Compact, portable off-camera lighting : Profoto A2 flash & Clic softbox

Very often when I use off-camera lighting on location, I’m not among for dramatic lighting, but rather using the off-camera lighting to enhance the existing light. I want to get a cleaner, slightly more punchy look – but one where the use of flash might not be that immediately obvious. To this end, I love using light-weight portable off-camera lighting. Something compact that is easy to carry, and easy for my assistant to hold up. When working in Manhattan, the use of a light-stand might get you in trouble in some places – you have to make sure that your “footprint” is small, and that you are mobile. With this, the Profoto A2 flash (B&H / Amazon), and the Profoto 2.7 ft Clic Octabox (B&H / Amazon), have become a standard lighting kit.

As a special treat for Kennedy and her sister Bailey during their first trip to Manhattan, their mom had me photograph them in their ballerina outfits, showing off their moves. Here is Kennedy!

I really like the architectural design of this alcove in front of the New York Library — it makes for an interesting but non-intrusive background. To punch up the lighting a bit and make it a touch more dynamic, I had my assistant hold up a Profoto A2 flash and Profoto 2.7 ft Clic Softbox Octa high up. Check the pullback shot. The effect of the lighting is subtle and doesn’t draw attention it itself, but does add to the impact of this photo. I

camera : Sony A1 (Amazon / B&H)
lens : Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM ii (B&H / Amazon)