The Lighting I Keep Coming Back To
Lighting is everything. It is the difference between content that feels flat and content that feels intentional, dimensional, and expensive. It shapes mood, defines texture, and honestly… it tells the entire story before anything else does.
Over time, I have simplified what I use. Not because there are not a million options, but because I know exactly what gives me the look I want every single time. Here are the three pieces I reach for constantly and why they have become staples in my workflow.
Amaran F22c Flexible LED Mat
This is my go to for continuous light and probably the piece I use the most. What I love about it is the softness. It wraps around the subject in a way that feels natural and elevated without being overly dramatic. It is flexible, which means I can shape it and place it in ways that feel less like a traditional light source and more like a glow coming from the environment.
The color control is also a huge reason I use it. Being able to dial in warmth or cooler tones depending on the shoot allows me to stay consistent with the mood I am creating. If I am shooting something sun drenched and warm, I lean into golden tones. If I want something clean and minimal, I pull it back. This light is what I use when I want things to feel effortless but still refined.
Godox Lux Master Retro Flash
This one is more about feel than function, even though it performs beautifully. I love introducing flash when I want to create a moment. Not every shoot needs it, but when I use it, it adds that slight edge that makes the image feel more editorial. The Lux Master has this nostalgic quality to it. It does not feel overly digital or harsh.
It is perfect for beauty, quick content, or anything where I want a bit of contrast and intention without overcomplicating the setup. It also keeps things moving. I can shoot quickly, stay in the moment, and capture something that feels a little less staged.
Godox AD600Pro
When I need power, this is what I reach for. This light is for those situations where natural light is not enough or when I want to fully control the environment. It is strong, reliable, and gives me the ability to create very clean, sharp results while still maintaining depth.
I use this a lot for brand work, product shoots, or anything that needs to feel polished and high end. It gives me consistency, which is everything when you are shooting for a client. What I appreciate most is that even with that power, I can still soften it and shape it to match the look I am going for.
My Approach to Lighting
I am not chasing perfection. I am chasing feeling.
Some shoots are soft and glowy. Some are crisp and structured. Some sit somewhere in between. The key is knowing what the final image should feel like before you even turn the light on. That is what guides every decision.
I would rather use one light well than five lights without intention. Simplicity almost always wins, especially when you understand how to shape it.
At the end of the day, lighting is not just technical. It is creative. It is what turns content into something that actually makes you pause. And once you understand how to use it, everything changes.