subject’s face and the power of the flash. You can also add creative elements like fairy lights or dramatic shadows to make your portraits more interesting.

Butterfly lighting is a great technique. It’s for any photographer looking to improve their portrait photography skills.

Paramount Lighting

Paramount lighting, also known as butterfly lighting. It’s a timeless portrait illumination style that can create stunning results.

It involves placing a single light source above and directly centered with the subject’s face, angled down towards them. This setup creates a butterfly-shaped shadow under the nose and emphasizes the cheekbones.

To achieve paramount lighting in a studio, use a softbox or strobe placed above and behind the camera. An octagon-shaped softbox creates beautiful catchlights in the model’s eyes.

If the shadows are too harsh, place a reflector under the chin to help soften them. This lighting style is flattering for most people, filling wrinkles and facial lines while creating a soft look to the skin.

Our full article is helpful if you want to learn more about paramount lighting.

Rembrandt Lighting

Rembrandt lighting is a classic portrait technique that creates a dramatic, moody look. It was named after the Dutch painter Rembrandt, who often used this type of lighting in his paintings.

For Rembrandt lighting, place your key light off to the side of the subject’s face at a 45-degree angle and slightly above their eye level. This setup creates a triangle of light under the subject’s eye on the shadowed side of their face.

Rembrandt lighting is a great choice for low-key portraits, and you can achieve it with a single light source. Add a fill light or reflector to lighten the shadows for a softer look. Our full article is a good resource to learn more about Rembrandt lighting.

Clamshell Lighting

Clamshell lighting is a popular beauty, portrait, and headshot photography setup. It sculpts the face, defines the cheekbones and chin, and creates a sparkle in the eye while keeping shadows soft.

Place the key light above the subject’s head at a 45-degree angle to create clamshell lighting. Use a modifier like a softbox to soften the light. Take a test shot and adjust the light until you see catchlights in the eyes.

Next, add a reflector or second light below the subject at a 45-degree angle. This setup fills in the shadows under the chin. If using a second light, set it about two stops lower than the key light. Clamshell lighting is a simple yet rewarding setup to master.

Hair Light

A hair light is a studio light that separates the hair from the background. It’s placed behind the model and directed towards the hair, creating a halo effect. This setup is especially helpful when the subject’s hair color is like the background color.

The hair light can be subtle or more pronounced depending on the desired look. Use a low power setting for a subtle separation, or turn up the power for a stronger halo effect.

Modifiers like beauty dishes, barn doors, grids, and snoots help prevent light from spilling onto other parts of the image. Be careful not to exaggerate flyaways with the hair light.

Have the subject use hair spray to smooth their hair and save time in Photoshop later. A hair light can add the perfect pop to your portraits when used correctly. Check out our in-depth article to learn more about using a hair light in your photography.

Mixed Lighting

You can achieve these portrait photography lighting techniques using natural and studio lights.

Fill Light

Fill light is an extra light source that helps eliminate shadows and balance the exposure in your photos. It’s especially useful when shooting in bright conditions, and your subject looks dark. You can use a flash, strobe, continuous light, or reflector as your fill light.

The fill light is typically less bright than the key light, the main light source. To use a fill light, place it opposite the main light source. If the key light is behind your subject, position the fill light in front of them.

The key to effective fill lighting is setting the correct fill ratio. Use your camera’s spot meter to make an exposure reading from the lightest part of your composition. Then, add fill light to eliminate shadows without overexposing the subject.

To learn more about fill light, check out our in-depth article.

Catchlight

Catchlight is the sparkle in a subject’s eyes, making them look alive and vibrant in a portrait. It’s a reflection of the light source, whether natural or artificial. Without a catchlight, portraits can appear dull and lifeless.

Position your subject facing the sun or a reflective surface like windows or mirrors to capture catchlights outdoors. Shooting during the golden hour when the sun is low can create stunning silhouettes in the eyes.

Indoors, use windows to diffuse natural light and position your subject about 45 degrees from the window. This lighting setup creates the most appealing catchlights.

Artificial light, household lamps, continuous lighting, or off-camera flash can create catchlights. Focus on the eyes. Use a wide aperture like f/1.8 or f/1.4 to emphasize them. And choose circular light sources for natural-looking specular highlights.

Editing can help bring out the catchlights by removing unwanted reflections. Check out our in-depth guide to learn more about catchlight in portrait photography.

Short and Broad Lighting

Short and broad lighting are two styles of portrait lighting. They can dramatically affect the mood and appearance of your subject.

Short lighting is when the shadowed side of the face is closest to the camera, creating a more dramatic and moody look. It can also make the face appear slimmer and longer.

Broad lighting is the opposite, where the brighter side of the face is closest to the camera. This lighting creates a more open and inviting look and can make the face appear wider. It’s often used for female subjects to help smooth out skin imperfections.

Use these lighting styles with both studio and natural light. By adjusting the position of your subject and the light source, you can create various looks.

Check out our in-depth guide to learn more about using short and broad lighting in your portrait photography.

Loop Lighting

Loop lighting is a popular portrait lighting technique. It creates a small shadow of the subject’s nose on their cheek. To achieve this effect, position the light source slightly above eye level and angle it down to create the desired shadow size.

The ideal angle is around 45 degrees. Move the light until the nose shadow is right—not too large or fused with the cheek shadow. Avoid placing the light too high, which results in lifeless images without eye catchlights.

Loop lighting flatters most faces, making it a go-to choice for many portrait photographers. By mastering this technique, you can create stunning portraits that showcase your subject in the best possible light.

Loop lighting is a fundamental skill for any portrait photographer looking to take their work to the next level.

Rim Lighting

Rim lights create a dramatic effect in portrait photography. Position your subject before a dark background with a strong light behind them.

The light source can be slightly to the side or above. But the subject should block the light source from the camera’s view.

You can use any light for rim lighting, including studio strobes, off-camera flash, continuous LED panels, or natural light. Contrast is key – the rim light should be stronger than the key light on the front of your subject for the most impact.

When using natural light, look for locations with a dark background and place your subject so the sun is behind them. Morning and late afternoon work best when the sun is lower in the sky.

You can also combine available light with flash to balance the exposure. Translucent edges like frizzy hair or clothing can enhance the rim light effect. Improving the contrast during post-processing can further refine the look of your rim light portrait.

Split Lighting

Split lighting is a photography technique in which the light source illuminates half of the subject’s face. It leaves the other half in shadow. This lighting setup creates a dramatic effect that emphasizes texture and adds contrast to portraits.

Place the light source to the subject’s side at a 90-degree angle from the camera to achieve split lighting. The light should be slightly behind the subject’s head.

Adjust the position of the light or the subject until you light exactly half the face and the other half is in shadow.

You can use natural light from a window or artificial light sources like LED lights with stands. To add vitality to the portrait, ensure there are catchlights in the subject’s eyes.

Experiment with light intensity and color to create different moods. Split-lighting portraits often look striking when converted to black and white. It further enhances the dramatic effect.

Dramatic Lighting

Dramatic lighting makes photos stand out by creating contrast, interest, and mood. It has three main features:

1. Hard light with little transition between bright and dark areas
2. Focused or patterned light that illuminates specific parts of the image
3. High contrast with both bright and dark tones

To create dramatic lighting, use small or distant light sources for hard light. Change the light with grids, snoots, or barn doors to focus it on a specific area or create patterns. Increase contrast by avoiding fill light and using a black reflector to deepen shadows.

Experiment with light positioning to achieve dramatic effects like split or Rembrandt lighting. With these dramatic lighting techniques, you can create powerful, attention-grabbing photos that stand out.

Twilight Portraits

Twilight portrait photography can be challenging. But with the right techniques, you can capture stunning images in low-light conditions.

Start by taking a test shot to gauge the ambient light exposure. Then, add a flash with a diffuser to illuminate your subject while maintaining natural shadows.

Experiment with your camera settings to find the right balance between flash and ambient light. A wide-aperture lens, like an f/1.4 prime, lets more light in. Focusing on the model’s eyes creates a soft, dreamy effect.

Pay attention to your background lighting. And position your model to capture interesting elements. With the right settings, you can create stunning twilight portraits. To dive deeper into twilight photography, explore our comprehensive guide.

To make your life easier, we have examined a range of situations and age ranges to give you the best tips and ideas for these photoshoots! These tips range from camera settings to how to make your subjects feel more comfortable in front of the camera, achieving better photos.

Children Photoshoot Ideas

Child photo ideas span from formal group photos to candid photos of them playing. You will never regret taking photos of your children as these are memories you can hang on to forever. So, experimenting with different styles of shoots will never be a waste of time.

Photographing your children is a great way to spend time together. If you’re both having a good time, you can tell from the images!

Each section we cover will give you ideas on shooting different age ranges or situations. If you want more information about a particular section, read our in-depth articles!

Toddler

Toddler photography can be challenging, but capturing their adorable antics is worth the effort. Use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/250 s to freeze motion, and shoot in burst mode to increase your chances of getting a great shot. Continuous autofocus will help keep your subject sharp as they move around.

Get down to the toddler’s eye level for more intimate portraits with less distortion. Keep the session moving to maintain their short attention span, and be flexible with your plans. Let the toddler take the lead and brainstorm ways to make their activities more photogenic.

Enlisting help to elicit smiles and using props like noise-makers or bubbles can make the session more fun for everyone. If you’d like to learn more about toddler photography, there are many helpful resources available.

Siblings

Sibling photography captures the unique bond between brothers and sisters. Matching outfits can maximize cuteness, especially with twins or multiple siblings. Including the family pet can also make for a cherished photo.

Candid shots often work best, like siblings walking together or having a conversation. Taking photos from behind or above can help capture natural moments. Windows also make great backdrops for heartfelt sibling portraits.

Childhood activities provide perfect opportunities for sibling photos. Have them read a book together, whisper secrets, or even engage in a playful pillow fight. The holidays are another joyful time to photograph siblings in festive attire. For more sibling photo ideas, explore poses and tips to bring out their unique relationship.

Sisters

Capturing the special bond between sisters is a beautiful way to celebrate their relationship. A simple approach, like having them sit together, can produce heartwarming results for sisters of all ages. Matching outfits or a yin and yang color scheme are classic ideas that look adorable on young children and stylish on older sisters.

Including a beloved family pet or capturing a bird’s eye view of the sisters lying together can add a playful touch to the photoshoot. Encourage them to whisper secrets or walk hand in hand for a touching moment. Embracing their heritage with traditional costumes is another meaningful way to honor their roots.

Laughter is often what keeps sisters together through life’s ups and downs, so create a relaxed environment where they can share the joy of each other’s company. If you’d like to explore more sister photoshoot ideas, there are plenty of creative options to capture the magic of this unbreakable bond.

Mom and Me

Mommy and me photoshoots capture sweet moments between a mother and her children. These sessions can range from themed fantasy shoots to simple lifestyle images. The best mommy and me pictures have genuine interactions and smiles.

To get the best results, plan the photoshoot carefully. Choose a time when the kids are well-rested and bring along some of their favorite toys. Use simple lighting setups that flatter mom while keeping the focus on the interactions.

Most importantly, keep the photoshoot fun and be flexible. Encourage play, take breaks when needed, and don’t force poses. Capture the everyday moments, not just the planned ones. You can find more tips for great mommy and me photoshoot sessions to create beautiful, genuine images of a mother’s love.

Mother and Daughter

A mother daughter photoshoot is a great way to capture the special bond between a mother and her daughter. Props like balloons, styled seating, and signs can add a fun element to the session. Choosing a theme, such as a spa day or picnic, can make the photoshoot unique and give young children something to do.

Wardrobe is another important factor to consider. Discuss options with your clients beforehand to ensure the look they want, whether it’s elegant, casual, or themed. Offering a unique product like matching lockets or keychains can make the experience even more special.

To learn more about mother daughter photoshoot ideas and tips, this in-depth article covers everything from location selection to referral programs that can help grow your photography skills.

Teenage

Let’s now look at some ideas for teen portraits. Don’t force your teen to pose in ways that make them uncomfortable. Teens often know their best angles thanks to social media. Let them pose naturally without much direction to capture genuine expressions. It’s okay if they don’t smile – eventually you can get a few smiles by connecting with them.

Keep teens engaged by having them constantly move around. Ask them to walk, joke with others, or play. Vary the poses and locations to maintain momentum and prevent boredom. Give them space from parents or family to help them feel relaxed.

Talk to the teen during the session about their interests. This loosens nerves and draws out real expressions. Use props related to their hobbies, like sports gear or musical instruments, to make posing easier. Most importantly, let the teen have a say in the photoshoot, such as choosing outfits or locations. Giving them some control leads to more excitement and participation. For more teenager photoshoot ideas, check out our in-depth article.

Prom

Prom is a special event in a teen’s life, and capturing the perfect photos is important. Use conversation and breaks to keep poses natural and relaxed. Zoom in on the details like wardrobe, shoes, and flowers to tell the full story of their prom experience.

Photograph each person individually to personalize the shoot. Schedule enough time to cater to everyone, including breaks and wardrobe adjustments. Avoid using flash to keep outfits looking natural, and try different poses for individuals, couples, and groups.

Keep the session quick to avoid boredom, and use props like streamers or signs to make it fun. Give parents time to document the event as well. Most importantly, ask the teens if they want anything special before wrapping up. To learn more about prom picture ideas, check out this helpful article.

Maybe Gen Z is the most comfortable in front of the camera because they’ve taken selfies all their lives. But for the rest of us, having someone in control who can advise us is very valuable. That’s why, as a photographer, it’s important to build your posing knowledge base.

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Our Complete Photography Posing Guide

We’ve examined everything from portraits to weddings, sitting poses, and how to smile. Follow our tips to improve the quality of your pictures of people! Use these links to go to the section you need:

1. General posing tips
2. Posing individuals
3. Posing pairs and groups
4. Posing family and children
5. Posing for women
6. Niche photography posing guides

General Posing Tips

Click the links to delve deeper into each photography posing guide.

Natural Poses

Here are some tips for creating relaxed, natural poses in your photoshoots. Start by building trust with your clients. Chat with them before the shoot to help them feel comfortable. Give simple instructions, like not looking at the camera unless asked.

Watch for poses that come naturally to your subject. Make small adjustments to improve the pose and avoid errors. If you have a specific pose in mind, show it yourself first.

Keep the conversation going during the shoot. Ask questions, tell funny stories, and give compliments. This banter helps your subject relax and creates great expressions. You can also ask them to take a deep breath to calm their nerves.

Giving your subject an action to do, like walking or playing with a prop, takes their mind off the camera. Add a physical touch to create connection and intimacy for couples and families. Relaxed poses capture a moment and prioritize expression over perfection.

Natural Smiles

Getting people to smile naturally for photos can be challenging. One of the best ways is to get to know your subject first. Talk with them to help them feel more relaxed in your presence.

Make sure your model feels beautiful by having them pick an outfit they love. Choose a shooting location that sparks joy for them, like a favorite park or café. Keep them entertained during the shoot with fun activities they enjoy, such as hiking or biking.

You can also include other people or pets in the photos to create a comfortable, joyful atmosphere. If you’d like to learn more tips for getting people to smile for pictures, we have an in-depth guide that covers everything you need to know.

Posing Hands

Hand poses can make or break a portrait photo. Giving the hands something to do, like placing them in pockets or holding an object, helps the model feel more at ease. Hand poses can flatter the body by creating space between the torso and arms.

Avoid foreshortening by ensuring fingers and arms aren’t pointed straight at the camera. Don’t hide the entire hand or crop at the wrists. Keep hands from being too close to the camera to prevent them from looking larger than the face.

Photograph hands at a slight angle to make them look smaller. Avoid poses where hands push against the body, creating unflattering bulges. Instead, use a soft touch to highlight the face or other features you want to draw attention to.

Hand poses that are asymmetrical often create stronger portrait images than symmetrical poses. Read our complete hand-posing guide for more!

Sitting Poses

Sitting poses are a great way to capture stunning portraits. They offer a wide range of possibilities, from individual shots to couples and groups. Try poses like leaning forward with chin on hands, sitting sideways with an arm on a chair, or facing away from the camera.

Stairs and steps provide interesting contrasts for sitting poses. You can also have the subject lean against a tree or sit in a pretzel pose. Giving them something to do with their hands, like drinking tea or looking in a mirror, can make the pose more natural.

Try poses like sitting sideways on the ground, back-to-back, or the “double pretzel” when shooting two or more subjects. Couples can pose head-by-head to show togetherness. Families can put their heads together or sit on a log for a natural look.

You can capture amazing sitting poses in any setting with a little creativity. To learn more about sitting poses, check out our in-depth guide.

Selfies

Selfies are a fun way to express yourself and share your life with others on social media. Try poses that reflect your mood and personality to take your selfie game to the next level. Let loose and have fun with silly expressions, or relax your lips for a natural, soft look.

Make your eyes the focal point by looking directly at the camera or slightly below the lens. A selfie stick can help you find flattering angles and avoid facial distortions. Don’t be afraid to include your whole body in the shot to show off your style and surroundings.

Incorporate your hands, friends, pets, or favorite activities. They can make your selfies more engaging and natural-looking. Most importantly, be yourself and let your unique personality shine through in every shot.

For more creative ideas and techniques, selfie poses can help you take your social media presence to new heights.

Posing Individuals

A person might need photos for their business, a LinkedIn profile, or to remember a special occasion. Having a good idea of how to pose them makes them more relaxed and helps them to enjoy the moment, too.

Headshots

Good posture is key for headshot poses. Ensure your subject keeps their shoulders back and chest out. Remind your model to check their posture between poses.

Mind the chin position, too. If it’s too high, have them look down at the camera. Too low, and they risk a double chin. Have them lower their chin slightly while moving their face forward, like a turtle coming out of its shell.

Have them try a slight lean on a nearby wall, fence, railing, or table. Sitting can be comfortable, but ensure they maintain good posture. Have them turn their body to the side while keeping their shoulders open.

Using their surroundings can make them feel more relaxed and look natural. To learn more about headshot poses, check out our in-depth guide.

Posing Females

Posing female models is an art form that combines creativity and technique. Experimenting with different posing techniques keeps your images diverse. Here are some of the best female poses for your next photoshoot.

Have your model raise her hands in the air for a dynamic portrait. She can lean against a wall or look over her shoulder to exude confidence. Curling up on a comfortable surface can evoke elegance and grace.

Casual poses like hands in pockets or elbows on a table are perfect for lifestyle photography. The trendy “baddie squat” accentuates your model’s figure and gives an edgy vibe. Simple poses like lying on the floor or hiding under a blanket can create intimate and cozy portraits.

If you’d like to learn more about female poses, we have a thorough article for you.

Posing Males

Posing men for portraits can be challenging, but you can create stunning images with the right guidance. Start by determining the tone you want to convey through clothing and location choices. Strategically choose a location that matches or contradicts your model’s pose and features.

Test out different male model poses to find what works best. Some classic poses include placing hands in pockets, leaning on a wall, crossing arms, and adjusting an outfit. Walking shots and poses with props can also add variety to your photoshoot.

Emphasizing the jawline, having the model sit and lean in, or covering part of their face can create powerful and intriguing portraits. Remember to pay attention to lighting and use a reflector when needed.

You can capture the best male poses in your photography with practice and experimentation. To explore male poses further, we have a detailed guide that covers even more tips and techniques.

Posing Pairs and Groups

There are different dynamics and techniques when posing pairs of people and groups. We have you covered, whether it’s romantic couple poses, best friends, or large groups.

Posing Couples

Here are some excellent couple poses to try in your next portrait photoshoot. Ask the couple to walk and hold hands. Have them point at something interesting together. Get them to balance on a log or wall, symbolizing strength and trust in the relationship.

Add movement to your shots by having one partner twirl the other or dance together. Have the couple make funny faces to capture their silly side.

Let them get lost in an activity they enjoy, like skating or singing. Take playful photos of the couple picking each other up or giving piggyback rides.

Tender poses include holding hands while looking into each other’s eyes or gently caressing the other’s face. You can even have them touch noses or foreheads. Capture a romantic silhouette of the couple leaning in for a kiss at sunset.

Get creative with different hugging and kissing poses, like a kiss on the cheek or under an umbrella. We have a detailed guide with even more ideas if you want to learn about couple poses in-depth.

Posing Best Friends

Best friend photoshoots are a great way to capture the special bond between friends. Use poses like holding each other close, pulling silly faces, or recreating iconic movie scenes. They can create fun and memorable photos.

Lying on the ground with heads together or giving piggyback rides are playful ideas. These poses show the supportive nature of friendship. Picnics and road trips provide beautiful backdrops for best friend pictures.

Dancing, pillow fights, and jumping on the bed bring the energy of classic sleepovers to your photoshoot. Unique poses are stacking heads or sitting back-to-back. These poses symbolize the closeness and trust between friends.

