• When taking any kind of picture, an understanding of the best lighting is essential in capturing a good image. Professional photography lighting techniques involve using the right kind of light, placing the light properly in the room, and then making sure the light hits the subject in the correct manner.
  
  

Shadows

• Situating your lights depends on where the shadows will be cast on your main subject. You may not want to rule out using shadows. If there is something casting a shadow on your subject, then take a couple of test shots to see how it looks. Try your main light source from every angle to see which gives you the best illumination. Maintain one single light dedicated to the main subject, and experiment with the shadows that light will cast when placed in different positions.
  
  

Sunlight

• By using a photographers reflector panel, the sunlight and its intensity can be manipulated for a photo. By shooting with the sun at your back and using a reflector shield, you can direct the sun at any angle you would like on your subject. A reflector shield is a square board with a reflective surface. Remember that the sun does move during the course of the day, so it may be beneficial to have someone manipulating the reflector for you while you set up your shot.
  
  

Eliminating Shadows

• Professionals know that the way to eliminate shadows in a studio shot is to use a second and sometimes a third light. Your main light illuminates the subject so that you can see all of the features you want in your picture. But behind that light there will be shadows if you do not use a second light. The second light is just off to the side of the subject, placed at camera level, and slightly dimmer than the main light. This is referred to as a fill light and, when properly positioned, it will eliminate background shadows from your pictures.