Clamshell lighting is one of the simplest but most popular lighting techniques in studio photography. Typically a strobe is placed directly in front of and above the subject. Another light, or often a reflector, is then placed directly below and in front of the subject. Hence the name.
The light from above illuminates the subjects hair and forehead, giving definition to the cheekbones and neckline. The (fill) light from below softens shadows and illuminates the eyes. Depending on the type of modifiers used, and the ratio between the two light sources, you can still get different results from the same positioning.
Clamshell lighting is typically used in beauty photography, but also for general head-shots, fashion, etc.
All shots Nikon d750. Godox TT685.X1 Trigger.