Seasonal activities like throwing autumn leaves or snowball fights excite your images. No matter the pose or setting, the goal is to showcase the laughter and love that define true friendship.

Capturing these candid moments will give you photos your best friends will treasure for years. Friend poses are a wonderful way to celebrate the joy of having a best friend by your side.

Christmas Couples

Christmas is a wonderful time for couples to capture memories together. Decorate the house and tree, wear festive hats and jumpers, and pose in your Christmas grotto. These are all great ideas for holiday photos.

Don’t forget to include your pets in the fun! Dogs and cats are part of the family, too, and can add joy to your Christmas pictures. Cuddling up by the tree with a cup of cocoa or taking a romantic stroll through the city lights are also perfect moments to photograph.

If you’re lucky enough to have a white Christmas, use the snowy landscape as a beautiful backdrop for your couple photos. Wrap and exchange presents, cook together, and even have a playful pillow fight. These can all make memorable holiday shots.

For more ideas on capturing the magic of Christmas as a couple, check out our Christmas photoshoot guide.

Posing Groups

Taking a great group photo involves more than just gathering everyone together. Composition, posing, and lighting are important in capturing a memorable shot.

When composing the image, look for a location with minimal distractions in the background. Shooting from a higher angle can also help fit more faces into the frame.

Posing a group can be challenging, but creating a triangle shape with the subjects can lead the eye through the image. Arrange the tallest individuals towards the center and direct everyone to stand at a slight angle for a more flattering pose.

Use props or the environment to arrange the group on different levels, creating a more interesting composition. Paying attention to people’s hands, feet, and faces is good practice to ensure everyone looks their best.

Good lighting is key to a great group photo. Arranging the group in the shade or with the sun at their backs can work well. For more control, use one or two off-camera flashes with diffusers placed at 45-degree angles to evenly light the entire group.

You can capture a shot with the right group photo techniques that everyone will cherish.

Best Flash and Difusser for Group Photography Posing

Godox V860III-S

Godox V860III-S

Altura Photo Flash Diffuser Softbox

Altura Photo Flash Diffuser Softbox

Posing Family and Children

Perhaps our families are the most photographed of all. They can also prove to be the hardest subjects. We have many tips to help you get the most from the task, whether photographing the whole family or children.

Family

Family photography captures beautiful moments with loved ones. Preparation is key, as every family is different. Discuss expectations in advance and choose suitable equipment.

Have a shot list ready, but stay flexible. Encourage the family to walk hand in hand, follow the leader, or have fun on the shoot for spontaneous poses. Sitting down and getting comfortable is a great way to start.

Lift the baby, hug each other, or kiss the child for heartwarming shots. Try different perspectives, like getting down to the child’s level, lying down, or taking images from above. Don’t forget to capture the details, too. Family photo poses are all about appearing natural and connected.

Toddlers and Children

Posing children for a photoshoot can be challenging. But you can capture amazing shots with some preparation and flexibility.

The best photos often come from following the child’s lead and capturing genuine moments. Let them run and treat the session like sports photography if they want to run. To capture the action, use a fast shutter speed, burst mode, and continuous autofocus.

Using props can also encourage stillness and draw attention to the camera. Large baskets, buckets, and chairs work well for toddlers, while older children may enjoy rocking horses or sleds.

Enlisting the help of a favorite toy or having a parent stand behind the photographer to make silly faces can elicit genuine smiles. Playful games like peek-a-boo or Simon Says can make the child forget they’re at a photoshoot, resulting in natural expressions.

When working with siblings, encourage interaction between them to capture candid moments. By adapting to the child’s interests and making the experience fun, you can create stunning photos that the family will treasure.

If you’d like to explore kids’ photo poses more deeply, our comprehensive guide offers more tips and techniques.

Our Popular eBook and Course for Child Photography Posing

Dreamy Childhood Portraits

Dreamy Childhood Portraits

Magical Childhood Moments

Magical Childhood Moments

Newborns

Capturing the innocence and beauty of a newborn is one of the most rewarding things a photographer can do. You can create stunning images using these ten best newborn poses with a little practice.

Always think of safety when posing a newborn. Stick with simple poses like on the back, side, or tummy. Use props like blankets and nursing pillows to support the baby.

Get creative with close-up shots of baby hands, feet, and faces to highlight their tiny features. Involve the parents and siblings to capture the joy and connection the newborn brings to the family.

Newborn poses can be tricky. But with patience and care, you’ll capture precious memories that families will cherish forever.

Posing for Women

It’s easy to get sucked into lazy stereotypes when posing women as models. So it is worth spending some time thinking about it carefully. With the right ideas and preparation, you can achieve results you and your model will be pleased with!

Women’s Beauty

Beauty photography for women requires a creative team to bring the images to life. Hiring a makeup artist and hair stylist is important, even for a natural look. It also saves time in post-production.

Communicate the exact look you want with examples or a mood board. Let the beauty team add their personal touches to make them want to work with you again.

Having a creative director on board can keep the photoshoot on track. They ensure you waste no time and follow the client’s plan. For more tips on beauty photography, our detailed guide will help you create stunning images.

Maternity

Maternity photography captures the beauty of pregnancy. The best maternity poses flatter the mom-to-be and highlight the growing belly. Putting the mom at a 45-degree angle focuses on the bump’s silhouette, which is helpful when the baby bump is small.

Have the mom rub her belly and look down at it with a smile. Keep her hands moving and vary where she looks to get authentic expressions. Silhouette poses are perfect for shy moms as they emphasize the body shape without worrying about facial expressions.

Use the mom’s hands and legs to draw attention to the belly. Place hands above and below the bump or have her cross her legs to create lines leading to the focal point. Building poses in one spot allows for variety without tiring the mom.

If you want to learn more about maternity poses, we have a fantastic article available.

Bikini

Bikini poses are for every woman, no matter your body shape. A good pose makes you look fabulous and bring out your best features. It’s all about confidence in front of the camera.

Start with simple poses like stepping forward with one foot in front of the other. Place one hand on the back of your head while the other hangs at your side. You can also lift your arms above your head elongates the body for a powerful look.

Kneeling poses are particularly flattering, stretching the abs while accentuating curves. Lying poses with an arched back make anyone look fabulous on the beach. The torso twist technique makes the abdomen appear slim and smooth.

If you’re shy, a glimpse over the shoulder adds a cheeky element. With our list of bikini poses, anyone can look amazing on a sun-soaked beach.

Niche Photography Posing

Almost any photography that includes people can benefit from subjects who feel and look comfortable. So, let’s look at some photography niches where posing is especially important.

Fashion

Fashion photography is all about capturing the perfect shot of a model to show off the latest trends. While many elements go into taking a great photo, the model’s poses are essential.

Some of the best model fashion poses include facing straight toward the camera for a strong connection with the viewer. Leaning against a wall for a casual look and sitting poses area also key. Photographers use these poses widely in portraiture and fashion.

Experimenting with the model at different heights, such as kneeling or sitting on a chair backward, can also bring creativity to the shoot. Props like mirrors or blankets can transform the image and help inexperienced models feel more comfortable.

Ultimately, the best approach is to have the model practice posing to find their best side and angle. When a model feels comfortable, you get the best out of their expressions and poses. To learn more about fashion poses, check out our in-depth guide.

Lifestyle

Lifestyle photography is about capturing candid moments in environments that make people feel at home. To take authentic lifestyle portraits, get to know your subjects and their interests. This familiarity helps them feel more relaxed in your presence.

Don’t give instructions to your models. Instead, ask them to do what they love together. Move around to get the best angles and light, and take several photos of the same moment to avoid awkward blinks or expressions.

You can also zoom in to photograph beautiful details like hair, clothes, or their favorite things. You can tell your subject’s story authentically by focusing on these details.

Also, take a step back to capture more of your model’s surroundings, which helps show more of their personality. If you’d like to learn more about lifestyle portraits, we have a great article that goes into even more depth.

Wedding

Perhaps some of the most important photos you ever take are wedding photos. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and your photos help it last forever. Of course, everyone wants to look their best, so having clear ideas about how to pose the couple and the groups is vital.

Engagement

Engagement photo sessions are a great way to capture your love and connection before the big day. Try the tummy-to-tummy pose for a natural, authentic look. The T-bone pose is an excellent foundational pose that works in any situation.

Have one person look over the shoulder of the other to get close-up details. The arm-hold pose is elegant and flattering for any couple. Sitting on steps offers many variations without having to move far.

Add romance with the almost kiss or get relaxed shots by having the couple walk together. Laying down can create intimacy while going back to back can lead to laughter and great stories. Most importantly, let the couple have fun and be themselves in front of the camera.

For more inspiration,  our article on engagement photo poses can give you even more ideas to create beautiful, memorable images. Photographing an engagement session is good practice before diving into weddings.

Groomsmen

Capturing great groomsmen photos is all about finding genuine moments. Look for candid shots of the groom and groomsmen getting ready, like adjusting ties or checking cufflinks in the mirror. Black and white works well for these behind-the-scenes shots.

Use stairs, windows, or doorways to frame the group to get creative with your viewpoint. Incorporate the groomsmen’s interests into the shots to show their personality. And don’t forget to capture the details, like flowers, buckles, and personalized gifts.

Posing the group can be fun, too. Have them show off matching socks or strike a superhero pose. Mix up the formations, like a horseshoe with the groom in the center or an arrow shape.

If you want to learn more about photo ideas for groomsmen, we have plenty of great examples to inspire your next wedding shoot.

Wedding Day

Wedding poses can make or break a married couple’s first portraits. A great pose should flatter each person while showing their connection. Mastering natural wedding poses takes practice and knowledge of posing basics for couples, men, and women.

One basic pose doesn’t mean one image— adjusting hands, expressions, and where the couple looks can create multiple shots. The same pose can look very different by adjusting your composition, cropping, angles, or lens choice.

Classic poses include standing side-by-side, holding hands, facing each other, and locking arms. You can also have one spouse behind the other, seated poses, ring shots, a kiss on the hand, and a dip kiss.

More fun poses include standing on a bench, kissing, running together, or the groom lifting the bride. Using the veil or dress creatively, flat-lays, and a stolen kiss in a getaway car are other ideas. Learning more wedding poses can help you create a beautiful wedding album.

Boudoir

Boudoir photography is all about capturing intimate, sensual, and romantic images. The right poses can elevate your photos and make your subject feel confident and sexy. Some great boudoir poses include pulling up stockings, removing a top, or lying on a bed with the stomach down.

Lighting is key in boudoir photography. Photographers commonly use natural light. But soft, subtle artificial lights can create a romantic atmosphere. Colored curtains or filters can help change the mood of the room.

When working with a model, taking things slow and ensuring they feel comfortable is important. Gradually turn up the heat and never ask them to do something they’re uncomfortable with. If you’d like to learn more about boudoir poses, we have a detailed article.

In this article, we will guide you through different approaches to editing portraits in Lightroom. By the end of this article, you will have a good idea of what results you get from these different approaches. You will then be able to confidently create your own portrait edits in Lightroom!

Editing Portraits in Lightroom

Adobe Lightroom is a brilliant digital editing software, but it may require some attention from beginners. Luckily, Adobe spends a lot of time ensuring the interface and usability are as smooth as possible. Thanks to this approach, beginners can experiment and learn as they go.

There are a few ways to approach editing portraits in Lightroom. We will take you through four different methods when approaching portrait editing in Lightroom. The methods are:

• Lightroom Auto
• Lightroom Presets
• Lightroom AI Masks
• Lightroom Editing

These four methods give you different levels of control. Let’s explore them to see their benefits and find which works best for you!

Using Auto to Edit Portraits in Lightroom

If you are unfamiliar with Lightroom and want to spend as little time editing as possible, click the Auto edit button! Many digital editing software go overboard when adjusting automatically, but not Lightroom.

Lightroom dramatically enhances an image without overdoing it. This simple click enhances your portrait within seconds.

Using Presets to Edit Portraits in Lightroom

The easiest and quickest way to select a portrait style is to use Lightroom presets. Lightroom offers a wide range of presets you can experiment with. This method is the best approach for beginners because it involves the least human input. You can always fine-tune your edits as much as you want after Lightroom applies the preset.

Adobe Lightroom provides some adaptive presets for portraiture. These presets only affect the face of our subject. Thanks to the use of AI, we can achieve particular portrait styles with little intervention. Lightroom also has a range of presets specifically designed for portraits.

The adaptive presets are brilliant for enhancing your portraits in a single click. One preset may make a small adjustment, like Enhance Eyes, while another may apply a popular photography effect, such as Gritty Portrait. There are even options to enhance the texture of the hair.

One of the most helpful features is found only in Lightroom CC (not on Lightroom Classic.) This is the “Recommended” section in the Presets panel. The recommended section uses AI to read your image and suggests a range of user-made presets that may match your image. These suggestions are brilliant for seeing the different capabilities of your photo. You can then fine-tune your adjustments once they’re applied.

Using AI Masks to Edit Portraits in Lightroom

If you like the adaptive presets but want even more control, you’ll want to edit your portrait with masks. Luckily, Lightroom has an excellent masking system that simplifies the process.

First, navigate to the Mask section in Lightroom. Then, click “Subject” if you want to edit the person in the portrait. Adobe Lightroom will now create an extremely accurate mask that is highlighted in red.

A better way to create a professional mask is to select “People” when choosing your mask. You can click on this person to open Adobe Lightroom’s brilliant array of portrait masks. These masks are game-changers. They make finer portrait editing accessible for beginners while saving loads of time for professionals.

These masks separate the facial skin, body skin, eyebrows, eye sclera, iris and pupil, lips, hair, and clothes! You can even combine the sections you want, such as facial skin and body skin or eye sclera with the iris and pupil.

Once you create your mask, you can work on the Edit adjustments as you would normally in Lightroom. This is the perfect way to make all the adjustments you want to your exact specifications.

If you want to edit the background, you can use the “Create A New Mask” option specifically for the background of your portrait. You can then work down the adjustment list again to ensure your subject has all the attention they deserve!

Using Editing Tools for Portraits in Lightroom

The final approach to editing a portrait in Lightroom is simply working your way through the tools that Lightroom provides. These give you plenty of adjustments. But they don’t allow the same amount of expert control as using AI masks.

The adjustments you make will probably involve adjusting your photograph’s light, color, and texture. This process will only result in a good portrait edit if you know how to use all these controls.

One way to improve these manual adjustments is to use a mask. Lightroom allows you to brush in a mask and then set your relevant adjustments. This manual approach gives you more control, but the AI masks are a great way to save time. Notice that if you don’t use masks, the whole image will be affected.

Top Tips for Editing Portraits in Lightroom

We will now discuss some editing techniques that are easily overlooked when approaching portraits. Consider these points if you want to achieve the best portrait edits in Lightroom.

Look Out for Highlights and Shadows

Identify the key shadows and highlights in your photograph. Sometimes, the light on your model’s face contains areas that are too dark or too bright. Use Exposure, Highlights, Shadows, and other tonal tools to correct this.

Good exposure on your model’s face allows you to better identify and see your model clearly. Harsh shadows can obscure your subject’s face and create an unrealistic representation.

Use the Crop Tool

Good cropping is crucial in portraiture. Your image should clearly show the model’s face without many distracting features around the rest of the image. Also, make sure that the angle of the photograph is natural.

A rule of thumb for cropping portraits is to have the model’s eye along the top third line of the photograph. This makes sense with both close and far crops of your photograph. There are many ways to crop a portrait, so experiment to see what works best.

Remove Blemishes

Lightroom gives us a great tool for easily removing blemishes from your subject’s face. The Heal tool is in the Brushes section. To use it, select the right size brush and click over areas that may not be natural for your model.

The Heal brush is a quick and effective way to create a professional portrait. The smooth skin can accurately represent your model looking their best.

Brighten and Color Key Facial Features

You may want to brighten and edit a few key facial features to make your portrait pop. These features are the eyes, lips, and teeth. Luckily, Lightroom’s AI masks cover all these facial features.

You can brighten the eyes and teeth to seem more white. And the lips could use a small boost of color, as could the iris. However, don’t go overboard with these edits! Your photo will easily look like an animation and people will know it’s heavily edited.

Brighten or Darken the Background

The model should be the main focus of your portrait, so make sure you control the background in your photograph. If your background is too distracting, consider reducing the exposure, highlights, or shadows. Thankfully, Lightroom’s AI masks allow us to select the background.

If the background complements the portrait, use this to your advantage and provide adequate edits. Consider brightening or adding more color to these areas. You can also add a vignette to the image to draw the viewer’s eye to your subject even more.

Conclusion: Editing Portraits in Lightroom

Thanks to all these great features in Lightroom, editing portraits couldn’t be easier. With the addition of the AI masks, Lightroom is the best photo editing software for portraiture today!

Experiment with the different options, but remember not to overdo the edits! The aim is to get a picture that shows your subject in their best light, but not fake and overly edited.

These Lightroom tips show how you can use Lightroom for various useful adjustments. And all this can be done without recourse to Photoshop.

To perfect your Lightroom editing workflow, check out our Effortless Editing with Lightroom course!

The Bedsure Faux Fur Blanket tops our list as the best boudoir photography prop. But we include a wide range of other boudoir props photographers can use to spice up their photoshoots. We have mirrors, lights, wigs, and a few kinkier items for the more adventurous boudoir enthusiasts.

Our Top 3 Choices for the Best Boudoir Photography Props

Bedsure Faux Fur Blanket

Bedsure Faux Fur Blanket

Twinkle Star Fairy String Lights

Twinkle Star Fairy String Lights

Finding King Heart-Shaped Wall Mirror

Finding King Heart-Shaped Wall Mirror

What Are the Best Boudoir Photography Props?

The best boudoir props help you create sexier, more sensual images. They add a new dimension to your boudoir photography. They help you create a certain mood. They can give your model more character. And boudoir props add an element of fun that brings out the best in the model and photographer.

Almost anything can become a boudoir prop. We’ve included home decor items like blankets and mirrors. We look at lighting accessories. And we even have straps and cuffs for photographers who want to bring more kink into their photoshoots.

Don’t feel bound by the limitations of this article. We want you to enjoy our boudoir prop suggestions. This article is an inspirational launchpad to help you explore boudoir photography possibilities.

Here’s a rundown of all the best boudoir photography props. We give more explanation on each prop in the following section. And we have an FAQ section at the end with more information about boudoir photography.

Best for Scene Dressing

Bedsure Faux Fur Blanket

Bedsure Faux Fur Blanket

• Luxurious faux fur blanket with thick plush pile
• Soft to the touch and comfortable
• 50 x 60 inches / 127 x 152 cm coverage
• Ideal for decorating interior spaces

Best for Scene Lighting

Twinkle Star Fairy String Lights

Twinkle Star Fairy String Lights

• Excellent light source for romantic settings
• Battery powered and portable
• Low-voltage use and does not overheat
• 33 ft / 10 m with 100 LED beads

Best for Multi-Perspective Shots

Finding King Heart-Shaped Wall Mirror

Finding King Heart-Shaped Wall Mirror

• Enables creative viewpoints of your model
• Heart-shaped mirror with antique-effect finish
• Can be held or wall mounted
• Lightweight and safe to hold by hand

Best Makeup Prop

Maybelline Color Sensational Red Lipstick

Maybelline Color Sensational Red Lipstick

• A model applying lipstick adds action to the scene
• Classic bullet design
• Intense 690 Siren in Scarlet is perfect color for boudoir
• Easily removed with water-based products

Best for Creating Characters

NAYOO Long Blond Wig

NAYOO Long Blond Wig

• Lets models explore new personas
• Ombre Blonde color with wavy curls
• Long hair length of 26 inches / 66 cm
• Great prop for women, men, and non-binary models

Best for Romantic Aesthetic

HongyiTime Artificial Rose Petals

HongyiTime Artificial Rose Petals

• Ideal for decorating a space for a romantic look
• Artificial rose silk petals don't wilt
• Long-lasting, non-fading colors
• Pack contains 1,200 red petals

Best for Romantic Lighting

Homemory Flameless Candles

Homemory Flameless Candles

• Safer and more cost-effective than real candles
• Includes 48 flameless candles
• Long-lasting battery power
• LED light beads do not overheat

Best Sensory Deprivation

Hestya Satin Eye Mask / Blindfold

Hestya Satin Eye Mask / Blindfold

• Great prop for adding sexual tension
• Two-piece set with black and purple blindfolds
• Glossy finish for extra glam
• Soft, double-layered satin material

Best Physical Restraint

Fluffy Plush Handcuff Bracelets

Fluffy Plush Handcuff Bracelets

• A safe way to add a kinky element
• Well made with polyester, leather, and metal components
• Comfortable to wear
• Easy-clip buckle for quick removal

Best Jewellery Prop

BABEYOND Long Pearl Necklace

BABEYOND Long Pearl Necklace

• Long, 1920s-style faux-pearl necklace
• Made with anti-allergy materials
• 52 inches / 150 cm in length
• Can be worn long or short with many loops

Best for Sensory Suggestion

Coolrunner Crystal Art Perfume Atomizer

Coolrunner Crystal Art Perfume Atomizer

• Activity prop that brings movement and sensory excitement
• Classic-style perfume atomizer
• Shard-effect crystal for texture and sparkle
• 100 ml liquid capacity

Best BDSM Set

Auzetor Leather Restraint Sex Set

Auzetor Leather Restraint Sex Set

• Adds spice to any boudoir photoshoot
• 6-piece BDSM set for boudoir photography
• Includes cuffs, straps, and a whip
• Well-made props with faux leather and metal

12 Best Boudoir Photography Props

These are our favorite boudoir photography props. This collection of props will help you create a romantic atmosphere or build model personas. They will add more interest, texture, and fun to your boudoir photography!

