Light It Like Jeff: Simple Setup with 2 Lights and 2 V-Flats | Ep 22

In the latest episode of Light It Like Jeff, our favorite photographer Jeff Carpenter sets up an impressive shoot using a minimalist lighting setup to create lavender-tinged images for a hair extension company. The session, featuring model Allee Sutton, is a great watch for photographers looking to add a creative touch without the hassle of complex gear.

Using just two lights and two V-Flats, Jeff creates a visually striking effect, showing that it’s possible to achieve high-quality results with a basic setup.

The 2-Light/2 V-Flat Setup

Jeff’s main light is a Profoto B1 equipped with an optical snoot, using a circular insert to frame Allee with a clean, round glow. This is the key to keeping the focus sharp and drawing attention to her, especially around her face. The real magic comes from his second light, a Profoto B10 with a pale lavender gel, which he bounces off the white side of a V-Flat. The result is a soft, lavender hue over the background while Allee remains neutral in color, giving the images a creative pop.

The second V-Flat isn’t just for show – it’s used as the background to create the perfect balance of shadows and light. Originally, Jeff planned to use his cyc wall, but after seeing how the curved surface added too much separation between Allee and the background, he opted for the V-Flat instead. This change helped him bring her closer to the background, producing those sharp, defined shadows that make the image more dynamic.

Why It Works

What’s great about this setup is its simplicity and versatility. This two-light setup creates an image where Allee’s face and head are lit with neutral light (no color cast) from the snooted B1, while the rest of the image shows up under lavender light. The snoot restricts the spread of light and offers creative control over where Jeff wants the viewer to focus (which is Allee’s face and hair). It also effectively blows out the color from the lavender-gelled B10. 

Check out the final image: