Lighting sets the mood of an image more than almost anything else. Adding one lighting phrase can turn a flat image into something cinematic.
Natural light
- Golden hour: warm, low sun, long shadows; romantic and nostalgic
- Blue hour: cool twilight; calm and moody
- Overcast light: soft, even, flattering; great for portraits and products
- Window light: soft directional light; intimate interiors
- Harsh midday sun: strong shadows; summer and fashion
Studio light
- Softbox lighting: clean and commercial
- Rembrandt lighting: a triangle of light on the cheek; classic portraits
- Butterfly lighting: glamorous beauty look
- Rim light / backlight: glowing edges separating the subject from the background
- Low-key: mostly dark with deep shadows; dramatic
- High-key: bright, minimal shadows; airy and fresh
Creative light
- Neon light: colorful urban night scenes
- Volumetric light / god rays: beams through mist or windows
- Candlelight: warm, flickering, intimate
- Bioluminescent glow: fantasy scenes
Be specific about direction
"Soft light from the left, deep shadows on the right side of the face" gives much more control than "dramatic lighting".