1. Bedsure Faux Fur Blanket

Brand	Brand Bedsure
Prop Type	Prop Type Fur Blanket
Material	Material Polyester
Blanket Size	Blanket Size 50 x 60 inches / 127 x 152.4 cm
Weight	Weight 2.7 lb / 1.2 kg
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Long, plush pile material, reversible, machine washable
Best For	Best For Decorating boudoir bedrooms, lounges, and photo studios

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Bedsure Faux Fur Blanket

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$29.99

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$206.25

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The Bedsure Faux Fur Blanket is the best boudoir photography prop for decorating your shooting environment. It adds more texture and depth to a bedspread. You can drape it over a sofa or chaise longue. And you can place it on the floor in front of the fire.

It has a long, 1.5-inch plush pile that gives you a luxurious look and feel. Your model will melt into it, adding sumptuousness to the scene. The comfort it brings is visible, which adds more coziness to your images. Plus, the physical comfort also helps you model relax.

We’ve gone for a rich burgundy color. It’s an autumnal color that evokes winter evenings by the fire. But if burgundy doesn’t match your boudoir aesthetic, there are plenty of other colors to choose from. These include black, pink, baby blue, burnt orange, and teal.

This faux fur blanket measures 50 x 60 inches (127 x 152.4 cm), which is big enough for most boudoir photoshoots. But you can get this blanket in bigger sizes. You might need a bigger blanket if you’re shooting more than one model.

2. Twinkle Star Fairy String Lights

Brand	Brand Twinkle Star
Prop Type	Prop Type Fairy string lights
Light Color	Light Color Warm white
Total Length	Total Length 33 ft / 10 m
Number of Lights	Number of Lights 100
Power Source	Power Source 3 AA batteries
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Low-voltage usage, doesn't overheat
Best For	Best For Adding textured, atmospheric lighting to your boudoir set

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Twinkle Star Fairy String Lights

Amazon.com

$6.99 $7.59

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Amazon.ca

$44.31

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$53.16

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$68.86

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The Twinkle Star Fairy String Lights are a great way to add interesting lighting to a boudoir shooting space. Fairy lights are perfect for creating a warm and cozy environment. And this warm white light is ideal for romantic and playful boudoir photography.

You get 33 ft (10 m) of fairy lights, which equals 100 LED light beads. This gives you plenty to play with, letting you decorate large spaces. Alternatively, you can put the lights in a basket or mason jar to make an interesting lamp.

Fairy lights are a fantastic light source if you like to shoot with a shallow depth of field. The LED bulbs turn into glowing bokeh balls, a great photo effect for boudoir photography.

These warm white fairy string lights are perfect for boudoir photoshoots. But they come in different colors if you want something different in your boudoir photography.

Finally, they only use a small amount of electricity, so they won’t dent your bills. And they won’t overheat if you use them for long periods. We compiled a list of the best LED lights for photography if you want more options.

3. Finding King Heart-Shaped Wall Mirror

Brand	Brand Finding King
Prop Type	Prop Type Mirror
Mirror Size	Mirror Size 12 x 13 inches / cm
Mirror Weight	Mirror Weight 1.1 lb / g
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Antique wood finish
Best For	Best For Adding a reflective element to your boudoir photography

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Finding King Heart-Shaped Wall Mirror

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$166.00

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Mirrors are some of the best boudoir photography props. And the Finding King Heart-Shaped Wall Mirror is fun and affordable. The frame has an antique wood finish. But it doesn’t have the price tag of a true antique.

Mirrors in your boudoir photography are a great way to play with perspective. You can use them to hide or show parts of the model’s body. Positioned well, they give you a multi-perspective view of your model. You can see them from more than one angle at once.

The heart shape is a bit kitsch but adds a bit of fun to the scene. It’s also lightweight, so you can use and move it safely. Your model can hold it, or you can hang it on the wall.

This heart-shaped wall mirror is our favorite wall-mounting mirror. But you can also use handheld mirrors or table-mounted ones in your boudoir photography. They are such versatile props for sexy scenes.

4. Maybelline Color Sensational Red Lipstick

Brand	Brand Maybelline
Prop Type	Prop Type Lipstick
Color	Color 690 Siren in Scarlet
Finish	Finish Matte
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Easy application and removal
Best For	Best For Drawing attention to a boudoir model's lips and face

×

Maybelline Color Sensational Red Lipstick

Amazon.com

$6.57 $7.49

Buy Now!

Amazon.it

$13.00

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Amazon.com.au

$18.99

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Amazon.sg

$19.66

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Amazon.ca

$32.58

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Amazon.sa

$44.37

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It’s common for boudoir models to wear makeup, especially lipstick. But lipstick is also a fantastic boudoir photography prop. Incorporate putting lipstick on into the shot rather than having your model do it beforehand.

The Maybelline Color Sensational Red Lipstick is our top choice. Red lipstick is a mainstay of boudoir imagery. And the 690 Siren in Scarlet color is perfect. It’s an intense, lusty scarlet that makes the lips pop. It draws all the attention to your model’s mouth.

Have your model apply the lipstick in a mirror or while looking into the camera. It draws attention to the model’s lips and face. And it adds wonderful color to your shot.

The act of applying lipstick adds a sense of movement to the scene. The viewer sees the model getting ready for a special, romantic occasion. And it inspires a sense of excitement and anticipation. It heightens the sexual tension.

This red lipstick by Maybelline has a classic bullet design. It’s easy to apply, even for men or women who rarely use makeup. And it’s easy to remove using water-based products. Lipstick is a small yet powerful boudoir photography prop.

5. NAYOO Long Blond Wig

Brand	Brand NAYOO
Prop Type	Prop Type Wig
Wig Color	Wig Color Ombre Blonde
Material	Material Synthetic fiber
Wig Length	Wig Length 26 inch / 66 cm
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Wavy style, natural look, breathable wig cap
Best For	Best For Creating new personas

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NAYOO Long Blond Wig

Amazon.com

$29.99

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Amazon.ca

$39.99

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Amazon.sg

$52.79

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$173.27

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As a boudoir photographer, you often have to work with shy models. And one way of bringing out their sensual side is to help them create a new persona. If people are uncomfortable with themselves, they can model as somebody else. And a wig is the perfect boudoir prop for developing an alter ego.

The NAYOO Long Blond Wig is a great choice for boudoir photography. The hair is long and wavy, cascading over the shoulders and down the chest. This is perfect if your model poses nude.

The color is Ombre Blonde, which looks like a highlighted blonde dye. It’s more natural and less intense than the peroxide blonde of a Marilyn Monroe-style wig. The finish is also incredibly realistic.

An elasticated cap helps the wig fit on any head. It’s easy to put on and take off. And the cap is breathable, so your head doesn’t get too hot and sweaty.

This long blond wig by NAYOO is an empowering boudoir photography prop. It lets people explore personas beyond themselves. It can be used by women, men, transgendered, and non-binary models. And it adds color, texture, and movement without looking tacky.

6. HongyiTime Artificial Rose Petals

Brand	Brand HongyiTime
Prop Type	Prop Type Artificial rose petals
Material	Material Silk
Petal Size	Petal Size 2 x 1.8 inch / 5 x 4.5 cm
Petal Quantity	Petal Quantity 1,200 pieces
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Color doesn't fade, long-lasting
Best For	Best For A classic romantic boudoir scene

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HongyiTime Artificial Rose Petals

Amazon.com

$4.29

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Amazon.de

$5.59 $6.99

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Amazon.com.au

$9.99

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Amazon.es

$9.99

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Amazon.it

$9.99

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Amazon.co.uk

$10.24

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Amazon.sg

$16.99

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Amazon.ca

$26.74

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Amazon.sa

$59.00

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Rose petals are a classic prop in all kinds of romantic imagery. You can scatter them on the bed. You can make a trail through the house to the bedroom. They can float in the bathtub. Or you can arrange them to spell out words.

HongyiTime Artificial Rose Petals is a great set if you like this classic romance aesthetic. Some might find it a bit cheesy. But red rose petals immediately trigger our romantic sensibilities. With just a glance, we understand the theme and setting.

Real rose petals look and feel great. But they are not practical. They wither and die in a matter of minutes. These artificial petals are far more photographer-friendly. The color doesn’t fade, so they always look intensely red. You can use them time and time again!

With 1,200 rose petals at your disposal, you have excellent creative freedom. You can use them in a variety of different ways. And you won’t run out before you’ve finished decorating the scene.

7. Homemory Flameless Candles

Brand	Brand Homemory
Prop Type	Prop Type Flameless candles
Light Source	Light Source LED
Power Source	Power Source Batteries
Number of Candles	Number of Candles 48
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Batteries included
Best For	Best For A romantic boudoir atmosphere with multiple light sources

×

Homemory Flameless Candles

Amazon.com

$22.49 $34.99

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Amazon.co.uk

$34.64

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Amazon.sg

$35.99

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Amazon.de

$36.70

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Amazon.ca

$63.68

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Amazon.sa

$102.96

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Candles are another staple of romantic imagery and scene settings. But real candles are a fire hazard. And they burn out quickly and constantly change shape. If you’re shooting for long periods, you can blow your whole budget restocking candles.

That’s why these flameless candles are an ideal boudoir photography prop. It’s a set of 48 fake candles, so you have plenty of flexibility with arrangements.

And thanks to the LED bulbs, they have long-lasting battery life and don’t get hot. That’s good efficiency and safety. The Homemory Flameless Candles are an excellent option for a boudoir photographer.

Of course, you can still use real candles. And scented candles are an excellent way to create a comfortable and sensual environment. Viewers won’t be able to smell the scent. But the added comfort and sensuality will be visible in the model’s demeanor and movements.

8. Hestya Satin Eye Mask / Blindfold

Brand	Brand Hestya
Prop Type	Prop Type Eye mask / blindfold
Material	Material Satin
Colors	Colors Black and purple
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Double-layer satin
Best For	Best For Blindfolding your model to create sexual tension

×

Hestya Satin Eye Mask / Blindfold

Amazon.co.uk

$3.99

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Amazon.com

$5.99 $6.99

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Amazon.com.au

$17.75

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Amazon.sa

$121.00

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Blindfolds are a great boudoir prop for introducing a bit of kink into the scene. They are a common prop in sexual play between consenting partners. Losing one’s sense of sight creates tension and challenges trust between people. That’s why blindfolds are useful as boudoir photography props.

The Hestya Satin Eye Mask (Blindfold) is perfect for your next boudoir photoshoot. The satin material is soft and luxurious. And the double-layer design is durable. It’s a prop you can use for a long time.

As an eye mask, it adds an element of glamor. But they are also playfully kinky when used as blindfolds. You have to build trust with your model before blindfolding them. But even if the model is completely confident, they may still be nervous. That’s something you can capture in your images.

We chose the black and purple Hestya blindfold. But you can buy other color combinations if these don’t match your theme.

9. Fluffy Plush Handcuff Bracelets

Brand	Brand Soyzvteo
Prop Type	Prop Type Fluffy handcuff bracelets
Materials	Materials Polyester, leather, metal
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Easy-clip buckle
Best For	Best For Taking boudoir photoshoots in a kinky direction

×

Fluffy Plush Handcuff Bracelets

Amazon.co.uk

$5.99

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Amazon.com

$9.99

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Amazon.ca

$15.99

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The Fluffy Plush Handcuff Bracelets are a fun boudoir photography prop. Like the blindfold, there needs to be a high level of trust between the photographer and the model. But once that’s established, you can take some fun boudoir photos.

Restraints are a common element in sexual fantasies, which is why this type of prop works well in boudoir photography. It creates a sense of voluntary vulnerability. The cuffed person is giving themselves to their partner. This adds sexual tension and encourages the imagination.

The fluffy material helps the model stay comfortable. But it also adds a playfulness to the prop. It’s not as serious as plain metal handcuffs. And it removes any unwanted messages around consent. We’re having fun… this isn’t a hostage situation!

The easy-clip buckle linking the fluffy handcuffs is an excellent feature. You can connect them to restrain the wearer. But as you don’t need a key to unlock them, you avoid awkward situations when a key is misplaced or lost.

10. BABEYOND Long Pearl Necklace

Brand	Brand BABEYOND
Prop Type	Prop Type Pearl necklace
Material	Material Faux pearls
Length	Length 52 inch / 150 cm
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Nickel-free and anti-allergic materials
Best For	Best For Bringing a classic style and elegance to your boudoir images

×

BABEYOND Long Pearl Necklace

Amazon.de

$9.99 $14.99

Buy Now!

Amazon.es

$13.99

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Amazon.com

$14.99

Buy Now!

Amazon.co.uk

$15.99

Buy Now!

Amazon.it

$17.99

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Amazon.sg

$27.77

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Amazon.ca

$35.99

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Amazon.com.au

$38.12

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Amazon.sa

$94.56

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Pearl necklaces are a classic glamor accessory. They bring to mind the high fashion of the 1920s and 30s, but they’ve been a constant in ladies’ wear ever since. As a boudoir photography prop, they bring a sense of sophistication and luxuriousness even if you’re wearing little else.

Real pearls are probably out of the average photographer’s price range. But the BABEYOND Long Pearl Necklace is the perfect substitute. The faux pearls look and feel authentic. And it’s an affordable boudoir photography prop anyone can use.

It’s a long necklace measuring 52 inches (150 cm). That gives you plenty of pearls to play with. You can play with the length, having several loops of pearls hanging down the model’s neck and chest.

This pearl necklace is nickel-free and made of an anti-allergy material. That means you’re model can wear against their bare skin without irritation or reactions. They are perfectly safe to use, even with sensitive skin. And it doesn’t matter if they get wet.

11. Coolrunner Crystal Art Perfume Atomizer

Brand	Brand Coolrunner
Prop Type	Prop Type Perfume atomizer
Material	Material Crystal
Liquid Capacity	Liquid Capacity 100 ml
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Purple air puffer and tassel
Best For	Best For Adding timeless details and sensory suggestions to your boudoir imagery and photoshoot

×

Coolrunner Crystal Art Perfume Atomizer

Amazon.com

$12.99 $13.99

Buy Now!

Amazon.sg

$25.64

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Amazon.com.au

$33.03

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Amazon.ca

$53.00

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Amazon.sa

$72.40

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Smells play a huge role in our memories and emotions, including arousal. While viewers can’t smell your images, this prop awakens your subjects’ senses. It also adds a sense of classic Hollywood glamor. It reminds us of Marilyn Monroe, who said she slept in Chanel No. 5 and nothing else!

This Coolrunner Crystal Art Perfume Atomizer is the perfect prop for classy boudoir photography. It has a timeless atomizer design with a rounded air puffer. The string tassel adds more interest and movement. And the crystal brings a bit of sparkle.

It’s another interactive prop, letting your model partake in an activity. This can help build their confidence during the photoshoot. It adds movement and energy to the scene. Like lipstick, putting on perfume with this atomizer is a preparatory activity. This heightens feelings of excitement and anticipation.

12. Auzetor Leather Restraint Sex Set

Brand	Brand Auzetor
Prop Type	Prop Type Leather restraint set
Set Includes	Set Includes Handcuffs, ankle cuffs, ball stopper, collar, blindfold, and leather whip
Materials	Materials Faux leather, metal
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Comes in discreet packaging
Best For	Best For Bondage-style boudoir photoshoots

×

Auzetor Leather Restraint Sex Set

Amazon.com

$25.99

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Amazon.com.au

$62.99 $65.99

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Amazon.it

$131.57

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Now, we’re turning the saucy scale all the way up with this Auzetor Leather Restraint Sex Set. This won’t be for everyone. And you need to make sure your models are comfortable posing in this type of gear. But if everyone’s happy, adding BDSM to your photoshoot adds extra spice to your boudoir photos.

This restraint set is the perfect place to start if you’re unfamiliar with these boudoir props. They look and feel fantastic. The set has everything you need to get started building the bondage aesthetic. And it’s an affordable starting point.

The set includes handcuffs and ankle cuffs. There’s a blindfold and ball gag for sensory deprivation. And you have a tasseled whip for dishing out punishment.

Remember to set and agree to boundaries and expectations with your clients for how this restraint set is used in the photoshoot. No one needs to get hurt. You’re just using them for effect. When done right, the effect can take your boudoir photography to a new level of kinkiness.

FAQs About Boudoir Photography

Boudoir photography is a fascinating art form once you get started. Of course, it’s sexy and exciting. But it also puts unique demands on the photographer. That’s why they need specialist equipment. And they also need a catalog of props and poses to bring the best out of their models.

What Is the Best Camera for Boudoir Photography?

Our top boudoir photography camera is the Nikon Z5. It’s a full-frame mirrorless camera with a 24.3 MP resolution. The full-frame sensor gives you excellent dynamic range for mixed lighting conditions. And its features like image stabilization and eye-detection AF are also great for shooting boudoir shots.

The Canon EOS R8 is a great alternative if you prefer Canon cameras. Or you can go for the Sony a7 III. They are both full-frame mirrorless cameras that hit all the spots for boudoir photography.

Of course, you want excellent image quality. But boudoir photography demands more of your camera.

You often have dim or uneven lighting with boudoir photoshoots. That means you need a camera with good low-light performance. You don’t need a record-high ISO range. It’s more important that the camera gives you less digital noise when working with high ISO levels.

It’s best to buy a camera with a strong dynamic range. This means you get clear details in the bright and dark areas of the same image. You don’t want your light areas to be blown out or dark areas to be muddy. That’s why dynamic range is important in boudoir photography.

What Is the Best Boudoir Photography Lens?

We recommend a standard zoom lens for boudoir photography. Something similar to a 24-70mm lens is ideal. You can shoot wide-angle shots at the 24mm end. It’s also good for shooting in tighter spaces. And can capture more closely cropped shots with the 70mm end.

You can use prime lenses if you prefer. But the versatility of a zoom lens works well in boudoir environments, where you’re frequently changing props and poses. Its flexibility lets you keep things moving, maintaining good energy in the photoshoot.

The Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S is the perfect partner for the Z5. And the f/2.8 max aperture gives you excellent exposure control. It also lets you use a shallow depth of field for artistic background blurring.

If that lens is out of your price range, the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/4 S is more affordable. You lose a few aperture stops, but it’s still a top boudoir lens.

What Is the Best Boudoir Photography Equipment?

Aside from cameras and lenses, there are plenty of accessories photographers can use to improve their boudoir photography.

A tripod is an excellent piece of boudoir photography equipment. The extra stability gives you more control over your exposure settings. And it allows for more creativity and better results in low-light situations.

Many boudoir photographers also use light reflectors. They are lightweight and easy to use. And they give you more control over the light you have available. You can manipulate natural light, directing it around your space. They are an effective and affordable way to work with what you have.

You can also use artificial light sources, like flash guns and LED light panels. They give you more light in dark settings. But they also help you change the atmosphere in the boudoir studio. Color light gels also give you more lighting control, helping you create the perfect mood.

What Are the Best Boudoir Photography Poses?

There are many poses, and the best ones depend on the situation. Here’s a list of all our boudoir photography pose articles. You can check them out, find inspiration, and fill your head with all the best boudoir poses for any model.

• Best Boudoir Poses
• Best Boudoir Photoshoot Ideas for Men
• Best Boudoir Poses for Curvy Models
• Best Bridal Boudoir Photography Ideas
• Best Pregnant Boudoir Poses

Good poses are the key to effective boudoir photography. You might assume the models know their favorite poses and how to show their bodies in their best light. While that’s true with some experienced models, it isn’t always.

Boudoir photographers often work with models with zero experience. They might even be shy and uncomfortable in skimpy clothing. That’s why a boudoir photographer needs to know various boudoir poses to suggest.

It’s helpful to know poses for shy models who don’t yet have the confidence for more advanced or explicit poses. And it’s best to be prepared for all body types, genders, and couples.

Conclusion: The Best Boudoir Photography Props

Using the best boudoir photography props in your shoot is a great way to spice things up. Boudoir props help you develop styles and themes. They help your models feel more confident. And props can help build characters and alter-egos.

