[Leica] explain Avedon light

[durling at cox.net (Mike Durling)]

I usually enjoy Avedon's work.  I'm not crazy about the deadpan 
portraits, but I like the fashion stuff.

Lighting-wise it always looks like he uses a single large and high light 
source, something that would simulate a big window up over his shoulder. 
  I suspect it is a big softbox like one of these: 
http://www.chimeralighting.com/products/dspproduct.cfm?productid=7

If it were large enough he wouldn't need any fill light to soften the 
shadows, and that's what it looks like.  There might be something to 
bring up the background too.

Because the background is usually white or light gray I don't think he 
needs a backlight.

Hope this helps,

Mike D

Eric Korenman wrote:
> Ok - I admit it. I love Avedon's portraits.
> I got the high key background thing.. but what is it about his light?
> Can anyone explain his lighting techniques?
> 
> Please no "Avedon is crap" responses!
> 
> Eric
> 
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