"Hacostadium Lighting Bible" Part 5: Christmas Edition

Hacostadium Lighting Bible

Vol. 5: Christmas Edition

Nissin Japan visited the cosplay amusement spaces "HACOSTADIUM OSAKA", "HACOSTADIUM cosset Osaka Nipponbashi", and "HACOSTADIUM cosset Ikebukuro Main Store"!
We conducted a photoshoot using Nissin strobes at Hacostadium, where you can shoot in a variety of situations!
In this series, we would like to introduce the photos we took along with the techniques used to capture them.
For our fifth installment, we will introduce photos taken at the Christmas-exclusive booth at "HACOSTADIUM cosset Ikebukuro Main Store".

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▼ Check out the photos here! ▼ Model: Meta　Photography: Ai Ehara
（Click the images to view them in a larger size）
This time, we used two general lighting patterns.
The first lighting setup was designed to evoke the image of relaxing in a warm room, given the Christmas decor.
The second lighting setup was designed to create a more dramatic atmosphere with some shadows, as the model's outfit was a gothic-style dress.
Now, let's take a look at the lighting.
Shooting Method (1)Here is the first lighting setup.
We used warm colors and designed the lighting to simulate a room with a fireplace (which isn't actually part of the set).
For comparison, let's look at a photo taken without strobes.
（Shot with ambient room light only）
It’s beautiful in its own way with flat light, but it lacks depth and feels a bit monotonous.
Since the light is coming from the ceiling, there is no catchlight in the eyes. Also, the pages of the book are slightly overexposed.
The biggest difference is likely the color tone. While it is possible to adjust the color of this photo to have the warmth seen in the shot above, it often results in a strong, unnatural color cast.
（Shot with ambient room light only / Color adjusted via RAW processing）
The color cast is applied overall, losing the contrast. It seems difficult to achieve the desired look through post-shoot adjustments alone.
Now, let's explain the shooting method.
[Lighting Data]
(1) Di700, Softbox, Color Filter, Power 1/4
(2) Di700, Rogue FlashBender XL Pro, Color Filter, Power 1/8 The main light is a softbox from the front of the model, and the accent light is a Rogue FlashBender XL Pro from behind the model.
Both contain an amber color from the ROGUE Universal Lighting Filter Kit, which creates the warm tone.
Rogue FlashBender XL Pro
This is light (2).
We stood the Di700 with the Rogue FlashBender XL Pro on its included stand and placed it on a chair.
Light catches the outer edges of the hair, providing an accent. This prevents the subject from blending into the background and gives the image depth.

Shooting Method (2)This setup is different from the previous one, creating a moody, shadowed atmosphere using spotlight-style lighting.
Let's see how it was lit.
This is a three-strobe setup.
[Lighting Data]
(1) Di700, Rogue Flash Grid 25°, Color Filter, Power 1/4
(2) i40, Direct, Color Filter, Power 1/16
(3) Di700, Direct, Color Filter, Power 1/16 The main light uses the grid introduced in Vol. 1: Halloween Edition.
Using a grid allows you to create light that resembles a spotlight.
We used a 25° angle with one thick honeycomb grid insert.
Lights (2) and (3) aren't visible, but we hid them here:
This is light (2).
It is hidden inside a stack of prop gift boxes.
This is a trick only possible with the compact i40 body!
We used this light to illuminate the Christmas tree, which remained dark under the spotlight effect of the grid.
Since it's a Christmas set, you have to see the Christmas tree!
I think the i40 illumination made the ornaments sparkle and look more impressive.
This is light (3).
We attached it to the chair using a clip.
Just like before, we used it to put accent light on the hair and body on the shadowed side.
We used a clip this time, but you could also have it stand on its own using the included foot.
If you use clips or similar tools, please be careful not to damage any props or sets! By the way, of the two photos taken with the grid lighting, the first one was taken without (3), and the second was taken with (3).
Please feel free to check the difference in the effect.
【Request from HACOSTADIUM】
※ Please limit the size of reflectors, softboxes, umbrellas, etc., to a maximum of 125cm when fully expanded.
※ The shooting space contains decorations such as low-hanging lights and chandeliers, so please be very careful with the height of your lighting equipment.

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We took these photos at the Christmas-exclusive booth at "HACOSTADIUM cosset Ikebukuro Main Store".
The Christmas booth at Cosset Ikebukuro Main Store will be available until December 28th!
The other limited-time booths besides the one we shot in are also very cute, so please be sure to go and visit! ♪
（2014/12/18 Photography/Writing: Ai Ehara）


Shooting Data[Camera Settings]
ISO 320
Aperture F 4.5
Shutter Speed 1/160
[Lighting Data]
Shooting Method (1)
(1) Di700, Softbox, Color Filter, Power 1/4
(2) Di700, Rogue FlashBender XL Pro, Color Filter, Power 1/8
Shooting Method (2)
(1) Di700, Rogue Flash Grid 25°, Color Filter, Power 1/4
(2) i40, Direct, Color Filter, Power 1/16
(3) Di700, Direct, Color Filter, Power 1/16


[Shooting Equipment List]

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Photography/Production
Nissin DigitalHACOSTADIUM OSAKA
HACOSTADIUM cosset Osaka Nipponbashi
HACOSTADIUM cosset Ikebukuro Main Store