The Bedsure Faux Fur Blanket is the best boudoir photography prop to get started with. It’s ideal for creating a comfortable and cozy space. But maybe you prefer fairy lights or a heart mirror. Or perhaps you want interactive props like a wig or lipstick. Just ensure you have a good variety of props on hand.

Our Top 3 Choices for the Best Boudoir Photography Props

Bedsure Faux Fur Blanket

Bedsure Faux Fur Blanket

Twinkle Star Fairy String Lights

Twinkle Star Fairy String Lights

Finding King Heart-Shaped Wall Mirror

Finding King Heart-Shaped Wall Mirror

We’ve chosen the Nikon Z5 as the best camera for boudoir photography. The picture quality is superb. And it performs exceptionally well in difficult lighting conditions.

But our article isn’t only about cameras. We recommend lenses, tripods, and lighting equipment to help you get the best boudoir photography results. Keep reading for 10 essential pieces of equipment to get started!

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Boudoir Photography Gear

Nikon Z5

Nikon Z5

Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S

Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S

K&F Concept Lightweight Aluminum Tripod

K&F Concept Lightweight Aluminum Tripod

What Is the Best Boudoir Photography Equipment?

The best boudoir photography gear helps you capture luscious, artistic boudoir images. They make a photographer’s life easier, letting you create the best of your imagination. They help you set the mood for the photoshoot. And they bring out the best in you and your models.

If you want ideas for glamorous clothing or interesting accessories, check out our article on the best boudoir photography props. The boudoir gear we’re looking at here is the tools and equipment boudoir photographers need to take the best photos.

We look at the best camera and lens for boudoir photography. And we look at useful photography hardware like tripods.

A large part of good boudoir photography is creating the right atmosphere. It has to be sensual and erotic without being sleazy or intimidating. That’s why much of the boudoir gear in our list relates to photography lighting.

We have flashes and LED panels for creating light. We have reflectors for controlling natural light. And we have other gear to help you manipulate light and create the right mood for a fabulous boudoir photoshoot.

Here’s an overview of all the best boudoir photography gear you need to get started. We look at each essential piece of boudoir equipment in more detail. And we explain why we chose it in the sections after. We also have a section at the end with more information about boudoir photography.

Best Boudoir Camera

Nikon Z5

Nikon Z5

• Brilliant 273-point autofocus (AF) system
• Fantastic expandable ISO range for low-light shooting
• In-body 5-axis image stabilization
• High-resolution electronic viewfinder

Best Boudoir Lens

Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S

Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S

• High-end durable construction for professional use
• Fast f/2.8 max aperture for excellent exposure and depth of field control
• Full-time manual focusing for greater control
• Dual STM autofocus for faster, more accurate focusing

Best Tripod

K&F Concept Lightweight Aluminum Tripod

K&F Concept Lightweight Aluminum Tripod

• High-quality, affordable tripod from a professional manufacturer
• Lightweight, portable, and crafted from durable magnesium aluminum alloy
• Versatile with 360° rotation for panoramic views and macro shooting
• Designed for all major camera brands, ensuring compatibility and ease of use

Best Light Reflector

NEEWER 43-Inch/110-Centimeter 5-In-1 Circular Light Reflector

NEEWER 43-Inch/110-Centimeter 5-In-1 Circular Light Reflector

• Versatile with 5 color options for varied lighting effects
• Fits any standard reflector holder for added compatibility
• Durable with a flexible steel spring frame for easy use
• Compact and portable with a convenient carrying bag

Best Flash

Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT

Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT

• Compact yet powerful for versatile lighting
• Enhances contrast, color temperature, and brightness
• Speedy recycle times and advanced wireless options for efficient shooting
• Catch light panel and bounce adapter for natural-looking photos

Best Flash Diffuser

Altura Photo Flash Diffuser Softbox

Altura Photo Flash Diffuser Softbox

• Ensures even lighting and softens shadows
• Fits most shoe mount flash units
• Compact design with secure fastener strap
• 90-Day Satisfaction Guarantee

Best LED Light Panel

Lume Cube RGB LED Panel

Lume Cube RGB LED Panel

• Attaches to your camera with hot shoe connector
• LED beads give white, red, green, and blue light
• 4 programmed scene modes and strobe function
• 1 to 100% brightness controls

Best Strip Lights

Govee RGBIC LED Strip Lights

Govee RGBIC LED Strip Lights

• Breathtaking RGBIC effects for vibrant decor
• More length and brighter colors with 65.6ft LEDs
• True segmented color control for creative designs
• 64 scene modes for stunning backdrops

Best Color Filters

NEEWER Full Color Filter Set

NEEWER Full Color Filter Set

• Dramatically changes image tone with no additional equipment
• 9-filter set with protective case
• 77 mm filter thread with other sizes available
• Multi-layer coating prevents glare and protects glass

Best Color Gel Filters

Selens Color Gel Filter Set

Selens Color Gel Filter Set

• 20 color gels of different colors
• Use with flashes, LED panels, or household lamps
• 10 x 10 inches / 25.4 x 25.4 cm
• Comes with protective case

10 Best Boudoir Photography Gear

Now, we look at each boudoir photography equipment in more detail. We have camera hardware and traditional camera gear. And we have special lighting tools that can transform any shooting environment. This boudoir gear is a must-have for serious boudoir photographers.

1. Nikon Z5 Mirrorless Camera

Brand	Brand Nikon
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Z
Sensor Format	Sensor Format Full Frame
Sensor Resolution	Sensor Resolution 24.3 MP
Image Resolution	Image Resolution 6016 x 4016 px
Minimum ISO	Minimum ISO 100
Maximum ISO	Maximum ISO 51,200 (102,400 expanded)
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 273
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization Yes
Video Resolution	Video Resolution 4K
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Eye-detection autofocus (AF) modes, 3.2-inch touchscreen, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled
Best For	Best For Photographers looking for a powerful, reliable camera for boudoir photography

×

Nikon Z5

Amazon.co.uk

$915.00 $952.00

Buy Now!

Amazon.com

$996.95

Buy Now!

Amazon.de

$1,120.11 $1,549.00

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Amazon.es

$1,189.00 $1,399.00

Buy Now!

Amazon.it

$1,249.00 $1,549.00

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B&H

$1,296.95 $1,396.95

Buy Now!

Amazon.ca

$1,498.29

Buy Now!

Amazon.sg

$1,889.00

Buy Now!

Amazon.com.au

$1,949.00

Buy Now!

Amazon.sa

$3,999.00

Buy Now!

KEH

(second hand)

$1,067.91

Buy Now!

As a boudoir photographer, you need a camera that meets the demands of boudoir photography. Image quality is always important in photography. But you don’t always need the highest resolution possible when shooting boudoir images.

Features like high dynamic range and low-noise quality are also important. Lighting in boudoir shoots can often involve high contrasts in brightness. You might have brightly and dimly lit areas in the same scene.

Plus, some boudoir photographers like low-light environments to heighten the romantic mood. That’s why you need a camera with good low-light capabilities.

The Nikon Z5 is our choice as the best camera for boudoir photography. It’s a powerful full-frame camera from Nikon’s Z mirrorless camera range. It’s compact and lightweight for a full-frame camera. But it also delivers excellent results, especially when used for boudoir photography.

The CMOS sensor gives you an image resolution of 24.3 MP. That’s not record-breaking for a full-frame camera. But you still get rich, vibrant picture quality with accurate color rendition.

Also, the larger pixel size gives you a better dynamic range. You get more detail in the light and dark sections of the images. And the camera can cope with scenes with both dark and bright sections. This is ideal for moody boudoir photoshoots.

You also get very little digital noise. This Nikon camera has a decent ISO range, especially if you expand it to 102,400. But the best feature is that you won’t experience any noise until you reach the top end. You maintain sharpness and clarity when shooting in low light.

The Z5‘s autofocus (AF system) is also ideal for boudoir photography. It uses 273 focus points that give you near full-frame coverage. It remains fast and accurate even in dimly lit environments. And it has face- and eye-detection. This helps keep your subject focused when there’s movement in the scene.

Five-axis image stabilization is another handy feature for boudoir photography. It gives you five stops of compensation, giving you more freedom with your exposure settings. You can use slower shutter speeds without the risk of blurry images, which is ideal for low-light photography.

It has excellent video features, letting you capture 4K footage at 30 fps (frames per second). It’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled. Plus, it has a bright and clear LCD screen and an electronic viewfinder (EVF).

The Nikon Z5 is a well-rounded, full-frame mirrorless camera. It has everything you need in a camera for boudoir photography. If you’re looking for a Canon or Sony alternative, we recommend the Canon EOS R8 or the Sony a7 III.

2. Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S Lens

Brand	Brand Nikon
Camera Mount	Camera Mount Nikon Z
Focal Length	Focal Length 24-70mm
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/2.8
Filter Size	Filter Size 82mm
AF Motor	AF Motor Stepping motor (STM)
Optical Stabilization	Optical Stabilization No
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Multi-focusing system, two AF drive units, multi-layer coating, custom control ring
Best For	Best For Photographers looking for the best boudoir photography lens

×

Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S

Amazon.com

$1,996.95 $2,396.95

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Most types of photography benefit from using a specific type of lens. And boudoir photography is no different. It’s best to have a versatile portrait lens to get different shots in one space. It might be a confined space, so a wider angle is beneficial. But you also want a lens for more tightly cropped compositions.

So, what lens is best for boudoir photography? The Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S lens is the best for boudoir photography. The build and optical quality are excellent. It has a wide aperture range. And the AF system is fantastic!

It’s a zoom lens with a 24-70mm focal length, ideal for boudoir photography. The 24mm end lets you capture wide shots. You can capture full-body shots of your model in their environment.

But you can also zoom in for close-ups with the 70mm focal length. It gives you fantastic flexibility. And it lets you work in smaller spaces, like a bedroom or lounge.

You also have the fast f/2.8 maximum aperture. This helps you shoot in low light to create moody scenes with dimmed lighting. And it helps you shoot with a shallow depth of field. The bokeh effect also looks great in boudoir portraits.

There’s no optical stabilization system. But all of Nikon’s best mirrorless cameras have built-in stabilization. So you still have brilliant low-light performance.

Using two STM autofocus units, you get super-fast focus response times. It also makes very little noise, so there are no distractions. And you have a manual focus control ring on the barrel, which is perfect if you prefer manual focusing.

The lens also has a custom control ring, letting you change settings more quickly during a shoot. You can attach settings such as ISO or shutter speed to it, making your life easier.

If the Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S isn’t the best lens for you, here are other lens recommendations for boudoir photography. The Nikon Z 24-70mm f/4 S is a more affordable Nikon Z-mount lens. It doesn’t have the same level of low-light performance. But it’s still a top lens for boudoir photography.

The optical quality of the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Art is sensational. Don’t be put off by it being a third-party lens. Sigma’s Art lenses are some of the best on the market. And this lens is the best lens for boudoir photography. 

The Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Art is available for Canon EF and Nikon F-mount cameras. You can also see our list of the best standard zoom lenses if you want more similar options.

3. K&F Concept Lightweight Tripod

Brand	Brand K&F Concept
Material	Material Aluminum
Tripod Weight	Tripod Weight 2.4 lb / 1.1 kg
Folded Height	Folded Height 18.5 inches / 45 cm
Maximum Height	Maximum Height 62.2 inches / 158 cm
Max Load Capacity	Max Load Capacity 22 lb / 10 kg
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Ball head, flip-locks, bubble level
Best For	Best For Photographers looking to stabilize their cameras

×

K&F Concept Lightweight Aluminum Tripod

Amazon.com

$69.99

Buy Now!

A tripod is an excellent piece of equipment for boudoir photography. Holding your camera in a stable position, you have more freedom and control over your exposure settings.

You can work in darker environments and still get perfectly exposed images. And you can experiment with different settings for creative effects.

We recommend the K&F Concept Lightweight Tripod for boudoir photography. It’s lightweight and portable, measuring only 18.5 inches (45 cm) when folded. Plus, it comes with a handy carry case. You have no problem carrying it from photoshoot to photoshoot.

With a solid aluminum construction, it’s a strong tripod with a 22 lb (10 kg) load capacity. That’s strong enough for pretty much any camera. Any mirrorless camera is fine. And even full-frame DSLRs are well within the weight limit.

It has a working height range of 16 to 62.2 inches (41 to 158 cm). That gives you plenty of flexibility when you’re in the shooting space. Adjusting the height is quick and easy with the quick-release flip-locks.

The ball head gives you even more flexibility. It has a wide movement range for tilting and rotating, letting you get the perfect camera angle. And it also gives you stable vertical mounting thanks to the U-shaped groove. The head also has a bubble level to stay perfectly level.

If you’re a boudoir photographer looking for more stability, the K&F tripod is essential boudoir photography gear. It’s portable, reliable, and gives you more creative freedom with your camera.

4. NEEWER 5-in-1 Circular Light Reflector

Brand	Brand Newer
Material	Material Nylon
Circumference	Circumference 43 inches / 110 cm
Surfaces	Surfaces White, black, silver, gold, and translucent
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Foldable, includes carry case
Best For	Best For Photographers wanting to manipulate natural light

×

NEEWER 43-Inch/110-Centimeter 5-In-1 Circular Light Reflector

Amazon.com

$30.99 $40.95

Buy Now!

Light reflectors are a useful accessory in many types of photography. They let you manipulate the light you have available. That means you don’t need expensive lighting equipment. And it gives you a more natural finish in your images. That’s why they are the perfect tool for boudoir photography lighting.

The NEEWER 5-in-1 Circular Light Reflector is the perfect option. It has five reflective surfaces you can use for different lighting effects. It’s lightweight and folds down for better portability. And it’s affordable!

Thanks to the five reflective surfaces, you can manipulate and redirect natural light. But the black, silver, and gold surfaces also change the quality of the light. The black surface stops the reflection of light. The silver gives you cold, light tones. And the gold gives you a warmer light.

It has a circumference of 43 inches (110 cm) when fully expended. That’s an easy size to hold. And it weighs next to nothing, so you won’t feel any fatigue when holding it. You can also lean it against something. Or you can mount it on a light stand.

It folds to a convenient size of 15 inches (35 cm). And it comes with a carry case, so you have no problem taking it to your next boudoir shoot.

The NEEWER 5-in-1 circular reflector is the best accessory for making the most of the light you have available. It’s inexpensive but makes a huge difference to your boudoir photos.

See our list of the best light reflectors if you want more options.

5. Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT

Brand	Brand Canon
Compatible with	Compatible with Canon cameras
Guide Number (GN)	Guide Number (GN) 141 ft / 43 m
Auto Zoom Range	Auto Zoom Range 24-105mm
Recycle Time	Recycle Time 0.1 to 3.5 seconds
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Adjustable angle, multi-dial controls, LCD control screen
Best For	Best For Photographers that need more light for their boudoir photoshoot

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Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT

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$299.00

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A flash is a great camera accessory if you’re low on light. It gives you a pop of light, illuminating your subject. And unlike constant light sources, they help to intensify your subject within the scene. Your boudoir subject will stand out bright and boldly in their environment.

The Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT is a brilliant flash for boudoir photography. It’s versatile and reliable. It isn’t a budget flashlight. But it’s one of the best flash guns on the market.

With a Guide Number of 141 ft (43 m) at 100 ISO, you have the perfect flash range for a boudoir photoshoot. You don’t have to get too close to your subject. But you can also use it in more confined spaces.

The flash also covers a zoom range of 24-105mm. That’s a perfect match with our boudoir lens recommendation.

With a recycle time of 0.1 to 3.5 seconds, you can take plenty of pictures without waiting around. You can maintain a good rhythm and energy in your photoshoot. Plus, the LCD screen and multi-dial controls make it easy to use. You can change the mode or settings without wasting time or energy. 

The 430EX III-RT Speedlite is only compatible with Canon cameras. But there are plenty of similar flashguns for other brands, like Nikon and Sony:

• Best Flashguns for Photography
• Best Nikon Speedlights
• Best Sony Flashguns

6. Altura Photo Flash Diffuser Softbox

Brand	Brand Altura Photo
Compatibility	Compatibility All flashguns
Dimensions	Dimensions 6 x 5 x 6 inches / 15.2 x 12.7 x 15.2 cm
Weight	Weight 0.15 lb / 70 g
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Elastic Velcro strap, collapsible design, storage pouch
Best For	Best For Photographers wanting to reduce light intensity from a flashlight

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Altura Photo Flash Diffuser Softbox

Amazon.com

$16.99 $19.99

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The naked light from a flash can be very bright and harsh. And this is rarely what you need for boudoir photography. But with a flash diffuser, you get the extra light without the intensity. It softens the flash and spreads the light more evenly. That’s why you need one for your next boudoir photoshoot.

The Altura Photo Flash Diffuser Softbox is exactly what boudoir photographers need. It’s a simple, portable, and affordable device anyone can use. And it makes a huge difference to the light quality of your flashgun.

It’s a softbox diffuser that you strap onto the end of your flashgun. You attach it with the elasticated Velcro strap. It stays on for hours. And it’s compatible with flashguns from any manufacturer.

It’s a small photography accessory, measuring only 6 x 5 x 6 inches (15.2 x 12.7 x 15.2 cm.) And it collapses down and folds away into its carry pouch. It’s small and weighs almost nothing, so you have no problem finding space for it in your camera backpack.

The Altura Photo Flash Diffuser is an affordable boudoir photography equipment. But it makes a huge difference to your photography lighting.

If this isn’t the diffuser for you, check out our list of the best flash diffusers for photographers.

7. Lume Cube RGB LED Panel GO

Brand	Brand Lume Cube
Panel Dimensions	Panel Dimensions 4.8 x 2.6 inches / 12.2 x 6.6 cm
LED Beads	LED Beads 45
Brightness Range	Brightness Range 1 to 100%
Color Outputs	Color Outputs White, red, green, and blue
Other Key Features	Other Key Features 4 scene modes, strobe mode
Best For	Best For Photographers who want constant lighting with color options

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Lume Cube RGB LED Panel

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$99.99

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$104.99

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$120.22

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$130.37

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$135.24

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If you want continuous lighting rather than a flash, you need an LED light panel. With a constant light source, it’s easier to set your exposure settings. And it’s easier to visualize the images before you press the shutter release. This helps you set the mood and create the desired atmosphere in your scene.

The Lume Cube RGB LED Panel GO is the best option for boudoir photography. It gives you excellent lighting control, special shooting modes, and colored lighting. It’s perfect for creating a romantic mood in your shooting environment.

It’s a small LED panel you can attach to the top of your camera. You attach it using the hot shoe connection. And it’s compatible with any camera with one. It’s also lightweight and adds very little heft to your camera setup.

With 45 LED beads, you get a surprising light output. And you can control the brightness, setting it anywhere between 1 and 100%. 

You can also change the color of the light. You have standard white light. But it also gives you red, blue, and green lighting options. This is very helpful for boudoir photography lighting. It lets you increase certain tones to heighten intensity and sensuality.

The Lume Cube RGB LED Panel has four scene modes for more unique lighting. And there’s a strobe feature if you need it. It’s a versatile light source that fits in any photography bag. And it’s one of the best boudoir photography light accessories.

See our list of the best LED light panels for photography for more options.

8. Govee RGBIC LED Strip Lights

Brand	Brand Govee
Total Strip Length	Total Strip Length 65.6 ft / 20 m
Color Outputs	Color Outputs Red, green, blue, indigo, and cyan
Power Source	Power Source Mains socket
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Smartphone app controls, 64 scene modes, music modes, segmented color control
Best For	Best For Photographers creating a sensual boudoir atmosphere with controllable colored lighting

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Govee RGBIC LED Strip Lights

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$64.99

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The Govee RGBIC Strip Lights are a great boudoir photography accessory. With 65.6 ft (20 m) of light strips, you can transform any space into a romantic grotto. With so many color options and scene modes, you have the power to create any atmosphere you want for your photoshoot.

It has 5,050 LED beads, and each bead can produce any of the five colors. You can control the LED using the Govee smartphone app. There, you have brightness controls, color settings, and access to 64 pre-programmed scene modes.

You can also sync the lights up to music. You won’t be able to show that in your images. But it can help create a vibrant or relaxed atmosphere where models feel empowered and at ease. The music modes include “energetic, rhythm, spectrum, rolling, dynamic, and calm.”

The lights connect to your smartphone and the Govee app using Bluetooth, not Wi-Fi. Unfortunately, the lights are not compatible with Alexa or Google Assistant.

The Govee Strip Lights are an inventive and original way of lighting your boudoir photography studio. You can transform the atmosphere with the touch of a button. And you can change the mood in seconds. They are a great accessory for boudoir photography.

We have more lighting options in our article on the best LED lights for photography.

