You’re a videographer or photographer learning more about what goes into lighting a shot. You know it takes years to become a skilled filmmaker, but maybe you want quality images and well-lit footage fast. The ring light can enhance the quality of light in your images and this post explores some reasons why you should consider it. So, what is a ring light? And why do so many content creators and filmmakers, rely on it?
Ring Light Photography and Videography
Defining the ring light
Originally used for medical purposes, the ring light has now been discovered to assist in many more creative endeavors. So what is it, and how can you use it for your own projects?
Ring Light Definition
What is a ring light?
A ring light is a circular light that fits around a camera’s lens or is large enough to shoot through it.
A ring light provides illumination with little shadow because the origin of the light is very close to the optical axis of the lens. It is commonly described as the glamour or beauty light.
The ring lights main purpose is to cast an even light onto the subject. This reduces shadows in the face and minimizes blemishes, while illuminating the eyes. This is why ring lights are commonly used in portraits, glamour shots, or even videography capturing only one subject.
Common uses for ring lights
- Portraits — minimizes wrinkles and blemishes
- YouTube — reduces shadow, evenly lights face
- Glamour shots — even light works well with makeup
Watch the video below to see why using one these can enhance your image quality.
Learn the benefits of using a ring light
Now that you know the point of this piece of equipment, let's dive a little deeper into the benefits.
RING LIGHT EFFECT
What is a ring light used for?
The main function of the ring light is to lessen shadow and diffuse light evenly on the subject. Because of its ability to distribute light so evenly, it is great for close-up shots, whether photography or video.
Emphasize Detail
Ring lights emphasize detail and hide shadows simply by their inherent circular design. The soft light hides wrinkles and blemishes making it perfect for portraits and even make-up tutorials.
Video Shoots
For the same reason as above, capturing such balanced light produces a halo around the subject, and illuminates features bringing a professional-level and cinematic look to the shot. YouTubers often use ring lights because they’re inexpensive and can enhance their facial features throughout the entire video.
Macro Photography
Get up close and personal with the ring light for macro work. Use a lens ring light to capture a more front focused light.
Color Effects
The white bulbs inside of a ring light can be switched out for various color bulbs in order to generate different effects. Mess around with this. This is especially useful for cinematography.
Related Posts
UP NEXT
How to capture catchlights
As we've seen, ring lights are not only versatile, they provide opportunities for dynamic and classy images. These benefits include catchlights — that little glimmer we see reflected in the eyes. Now that you're up to speed on ring lights, let's take a closer look at how they can help make the eyes POP with depth and texture.
Up Next: Capturing catchlights →
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