Choosing the Right Light Modifier (Small Studio Guide) with Kersten Luts

In this class, photographer and educator Kersten Luts breaks down the 5 must-have light modifiers every photographer should know, and shows you exactly how they shape light in real-world situations. Working in a small home studio setup, you’ll learn how to move beyond guesswork and start making confident lighting decisions.

Through live demonstrations and side-by-side comparisons, you’ll see the difference between hard and soft light, controlled and uncontrolled light, and how each modifier affects your final image. From umbrellas and softboxes to reflectors and hard light, each tool is explained in a simple, practical way.

This class is designed for photographers who want to create professional-quality portraits, headshots, and content at home, without needing a large studio or complicated setups.

This class includes a dedicated 30 minutes of Q&A with Kersten Luts.

What You'll Learn

• How to choose the right light modifier for different portrait situations.
• How light behaves in relation to size, distance, and direction.
• The difference between hard and soft light, and between controlled and uncontrolled light.
• How common modifiers like umbrellas, softboxes, reflectors, and hard reflectors affect your final image.
• How to create more consistent, professional lighting results in small studio spaces.

Who It's For

• Photographers who want to better understand how light modifiers shape portraits.
• Home studio photographers looking for professional results in smaller spaces.
• Portrait and headshot photographers who want to make more confident lighting decisions.
• Anyone who feels unsure about which modifier to use or why their lighting isn’t working the way they want.

How to Join

• The class will be delivered via Zoom Webinars. You’ll need access to Zoom through a web browser or the Zoom app in order to participate.
• To reserve your spot, register using the Sign Up form and button above. Space is limited.
• A unique Zoom join link will be sent to the maximum number of participants per class. You’ll receive this link one hour before the class start time.