So 5 lights, I’ve been using more and more lights with each shoot… usually 4, but sometimes 5 profoto lights both in studio and on location. It can get a bit complicated when your subject moves and you need to adjust 3 lights before taking another shot, so…
How about using just one profoto light for a portrait?
Should be simple.
Well as it turns out using one light simplifies the task for set up and tear down, However getting your subject properly lit is even more of a challenge.

Did I succeed?
I am pleased with the final image for the session, but not all images were winners.

I think this in studio session worked. You can definitely get a decent portrait with just one light. It just requires some practice.

Here are some more images Using just one light from Naomi’s session, stepping back to the basic One Light.

I think If I did the session again I’d have gone a bit edgier, but her personality shone and saved the images.
Not enough variety for you?
Following Naomi’s session I met with Rebecca for another One Light session.

If lighting alone doesn’t create the look you are after some basic edits can create some variations in post processing.
These edits were done in Lightroom

Again the beautiful model saved the pictures, even playing with edits I wouldn’t normally do the model still looks fantastic.
I’d like to take credit for my one light setup .. but honestly, it could all be the models in these two examples.
One light can work well… but I think I’ll stick to two or more whenever possible. I’ve practised much more with two lights, and my new goto portrait set up has 3, I just like the look better.