A few weeks ago, after much talk and planning, I spent a long and awesome day shooting images for the portfolios of my friends Lola and Rebecca, who do makeup and hair, respectively. Both are great artists in their own right. Much thanks goes to Diana, Cheryl and Danielle for modeling. You ladies were naturals in front of the camera. Here's a few of my personal favorites from the day. I'll talk about some of the lighting on some images below.

About the image below: Like the previous image, this was shot while it was dark outside. I put a halogen worklight (a very versatile tool for about $10) outside my front door, casting some nice shadows on Diana and the wall. Warming the image up in Lightroom approximated the feel of late-day sunlight.

This next image is an example in second glances. It was a throw-away image, way too underexposed. But a little time spent on it, and it has a gritty, film feel that I love.

Again with the worklight, gaffer-taped to a stand outside the front door. Add to that fill light from a six-headed Target living room lamp, and freelensing for a tilt-shift effect.

More lamp lighting. Don't underestimate the tools at hand. I broke down a cardboard box to make some snoots, gaffer-taped them to the lamp heads to better direct light. And yes, more freelensing.