9. NEEWER Full Color Filter Set

Brand	Brand NEEWER
Filter Type	Filter Type Color filter
Filter Thread Size	Filter Thread Size 77 mm
Other Available Sizes	Other Available Sizes 49, 52, 55, 58, 62, 67, 72, 77, 82 mm
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Multi-layer coating, protective case
Best For	Best For Photographers who want to change mood and atmosphere for a boudoir shoot without changing lights

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NEEWER Full Color Filter Set

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$57.99

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$61.99

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$62.99

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$63.99

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$67.99

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Filters are a great way to add effects to your images. They are simple and easy to use, and you don’t need complicated equipment. And color filters are an excellent accessory for boudoir photography.

Different colors create different moods and elicit different emotions. They transform your images without any lighting equipment or photo editing software.

The NEEWER Full Color Filter Set is another fantastic boudoir photography tool. It’s a nine-filter set, including red, orange, blue, yellow, green, brown, purple, pink, and grey. That gives you incredible versatility. It lets you transform boudoir images without changing the environment.

The filters at the red end of the spectrum are especially good for boudoir photography. Your images will have a rosy tint that’s warm and sensual. The tones tap into our more primal emotions. And that brings extra spice to your boudoir images.

Thanks to the excellent optical quality, the filters won’t affect the image quality. They have a multi-layer coating that prevents glare and protects the glass against smudges and scratches. And you also get a handy leather case to keep all nine filters safe and secure.

These round filters screw onto the end of your camera lens. They are easy to apply, but you must ensure you have the correct filter size for your lens. The highlighted set here has a 77 mm thread size. But they are available in many other sizes.

The NEEWER Full Color Filter Set is a simple yet effective way to transform your boudoir images. You have plenty of flexibility with nine filters. And you can make more creative decisions without extra lighting or equipment.

If you want to learn more about them, read our article on the best camera filters for photography.

10. Selens Color Gel Filter Set

Brand	Brand Selens
Filter Size	Filter Size 10 x 10 inches / 25.4 x 25.4 cm
Number of Filters	Number of Filters 20
Other Key Features	Other Key Features Carry case included
Best For	Best For Changing lighting color for a boudoir photoshoot

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Selens Color Gel Filter Set

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$35.99

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$35.99

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$49.99

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$88.46

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Color gel filters are another simple and affordable way to transform a boudoir scene. You can use them with camera flashes or LED panels. You can use them with natural light from windows. Or you can pair them with house lamps to give your photo studio a different atmosphere.

The Selens Color Gel Filter Set is a great option for boudoir photographers. You get 20 colored gels in the set. They measure 10 x 10 inches (25.4 x 25.4 cm), a convenient size. And it’s an affordable photography accessory that makes a big difference.

With so many colors and shades, you have incredible lighting options. You can turn a drab and dull setting into a romantic environment for a sensual photoshoot. And you don’t need any extra equipment. You can use these gels with any light source you have available.

The Selens Color Gels also come with a protective case. So you can put them in your camera bag, ready for your next boudoir photoshoot.

Extra Info About Boudoir Photography

If you want to learn more about boudoir photography, we have some tips and tricks to improve your boudoir images. We also have links to full articles so you can dive even deeper into this fabulous genre of photography.

What’s the Best Lighting for Boudoir Photography?

We’ve mentioned lighting many times in this article. And much of our boudoir photography gear is related to lighting. That’s because it’s such an important element in good boudoir photography. We all know how the right lighting can set a mood. And it’s the same with boudoir photoshoots.

Our first tip is to use natural light where possible. Natural light is soft and less intense than light from a flash. The softness is complimentary to your model. And the softer shadows accentuate the curves and features of the body.

Relying on natural light isn’t always easy. But you can use reflectors to help you control the light you have. And you can use a tripod to maximize your control over the exposure settings. That’s why we picked those boudoir lighting accessories for our list.

Using colored gels is another top boudoir lighting tip. They let you change the color of light without having to buy new specialist bulbs.

Colored gels help you create the perfect atmosphere for your photo shoot. Reds and pinks give you a classic, warm boudoir setting. In contrast, purples and oranges give you something more playful.

Using several light sources is another way to improve your boudoir lighting. Of course, this means more equipment to buy. But using two or three lights gives you complete control over the light in your boudoir studio. LED light panels are the best option. They don’t consume much power. And they don’t overheat!

Read our full article on the best tips for boudoir lighting to find out more.

What Are the Best Poses for Boudoir Photography?

Every boudoir photographer needs an extensive catalog of poses for their models. Good poses are key to a successful boudoir shoot. And having some ready straight off the bat helps the model feel comfortable and confident.

It’s best if you have good poses ready for first-time models. Most of your boudoir models won’t be experienced posers. They are likely normal men or women doing something special for their partners. Or they might be doing the shoot as an exercise in confidence. That’s why you need some poses to get them started.

A boudoir photographer should make the model feel comfortable. They should encourage and empower without being pushy or aggressive. So, work within their boundaries and let their confidence grow. You’ll be able to get more adventurous as the shoot continues.

That’s why you need a wide range of poses in your locker. Easy poses help shy models come out of their shells. But you also want more challenging and creative poses for models bursting with confidence.

The poses must complement the clothing or lingerie they’re wearing. It’s best to have poses for all body types. And it’s best to be ready for men and women, muscular, slim, and curvy.

We won’t go into specific poses in this post. But you can see all the best boudoir pose ideas in these articles:

• Best Boudoir Poses
• Best Boudoir Photoshoot Ideas for Men
• Best Boudoir Poses for Curvy Models
• Best Bridal Boudoir Photography Ideas
• Best Pregnant Boudoir Poses

Conclusion: The Best Boudoir Photography Gear

The best boudoir photography gear helps you create sensual, professional-looking images. Whether working in a studio or a bedroom with men, women, or non-binary models, this equipment improves results!

The Nikon Z5  is the best boudoir photography camera. And the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S is the perfect lens for boudoir photography. It’s also best to have traditional hardware like the K&F Concept Lightweight Tripod. And you want lighting equipment to perfect your boudoir shot.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Boudoir Photography Gear

Nikon Z5

Nikon Z5

Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S

Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S

K&F Concept Lightweight Aluminum Tripod

K&F Concept Lightweight Aluminum Tripod

What Do Conceptual Photographers Shoot?

Conceptual photographers shoot conceptual photography, a genre that portrays an idea. It usually has a narrative or a hidden meaning behind the image. The photographer decides on the concept before taking the image and tries to illustrate it in the most accurate way possible.
Conceptual portrait photography often involves abstract faces, geometric shapes, vividly captured colors, and surreal details. It is not rare that artists use conceptual portraits to express their own struggles or emotions through images.
The niche strongly connects to Photoshop art, as unique post-processing styles represent many ideas. Several artists who take self-portraits turn them into conceptual art.

34 Fascinating Conceptual Portrait Photographers

Let’s dive into the work of these amazing conceptual portrait photographers!

1. Anya Anti

Anya is a fine-art conceptual and lifestyle portrait photographer. She works mainly with self-portraits, placing herself in gorgeous locations and situations.
Many of her photos revolve around her connection to the Earth and nature. She portrays herself as part of her surroundings while creating a universal cold and moody style in her art.

2. Brooke Shaden

Brooke describes herself as someone who stands for radical self-reflection. This is probably the best way to outline her work as an artist.
She works with various models—primarily women—to capture their often dark emotions. Strong personalities and traumatic experiences shine through her photos. Her conceptual images have a disturbing yet beautiful look.

3. Jovana Rikalo

Jovana is a brilliant fine art portrait photographer from Serbia who uniquely captures miniature stories in single images. She creates magical scenes that depict dream-like scenarios.
You can tell from her pictures that she spends most of her time planning shoots. As you can see, this planning pays off!

4. Dasha Pears

Dasha is a visual storyteller who captures stories and ideas with her photos. Her concepts are minimalistic and exceptionally well executed.
She sometimes uses geometric shapes and Photoshop overlays to emphasize her subjects’ stories. Her images revolve around inner fights and finding our places in the world.

5. Adam Martinakis

Creating sculptures has been a way of depicting humans for thousands of years. So it is unsurprising that Adam chose a similar way to capture how he sees humanity.
He creates a statue-like look in his images, visualizing every detail of the human body. His photos are highly surrealistic. And he plays with shapes, colors, and composition to express his ideas.

6. Pol Kurucz

Pol redefines the concept of beauty with his conceptual portraits. His models aren’t perfect. They have their flaws, as every human does.
Pol has several photo series dedicated to different ideas. Poor Billionaires, Angry Dolls, Hair Stories, and Bored in NYC are some of Pol’s photo concepts. The images are colorful and full of unexpected elements and expressions.

7. Claire Luxton

Claire is a multidisciplinary artist, combining conceptual portraits and Photoshop art. She often takes self-portraits. And she transforms them into photos that perfectly capture her emotions and struggles.
Her images illustrate concepts like hope, truth, and dreams. And they are executed colorfully with a touch of nature.

8. Gemmy Woud-Binnendijk

Gemmy is a fine-art portrait photographer creating images that remind us of a historical era. The studio setting, costumes, makeup, and posing all contribute to the nostalgic feeling of her photos.
The images reflect the Renaissance, Baroque, or Victorian eras. She also manages to recreate the dark atmosphere of old portrait paintings.

9. David LaChapelle

David is one of the most well-known conceptual portrait photographers out there. He creates Biblical, historical, or sometimes even modern composites. And he uses a sense of humor to spice up his images.
He has stories to tell and knows precisely how to tell them. His imagination is outstanding. But his technical knowledge allows him to bring that imagination to life.

10. Hungry (Johannes J. Jaruraak)

Hungry’s conceptual portraits are based on the creative use of makeup and costumes. The results are surreal. The models barely look human afterward.
These portraits show us a twisted version of humanity. The colorful makeup combined with the model’s serious expression leaves the viewer with a pretty dark impression.

11. Damian Drewniak

Damian is a Polish visual artist who specializes in fine-art conceptual portraits. He speaks to you with images that capture atmospheres and concepts everyone can relate to.
The only difference is that he captures everything with a high sense of aesthetics and sophistication. This drags you into his world.

12. Patty Maher

Patty is a Canadian conceptual portrait photographer who focuses on female portraiture. She doesn’t show the faces of the models. They are either disguised or facing away from the camera.
She uses postures, colors, and symbols to convey emotions and stories. Her work balances the boundaries of the real world and surrealism.

13. Saga Wendotte

Saga is a conceptual child portrait photographer from Sweden. She has created several photo series based on various topics, like traveling or flowers.
Her Little People series captures children in a meaningful yet disturbing setting. She captures controversial topics, contrasting the world’s cruelty and the children’s innocence.

14. Karen Katar (Cantuq)

Karen took up Photoshop art and conceptual portraits to express her inner world. She uses art for self-therapy, as she creates highly surrealistic composites.
Her photos look as if a child’s imagination has come true. The colorful images look like paintings and uniquely illustrate the world of animals.

15. Flóra Borsi

Flóra is a Hungarian Photoshop artist who has worked with the program for over 16 years. This is visible in her images, as she knows exactly how to make refined conceptual portraits.
She takes self-portraits and transforms herself into otherworldly creatures. Many natural elements appear in her work, like butterflies, flowers, and birds.

16. Ziqian Liu

Ziqian, like many others on our list, also works with self-portraits. What differentiates her from the other artists is that she barely ever captures whole portraits.
Instead, she uses body parts, mirrors, reflections, and creative blur to create mystical and minimalistic portraits. Check out her account if you are looking for a unique, feminine style of conceptual portraits.

17. PrOject Uno

The PrOject Uno is a photography community involving and featuring many contemporary portrait artists. Many images are dark and surreal.
These conceptual photos illustrate the darkest corners of the human soul. You can find several different styles and atmospheres in the mixture of various artists’ work.

18. Joel Robison

Joel is a portrait photographer and Photoshop artist, working mainly with self-portraits. He uses his creativity and artistic skills to capture his conceptual visions and ideas.
His images are often fairytale-like. They feature Joel as a giant, a tiny man, or someone with magical abilities. He has a smooth and consistent style that he applies during his editing. And you can learn his techniques through his Fantastic Photo Adventures video course.

19. Bella Kotak

Bella describes herself as a fairytale fine-art photographer. This accurately describes her style. She mainly works with women, creating genuinely magical images in various locations.
The costumes, makeup, and accessories resemble the fairy tales we all grew up with. Bella uses the power of nature to bring a unique atmosphere into her photos.

20. Auguste Lefou

Auguste has probably the most modern photography style on our list. He captures humans merging with technology, often looking like robots and emotionless beings.
His images address many contemporary issues, like social media addiction and consumer society. The models’ faces are barely visible and unrecognizable. This helps the viewer focus on the message each photo conveys.

21. Kyle Thompson

Kyle is an American photographer who has worked primarily with self-portraits. His work’s emphasis is more on the message than the visuals. He’s taken a break from photography. But his work still inspires.
His most popular photo series, titled Sinking Ship, is where he visits an abandoned American town. He takes pictures full of self-reflection and hidden emotions. And he embraces his portraits’ vulnerability.

22. Steve Gindler

You should check out Steve’s account if you are looking for a conceptual portrait artist with relatable and touching photos. He captures his model’s raw emotions and fears with honest portraits.
These conceptual pictures are often set in an abandoned environment. He uses various disturbing settings and poses. And they often reflect pain and hopelessness.

23. Vivienne Mok

Vivienne knows how to portray the feminine side of her models. Her dreamy images look smooth as she plays with different lighting and props.
She works with many actresses and singers. And she organizes photoshoots that result in beautiful portraits.

24. Ade Santora

Ade is an Indonesian artist who creates twisted portraiture. His work is an excellent combination of digital art and conceptual portraits. Ade takes photos exclusively with his iPhone and edits all his images with mobile apps.
He shows a surreal side of humanity, tearing and reattaching faces in his pictures. So his subjects are sometimes unrecognizable, depicted darkly and disturbingly. But some are also beautiful and ethereal.

25. Peyman Naderi

Peyman is an international multi-award-winning photographer from Persia. His goal is to represent his unique way of looking at various concepts.
He creates his portraits in a studio setting, bringing several creative ideas to life. His portraits have a surreal look. And they involve nature, fish tanks, strong makeup, and nostalgic props.

26. Tom Chambers

Tom creates conceptual photomontages for which he uses his own images. He combines landscapes, skies, foregrounds, and subjects to create his composites.
He often works with children and young adults, showing them in a rural setting. And Tom’s work has been published and exhibited several times over his career.

27. Kaat Stieber

Kaat is a fine art photographer from the Netherlands who brings surrealism and Dutch art elements into her images. She aims to create images that look like paintings.
She does so through photography, costume-making, and brainstorming about new concepts. Her photos give you the feeling of looking at a classical painting.

28. Juul Kraijer

Juul is a Dutch visual artist widely recognized professionally in her country. She has dozens of exhibitions consisting of her conceptual portraits.
She combines drawings and sculptures with photography to create an extremely surreal look. The atmosphere of her images is dark. And her conceptual images show emotions and struggles through how she poses her models.

29. Milos Nejezchleb

Milos is a Czech, multi-award-winning photographer and visual artist. He often chooses current social issues as an inspiration for his images.
He plays with colors and shapes to create a minimalistic style and convey the message he aims to deliver. Many of his portraits involve several models whose interactions are key elements of his photos.

30. Cameron Burns

Cameron is a 3D artist who uses digital technology to make his conceptual portraits come true. The primary models in his photos are an astronaut, a “ghost,” or another figure. And they participate in seemingly everyday activities in mostly mundane settings.
He addresses topics that concern everyone in their daily lives. These include isolation, the therapeutic effect of music, and burnout from overworking.

31. Gabriel Isak

Gabriel creates surreal and melancholic scenes that symbolize the human unconscious. He uses colors and strong symbols, like birds, stairs, or blindfolds, to capture what is going on in the human psyche.
His photos are very minimalistic. And they often showcase faceless models in simple settings.

32. Kseniya Vaschenko

Kseniya’s images are a mixture of conceptual photography and fashion portraits. She uses twisted positions and dark coloring to express the agony and emotions of her models. In her work, feminine sexuality makes for sophisticated yet powerful results.

33. Astrid Verhoef

Astrid’s images teeter on the edge of surrealism and fine art portraiture. She places subjects in unusual surroundings to create landscapes unfamiliar to the human eye.
Using juxtaposition, her images greatly contrast technology and nature, humans and still objects.

34. Bara Prasilova

Bara Prasilova creates surreal conceptual photos that have you second-guessing each image. Look at the way she frames and composes each image. It instantly makes the subject stand out and sets the scene nicely for odd encounters.
I like how particular she is, down to the small details, including the color pallet she uses.

Conclusion: Influential Conceptual Photographers

Conceptual portrait photography has many faces and includes several different niches. Whether you’re looking for Photoshop art, minimalist, or detailed portrait shots, our article features exceptional artists in their fields.
Do you agree with our list? Please comment with your favorite conceptual portrait photographer under this post! And check out our Creative Portrait Concepts eBook to jumpstart your photo-taking and editing processes!

There are many different options when it comes to softboxes. So it can be hard to know which one is right for you. We think the Triopo KS55 Portable Softbox is the best option available. This is thanks to its great price for studio results and its strong design. 

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Softbox For Speedlight

Triopo KS55 Portable Softbox

Triopo KS55 Portable Softbox

Neewer Octagonal Softbox

Neewer Octagonal Softbox

Godox AK-R1 Dome Diffuser Kit

Godox AK-R1 Dome Diffuser Kit

What Is the Best Softbox for Speedlights?

Here is a quick roundup of our favorite softboxes for speedlights!

Our Top Choice

Triopo KS55 Portable Softbox

Triopo KS55 Portable Softbox

• Professional, high-quality 22" / 55 cm foldable octagon
• Adjustable on-camera mount width to fit most flashes
• Reflective silver minimizes light reduction, white cloth softens light evenly
• Honeycomb grid included to funnel light
• Angle-adjustable handle for handheld use

Biggest Softbox

Neewer Octagonal Softbox

Neewer Octagonal Softbox

• Wide 45" / 115 cm surface spreads light well
• Easy-to-use umbrella and softbox in one
• Highly reflective nylon material
• Octagon shape suitable for product and portrait photography
• Light but solid and aluminum shaft construction

Best Compact Kit

Godox AK-R1 Dome Diffuser Kit

Godox AK-R1 Dome Diffuser Kit

• Softens light for natural looking illumination
• Convenient magnetic mounting system
• Universal mount for attaching to stands
• Includes plates, honey comb, color filters, and bounce card
• Lightweight and portable, with a carry bag

Best for Travel

MagMod Speedlight Diffuser

MagMod Speedlight Diffuser

• 3 kinds of magnetic modifiers included
• Redesigned modifiers for speed and simplicity
• Smaller, lighter, better than before
• Universally compatible with most flash brands
• Suitable for beginners and professionals

Most Compact

Gary Fong Collapsible Gen5 Lightsphere

Gary Fong Collapsible Gen5 Lightsphere

• Fast, collapsible mount design for switching out modifiers quickly
• Mounts with a tug of a no-velcro cinch strap
• Includes a detachable white dome for more contrast
• Made of durable silicone material
• Universal fit for all speedlight flash units

Best Round Softbox

FOTOCREAT 12″(30cm) Mini Round SoftBox

FOTOCREAT 12″(30cm) Mini Round SoftBox

• Portable light modifier for small DSLR speedlight flashes
• Creates soft directional light ideal for any situation
• Foldable for easy storage and transport
• Perfect for product, portrait, event, and travel photography
• Compatible with all speedlights

Best for Bouncing Light

waka Flash Diffuser Reflector Kit

waka Flash Diffuser Reflector Kit

• 2-reflector kit for a variety of possibilities
• Silver and white options reduce shadows and red-eye
• Bendable water-repellant material
• Universal fit with popular brands
• Bonus microfiber cleaning cloth

Best Simple Softbox

Altura Photo Flash Diffuser Softbox

Altura Photo Flash Diffuser Softbox

• Softens shadows and reduces harshness well
• Pro-grade reflective silver interior for maximum light output
• Easy to use, durable, and folds down flat when not in use
• Compatible with most shoe mount flashes
• Backed by 90-day satisfaction guarantee

Best Softbox for Speedlights (Top 8)

Read below for an in-depth view of each of our selections. 

1. Triopo KS55 Portable Softbox

Brand	Brand Triopo
Size	Size 21.6 inches (55 cm)
Mounting Method	Mounting Method S-type Grip
Material	Material Nylon, aluminum
Key Features	Key Features Wide, collapsible octagon softbox that spreads light over a broad area
Best For	Best For Professional-standard shoots

×

Triopo KS55 Portable Softbox

Amazon.com

$65.00

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Amazon.ca

$75.00

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Amazon.co.uk

$86.05

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Amazon.com.au

$90.00

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Amazon.de

$100.25

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Amazon.sg

$109.23

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$381.37

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The Triopo KS55 portable softbox is our favorite because of its versatility and ease of use. Its fully-expanded 21.6-inch (55 cm) diameter makes it as good as regular softboxes often found in studios.

