Uploaded February 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago

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Soft light is often associated with flattering, clean, “safe” portraits while dramatic images are usually linked to hard light and deep shadows. But is that always the case?

In this live session photographer Gavin Hoey explores how soft light can be powerful and dramatic when it’s shaped, positioned, and controlled with an end look in mind. Starting from a simple, back-to-basics setup, Gavin demonstrates how light direction, distance and contrast all play a role in creating mood, even with soft light.

Working in a small home studio, the session looks at how soft light behaves in different positions, how modifiers change the feel of a portrait and how subtle choices like fill, spill control, and color balance can completely transform the final image.

Gavin will be joined by Sophie as his model, Sam on the chat and Freya on the super switcher, so join the conversation, get your questions answered live or just watch along and enjoy the show.

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✘ GEAR USED:

Flashpoint eVOLV 200 Pro II R2 TTL Pocket Flash , Godox AD200Pro II
adorama.com/fplfev200pii.html

Glow EZ Lock 12x36" Quick Strip Rectangular Bowens Mount Softbox w/External and Internal Diffusers, Deflector Disk, Eggcrate Grid, Soft box Speedring Adapter for Studio Speedlight Softbox Lighting
adorama.com/glsbez1236.html

Flashpoint XPLOR 100 Pro R2 TTL Pocket Flash (Black) , Godox AD100pro
adorama.com/fplfx100pt.html

Glow S2 Round Flash S-type Bowens Mount Bracket for Round Head Flashes (Godox S2)
adorama.com/glbdsm02pro.html

Flashpoint R2 Pro TTL Wireless Flash Trigger for OM System and Panasonic Cameras, Godox XProO
adorama.com/fprrr2proo.html

Sekonic L-858D-U SPEEDMASTER Light Meter Kit with RT-GX Transmitter Module for Flashpoint and Godox
adorama.com/sk401858gx.html

OM SYSTEM OM-1 Mirrorless Camera
adorama.com/iomom1.html

OM SYSTEM M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 Pro II Lens
adorama.com/iom1240pb.html

Tether Tools TetherPro Optima 10G 15' USB-C Straight to USB-C Right Angle Cable, Orange
adorama.com/ttcuc15rtg2o.html

Tether Tools AeroTrac Workstation System
adorama.com/ttatws.html

Glow 40" Translucent Umbrella
adorama.com/glu40t.html

Flashpoint 10' C (Century) Light Stand on Turtle Base Kit w/40" Grip Arm & 2 Gobo Heads and Baby Pin - Chrome
adorama.com/fplsc.html

Flashpoint 20" Quick Release Turtle Base C-Stand Kit with 2.5" Grip Head & 20" Grip Arm (Chrome)
adorama.com/fplsct20k.html

#softlight #portraitphotography #adorama

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Follow Gavin Hoey on
instagram.com/thegavinhoey

Model and MUA Sophie Daly
instagram.com/sophie_daly

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THANKS SO MUCH FOR WATCHING!