Light Patterns

There are 4 light patterns that I will cover in this post, Rembrandt, Loop, Split, and Butterfly.

This is an example of Rembrandt lighting, this light pattern is defined by having a light triangle on the cheek of the dark side, having the light come over the bridge of the nose.

Loop lighting is very similar to Rembrandt, but the pattern is a little softer, and the triangle is less defined.

Split lighting is very simple, one side is light, the other side is dark, this gives the photo a dramatic effect.

Butterfly light is commonly used to make a character feel ominous, this light pattern is defined by the light being behind and slightly above the camera.