And it has a collapsible construction that makes it portable. You only have to push it up like an umbrella to use it.

Since this softbox is octagonal, it’s the best option for portraiture. It diffuses light effectively. And it creates circular catchlights that make your subject’s eyes glitter.

And if you feel like creating moody photos, you can always use the egg-crate grid that comes with it. It cuts the light and concentrates it on your model. So it doesn’t spill into the background.

But what truly makes the KS55 portable softbox our favorite is its handle. Of course, you can always install it on a light stand. But you can also detach it from the octagonal softbox and handhold your speedlight.

Plus, it has a mounting hole for an umbrella in case you wish to use that type of light modifier. And it comes with a carry bag.

2. Neewer Octagonal Softbox

Brand	Brand Neewer
Size	Size 32 inches (80 cm)
Mounting Method	Mounting Method C-stand or tripod
Material	Material Nylon, aluminum
Key Features	Key Features Wide octagonal shape to spread light effectively
Best For	Best For Product and portrait photography in a studio environment

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Neewer Octagonal Softbox

Amazon.com

$43.49

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Another great option to consider is the Neewer octagonal softbox instead. It’s 32 x 32 inches (80 x 80 cm). And since it’s octagonal, it creates beautiful catchlights in your subject’s eyes. So it’s great for headshots and portrait photography.

This softbox is also larger than many options. So it creates even softer light than its smaller counterpart. It also comes with a detachable internal diffusion panel. This lets you control your photo’s highlights and contrast.

But what really makes the Neewer softbox better than most? It opens and closes like an umbrella, making it highly portable and easy to use.

But it’s very large when opened. So Neewer made an excellent decision to include a speedlight bracket. This attaches easily to a light stand!

3. Godox AK-R1 Dome Diffuser Kit

Brand	Brand Godox
Size	Size Various
Mounting Method	Mounting Method Magnetic
Material	Material Various
Key Features	Key Features Various diffusers and accessories for several soft lighting options
Best For	Best For Godox speedlight users

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Godox AK-R1 Dome Diffuser Kit

Amazon.com

$11.90

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Consider the Godox AK-R1 dome diffuser if you want an affordable softbox kit. Godox prides itself on well-priced lighting equipment. And it now competes head-to-head with some of the biggest photography companies.

This kit includes various light diffusers. It includes a flash dome, plates, snoot, color filters, and gels. It also has a magnetic mounting system. So you can attach and detach the lighting accessories in seconds.

The Godox accessories kit is compatible with their round flash units. That includes the Godox V1-S and the AD200. But it also comes with a speedlight bracket. This lets you use the more common rectangular flash heads.

The AK-R1 dome diffuser kit is a compatible, affordable, and good-quality option. That’s why we list this ahead of the Magmod kit. And you can also just buy the Godox flash dome by itself.

4. MagMod Speedlight Diffuser Kit

Brand	Brand MagMod
Size	Size 6 inches (15 cm)
Mounting Method	Mounting Method Magnetic
Material	Material Various
Key Features	Key Features 3 kinds of compact soft lighting diffusers
Best For	Best For Beginners and professionals who want a portable travel option

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MagMod Speedlight Diffuser

Amazon.com

$93.45 $109.94

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The MagMod speedlight diffuser is your best bet for a professional, high-quality speedlight softbox. But this kit costs much more than the others on our list!

It comes with a whole system of accessories. It includes items like a snoot and gels for all sorts of shooting situations. And Magmod is among the first to sell speedlight softboxes with a magnetic mounting system.

It uses strong, noise-free magnets to stay in place. So you no longer need to screw on your softbox. All you have to do is “stick” your flash dome to your flash unit. And when you finish taking pictures, pull it off and store it safely in your bag.

And apart from these light modifiers, they now also offer regular-sized softboxes like the MagBox Pro. You can use them off-camera. They may look like your average studio softboxes. But they’re collapsible and feature a magnetic mounting system.

5. Gary Fong Collapsible Gen5 Lightsphere

Brand	Brand Gary Fong
Size	Size 6 inches (15 cm)
Mounting Method	Mounting Method Cinch strap
Material	Material Clear silicone
Key Features	Key Features Easy-to-use, durable and collapsible design
Best For	Best For Wedding and event photography, throwing in a camera bag

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Gary Fong Collapsible Gen5 Lightsphere

Amazon.com

$89.95

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Gary Fong released their Gen5 Lightsphere in 2004. For decades, we saw all sorts of speedlight light modifiers. But this collapsible flash diffuser offered a novel design.

Essentially, it’s a translucent bulb with a cinch strap that attaches to the flash head. But the results you get from it rival that of more complicated options.

When you expand it, the dome spreads the light from the flash. This creates a soft, diffused light like a large softbox or a photography umbrella.

This device also comes with a detachable top dome. You can remove it to create more contrast in your lighting.

The Gary Fong Gen5 Lightsphere is made of soft silicone. So you can quickly push it down to the size of a hockey puck and store it in your camera bag. So it’s durable and portable.

It’s become a favorite for event and wedding photography. And you don’t have to worry about assembling or storing it in special bags. All you do is pop it on, and you can start shooting!

6. FOTOCREAT 12-inch Round Softbox

Brand	Brand Fotocreat
Size	Size 12 inches (30 cm)
Mounting Method	Mounting Method Velcro
Material	Material Nylon, aluminum
Key Features	Key Features Circular, collapsible design and grey card
Best For	Best For Travel photographers, and those who want a circular softbox

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FOTOCREAT 12″(30cm) Mini Round SoftBox

Amazon.com

$12.59

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We’re all familiar with octagonal and rectangular softboxes. But did you know that there are also circular options for speedlights?

Fotocreat is one of the few brands offering this light diffuser type. And we must say the FOTOCREAT 12-inch mini round softbox is among the best choices for producing the softest light. So what makes this softbox exemplary?

The 12-inch (30 cm) diameter makes it large enough to spread the light evenly and create soft lighting. And its circular structure disperses the flash beam in ways other softboxes, like rectangular ones, can’t.

Its round shape makes for a perfect catchlight. And it’s more natural than an octagonal option. It also features a grey card in the back for exposure and white balance settings.

This softbox comes with a Velcro mounting system. Typically, Velcro is terrible at keeping a softbox in place. But you insert this particular diffuser into the flash unit vertically. So there’s less chance of it slipping away.

The FOTOCREAT’s round softbox also has a slimmer profile. So it’s lighter and less cumbersome than other options, even when mounted on a camera! Plus, It’s collapsible. So it’s a great option for travel photography.

7. waka Flash Diffuser Reflector Kit

Brand	Brand waka
Size	Size 11 inches (28 cm) / 9 inches (23 cm)
Mounting Method	Mounting Method Elastic
Material	Material Nylon and PVC
Key Features	Key Features 2 types of reflectors, water repellant
Best For	Best For Outdoor photography

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waka Flash Diffuser Reflector Kit

Amazon.com

$14.99

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What makes the waka flash diffuser reflector kit special is that it comes with more than one softbox. The kit includes rectangular-shaped and hexagonal-shaped reflectors. You can attach either one directly to the flash using a Velcro strap.

The octagon softbox has a diameter of 9 inches (23 cm). The rectangular option is 11 x 10 inches (25 x 28 cm) in size. Despite their sizes, they look and function like full-size light diffusers.

They even have detachable diffusion material inside. And you can remove this to create harder light with stronger shadows.

The waka reflector kit is also highly portable. You can easily collapse them and store them in your camera bag when not in use.

And even if you use your softboxes all the time, you don’t have to worry about them getting damaged. They’re made of durable black nylon and PVC. It effectively repels water and other elements. So they’re great for outdoor photography.

8. Altura Photo Flash Diffuser Softbox

Brand	Brand Altura Photo
Size	Size 6 x 5 inches (15 x 13 cm), 9 x 7 inches (23 x 18 cm), 11 x 8 inches (28 x 20 cm)
Mounting Method	Mounting Method Velcro
Material	Material Nylon
Key Features	Key Features Secure rubber mounting, 90-day money-back guarantee
Best For	Best For Photographers who need a simple but effective softbox

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Altura Photo Flash Diffuser Softbox

Amazon.com

$21.99 $24.99

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The Altura photo flash diffuser softbox is the perfect option for a classic speedlight softbox. It has Velcro straps and a rectangular shape. And despite its small size, it has all the features of a regular softbox.

It has a silver interior to spread the light around. And it features double diffusion material that creates soft, natural-looking light.

The Altura comes in three sizes or a combo:

• 6 x 5 inches (15 x 13 cm)
• 9 x 7 inches (23 x 18 cm)
• 11 x 8 inches (28 x 20 cm)

You have the option to buy them individually or as a kit. Usually, I don’t like using softboxes with Velcro mounting systems. That’s because they easily slip. But the Altura softbox features rubber mounting to ensure they don’t fall off the flash unit.

It’s small, versatile, and light enough to use while your flash unit is on your camera. But it’s also perfect for off-camera flash situations if you need to place your speedlight on a light stand.

Finally, it has a 90-day money-back guarantee. So there’s no harm in trying it out!

Softbox Speedlight Buyers Guide

We wrote this section if you don’t know the different flashes, softboxes, and mounts. It may help you narrow down your choices of softboxes.

We discuss some of the most common softboxes for speedlights. And we also talk about the various mounting systems they use.

What Is a Speedlight Softbox?

Speedlights and studio strobes both produce flash. But there is one main difference between the two.

A speedlight tends to be smaller and fits on your camera’s hot shoe. On the other hand, a studio strobe is much larger and produces more intense light. Due to its size, you’ll need to install it on a light stand.

It’s crucial to find the correct type of softbox. That’s because speedlights and studio strobes are physically different.

In general, softboxes for speedlights tend to be small and light. On the other hand, the options for studio lights are often larger and aren’t as portable.

The Different Types of Speedlight Softboxes

Here we list a few softboxes you can use for your flash unit. Apart from having distinct designs, they also differ in light quality. Some may be good at creating softer light. Others may provide better contrast.

Rectangular Softbox

This softbox is the most common and available light modifier. It has a rectangular shape perfect for recreating natural light from a window. There is the waka flash diffuser reflector kit and the Altura photo flash diffuser softbox on our list.

Octagonal Softbox

This kind of softbox is also known as an “octabox.” It’s a light modifier that functions much like a rectangular softbox.

But the difference is that it spreads light in a circular shape instead of a rectangular one. Photographers love to use this for portraiture. It creates a beautiful circular catch light in the eyes.

Mini Softbox

This speedlight softbox is much like a regular softbox. But it’s explicitly designed to fit a flash head. So it’s exponentially smaller than a standard softbox. It comes in a variety of shapes, including rectangular and octagonal.

Due to this light modifier’s tiny size, its light quality isn’t as good as its larger counterparts. But it still softens the light from the flash significantly. You just have to know how to use a softbox properly.

An example is the FOTOCREAT 12-inch mini round softbox.

Flash Domes

This light diffuser isn’t precisely a softbox. But it acts much like one. The dome is made of translucent plastic or silicone. This softens the flash from the speedlight. It’s small and durable. And you can easily carry it in your camera bag.

Our list features the Godox AK-R1 dome diffuser and Gary Fong Gen5 Lightsphere.

Mounting Systems for Speedlight Softboxes

The regular flash head from a speedlight wasn’t designed to fit all sorts of attachments. That includes softboxes.

A sturdy mounting system is necessary. It ensures a speedlight softbox doesn’t fall off easily while in use. We discuss some of the most common options below.

Elastic Velcro Strap

Most smaller softboxes use an elastic Velcro strap. It wraps around the speedlight head. Since this mounting system is lightweight, it’s perfect for on-camera flashes.

Unfortunately, most softboxes that use Velcro tend to be small. That’s because Velcro loses its grip when handling heavier objects. FOTOCREAT’s mini round softbox, waka’s reflector kit, and Altura’s softbox use Velcro.

S-type Speedlight Bracket

This is the most versatile mounting system for your speedlight softbox. The S-type bracket is sturdy and can hold large light modifiers. It comes with a Bowens mount, compatible with many regular-sized softboxes.

Since this bracket tends to be bigger, it must often be installed on a light stand. But that’s not an issue because you get the best results when the flash is not physically on your camera.

The Triopo KS55 portable softbox has an S-type mount.

Magnet

This mounting system uses magnets to attach softboxes to your flash unit. It’s perfect for quickly swapping one light modifier with another when you’re on the go.

The downside of using this design is that you can only use softboxes that have magnets. And light diffusers with such a mounting system tend to be small. That’s because magnets can only carry so much weight.

Godox’s AK-R1 diffuser and MagMod’s speedlight diffuser use this mount.

Conclusion: The Best Softboxes For Speedlights

There are various features to consider when looking for the best softbox. This includes their shape and mounting system. But our eight choices have you covered no matter what kind you want.

We recommend the Triopo KS55 as the best softbox for speedlights. It is lightweight, easy to set up and use, and has an adjustable mount. And it provides excellent light quality for all your photography needs. Its durability and portability make it an ideal choice for professional and amateur photographers.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Softbox For Speedlight

Triopo KS55 Portable Softbox

Triopo KS55 Portable Softbox

Neewer Octagonal Softbox

Neewer Octagonal Softbox

Godox AK-R1 Dome Diffuser Kit

Godox AK-R1 Dome Diffuser Kit

If you’re looking for a popular and versatile lens that’s great for portraits but also has other uses, we love the Canon 70-200mm f/2.8L II IS USM. However, if you’re only focusing on finding a lens for portraits, our top pick is the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8. It’s small and lightweight, has a fast maximum aperture and smooth bokeh.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Canon Lens For Portraits

Canon EF 85mm F/1.8 USM

Canon EF 85mm F/1.8 USM

Sigma 105mm F/2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro for Canon EF

Sigma 105mm F/2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro for Canon EF

Canon EF 100mm F/2.8L Macro IS USM

Canon EF 100mm F/2.8L Macro IS USM

What is the Best Canon Lens For Portraits?

As a quick clarification, this review covers Canon portrait lenses with an EF-mount or an RF-mount. EF lenses can be used on RF-mount cameras, but you will need to use the Canon EF to RF adaptor. The range of RF-mount lenses is much smaller, so this is a useful option.

EF-mount lenses will fit directly into an APS-C Canon EF-S mount. They will also fit a Canon M-mount camera with an adapter. In both these cases, you will need to apply a crop factor of 1.6 to get the effective focal length. 

Before we look at the lenses in detail, here is a summary of our recommendations for EF-mount lenses.

Our Top Pick

Canon EF 85mm F/1.8 USM

Canon EF 85mm F/1.8 USM

• Fast f/1.8 aperture
• Compatible with Canon EF-mount cameras
• Incredibly sharp optics
• USM motor for fast, silent autofocus
• Lightweight and compact design

Best Value Sigma Prime Lens

Sigma 105mm F/2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro for Canon EF

Sigma 105mm F/2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro for Canon EF

• Exceptional image quality
• Fast f/2.8 maximum aperture
• Smooth, quiet autofocus
• Optical image stabilization
• Compatible with Canon EF-mount cameras

Best Value Canon Prime Lens

Canon EF 100mm F/2.8L Macro IS USM

Canon EF 100mm F/2.8L Macro IS USM

• Fast and accurate autofocus
• High-quality image stabilization
• Professional L-series optics
• Durable construction
• Lightweight and compact

Best Canon Prime Lens

Canon EF 85mm F/1.4L IS USM

Canon EF 85mm F/1.4L IS USM

• Fast and silent autofocus
• Image stabilization for sharp images
• Professional grade quality
• Ultra fast f/1.4 aperture for low-light shooting
• Compatible with full frame cameras

Best Budget Prime Lens

Samyang 85mm F/1.4 MK2 for Canon EF

Samyang 85mm F/1.4 MK2 for Canon EF

• Super fast f/1.4 aperture
• Weather-resistant design
• 85mm focal length for flattering portraits
• Compatible with EF-mount cameras
• High-quality optical construction

Best Sigma Prime Lens

Sigma 85mm F/1.4 DG HSM | A for Canon EF

Sigma 85mm F/1.4 DG HSM | A for Canon EF

• Fast f/1.4 maximum aperture
• Aspherical lens element
• Special Low Dispersion Glass
• Silent HSM motor
• weather-sealed body

Most Versatile Canon Zoom Lens

Canon EF 70-200mm F/2.8L IS III USM

Canon EF 70-200mm F/2.8L IS III USM

• Image stabilizer for clear, crisp shots
• Lightweight design for on-the-go shooting
• Fast and quiet autofocus
• Superb image quality
• Versatile zoom range for close-up and distant shots

Best Mid-Range Canon Zoom Lens

Canon EF 24–105mm f/4.0L IS II USM Prime Lens

Canon EF 24–105mm f/4.0L IS II USM Prime Lens

• Wide zoom range of 24-105mm
• Bright f/4.0 aperture
• Image stabilization for sharper shots
• High-quality L-series construction
• Ultra quiet USM autofocus motor

Best Sigma Zoom Lens

Sigma 24-105mm F/4 DG OS HSM | A for Canon EF

Sigma 24-105mm F/4 DG OS HSM | A for Canon EF

• Wide 24-105mm focal range
• Fast f/4.0 aperture for low-light photography
• Optimized image stabilization
• High-performance Hyper Sonic Motor
• Durable dust and splash-proof construction

Best Everyday Zoom Lens

Canon EF 24-70mm F/2.8L II USM

Canon EF 24-70mm F/2.8L II USM

• Professional-grade lens
• Constant f/2.8 aperture
• 24-70mm zoom range
• Image stabilization
• Ultra fast USM autofocus

Best Budget Zoom

Tamron SP 24-70mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 A032 for Canon EF

Tamron SP 24-70mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 A032 for Canon EF

• Fast and accurate autofocus
• Vibration Compensation technology for sharp images
• Constant f/2.8 maximum aperture throughout zoom range
• Fluorine coating for protection against water and dust
• Lightweight and compact design

Choosing the Best EF-Mount Canon Lens for Portraits

You’ll find mainly prime lenses here, but also some zooms. All of them will deliver pleasing images for your portraits.

1. Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Prime Lens

Brand	Brand Canon
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon EF
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 1.8
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 85 mm
Key Features	Key Features USM for silent AF, compact design
Best For	Best For Anyone looking for a Canon prime lens on a tight budget

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Canon EF 85mm F/1.8 USM

Amazon.com

$499.00

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This Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 isn’t an L Series lens. It won’t look as impressive on your camera. And it doesn’t offer the same level of environmental sealing. But the EF 85mm f/1.8 USM does offer 9 elements in 7 groups and an Ultrasonic Motor (USM).

Bokeh will be affected slightly by the eight diaphragm blades. However, at the full range of apertures, it’s pretty good. Wide open, it’s a thing of beauty. The plastic lens body is not as robust, but it is light.

At about 1/3 the cost of the L Series lens, this is still quite a lot of money. But it will repay the investment with great image quality and accurate rendition. It is notable for its lack of spherical aberration and pin-sharp focus. The Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 is a good portrait lens and great value for money.

2. Sigma 105mm f/2.8 APO EX DG OS HSM Prime Lens for Canon EF-Mount

Brand	Brand Sigma
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon EF
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 105 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization 1
Key Features	Key Features Image stabilization and weather sealing
Best For	Best For Anyone wanting an excellent value prime lens

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Sigma 105mm F/2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro for Canon EF

Amazon.com

$669.00

Buy Now!

This is about as long a focal length as you want for portrait work. The Sigma 105mm f/2.8 boasts image stabilization, a 9-blade iris, and 16 elements in 11 groups. It is not weather sealed, but that’s not surprising at this price point.

The build is good. And the image quality is excellent. At wider apertures, edge definition fades away quite a bit. High f-stops are not handled as well as the Canon L Series. But this is a much cheaper lens.

The image stabilization is switchable for static and panning modes and is rated for four stops. That’s very useful in an f/2.8 lens. This is a solid choice if you can cope with the 105mm focal length. Especially if macro photography is appealing to you.

3. Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro Lens

Brand	Brand Canon
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon EF
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 100 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization 1
Key Features	Key Features Image stabilization and weather sealing
Best For	Best For Anyone after a professional Canon 100mm lens

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Canon EF 100mm F/2.8L Macro IS USM

Amazon.com

$1,299.00

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As the name tells us, this Canon EF 100mm is also a macro lens. Some argue that a 100mm focal length is a little short for macro. But this lens at least opens up some possibilities for you. It’s also a decent length for portraits. You’d need a pretty big studio to use it. But if you’re shooting outdoors, that’s not a problem.

It has 9 blades on the iris, which means that down to f/5.6, the aperture is round. Even after that, it’s pleasingly smooth. The lens contains 15 elements in 12 groups. Image stabilization and a USM make this a well-specified lens.

