In black and white photography color temperature does not matter, so standard household lamps, fluorescent lamps, and even halogen work lights are all fine sources of light. The brighter the better, naturally, but with all these “hot” lights, you’ve got to be very careful to keep them away from anything flamable. You also have to be sure to have proper ventillation and/or air conditioning, or you and your subject will be sweating like hungry babies in a topless bar. Speaking of which, if you happen to be working with a nude model, a little extra heat from the lights might come in handy.

The best solution that I (and other cheap bastards) have found is the standard clamp-on work lamp. The reflector helps you to direct the light where you want it to go, and the clamp allows you to attach the light to just about anything. Because you’re not restrained by lamp-stands, you can position these guys almost anywhere, and it’s much easier to keep them away from flamables (like curtains). Screw in a 150-watt outdoor floodlight and you’re ready to go!

Posted by R. Hunt
This post is tagged cheap bastards, lighting