Butterfly Lighting
Butterfly lighting is a portrait lighting setup that creates a butterfly-shaped shadow under the nose.
Butterfly lighting is a portrait lighting setup that creates a butterfly-shaped shadow under the nose.
Feb 2, 2026
Feb 2, 2026
Overview
Butterfly lighting is achieved by placing the key light directly in front of and above the subject’s face. This produces a symmetrical shadow beneath the nose resembling a butterfly shape.
Visual Effect
The technique highlights cheekbones, smooths skin, and creates a flattering look.
Applications
It is widely used in beauty photography, fashion shoots, and classic Hollywood portraiture.
Professional Tip
A reflector below the face is often added to soften shadows and enhance the effect.
Overview
Butterfly lighting is achieved by placing the key light directly in front of and above the subject’s face. This produces a symmetrical shadow beneath the nose resembling a butterfly shape.
Visual Effect
The technique highlights cheekbones, smooths skin, and creates a flattering look.
Applications
It is widely used in beauty photography, fashion shoots, and classic Hollywood portraiture.
Professional Tip
A reflector below the face is often added to soften shadows and enhance the effect.
Overview
Butterfly lighting is achieved by placing the key light directly in front of and above the subject’s face. This produces a symmetrical shadow beneath the nose resembling a butterfly shape.
Visual Effect
The technique highlights cheekbones, smooths skin, and creates a flattering look.
Applications
It is widely used in beauty photography, fashion shoots, and classic Hollywood portraiture.
Professional Tip
A reflector below the face is often added to soften shadows and enhance the effect.
Butterfly lighting flatters facial features with soft, symmetrical highlights.
Creative Pass keeps everything you need right in your pocket—ready when creativity strikes.
Creative Pass keeps everything you need right in your pocket—ready when creativity strikes.
Creative Pass keeps everything you need right in your pocket—ready when creativity strikes.