How to Fake Window Light in Studio: A Simple 2-Light Setup

Joseph Amoateng from Phloshop is in the studio with model Matilda, showing how to replicate soft, natural window light using just two lights and a few clever modifiers.

The goal? To make it look like the subject is lit by a large window, even though everything is happening inside a studio. In this video, Joseph walks us through the entire setup to fake window light in studio.

Creating the Illusion of Window Light

Joseph's main light is a Flashpoint XPLOR 400 Pro bounced into an umbrella and aimed at a V-Flat. This setup spreads soft, diffused light over the scene, mimicking the glow of a sunlit room.

To push the illusion even further, he adds a second light: the Flashpoint XPLOR 600 modified with a Godox snoot and a gobo. The gobo throws a crisp window-shaped shadow on the backdrop, reinforcing the idea that the scene is lit by sunlight streaming through a window.

Joseph Amoateng from Phloshop working in photography studio.

Shadow Play and Fine-Tuning

To get the perfect shadows, Joseph intentionally places Matilda close to the backdrop so the second light creates a hair shadow, enhancing realism. He begins testing with only the background light on to see the window pattern clearly, then layers in the fill.

His camera settings start at 1/200 shutter speed, f/3.5, ISO 160. After a few test shots, he adjusts ISO to 250 for more exposure and softens the highlights by bumping the aperture to f/4.

Once the lighting is dialed in, Joseph begins the shoot, directing Matilda with subtle movements and posing tweaks. He introduces a stool for variety and plays with angles, posture, and facial direction to keep things dynamic and cinematic.

This lighting setup convincingly sells the idea of a naturally lit space, even though it's entirely artificial. It's a simple yet effective technique to fake window light that elevates studio portraits without overcomplicating the gear.

The Results

Portrait of black model in pink blouse and black leather skirt against backdrop with window pattern lighting.

Portrait of black model in pink blouse and black leather skirt leaning on a stool and set in front of backdrop with window pattern lighting.

Shop the V-Flat 2.0

Wanna Learn More?

We’ve got over 100 videos on our Behind the Scenes page with tips and tricks for photographers and videographers of all genres.

Faking Window Light in Studio: A Simple 2-Light Setup That Works