The bokeh produced by those 9 blades is excellent across the aperture range. Sharpness is also excellent, with some falling off at the edges when it’s wide open. The image stabilization will help reduce camera shake and motion blur.

The build quality is excellent, as you’d expect from an L Series lens. It is a little unfortunate that the body is plastic. I feel the same about my L Series 16-24mm lens. It somehow seems wrong. But after shooting a 12-hour wedding, I’m actually quite in favor of plastic!

This is a great lens with excellent image quality. It is useful if you want to try some macro but also need a portrait lens.

4. Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM Prime Lens

Brand	Brand Canon
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon EF
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 1.4
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 85 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization 1
Key Features	Key Features Up to 4 stops of IS, fluorine-coated element
Best For	Best For Professionals looking for a fast prime lens

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Canon EF 85mm F/1.4L IS USM

Amazon.com

$1,599.00

Buy Now!

This Canon EF 85mm lens is one of only a few Canon portrait lenses. The L series of Canon lenses are not for the financially faint of heart. They are built for daily professional use. They feature dust and moisture resistance and have an impressive build quality.

The 1.4L was the first 85mm focal length Canon portrait lens to use image stabilization. This is rated at four stops and will help in many natural light shoots. 

The 9-bladed iris makes attractive sun stars from bright points of light. It also means that the bokeh produced from the lens when stopped down is smooth.

Canon’s Ultrasonic Motor (USM) means whisper-quiet focusing. It’s renowned for its speed and accuracy.

You would expect glass elements from a professional lens. The Canon uses a molded glass aspherical lens with 14 elements in 10 groups. The front element has a fluorine coating to repel moisture and oil, which reduces smudging.

You’ll get great results from this lens in a whole range of situations. Image quality is reliable across the aperture range. The Canon EF 85mm is, without a doubt, one of the best Canon portrait lenses.

5. Samyang 85mm f/1.4 WR Prime Lens

Brand	Brand Samyang
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon EF
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 1.4
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 85 mm
Key Features	Key Features Fast f/1.4 aperture and weather sealing
Best For	Best For Anyone looking for a budget prime lens

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Samyang 85mm F/1.4 MK2 for Canon EF

Amazon.com

$624.50

Buy Now!

Depending on where you live, this Samyang 85mm f/1.4 is branded as Samyang or Rokinon. It’s not a name that immediately springs to many minds. But Rokinon is building a fan base with its well-made lenses.

At a similar price to a cheaper Canon portrait lens, the Rokinon boasts a nine-blade iris and weather sealing. It even looks like an L Series lens with a red ring around the body. Although it’s made of plastic, the Rokinon has a quality feel to it.

That’s all very well, but how does it perform? Focusing is quick and accurate. The manual focusing ring only works when the camera is awake. Sharpness from f/2.8 is excellent but less so up till that point.

Bokeh is really impressive at all apertures, as is contrast. If anything lets the Rokinon down, it’s some pincushioning and dropping off of sharpness away from the center.

Overall, this Samyang 85mm f/1.4 is a good lens with reliable image quality if portrait photography isn’t your main gig. Or if your budget is tight.

6. Sigma 85mm f/1.4 SLD Art EF HSM Prime Lens For Canon EF-Mount

Brand	Brand Sigma
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon EF
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 1.4
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 85 mm
Key Features	Key Features Low-dispersion elements and weather sealing
Best For	Best For Professionals looking for excellent quality and value

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Sigma 85mm F/1.4 EX DG HSM for Canon EF

Amazon.com

$978.10

Buy Now!

This Sigma 85mm f/1.4  SLD Art is part of the Sigma Art range. They have a deserved reputation for great image quality. Aimed at the professional, Sigma Art lenses deliver sharp, true images. And the 1.4 DG HSM is no exception.

There are 14 elements in 12 groups. They include an aspherical lens and two elements made from Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass. This is Sigma’s own technology that is designed to reduce lens flare.

The AF motor is a Hypersonic Motor—the “HSM” in the name—which has proved to be quick and quiet in operation. Like the L Series of Canon portrait lenses, Sigma Art lenses are designed to withstand dust and moisture.

This Sigma Art 85mm lens will provide outstanding image quality at a lower price than the Canon portrait lens. I have a friend whose wedding and portrait photography is breathtaking. And she uses nothing but Sigma Art lenses on a Canon body.

7. Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS STM Zoom Lens

Brand	Brand Canon
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon EF
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 70-200 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization 1
Key Features	Key Features Superb image stabilization and professional build quality
Best For	Best For Anyone looking for a wide-ranging zoom lens

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Canon EF 70-200mm F/2.8L IS III USM

Amazon.com

$2,099.00

Buy Now!

The performance of this Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.84 is excellent all across the board. Sharpness, vignetting, and distortion are all superb. Bokeh is as smooth as with a specialist prime lens, and image stabilization runs to five stops. That opens up a whole lot of possibilities.

Everything about the lens is great. Weather sealing helps to protect it, and the build quality is excellent. It will work well year after year, and the focal length range gives it so many uses. You’ll see many wedding photographers using these lenses to get stunning, intimate shots without being intrusive. It will consistently deliver high-quality images.

It’s a pretty steep price, but the EF 70-200mm f/4 is a versatile lens. It could be the best Canon lens for portraits for you if you’re willing to spend the money.

8. Canon EF 24-105mm f/4.0L IS II USM Prime Lens

Brand	Brand Canon
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 24–105 mm
Key Features	Key Features Image stabilization and weather sealing
Best For	Best For Anyone wanting a top-quality multi-purpose lens

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Canon EF 24–105mm f/4.0L IS II USM Prime Lens

Amazon.com

$1,299.00

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I have the Mark I version of this Canon EF 24-105mm f/4.0L lens, and it is my go-to. It has some shortcomings, especially in distortion at the wide end. But you can fix this with presets, and it produces wonderful, bright, and clear images.

The Mark II fixes the shortcomings and improves the strengths. For example, it has improved the coatings on some elements and a 10-blade iris.

Bokeh is superb at all apertures, and sharpness is generally good. It is stronger at the shorter ranges of the zoom but never unsatisfactory. Weather sealing is what you’d expect from a professional lens.

The 24-105mm focal length range is a great lens to have on your camera. A 24mm lens is probably my favorite prime lens. With this lens, I have that as well as standard, plus portrait. The Canon EF 24-105mm f/4.0L is a great performer, but pricier than some options.

9. Sigma 24-105mm f/4.0 Art DG OS HSM Zoom Lens for Canon EF-Mount

Brand	Brand Sigma
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon EF
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 4.0
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 24-105 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization 1
Key Features	Key Features Weather sealing and optical stabilization
Best For	Best For Anyone looking for an excellent value multi-purpose zoom lens

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Sigma 24-105mm F/4 DG OS HSM | A for Canon EF

Amazon.com

$889.99

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This Sigma 24-105mm f/4.0 Art is another one of Sigma’s Art lenses that offers very similar specs to the Canon. It has the same focal lengths and aperture. Although the main body isn’t metal, it is a composite material with a very solid feel. It helps make the lens feel like it belongs in the professional league.

Sigma’s HSM focusing is a good match for Canon’s in speed and accuracy. And the image stabilization performance is about the same.

In tests, the Sigma seems sharper in the middle of the frame. But this advantage is reversed as you go to the edge, especially the corners. Pincushion and barrel distortions are broadly similar between the Sigma and the Canon.

This is another lens that will give great flexibility and impressive performance. Choosing between this Sigma 24-105mm and the Canon might come down to handling and personal preference with the results.

10. Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM Zoom Lens

Brand	Brand Canon
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon EF
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 24-70 mm
Key Features	Key Features Fast constant maximum aperture and weather sealing
Best For	Best For Anyone looking for a daily use workhorse zoom

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Canon EF 24-70mm F/2.8L II USM

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This Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II lens is a bit of an outlier. It doesn’t get up to that magic 90mm focal length figure. And it’s expensive. But it is loved by many professionals as their everyday lens. It hits the 24mm and standard lens targets, plus a little bit extra. And it does it all with a constant f/2.8 aperture.

And the results it returns are excellent. They’re at least a match for equivalent prime lenses. The bokeh is consistent and smooth and works across the whole range of apertures and focal lengths.

Perhaps the only shortcoming is the lack of any image stabilization. Perhaps the professional’s practiced hand and steady eye is less in need of it. But it certainly feels lacking in a lens of this quality and at this price.

As a Canon lens for portraits, the argument is a tad weak, except for that exceptional clarity, smooth bokeh, and fast maximum aperture. But as an everyday lens that can take occasional portraits, the Canon EF 24-70mm is definitely a top contender.

11. Tamron SP 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 Zoom Lens for Canon EF-Mount

Brand	Brand Tamron
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon EF
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 24-70 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization 1
Key Features	Key Features Vibration compensation and fluorine-coated elements
Best For	Best For Anyone looking for a top-value, fast zoom lens

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Tamron SP 24-70mm F/2.8 Di VC USD G2 A032 for Canon EF

Amazon.com

$1,199.00

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The Tamron SP 24-70mm offers a cheaper option as a counterpoint to the Canon. It is well-built and has fast and quiet autofocus. And it has the advantage of 5 stops of image stabilization.

Images are sharp and contrasty. Three glass molded aspherical elements and a front element fluorine coating are all signs of a premium product. Bokeh is smooth and pleasing across all apertures and focal lengths.

The sharpness of the images from the Tamron is exceptional. But there is some vignetting on full frame, wide-open shots.

There is a substantial price difference between this and the best Canon portrait lenses. A tighter budget might lead you to choose this. Or you might prefer the pictures it takes or the way it handles. Whatever the reason, this Tamron 24-70mm would be a sound choice for a general lens that can stand in as a portrait lens when needed.

Choosing the Best RF-Mount Canon Lenses for Portraits

If you’re looking for an RF-mount Canon portrait lens, your choices are more limited. But there are still some excellent lenses. Here are our recommendations.

Our Top Pick RF lens

Canon RF 85mm F/1.2L USM DS

Canon RF 85mm F/1.2L USM DS

• Improved autofocus speed and eye detection AF feature
• Blue spectrum refractive optics
• Control ring and one aspheric and one UD element
• Fast f/1.2 maximum aperture
• Weather-sealed lens body

Best for Macro and Portrait

Canon RF 100mm F/2.8L Macro IS USM

Canon RF 100mm F/2.8L Macro IS USM

• World's first medium telephoto macro lens
• High image quality and bright f/2.8 maximum aperture
• Optical Image Stabilizer with up to 5 stops of shake correction
• Hybrid IS compensates for angular and shift camera shake
• SA Control Ring for adjusting bokeh shape and character

Most Versatile Lens

Canon RF 70-200mm F/2.8L IS USM

Canon RF 70-200mm F/2.8L IS USM

• Fast f/2.8 constant maximum aperture
• Up to five stops IS
• Ultra-quiet AF with dual nano USM
• Close minimum focusing distance
• Weather-sealed lens body

And now let’s take a look at our top RF-mount picks in more detail.

1. Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM Lens

Brand	Brand Canon
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon RF
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 1.2
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 85 mm
Key Features	Key Features Fast constant maximum aperture and weather sealing
Best For	Best For Anyone looking for a hardworking, fast portrait lens

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Canon RF 85mm F/1.2L USM DS

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The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2L USM lens is about as good as you can get for an RF-mount portrait lens. With such a wide maximum aperture, the focus is not as lightning-fast as some other lenses. But the images are sharp, and the bokeh is smooth and pleasing.

The lens has the build quality we would expect from an L-series lens. These are designed for hardworking professional use. It is pretty big and heavy, so you will be aware of it after a long day of shooting.

The lens is almost distortion-free, with sharp images from corner to corner. This Canon RF 85mm is our top pick for a Canon portrait lens because it delivers everything you need superbly.

2. Canon RF 100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM Lens

Brand	Brand Canon
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon RF
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 1.2
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 85 mm
Key Features	Key Features Up to 1.4x magnification and hybrid IS
Best For	Best For Anyone looking for a versatile lens for portrait or macro work

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Canon RF 85mm F/1.2L USM DS

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The Canon RF 100mm f/2.8 L Macro IS USM is quite a remarkable lens. It would be impressive just as a portrait lens. It is fast, sharp, and the AF is truly quick. But it also is an excellent macro lens.

Canon occasionally labels a lens as “macro” when it doesn’t manage true 1:1 reproduction. This lens, however, goes way beyond that—40% beyond it! The 1.4x magnification means you can get some remarkable shots.

Add to this the edge-to-edge sharpness and super-fast AF, and you have a wonderfully versatile lens. Bokeh is as good as you can get. But the lens has one more trick up its sleeve. There is Spherical Aberration (SA) control. This means you can add soft focus to the shot by turning the SA dial.

All in all, this Canon RF 100mm is a fantastic and versatile lens.

3. Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM Zoom Lens

Brand	Brand Canon
Lens Mount	Lens Mount Canon RF
Maximum Aperture	Maximum Aperture f/ 2.8
Focal Length Range	Focal Length Range 70-200 mm
Image Stabilization	Image Stabilization 1
Key Features	Key Features Constant f/2.8 maximum aperture, versatile zoom range
Best For	Best For Anyone looking for an incredibly versatile, fast zoom lens

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Canon RF 70-200mm F/2.8L IS USM

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Like the EF version but better, the Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM is a superb lens. It is lighter, faster, smaller, and focuses closer than its EF cousin. The build quality is as good. The optical quality is outstanding.

It’s not a macro lens, but it will focus so close at 200mm that you can get some stunning close-ups. And with all the popular portrait focal lengths available, it’s very flexible.

The f/2.8 delivers a very narrow depth of field and pleasing bokeh. Some users feel that the autofocus is faster than their own eyes when moving from close to infinity. 

The Canon RF 70-200mm is great for weddings and portraits. And it’s super for events and even small-court sports. Check out our full list of the best 70-200mm lenses in this article.

Which is the Best Canon Lens for Portraits?

Conventional wisdom was that a portrait lens should have a focal length of 90mm. Perhaps 100mm. Conventional wisdom has said a lot of things over the years. But this idea is rooted in some realities that have not changed.

Focal Length

The human nose, even in its cutest form, can be a problem for portrait photographers. Get too close with a wide-angle lens, and your subject will look like they’re waiting outside your hotel room.

Get too far away, however, and two things happen. First, that nose and everything else can become flat and uninteresting. And you won’t be able to maintain your witty repartee with your subject. So, a 90mm focal length portrait lens gives a pretty accurate rendition of facial features. And it keeps you close—but not too close—to your subject.

So a 90mm focal length prime lens or similar would be the go-to lens for portrait photography. This was in the days when zoom lenses were pretty rare and pretty specialized. Zooming and focusing at the same time takes quite a bit of skill. So zoom lenses really only took off when autofocus became common.

But who uses prime lenses these days? And if they do, why? Prime lenses tend to be lighter and have fewer distortion issues. Most importantly, they are almost always faster. Their widest aperture will be wider than a zoom lens.

Many prime lenses come with image stabilization. This makes a significant difference to your shooting. All the lenses reviewed here deliver great image quality.

Aperture

Remember, the wider the lens aperture, the faster the lens. A fast lens has a wide aperture. Helpfully, the size increases as the f-stop decreases. So f/2 is wider than f/5.6. (An f/2 aperture lets more light in than an f/5.6 aperture.) We call it “faster” because we can use a faster shutter speed and still get the same amount of light.

This is important for portrait photography for several reasons. As the aperture increases, the depth of field decreases. The band of distance that is in focus becomes smaller. This is why your eyes get tired reading in low light. Your iris enlarges, the depth of field reduces, and your muscles have to hunt more often to keep the book in focus.

So for portrait photography, we can exploit this. By using a wide aperture, we obtain a shallow depth of field. This helps to keep the attention on the subject. The background is out of focus and is not a distraction.

It gets better. The out-of-focus background becomes a feature. Bokeh is a term that describes not just how out of focus the background is, but how pleasingly out of focus it is.

Bokeh is influenced by the lens iris. A cheap iris, with perhaps six blades, produces very geometric patterns. I praise many of the lenses in this review for their smooth bokeh.

The other factor that affects depth of field is the focal length of the lens. A telephoto lens has a shallow depth of field compared to a wide-angle lens. You can see this easily by taking pictures with a zoom lens at different focal lengths.

So What Lens Should You Choose for Portraits?

If portrait photography is going to be a major focus, and you have the budget, then get a prime lens in the 85-100mm focal length range. If not, then don’t despair. An f/4 zoom lens with two stops of image stabilization is, theoretically, as fast as an f/1.4 lens.

Your DSLR has ISO capability undreamed of in the days of film. So that combination of factors means you can take perfectly good portraits with today’s equipment.

Perhaps you’re also looking for a new camera for your portrait work? We can help you there as well with our review of the best cameras for portraits.  

Conclusion: The Best Canon Lens For Portraits

In a strong field, the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 is one of the best Canon Lenses for Portraits. Its features are impressive. We like its wide aperture, attractive price, and fast autofocus.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Canon Lens For Portraits

Canon EF 85mm F/1.8 USM

Canon EF 85mm F/1.8 USM

Sigma 105mm F/2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro for Canon EF

Sigma 105mm F/2.8 EX DG OS HSM Macro for Canon EF

Canon EF 100mm F/2.8L Macro IS USM

Canon EF 100mm F/2.8L Macro IS USM

We’ll list small LED lights for handheld photography to large LED panels for studio photography. Whatever you need, you’ll find the right LED light for your project.

There’s a massive range of different lights out there, but our top pick is the Govee RGBIC LED Strip Lights. It provides versatility, easy flexible control, and good value for money.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Led Lights For Photography

Govee RGBIC LED Strip Lights

Govee RGBIC LED Strip Lights

Rotolight NEO 2 LED Camera Light

Rotolight NEO 2 LED Camera Light

Lume Cube 18″ LED Ring Light Kit

Lume Cube 18″ LED Ring Light Kit

What Are the Best LED Lights for Photography?

Before we look at the details of the LED lights we have chosen, here is a summary of our recommendations.

Best Overall LED Lights

Govee RGBIC LED Strip Lights

Govee RGBIC LED Strip Lights

• Customizable ambiance with eight dynamic modes
• Easily adjust brightness and speed
• Music sync to match your rhythm
• Cuttable and linkable for flexible installation
• Waterproof design for indoor/outdoor use

Best Panel Light

Rotolight NEO 2 LED Camera Light

Rotolight NEO 2 LED Camera Light

• Bright, continuous output of up to 1020 Lux at 3 feet
• Bi-color temperature variation from 3000-6500K
• High Speed Sync (HSS) flash compatible
• Built-in Elinchrom Skyport receiver
• Integrated color

Best for Vlogging

Lume Cube 18″ LED Ring Light Kit

Lume Cube 18″ LED Ring Light Kit

• Wireless operation
• 18" diameter for large light source
• 360-degree adjustable angle
• Five color temperature settings
• Three brightness levels

Best Studio Lighting

Neewer 660 RGB LED Video Light

Neewer 660 RGB LED Video Light

• Professional and adjustable light for videos
• 660 RGB LEDs for colorful lighting
• 240 customizable levels of brightness and color temperature
• Dimmable and flicker-free light for perfect lighting
• Includes remote control for convenient control

Best Mood Lighting

Gupup LED Strip Lights

Gupup LED Strip Lights

• Flexible and waterproof
• Comes with remote and power adapter
• Bright and vibrant colors
• Easy to install and cut
• Multi-color & dimmable settings

Best Pro Studio Lighting

GVM LED Video Lights 2 pack

GVM LED Video Lights 2 pack

• Durable aluminum alloy construction
• Professional adjustable brightness
• Color temperature adjustable (3200-5600K)
• Memory function for quick recall
• Two packs with batteries and chargers included

Best for Product Photography

GSKAIWEN 180 LED Light Studio Kit

GSKAIWEN 180 LED Light Studio Kit

• High-quality LEDs, long-lasting
• Bright 180 LED lights illuminate area
• Energy efficient and cost saving
• Easy to install and use
• Versatile and good for a variety of shooting situations

Best for Portraits and Selfies

IVISII 19″ LED Ring Light Kit

IVISII 19″ LED Ring Light Kit

• Bright 19-inch ring light
• Adjustable light temperature & brightness
• Sturdy tripod stand with phone holder
• Easy to use and carry
• Supports mirror shooting and selfies

Best Outdoor Lighting

Novostella Smart Outdoor Rope Light

Novostella Smart Outdoor Rope Light

• Versatile: can be used indoors/outdoors
• 16 million colors and 10 dynamic modes
• Waterproof and heatproof
• Voice control and compatible with Alexa, Google Home
• Easy to install and use

Best Budget Deal

Raleno LED Soft Light Panel

Raleno LED Soft Light Panel

• Bright and adjustable lighting
• Compact and lightweight for easy portability
• Comes with four different filters
• Soft diffusion of light for more even coverage
• Variety of power sources

Best Travel Light

Lume Cube Bicolor LED Light

Lume Cube Bicolor LED Light

• Slim, mountable design
• Bright bicolor LED light
• Adjustable color temperature & brightness
• Controlled from app or included remote
• Waterproof and shockproof

Now let’s look at our picks in more detail.

1. Govee RGBIC LED Strip Lights

Brand	Brand Govee
Power Supply	Power Supply Mains
Dimmable?	Dimmable? Yes
Adjustable Color Temperature?	Adjustable Color Temperature? Yes
Key Features	Key Features 15 separate segments, 6 different colors, all controllable from the free app
Best For	Best For These are the best LED strip lights for photography

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Govee RGBIC LED Strip Lights

Amazon.com

$64.99

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The Govee RGBIC Smart Strip Lights are the best on the market. They’re far better than any set of Christmas lights. They give you fantastic lighting options for photography. You can create different moods and transform atmospheres for stylish photos. And you have incredible lighting control with the Govee app.

The Govee set of strip lights allows for incredible creativity when it comes to lighting. You get 65.6 ft (20 m) worth of strip lighting. That works out at 5050 LED bulbs. There are also 32.8 ft (10 m) and 16.4 ft (5 m) options. Plus, every LED bulb can change color. They can change between red, green, blue, indigo, and cyan. And there’s also basic white.

You don’t have to use the lights as one big strip. The main strip is separated into 15 segments. And each segment can be controlled individually, giving you unlimited creative options.

The Govee strip lights are “smart.” So you can control them using your smartphone after downloading the Govee app. Then you have complete control over the strip lights. You can change the colors and sequences. Or apply one of the 64 scene modes. It’s all done from your phone, so you don’t need to move to make changes.

You can also sync the strip lights to music. They flash and change color with the music. It’s a great way to bring energy and excitement to your photoshoots. It sets the tone and creates the mood for taking stylish pictures.

The Govee smart strip lights are ideal for commercials and music videos. They’re a fun and vibrant LED lighting option for media makers.

2. Rotolight NEO 2 LED Light

Brand	Brand Rotolight
Power Supply	Power Supply Mains adaptor or battery
Dimmable?	Dimmable? Yes
Adjustable Color Temperature?	Adjustable Color Temperature? Yes
Key Features	Key Features Hot-shoe mounting, instant recycling, 1/8000 s sync speed
Best For	Best For Panel lighting on location

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Rotolight NEO 2 LED Camera Light

Amazon.com

$172.81

Buy Now!

The Rotolight Neo 2 panel is a versatile light for photography work. It is a dual-purpose light source. It works as a continuous light and a flash. And its range of use makes it a popular choice with photographers and videographers. It isn’t a budget lighting option. But it’s a solid piece of kit and worth the price. We think it’s the best LED light panel out there.

It’s a circular LED light panel with a diameter of 10.9″ (28 cm). It’s small, lightweight at 1.1 lb (500 g), and easy to transport. It fits nicely in kit bags. And despite its convenient size, it gives you incredible lighting power.

At full power, it gives you a brightness of 6,300K. This is full tungsten mode. But you can adjust the color temperature to suit your shots. You can reduce the brightness to the daylight setting (3,150K). That gives you a more natural light effect. The Rotolight Neo 2 gives both modes the same adjustable color temperature settings.

The Neo 2 has several benefits over traditional flash lights. You get more brightness options. There’s no power loss after you use the flash, even at the highest settings. And there’s no recycle time (recharge time). So the Neo 2 can keep up with the most trigger-happy photographers.

You also have plenty of mounting options for the Neo 2. You can fix it to a light stand or tripod. And it’ll connect to your DSLR or mirrorless camera using the hot shoe. That makes flash syncing easy. And it gives you a sync rate of 1/8000 s. You won’t miss a thing with that sync rate.

The Rotolight Neo 2 also has power source options. You can plug it in for optimal power. You get full power with no time limit. But you can also switch to battery power for shoots on location. So you don’t need to worry about dramatic power consumption. Six AA batteries give you 85,000 full power flashes and 2 hours of constant light. That’s another reason it’s the best LED light panel for photographers. This is a set of three lights, but other permutations are possible.

3. Lume Cube 18

Brand	Brand LUME CUBE
Power Supply	Power Supply Rechargeable battery
Dimmable?	Dimmable? Yes
Adjustable Color Temperature?	Adjustable Color Temperature? Yes
Key Features	Key Features Even large cameras can be placed in the center, useful carry case and tripod
Best For	Best For Vlogging on the go

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Lume Cube 18″ LED Ring Light Kit

Lume Cube

$199.99

Buy Now!

This ring light from Lume Cube is one of the best LED photography lights you’ll find. It gives you fantastic illumination with useful brightness controls. It gives you even, continuous light without harsh shadows. It’s the perfect LED light option for portraits, headshots, and self-portraits. And it’s a must-have for vloggers and video makers.

The light ring is 18″ (45.7 cm). The wide ring prevents shadows from forming on your subject’s face. And it illuminates the outer edges of their face and head so they stand out from the background. The ring’s size allows you to use large cameras in the center. It’s big enough for DSLR or mirrorless cameras.

The Lume Cube ring light gives you an adjustable color temperature. It has a temperature range of 3,200 to 5,600K. You have enough power for intense illumination. But you can also switch to warm light for more natural scenes. The LED lights give flicker-free illumination, which is ideal for videos and vlogs.

It’s a wireless lighting solution. The Lume Cube ring light uses two lithium-ion batteries. So you don’t need an electric outlet. The batteries give you 70 minutes of maximum continuous light output. That gives you the freedom to shoot from anywhere. And it allows you to shoot long-form media content.

This ring light is also a portable lighting solution. Not only is it wireless. It comes with a handy carry case for transportation. So you can take it anywhere. The kit also includes a tripod stand. There’s a mount for your smartphone or camera. And there’s a battery charger. It’s the best LED ring light for photographers.

4. Neewer 660 RGB Led Video Light

Brand	Brand Neewer
Power Supply	Power Supply Mains or battery (not supplied)
Dimmable?	Dimmable? Yes
Adjustable Color Temperature?	Adjustable Color Temperature? Yes
Key Features	Key Features Barn doors, Neewer app for control, color, warm yellow and cool white LEDs
Best For	Best For Studio lighting

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Neewer 660 RGB LED Video Light

This is a fantastic LED light panel for creative video makers and photographers. It offers exciting alternatives to traditional studio lights. It brings color and vibrant energy to your shoots. And it gives you great creative control. It’s one of the best LED light panels for studio photography and video.

The light panel measures 9.14 x 7.89″ (23.2 x 20 cm). It has a solid aluminum alloy construction. And it houses a total of 660 LED bulbs.

• 320 RGB color bulbs
• 170 cool white bulbs
• 170 warm yellow bulbs

It gives you the brightness you need for any scene. And it gives you excellent color and temperature options. It has a color temperature range of 3,200 to 5,600K. The 660 bulbs are smartphone LED lights. So you have remote control of the light setting when you use the Neewer lighting app. It gives you the power to change the temperature and color. And you get nine unique scene modes for alternative lighting options.

The app is easy to use, with slider controls for brightness and tones. It gives you eight channel options. So you can control up to eight Neewer light panels. But it has poor reviews in both the Apple and Google app stores. The lighting kits also include detachable barn doors. These help you harness the strength and direction of the lights. And there’s a white diffuser to soften harsh light.

The Neewer LED panel has an AC adaptor to plug in. You can also operate the lights with lithium-ion batteries. But the Sony batteries are sold separately. And there’s a carry case for easy transportation. This is another one of the best LED light panels. It’s a funky alternative to standard studio lighting.

5. GUPUP 100 FT LED Strip Lights

Brand	Brand GUPUP
Power Supply	Power Supply Mains
Dimmable?	Dimmable? Yes
Adjustable Color Temperature?	Adjustable Color Temperature? Yes
Key Features	Key Features Remote control included, or via app.
Best For	Best For Setting the mood in a studio or other room

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Gupup LED Strip Lights

Amazon.com

$15.99

Buy Now!

The GUPUP LED strip lights are a fantastic, affordable lighting solution. They give you fabulous creative options for photos, videos, and vlogs. And they help boost your social media content. You can create unique atmospheres for stylish portraits. Or you can transform any dull room into a funky media studio.

This GUPUP set gives you 100 ft (30 m) of light strips. There are other lengths. But this is enough to decorate your entire studio. 100 ft is a lot to deal with, so you can cut the strips down to size. You can cut along the designated cutting lines to make custom strips. But you need to buy a 4-pin connector for each new strip.

You can also attach the LED strips to any surface. The backside has a strong adhesive that latches onto any surface or material. You can stick them to household or studio fittings. Or you can stick them to movable boards to create custom LED light panels.

Each LED light can change between six different colors. You get red, green, blue, yellow, indigo, and cyan. You can set them to one color. Or you can play around with the hundreds of color combinations. You can set the exact mood you want for your profile pictures or vlog shoot!

The GUPUP light set comes with a remote control. But you get even more options when you use the Apollo app on your smartphone. (Available for Android, iOS, or PC.) You can set color and brightness. And you have scene modes and sequences for different atmospheres.

The lights also have a handy memory function. It remembers the last mode you used. So you don’t have to start from scratch each time. This is one of the best value lighting kits you’ll find.

6. GVM 2 Pack LED Video Lighting

Brand	Brand GVM Great Video Maker
Power Supply	Power Supply Mains or battery (not included)
Dimmable?	Dimmable? Yes
Adjustable Color Temperature?	Adjustable Color Temperature? Yes
Key Features	Key Features Tripod, heat dissipation, barn doors, and soft panel
Best For	Best For Professional studio work

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GVM LED Video Lights 2 pack

Amazon.com

$173.87 $199.99

Buy Now!

GVM LED light panels give you professional quality lighting for photography and video. They’re ideal for studio photography, including portraiture and fashion. But they resolve your lighting issues on location too. They’re the best LED light panel light for serious video makers. Whether you’re shooting a music video or period drama, the GVM LED light panels have you covered.

Each light panel has a total of 480 bulbs. That’s 240 white and 240 yellow bulbs for cool and warm light. You have a color temperature range between 2,300 and 6,800K. That solves your lighting problems for any situation. Plus, you can change the brightness level at any temperature. You can go from 100% brightness down to 10%.

The panels have manual controls for brightness and temperature on the back. But you can also go remote using the GVM app. You can make any adjustment you like from your smartphone. That saves time and energy during a busy shoot. Scan the QR code on their website or in the manual to download the app.

The GVM LED panels are serious pieces of equipment for professional photographers. They’re made of aluminum alloy. And the heat-dispersion technology means they don’t overheat. They have a U-mount bracket that attaches to the tripod. An adjustable soft board and barn doors are included to adjust light intensity. And the carry case is another handy accessory in the pack.

The GVM lights work through an AC power adapter. You can also go wireless with a lithium-ion battery. But the Sony battery is sold separately. The light stands are included, though. And it’s a set that includes two lights, giving you professional lighting options. The GVM LED light panels will take your photography and video to a whole new level!

7. GSKAIWEN 180 LED Lights

Brand	Brand GSKAIWEN
Power Supply	Power Supply Mains
Dimmable?	Dimmable? Yes
Adjustable Color Temperature?	Adjustable Color Temperature? Yes
Key Features	Key Features Tripods and case included
Best For	Best For Product photography

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GSKAIWEN 180 LED Light Studio Kit

Amazon.com

$89.90

Buy Now!

The LED studio light panels from GSKAIWEN offer another studio lighting solution. They’re ideal lights for studio photography. They give you the perfect lighting for fine art portraits and fashion photoshoots. They’re also ideal for video media. You can shoot vlogs, makeup tutorials, and interviews. They boost lighting for your music videos too.

The LED lights are arranged on a long light panel. There are two LED panels in the set. And each panel has 90 LED beads. They give you fantastic color temperature options. You can opt for bright white light. Or you can reduce the temperature for warmer tones and softer light. They are perfect continuous lights for product photography.

The LED panels come with excellent tripod stands. And the flexible panel neck gives you infinite setup options. Two adaptors with temperature control knobs are included. The whole lighting kit allows you to get the perfect lighting arrangement no matter what you’re shooting.

There’s no battery power option, so you must plug it in. That’s no problem if you’re in a studio. But it does limit your location shooting with these LED lights. Once plugged in, you get up to 10,000 hours of light from the LED bulbs!

8. IVISII 19-inch Ring Light

Brand	Brand IVISII
Power Supply	Power Supply Mains
Dimmable?	Dimmable? Yes
Adjustable Color Temperature?	Adjustable Color Temperature? Yes
Key Features	Key Features Adjusts from 1 to 100% brightness, various camera and phone mounts included
Best For	Best For Indoor vlogging and portraits

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IVISII 19″ LED Ring Light Kit

Amazon.com

$109.89

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This is another top-level LED light for photography. IVISII isn’t the best-known brand name in photography equipment. But this LED ring light deserves your attention. It offers excellent lighting options for vloggers and social media creators. But it’s big and powerful enough for professional studio photography.

The LED ring is 19″ (48 cm). And it contains 240 LED bulbs. They combine to give you a total power output of 55W. You can adjust the color temperature anywhere between 3,000 and 5,800K. That gives you a bright white and a warm yellow. And the brightness drops from 100% to 1% with ten stops in between. It means a nice wide range of light!

The light panel sits on a flexible head. You can tilt the ring up to 180 degrees, allowing you to get the perfect angle. That helps with portraits, headshots, and product photography. The ring also has a camera mount. And it can hold smartphones for selfies or vlogs. But it also supports heavier units like DSLRs and mirrorless cameras. It connects using the hot shoe adaptor for synchronization.

The LED panel comes with an aluminum alloy tripod stand. It’s telescopic, so you can set the perfect height. And with a maximum height of 75″ (1.9 m), there are very few studio limitations. The only power source is via the plug. That limits the ring light to use in the studio or indoor locations. But the IVISII ring is still one of the best LED photography lights available.

9. Novostella Smart Outdoor Rope Light

Brand	Brand NOVOSTELLA
Power Supply	Power Supply Mains
Dimmable?	Dimmable? Yes
Adjustable Color Temperature?	Adjustable Color Temperature? Yes
Key Features	Key Features Waterproof, programmable from the app
Best For	Best For Outdoor photography

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Novostella Smart Outdoor Rope Light

Amazon.com

$64.99

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The Novostella Smart outdoor lights are another LED lighting option for photography. They are made for outdoor use and are completely waterproof. That gives you even more creative lighting opportunities. You can shoot on location in any weather. And you can use them in studios with rain simulations.

Novostella gives you 52.5 ft (16 m) or 105 ft (32 m) of waterproof strip lights. All parts are waterproof, including the power supply. And the low-wattage LED bulbs are low power consumption. So they don’t heat up and are safe for indoor and outdoor use. It’s great lighting for runway fashion shoots at night. And using them for music videos is also possible.

These are “smart” LED lights. That means you can control them remotely using Novostella’s mobile app. You can change the colors, the color temperature, and the sequences from your phone. And it gives you access to plenty of fun modes for extra lighting options. You also have music sync mode. It’s a sure way to bring some life to your photoshoot!

10. RALENO LED Soft Light Panel

Brand	Brand RaLeno
Power Supply	Power Supply Mains and Battery
Dimmable?	Dimmable? Yes
Adjustable Color Temperature?	Adjustable Color Temperature? Yes
Key Features	Key Features Easily portable, built-in rechargeable battery
Best For	Best For Photographers on a tight budget

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Raleno LED Soft Light Panel

Amazon.com

$59.99 $67.99

Buy Now!

The Raleno LED light panel is a simple solution to your lighting problems. It’s ideal for vlogs, videos, and baby photography. It’s an affordable light panel. And it’s on our list of the best LED photography lights for its soft light and portability.

The Raleno LED panel measures 7.5 x 10.6″ (19 x 27 cm). It’s a handy size that fits nicely in your camera bag. The panel is fitted with 192 LED beads, which gives you fantastic illumination. And you have controls for brightness and color temperature for harsh or soft light. It also uses heat-dissipation technology so it won’t overheat.

Like all good photography lights, the LED light panel has a hot shoe connector. Plus, this light kit is battery-powered. The battery is built into the panel body. And it gives you 110 minutes of continuous light when fully charged. You can consider the LCD screen a bonus feature! For a budget photographer, it’s the best LED light panel you can buy.

11. Lume Cube Bicolor Mountable LED Light

Brand	Brand LUME CUBE
Power Supply	Power Supply Battery
Dimmable?	Dimmable? Yes
Adjustable Color Temperature?	Adjustable Color Temperature? Yes
Key Features	Key Features Up to 16 hours operation, hot-shoe mounted
Best For	Best For Traveling light

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Lume Cube Bicolor LED Light

This Lume Cube option is the best LED light panel of its size. It’s a handy, pocket-sized LED, but still gives you fantastic illumination. It mounts directly onto your camera, adding light to your scene and subject. It’s excellent for product photography and vlogging. And it helps with your portraits and self-portraits. It’s one of the most convenient LED photography lights you can find.

It’s a small LED panel, but it gives you light when you need it. It has adjustable color temperatures between 3,200 and 5,600K. And the brightness settings give you options between 1 and 100%. You have a nice range from harsh to soft light.

It mounts directly onto your camera using the hot shoe connector. And it’s compatible with DSLR and mirrorless cameras. It’s battery-powered and wireless. And it gives you 16 hours of uninterrupted LED lighting.

It’s a continuous light source with flicker-free illumination. And it’s one of the best LED light panels for YouTube cameras and streaming cameras. But it’s also perfect for photographers in the studio and on location. Food photographers should give it a try.

What are LED Lights for Photography?

LED lights offer new lighting opportunities for photographers. There’s nothing wrong with a flash setup and some softboxes. But LED lights offer something different. They give you a variety of lighting styles. Plus, they add color and energy to your shoots.

We list three types of LED lighting for cameras. We have strip lights, LED panels, and ring lights. All three offer excellent lighting for photography. But each gives you something different. It’s important to get the LED lights that suit your photography needs.

LED Strip Lights for Photography

LED strip lights are long, thin, flat pieces of material. They’re similar to fairy lights. But the LED bulbs are attached to these strips of material. The strips can be stuck to walls using the adhesive on the back. And you can often cut them up for more creative options.

LED strip lights are more sophisticated than traditional fairy lights. They don’t just twinkle or flash on and off. You can create lighting sequences by having the lights change color or flash in rhythm.

You can synch some LED light strips with an app. The app lets you control the color changes and sequence of the lights. You can sync some strip lights to music to flash and change with the beat. It can add energy to any photo shoot.

Strip lights are also excellent for creating an atmosphere. You can transform a dull shooting location into a neon dungeon or romantic hideout.

People originally viewed strip lights as home decorations. But now, professional photographers have seen how they can transform a photoshoot. They are excellent for moody fairytale portraits and fashion photography. And you can get creative with your product photography lighting.

LED Light Panels for Photography

An LED light panel is a flat unit equipped with LED bulbs. They’re excellent for these reasons:

• They offer consistent light for photo shoots.
• They’re less intense than traditional strobes and bulbs.
• They can imitate more natural light.
• They give you more variety and brightness options.

LED light panels can be rectangular or round. Both give you flat, continuous lighting for a variety of photo styles. They work well for portraits and headshots. And they’re handy for Zoom calls and internet conferencing.

LED panels tend to give you white light. But you can apply filters and gels to change the color.

Many portrait photographers use three lights for perfect portraits. The main light sits in front. Another is placed on the side to remove shadows. And one is put behind the subject to make them pop from the background. You don’t need all three lights for success. But LED light panels make this lighting setup easy.

LED Ring Lights for Photography

Ring lights are perfect for portrait photography and self-portrait photographers. The LED lights are situated on a circular setup—a ring. And you place the ring in front of your subject. Ring lights provide even lighting over the subject’s face, removing harsh shadows. They also give the eyes an attractive sparkle.

Ring lights are popular with social media influencers and TikTokers. They’re a simple lighting solution. And they give you flattering light when you need to face the camera. You can also use two for more light intensity and creative lighting.

Conclusion

The Govee RGBIC LED Strip Lights are undoubtedly the best LED lights for photography. They offer a wide range of colors and brightness settings. These allow you to customize the lighting to get the perfect shot.

The adhesive backing makes them easy to attach to any surface, making it easy to get creative with your lighting. The convenient remote control allows you to change the lighting quickly and easily. With its great value and quality, the Govee RGBIC LED Strip Lights are highly recommended for photographers of all levels.

Our Top 3 Choices for The Best Led Lights For Photography

Govee RGBIC LED Strip Lights

Govee RGBIC LED Strip Lights

Rotolight NEO 2 LED Camera Light

Rotolight NEO 2 LED Camera Light

Lume Cube 18″ LED Ring Light Kit

Lume Cube 18″ LED Ring Light Kit